Longdown Activity Farm

Longdown Activity Farm sits just outside Ashurst in Hampshire, a proper working farm that opens its gates to families wanting a hands-on afternoon with animals and countryside activities. You're looking at petting areas, usually some form of tractor ride, and the sort of place where kids can actually touch things rather than stare through glass. Goats, sheep, rabbits - the usual suspects for a farm visit.

It's absolutely the right sort of stop if you're camping nearby at Ashurst Campsite or any of the New Forest campsites within a few miles. The New Forest itself sits just 4.6 miles away, so you could easily pair a morning here with an afternoon proper hiking through the national park. Two to three hours is realistic before children start getting restless, depending on their age.

The farm works best for under-10s who still get excited by feeding animals. Teenagers will find it a bit tame unless they're particularly keen on farmyard life. Bring a change of clothes if the ground's wet - farms are muddy, always. Check their website before you head over, as opening hours seem to vary and admission costs aren't listed online. Phone ahead to confirm what's on when you're planning to visit, especially during winter months when some activities might be limited.

It's convenient rather than spectacular - a decent filler activity for a New Forest holiday rather than a reason to camp in the area on its own.