Ringwood

The heathland stretches endlessly beyond the market town's edge, where ponies roam free and ancient woodland whispers of centuries past. Ringwood sits perfectly positioned as your gateway to the New Forest National Park - close enough to civilisation for proper shops and pubs, yet surrounded by some of England's most unspoilt countryside.

Moors Valley Country Park dominates the local scene, and frankly, it's brilliant. The Go Ape course gets the adrenaline pumping through the treetops, while the narrow-gauge Moors Valley Railway chugs families through 20 acres of woodland. It's properly done - not some tatty theme park nonsense.

Climbing Lions Hill rewards you with cracking views across the forest canopy, though Stephen's Castle peak offers a quieter alternative if you fancy dodging the weekend crowds. Ringwood Forest itself provides endless walking opportunities, with Budgen's Copse particularly lovely for spotting deer in the early morning.

Verwood sits just northeast, worth the short drive for its Hub theatre if you're after evening entertainment. The town's library doubles as a community centre, testament to how these smaller settlements keep their hearts beating.

Getting here couldn't be simpler - the A31 cuts straight through, making it an easy drive from Southampton or Bournemouth. The nearest train stations at Lakeside and Kingsmere connect you to the wider rail network, though having a car opens up the forest properly.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're literally surrounded by options, from traditional touring sites to modern glamping pods. Forest Edge Holiday Park and Oakdene Forest Park both offer direct forest access, while Holmsley Campsite puts you right in the thick of the heathland. Wake up to birdsong, spend your days exploring ancient woodlands, then return to proper facilities come evening.