Following that intensely beautiful heatwave we just had, I wanted to give you a heads-up on some places to visit for when summer returns (hopefully).
We all know parenting in the heat comes with its challenges, but I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that hard—or expensive—to keep the kids entertained during the summer holidays. It’s tricky when they’re too hot, sticky with suncream, and fussy with their food because, honestly, who wants to sit and eat when they’re hot and bothered?
There is only so much water play in the garden you can do, and only so many ice lollies you can hand out before you start feeling like a static ice cream van while everyone slowly succumbs to cabin fever.
That’s where the forest comes in.
The trees provide a much-needed canopy of shade and respite from the heat, making it one of my favourite places to escape on those sweltering summer days. Forests naturally stay cooler than built-up areas because the tree canopy blocks direct sunlight from reaching the ground. Trees also release water vapour through a process called transpiration, which helps cool the surrounding air, creating a natural air-conditioning effect. Combined with shaded woodland floors and reduced heat reflection compared with roads and pavements, it can feel noticeably cooler beneath the trees even on the hottest days.
If you’re looking for easy, family-friendly spots with parking, toilets (nature wees are absolutely OK too), picnic areas and shady trails, here are three New Forest favourites worth adding to your summer list (click the links for full information).
1. Blackwater Arboretum (one of our favourite spots)
Blackwater Arboretum is perfect for younger children and pushchairs. The trails are short, accessible, and packed with interesting trees from around the world. The towering redwoods are particularly impressive and offer plenty of shade on hot days. The giant trees really make you stop and admire the magic of nature.
What you’ll find on your visit:
Car park
Toilets
Picnic benches
Information point
Accessible trails
Plenty of shaded woodland
In peak season there is a coffee/ice cream truck with some great flavours and friendly staff.
Water play?
Yes, sort of. The nearby Blackwater River runs through the area and can be reached from some of the surrounding trails. While it’s not really a paddling destination, children will enjoy stopping to look at the water, spot wildlife and cross the picturesque wooden bridge. It’s a lovely place to cool off for a few minutes and break up the walk.
The nearby Tall Trees Trail is an easy family walk and a great introduction to the forest.
If your children love wildlife, Bolderwood is hard to beat. A short walk from the car park leads to a deer viewing platform where you can often spot deer grazing in the meadow.
What you’ll find on your visit:
Car Park
Toilets
Picnic tables
Information cabin during school holidays
Several waymarked woodland walks
Extensive shaded areas
There is often an ice cream van during the busier months, although availability can vary depending on the season and weather.
Water play?
There are several small forest streams along some of the longer walking routes, particularly around Bratley Water. It isn’t somewhere I’d specifically visit for paddling, but it’s perfect for curious little explorers who love throwing sticks into streams, hunting for bugs and splashing at the water’s edge.
The Deer Watch Trail is short enough for little legs while still feeling like a proper woodland adventure.
If you’re looking for a quieter corner of the New Forest, Dibden Inclosure is well worth a visit. The peaceful woodland trails wind through beautiful trees of all species, creating plenty of shade on even the hottest summer days. It’s one of those places where you can slow down, take your time and let the children explore at their own pace. Have your camera at the ready because you’ll also find some incredible views if you follow the rolling trails to the top of the famous Dibden hill.
What you’ll find on your visit:
Car park
Picnic spots
The best thing about the New Forest is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A picnic, a few snacks, a football, and a change of scenery can easily fill an entire day. Core memories are made in nature. The children get space to run, climb, explore and burn off some energy, while you get a break from feeling like you’re trapped indoors managing your tiny humans.
Shady woodland trails
Family-friendly walking routes
Plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities
You won’t find a café or permanent kiosk, but it’s a lovely place to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch beneath the trees. Or you can venture to the nearby village of Dibden Purlieu where there is a fantastic cafe called Nova Forest Kitchen and also a Gelto shop called Arrosto if you fancy treating the children (and yourself) after your forest adventure. Both of these places serve great coffee!
Water play?
Not so much. There is a small pond at the bottom a Dibden hill with a little wooden bridge to cross. It’s not a designated paddling area, but it’s perfect for little adventurers who love exploring nature and skimming stones.
One of the best things I find about Dibden inclosure is that it feels untouched still. There are parts of the forest that are so quiet and secluded if you’re willing to let the children lead you into the thick of it.
Don’t overcomplicate it
The best thing about the New Forest is that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A picnic, a few snacks, a football, and a change of scenery can easily fill an entire day. Core memories are made in nature. The children get space to run, climb, explore and burn off some energy, while you get a break from feeling like you’re trapped indoors managing you tiny humans.
So when the next heatwave arrives and the paddling pool has lost its appeal, pack up a picnic, grab the suncream and head for the trees. You might just find that a few hours in the forest is exactly what everyone needs.
Mamas life adventures 