Our leisure activities at Balmer Lawn
We’re proud to be located near to a range of outdoor activities that further enhance the guest experience. Whether you’re after a trip to Beaulieu Harbour to enjoy the breathtaking views or simply want to relax in our tranquil swimming pool and jacuzzi, Balmer Lawn Hotel has it all.
Conveniently located within the main hotel building, the leisure area has several activities to allow you to relax or exercise.
Relax. You deserve it.
Live Like A Local
Walking in the New Forest
Discover the beauty of the New Forest on foot, with an incredible choice of walking routes right on our doorstep. Whether you're looking for a peaceful woodland stroll, a family-friendly adventure, a dog walk, an accessible route, a guided walk or even a pub walk, there's something to suit every pace and preference.
Browse the collection of walking routes from New Forest National Park and find the perfect trail to help you experience the stunning landscapes, ancient woodland and charming villages that make the New Forest so special.
Explore walking routes: Visit The New Forest Walking Guide to discover routes for every type of walker, from short scenic strolls to longer countryside adventures.
Cycling in the New Forest
Explore the New Forest on two wheels and discover miles of scenic cycle routes through ancient woodland, picturesque villages and open heathland. With trails suitable for families, leisurely riders and experienced cyclists alike, it's one of the best ways to experience the National Park at your own pace.
Whether you're planning a gentle off-road ride, a longer countryside adventure or looking for cycle hire and guided rides, you'll find plenty of inspiration to help you make the most of your visit.
Explore cycling routes: Visit the New Forest Cycling Guide to browse cycle routes, family rides, bike hire, guided cycling experiences and everything you need to plan your next adventure.
Horse Riding in the New Forest
Discover the New Forest from a unique perspective with a horseback ride through ancient woodland, open heathland and picturesque villages. Whether you're an experienced rider or trying it for the first time, there are riding centres offering lessons, hacks and guided treks to suit all abilities.
Explore riding schools: Whether you're looking for a gentle forest trek, pony rides for children or riding lessons for all abilities, visit Brockenhurst Riding Stables, Coombe Stables or Burley Villa School of Riding to find the perfect equestrian experience during your stay.
Wildlife & Nature in the New Forest
Discover the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of the New Forest, home to ancient woodland, open heathland, wetlands and wildflower meadows. As you explore, keep an eye out for the free-roaming ponies, along with donkeys, cattle, deer and a wonderful variety of birds and other native wildlife that make this National Park so unique.
Explore wildlife & nature: Learn more about the Forest's unique landscapes by visiting the New Forest Habitats Guide. To help protect this special place for future generations, please also take a moment to read the Guide to Visiting Responsibly and the New Forest Code before setting out on your adventure.
Family Days Out in the New Forest
From thrilling theme park rides to beautiful gardens and fascinating history, the New Forest offers something for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you're entertaining little adventurers, exploring with grandparents or planning a memorable day together, you'll find a fantastic choice of attractions just a short drive from the hotel.
Plan your family day out: Visit Paultons Park for over 70 rides and attractions, including the UK's only Peppa Pig World, Beaulieu to explore the National Motor Museum, Palace House and beautiful grounds, or Exbury Gardens to wander spectacular gardens and enjoy a ride on the charming steam railway.
Coast & Beaches Near the New Forest
Just a short drive from the hotel, the New Forest coastline offers the perfect opportunity to combine forest landscapes with fresh sea air. Explore the vibrant coastal town of Lymington, with its picturesque harbour, independent shops, cafés, restaurants and traditional pubs, or head to the charming village of Milford on Sea, where you'll find beautiful beaches, stunning views across the Solent and a fantastic choice of places to eat and drink.
Explore the coast: Visit Lymington to discover its historic harbour, boutique shopping and waterside dining, or Milford on Sea for scenic beaches, coastal walks and excellent pubs and restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The New Forest is just 89 minutes by train from London Waterloo, so if you fancy heading here without a car then it’s not a problem. We have a cycle hire centre attached to Brockenhurst Railway Station and other cycle centres in the following towns and villages:
Brockenhurst - Cyclexperience Bike Hire
Burley - New Forest Cycling
Lyndhurst – The Woods Cyclery and AA Bike Hire
Lymington - New Forest Bikes
Milford on Sea (Delivery) - Jaunt-e Bikes
Beaulieu - with New Forest Activities
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Both our indoor and outdoor swimming pools are open daily from 7:00am to 9:00pm. For guests looking for a quieter experience, our indoor pool offers adults-only swimming between 10:00am and 4:00pm, and again from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. These dedicated sessions provide the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting.
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Not exactly. Although they roam freely across the New Forest, the ponies, cattle, donkeys, pigs and some sheep are not wild animals. They are owned and cared for by local Commoners, who have a historic right to graze their livestock on the open Forest through a centuries-old tradition known as commoning. Their grazing plays a vital role in maintaining the unique landscapes and habitats that make the New Forest National Park so special. Visitors should always admire the animals from a safe distance and never feed or touch them.
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The New Forest is just a short drive from the Hampshire coast. Popular seaside destinations such as Milford on Sea, Barton on Sea and Lymington can all be reached in around 15–30 minutes from Brockenhurst, making it easy to combine a forest escape with a day by the sea.
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While a car offers the greatest flexibility, it's not essential. Brockenhurst has excellent rail links, and many walking routes, cycle hire providers, pubs and attractions can be reached on foot or by bike. There are also local buses connecting many of the New Forest's villages and attractions.
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Absolutely. The New Forest is a popular destination for dog owners, with miles of walking routes, dog-friendly pubs and cafés, and plenty of open space to explore. To help protect local wildlife and livestock, dogs should be kept under effective control and owners should follow the New Forest Code.
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Yes, the New Forest National Park is free to explore all year round, with no entrance fee to enjoy its walking routes, cycling trails, picturesque villages and open landscapes. However, many Forest car parks are managed by Forestry England and parking charges apply. Some attractions and activities also have their own admission fees, so it's worth checking ahead before you visit.