Discover Campsites Near Ashurst

Ashurst is the perfect gateway into the famous New Forest National Park. It’s especially popular with backpackers as the Ashurst Railway Station is a few minutes away from the village centre and has easy access to the national park. Here are some fun things to do when camping in Ashurst.

Explore Ashurst town centre

Roam around Ashurst's centre, where you’ll find many independent and high-street stores. There are also a variety of different restaurants and great pubs to visit, including The Happy Cheese, a family favourite amongst locals. It's only a short walk from the train station, serves food daily, and welcomes dogs.

Visit the New Forest National Park

Immerse yourself in the outdoors by exploring New Forest National Park. Whether you’re a nature lover or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone. Wander through ancient woodlands, where you may encounter wild ponies, deer, cattle, donkeys, sheep, or pigs. If you enjoy birdwatching, keep your eyes peeled for woodpeckers, nuthatches, treecreepers, Dartford warblers, nightjars, and more.

New Forest National Park also boasts exceptional walking routes for all abilities, and dogs are welcome. Whether you want to walk past incredible landscapes, picturesque villages, or serene lakes, you can explore these New Forest trails and find a scenic route suitable for you.

Water enthusiasts will love visiting New Forest, as there are plenty of water sports activities available. Cool off on a hot day by jumping into action at the aqua park, or hire equipment and try canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, fishing, and much more. You can also explore the lakes by riding on a banana boat, inflatable ringo, or speedboat.

With miles of designated bike paths catering to all levels, cycling is another popular way to explore the park. If you’re looking for something more exciting, local stables offer horse riding through the National Park too.

Once you’re all tired out, set up a picnic or head to one of the cosy pubs in New Forest and indulge in some tasty pub grub.

New Forest Wildlife Park

Just minutes away from Ashurst is the New Forest Wildlife Park. The wildlife park makes for a great family day out where you can see a range of animals, including otters, owls, badgers, deer, wolves, northern lynx, foxes and more. There’s also an adventure playground where kids can slide, swing, climb and build until they’re all worn out.

Remember to check out what live events are taking place when you visit. You can see keepers feeding the animals and learn a thing or two about them.

New Forest Reptile Centre

Protecting rare snakes and lizards, the New Forest Reptile Centre is an excellent place to visit for those who love seeing these stunning reptiles up close and personal.

Longdown Activity Farm

Longdown Activity Farm is a hands-on experience that is great for the whole family. You’ll get to bottle-feed kid goats and calves, play with the chicks and alpacas as well as meet pigs, goats and cows. Once you’re done with all the hard work of looking after the farm animals, kids can run around in the outdoor play area, bounce on the trampolines, go down the zip wire or enjoy a tractor ride. There are also go-karts and a crazy golf course. Remember to stop by the farm shop before leaving and grab some fresh produce.

Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig

Less than 10 minutes away from Ashurst is Paultons Park, Peppa Pig's very own theme park. This whimsical theme park is a blast for the entire family, offering a mix of rides to thrill all ages. Stroll through the park, and you might bump into Peppa Pig and her friends, who are eager to meet you. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with George, Grandpa Pig, Daddy Pig, or the star herself, Peppa Pig!

Marwell Zoo

Marwell Zoo has a range of animals waiting to say “hi”. When visiting the zoo, you’ll find tigers, giraffes, penguins, sloths, zebras, hippos, leopards, rhinos, and much more. You can get closer to your favourite animals by booking an exclusive animal experience.

Alpine SnowSports Centre

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Alpine SnowSports Centre welcomes everyone. There are plenty of activities to do here, including skiing, snowboarding and donutting. If you're new to the slopes, take the opportunity to learn from the experts and conquer new challenges. For those familiar with skiing or snowboarding, it's the perfect place to sharpen your skills and master new tricks.