The New Forest was created in 1079 by William the Conqueror. The area was cleared of farms and villages to provide private hunting grounds for his pleasure. Today the 'Forest' consists of 145 square miles of mainly open countryside interspersed with pockets of dense woodland. Here, the New Forest ponies wander freely by the roadsides and through the villages, while deer can still be spotted occasionally roaming the woods. The much-visited Rufus Stone marks the spot where the unpopular Conqueror's son and heir, William II was 'accidentally' killed by a 'stray' arrow, in 1100, while out hunting.

To make the most of the area, it is best to walk, ride or cycle. Bicycles can be hired in Brockenhurst, riding can be arranged through local stables and there are plenty of walks throughout the forest. Useful maps can be obtained from the New Forest Museum & Visitor Centre located in Lyndhurst.

Main attractions in the area include Beaulieu, famous for the National Motor Museum, and the small hamlet of Buckler's Hard, situated two miles downstream on the River Beaulieu. On the coast lies the bustling Georgian town of Lymington, offering pleasant boat trips and ferries to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight.

Outside of the New Forest can be found a variety of interesting places to visit including the well-preserved medieval city of Winchester, England's ancient capital famous for its cathedral, the newly-renovated harbour area at Portsmouth, the woodland gardens at Exbury, and Chawton, home to Jane Austen from 1809 to 1817, during which time she wrote or revised many of her books.

Railway enthusiasts can take a trip on the steam-powered Mid-Hants Watercress Line, which travels ten miles from Alresford to Alton through lovely countryside. Families are well-catered for with many attractions throughout the county including the brand new Milestones Living History Museum, Marwell Zoo, Paultons Park and Queen Elizabeth Country Park.