Autumn Tints in Lyndhurst & The New Forest

Staying at The Forest Lodge Hotel, Lyndhurst

5 DAYS | 18th October 2026

This year our Autumn Tints Tour takes us south to the heart of the New Forest and to Lyndhurst, known as the ‘Capital’ of the New Forest. A National Park the Forest has been a cherished destination for generations; it is where people come to unwind and absorb. With its ancient woodland, open heathland, and free-roaming ponies, at this time of year the New Forest is not to be missed.

Formerly a Georgian Dower House of the Northerwood Estate, Forest Lodge Hotel blends historical charm and contemporary style with warm hospitality. Located just minutes from Lyndhurst, there are plenty of walks from the door. The hotel boasts a casual bistro, a lounge bar and indoor heated swimming pool. All rooms feature TV, en-suite facilities.

SUNDAY

We depart Macclesfield calling for coffee en-route to the Swindon Designer Village. Alternatively, you could visit The Museum of Steam located next door. (Entrance £11.10 payable on the day). Mid-afternoon we continue our journey south to Lyndhurst and our hotel.

MONDAY

Today we fully immerse ourselves in all the New Forest National Park has to offer. We begin with a visit to the pretty village of Brockenhurst, officially declared ‘Britain’s most beautiful place to live.’ You will have plenty of time for a stroll along the high street with its many shops and for a spot of lunch in one of the local cafes. We then continue to the beautiful Exbury Gardens; known for its stunning autumn tints, see the New Forest transformed into a spectacle of gold, orange, and red. We spend the afternoon at the gardens with time for a cuppa.

TUESDAY

Our excursion today takes us to Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens and Beaulieu Abbey. We spend the day here giving you time to discover the picture-perfect autumnal gardens and world-famous vehicle collection.

WEDNESDAY

This morning we have a run to the bustling riverside town of Lymington with its multicoloured historic houses, cute shops and three marinas where you have time for a browse and morning coffee. We then return to the hotel giving you the remainder of the day to explore the beautiful walks and delights of Lyndhurst. Why not visit the New Forest Heritage Centre museum and galley and enjoy a lunch time treat in the café. Or why not seek out Alice Liddell’s grave in the nearby church yard, she was after all the character inspiration for ‘Alice in Wonderland.’

THURSDAY

We depart after breakfast and head for home. Making a coffee stop along the way, we stop at Tewkesbury Garden Centre for lunch. Rejoining the motorway north, with another quick comfort stop as we go, we aim to be back early evening.