The New Forest is one of Britain’s most treasured landscapes – an ancient mosaic of heathland, trees, and pasture where ponies, donkeys, cattle, and deer roam free. It’s a working land shaped by centuries of tradition, rich in wildlife and rural character. With its winding tracks, shaded canopies, and stunning views, the Forest is the perfect place to pause and enjoy something as equally British: a picnic.

The Joy of a British Picnic

There’s something wonderfully timeless about laying out a blanket, unpacking good food, and sharing it with friends or family al fresco. British picnics are a relaxed affair of flasks of tea, bottles of bubbly, neat sandwiches, and sweet treats in abundance. We highly recommend picnicking in the New Forest, and it’s also the perfect chance to make your spread extra special by shopping local.

Picnic the Local Way: New Forest Marque Produce

To experience the real flavour of the Forest, look for the New Forest Marque – an emblem of true local produce that’s been grown, reared, caught or made in the New Forest.

Stock up at local farm shops like Shappen Stores, Hockey’s Farm Shop, and Pilley Community Shop, Sopley Farm Shop or visit a village butcher for handcrafted picnic staples like pasties and sausage rolls.

Build a locally-sourced feast with some of our favourites such as:

  • Scotch eggs, pasties, pies, cold meats and quiches
  • Egg, and ham sandwiches, seasonal salads, crudités and dips
  • Local cheese and chutney, artisan bread, and golden honey
  • Sweet treats like shortbread, fudge, cake, macarons, and juicy New Forest strawberries
  • Refresh with fruit juice, local cider, wine, beer, or even a splash of New Forest gin (drink responsibly)

Read our full listings of local food and drink suppliers in our online guide here.

Goodalls strawberries
Sway Butchers scotch eggs
Sopley Bakery asparagus tart
Sopley Bakery cakes
New Forest apple juice
Hockey’s Farm Shop

Respect the Forest

This landscape is delicate and wild. It’s vital to leave no trace: take all rubbish home, use official picnic sites, remove dog waste.

Never feed or pet the animals – it can cause illness, encourage dangerous behaviour, and alter their natural diet. There is also the chance you could receive a penalty fine.

Most importantly: BBQs and fires are strictly banned. The Forest is at high risk of wildfire, and even one spark could cause devastating damage.

Picnic the New Forest way – deliciously local and respectful to the land.

Always follow the New Forest Code.