Description
Finding the best things to do with kids in Ashurst brings families straight to New Forest Wildlife Park, a popular wildlife and conservation park set within the woodland of the New Forest National Park. This family attraction allows children to discover native and exotic animals, including majestic otters, owls, deer, and lynx, through a mix of woodland walks and open enclosures.
Standard adult ticket prices start from £17.95, while child tickets for ages three to 15 are £13.95. Infants aged two and under enter completely free of charge. Visitors can spend hours exploring the leafy trails, watching daily keeper talks, and playing in the adventure areas.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines wonderful animal encounters with a peaceful woodland adventure, this Hampshire attraction offers brilliant value. Its famous otter feeding sessions, walkthrough enclosures, and outdoor play spaces make it a top choice for a memorable family weekend trip.
Beyond the Main Attraction:
- New Forest National Park Trails: Expansive open heaths and ancient woodland paths surrounding the park boundaries.
- Longdown Activity Farm: Family-friendly farm attraction located just over a mile away.
- Ashurst Village: Local Hampshire village featuring traditional country pubs and tearooms.
What Visitors Love:
- Parents frequently praise the peaceful, natural woodland setting that feels completely immersed in nature.
- Children love watching the active otters, spotting owls, and playing in the outdoor adventure playgrounds.
- The friendly staff and engaging daily keeper talks receive wonderful feedback from visiting families.
- Visitors appreciate the relaxed, manageable layout that suits younger children well.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- Some reviewers note that certain woodland paths can become uneven or muddy following heavy rainfall.
- Catering queues can get busy during lunchtime hours in peak summer holiday periods.
- The gift shop can be tempting for young children as you exit the park.
- Public transport options require a modest walk or short taxi ride from the nearest railway station.
Park Attractions and Exhibits:
- Giant Otter Enclosures: Aquatic habitats housing four species of otters.
- Owl Conservation Aviaries: Twelve distinct species of owls.
- European Bison Paddock: Large paddock area home to magnificent European bison.
- Scottish Wildcat Enclosure: Secretive woodland habitat for native wildcats.
- Wallaby Walkthrough: Open grass area where wallabies hop past visitor paths.
- Red Deer and Fallow Deer Ponds: Grazing zones for native deer.
- Pine Marten Habitats: Elevated tree-branch runs for agile pine martens.
- Two Children's Adventure Playgrounds: Play spaces with climbing frames and swings.
- Park Restaurant: Central dining facility for hot meals and snacks.
- Gift and Souvenir Shop: Retail store near the exit selling toys and wildlife books.
New for 2026:
- Expanded Water Vole Conservation Areas: Newly enhanced wetland habitats supporting endangered native water vole breeding programmes.
- Upgraded Family Picnic Lawns: Newly landscaped outdoor seating zones situated near the main playgrounds.
- Enhanced Digital Interpretation Boards: Updated educational signage across animal loops detailing recent conservation milestones.
5.84 miles
