🍁 October Adventures in the New Forest: Autumn Walks, Spooky Fun & Seasonal Magic

As the leaves begin to blaze in gold and amber, October is one of the most beautiful times to visit the New Forest. With crisp mornings, glowing woodlands, and a calendar full of seasonal events, it’s the perfect month to reconnect with nature—or add a little Halloween fun to your adventures.

Here’s your guide to what’s on and what to do in the New Forest this October 2025.

🍂 Autumn Highlights in the Forest

October transforms the New Forest into a golden wonderland. Trees like beech, oak, and silver birch light up the landscape with stunning colours. On the ground, fallen crab apples and late blackberries bring wildlife to life—keep your eyes peeled for red deer, migrating thrushes, and the occasional badger snacking on fruit.

🌅 Top tip: Visit at dawn or dusk for magical lighting and better chances of spotting wildlife.

👣 Walking Festival: Explore on Foot

📅 19 October – 3 November 2025
The New Forest Walking Festival is back, offering dozens of expert-led walks across the National Park. Whether you’re into local history, wildlife, fungi spotting, or just want a peaceful hike, there’s a walk for you.

🔗 Most walks are free, but booking is essential: newforestnpa.gov.uk

Featured walk: A Ranger’s New Forest (East)
📍 20 October | Deerleap
Join a local ranger to explore the wildlife, history and landscape of the eastern forest.

🎃 Halloween Fun & Half-Term Activities

From spooky river tours to pumpkin archery, the New Forest gets wonderfully weird around Halloween. Perfect for families or adults who enjoy autumnal adventures.

Highlights:

🎯 Pumpkin Archery & Halloween Activities
📍 Hazel Copse Farm, Beaulieu
Try your hand at archery with a spooky twist—pumpkin targets, Halloween decorations and fancy dress fun!

🚣‍♀️ Spooky Halloween River Tour
Paddle down the Beaulieu River in the dark with ghost stories, glowsticks, and marshmallows.

👻 Folklore & Phantoms Trail – Beaulieu
Explore haunted gardens, listen to spooky tales and enjoy Halloween-themed exhibits during October half term.

🧙 Wildlife Park’s Spooky Species Week
Learn about eerie endangered animals, carve pumpkins, and take part in Halloween trails.

🍁 Autumn Walks Worth Exploring

Not every adventure needs an event. Some of the best experiences in October are quiet, self-guided wanders through the forest.

🌳 Top autumn walks:

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive – Stunning colours and giant redwoods

Knightwood Oak Trail – Visit the “Queen of the Forest”

Whitefield Moor to Brockenhurst – Classic heathland and woodland views

Furzey Gardens (Minstead) – Magical gardens, especially vibrant in autumn

🚲 Cycle Through Autumn Colours

Hire a bike and explore the changing scenery at your own pace. The gravel tracks through woods and across open heath are especially beautiful in October. Family-friendly routes and e-bikes are also available.

🛠️ Rentals in: Brockenhurst, Burley, Lyndhurst & more.

🧺 Local Markets & Autumn Flavours

Don’t miss the chance to sample New Forest produce this season—apples, jams, local ales, and warming seasonal bakes.

New Forest Marque Autumn Market

📍 25–26 October | Everton Nurseries, Lymington
A showcase of local makers, growers, and crafters—great for gifts or stocking up for winter.

Weekly town markets in Lymington, Ringwood, and New Milton feature fresh produce, crafts, and handmade goods.

🦌 Wildlife Moments to Watch For

Deer rutting season peaks in early October. Listen for the dramatic roars of fallow or red deer at dawn/dusk.

Winter thrushes like redwings and fieldfares arrive from northern Europe.

Fungi spotting is at its peak—look out for guided walks or explore the woods (just don’t pick unless you’re with an expert!).

🧭 Visitor Tips for October

Dress for changeable weather – layers and waterproofs are a must.

Arrive early for popular walks or events—car parks fill quickly.

Respect the Forest Code – keep dogs on leads near livestock, stick to marked paths, and never feed the ponies.

Book events in advance, especially over half term.

October in the New Forest is rich with colour, mystery, and connection to nature. Whether you’re walking among golden trees, listening to rutting stags, or paddling under a full moon with ghost stories, you’ll leave with a deeper love for this magical landscape.