A family walks in the woods over a bridge in the New Forest.

Health and wellbeing

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Connections to nature support our wellbeing

Time spent outside, whether in the countryside or at the coast, is good for us. We feel this intuitively; it can boost our mood, improve our mental and physical health, and motivate us to get involved and get active with opportunities. Research and evidence also backs this up.

Discover more via The Green Health Hub Discover more via The Green Health Hub

An array of options are available in the New Forest National Park to help you experience nature and overcome the challenge of knowing where to go and what to do there so you can make the most of your time outside.

Discover things to see and do, find volunteering opportunities to suit your interests and make a difference, or learn about the New Forest’s special nature and wildlife and history and culture.

The importance of nature and the New Forest to our wellbeing is recognised in the Re:New Forest Partnership Plan 2022-2027. We would always like to enhance our ‘natural health service’ and what it provides for people and communities – see our Inclusive National Park plans.

Actively spending time in nature and connecting to the heritage and culture that shapes communities can bring significant health and wellbeing benefits. The New Forest National Park boasts a range of activities and opportunities to suit a variety of interests, ages, and accessibility needs.

Find things to see and do in the New Forest Find things to see and do in the New Forest

Three people stand outside a building in Lyndhurst as part of a Health and Heritage Group.

Green Health Hub

Supported by the New Forest NPA, the Green Health Hub is a one-stop shop signposting you to activities and groups in the National Park helping you get outside and benefiting from nature.

Working with health professionals from the NHS, the Hub celebrates ways we can all enjoy green and blue spaces and shares stories and opportunities to get involved, ranging from walking and cycling to arts, gardening, and volunteering.

Visit the Green Health Hub Visit the Green Health Hub

Seven riders stand and sit on a range of bikes and specialised cycles on a ride in the New Forest in a wooded area.

PEDALL - New Forest Inclusive Cycling

Hosted by the New Forest NPA, PEDALL provides accessible off-road cycling sessions in the National Park for all, regardless of ability, health conditions, or wellbeing needs thanks to a fleet of specialised cycles.

The project provides companionship, pride, and confidence to all riders while they enjoy the New Forest and the health and wellbeing benefits that come hand-in-hand from being outside in the fresh air.

Find out more about PEDALL Find out more about PEDALL