Ashurst

Steam trains chug through ancient woodland here, carrying families from London into the heart of the New Forest. Ashurst sits on the very edge of Britain's newest national park, where heathland meets suburbia and wild ponies wander past railway platforms. The village itself is small but perfectly positioned - twenty minutes from Southampton by train, yet surrounded by some of Hampshire's most unspoiled countryside.

What strikes you first are the hills. Irons Hill and Brockis Hill rise sharply from the forest floor, offering cracking views across the canopy to the Solent beyond. It's proper walking country, with footpaths threading between ancient oaks and silver birches. The New Forest Golf Club sprawls across the lower slopes, but the real draw is Busketts Wood - a thick carpet of beech and holly that's magical in autumn.

Families flock here for Longdown Activity Farm, where kids can bottle-feed lambs and ride ponies. Though if you're after bigger thrills, Tornado Springs and Peppa Pig World at nearby Paultons Park are just a short drive through Totton. The theme parks get packed at weekends, mind you.

Getting here couldn't be easier. Ashurst New Forest station sits right on the main London Waterloo line, with trains every hour. By car, it's junction 2 off the M27, then a quick hop through Totton. The village has a proper pub and a small shop, but you'll want to stock up in Southampton or Lyndhurst for a longer stay.

Staying at one of the forest campsites like Matley Wood or Roundhill puts you right in the thick of it. Wake up to deer outside your tent, then catch the train into Southampton for city shopping. Best of both worlds, really.