Brockenhurst is the largest of the New Forest villages by population and one of the oldest settlements in the area but nowadays, it is more of a commuter village than a tourist attraction. Situated on the main Waterloo railway line with a junction for the branch line to Lymington, many of its inhabitants are regular commuters. However, as trains have to cross the main road through the village, there are regular queues at peak teams at the level crossing gates.

For those who want to leave the car at home, there is a large bicycle hire centre adjacent to the station. Alternatively, take your own bike by train to Brockenhurst and explore the Forest using the cycle route network.

Parking in the village is not particularly plentiful but its small High Street has a good selection of shops including a greengrocer, butcher and two supermarkets. You are also likely to find ponies and donkeys strolling down the High Street, at the end of which is a ford known locally as the “Watersplash” which is mainly dry in the summer but flowing freely in the winter.

The village is an excellent base from which to explore the Forest as it has a good variety of excellent hotels, guest houses, restaurants and pubs plus the nearby Hollands Wood campsite.