What to do in the winter at The Maples?

We may not be enjoying the soaring temperatures of Summer, but there’s still plenty to get out and about for here at The Maples.

Hythe has seen two more wonderful eateries open and the New Forest continues to offer loads of activities, some requiring a winter coat, whilst others can be enjoyed from indoors.

So wrap up warm, have fun and then make yourself at home…

Book The Maples by calling 023 8178 2640 or email enquiries@hythebedandbreakfast.co.uk

See you soon!

Elizabeth & Martin

A bit of history

Watch flour being milled at the historic Eling Tide Mill Experience, about a 10 minute drive from The Maples. Check the seasonal opening times and milling schedule in advance – flour can only be milled when the tide is out. Sip a cuppa in the newly refurbished café and enjoy walks around the area, including board walks that are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Venture slightly further to Lymington for the St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery. Find out more about the New Forest coast, an area with a rich maritime heritage, where smugglers made profit on the shores, and where boat-builders and salt-makers developed their trades. Then take in the unique gallery exhibitions that are regularly supported by the big London-based galleries and museums.

Start December with a treat…

The Hythe Mistletoe Fayre promises to bring lots of fun to the village, with arts and crafts, Father Christmas and a Grotto, entertainment and more. Book your stay at The Maples now to enjoy the festivities taking place on December 1st from 10am to 4pm.

Experience the new magical, after-dark, illuminated trail through the grounds and gardens of the Beaulieu visitor attraction this Christmas.

On selected dates between 23 November – 24 December, the treetops will glisten as the gardens and buildings shimmer with seasonal sparkle. There is something for everyone, as a one mile illuminated path winds it’s way through the grounds in a magical after dark experience. Greeted by the sights and sounds of Christmas, wander beneath unique tree canopies drenched in seasonal colour.

Immerse yourself in Forest Life…

Step into the ‘Real New Forest’ and discover more about the relationships between commoners, their animals, the Forest and you at an exhibition this winter. Running until 6th January, this free exhibition is being held at the New Forest Heritage Centre.

Eat, drink and be merry!

Joining the host of great eateries in Hythe are two new additions.

Marine Seventeen on Hythe Marina is proving a hit, providing a varied menu at reasonable prices.

If it’s a traditional style tearoom that you’re after, then Millie’s Tearoom is the setting for you. Scrumptious cakes are served alongside light meals and snacks, and for the young at heart, there’s even a unicorn teapot.

Sports for all seasons

You don’t need to be a member to tee off at the picturesque Dibden Golf Centre, just a 5 minute drive from The Maples. Dibden satisfies the needs of a wide range of golfers with both an 18 hole and a 9 hole course alongside an 18 bay driving range. Then relax, eat, drink and take in the spectacular views of Southampton Water from the comfort of the clubhouse.

Want to go for a run while you’re visiting The Maples? There are plenty of lovely scenic routes that take you from Hythe, along the shore and into the Forest. If you’d prefer to run in a group, then the Hardley Runners welcome other club runners (with advance notice), and there are a number of parkruns within a 20-30 minute drive.

Top tip: the Brockenhurst parkrun is a firm favourite in the winter months – a tough but enjoyable trail run through the Forest, followed by a beautiful scenic drive back to Hythe (stopping off for a cake from the historic Bakehouse).