February half term in the New Forest is the perfect opportunity to slow the pace, get outside and enjoy time together without overplanning every day. Crisp winter air, wide open spaces and simple pleasures make this one of the most rewarding times to explore the Forest, especially when food, walking and family-friendly experiences come together in one place.

Located in South Gorley near Fordingbridge, Hockey’s Farm Shop is an ideal half-term destination for families, couples and visitors looking to combine fresh air with good food. Whether you are local to Hampshire or visiting the New Forest for the holidays, it offers an easy, flexible day out that works around you.

Fresh Air & Space to Explore This Half Term

Spending time outdoors during half term is one of the simplest ways to reset after a busy start to the year. The New Forest offers a unique landscape of open heathland, woodland and quiet lanes, creating space for children to explore and adults to switch off.

Winter brings its own charm, clear skies, bright mornings and a calmness that makes walking and exploring feel unhurried. It is the kind of fresh air that leaves everyone feeling better for it, and it pairs perfectly with a warm drink or hearty meal afterwards.

The Hockey’s Farm Loop Walk: A Half-Term Favourite

A popular choice for families during the school holidays is the Hockey’s Farm Loop Walk, a circular route that starts and ends at Hockey’s Farm. Measuring approximately 2.5 miles and taking around 1.5 hours, it strikes the right balance between being achievable and feeling like a proper walk.

The route takes in:

Open heathland with long views
Quiet country lanes
Forest pathways where you are likely to spot free-roaming New Forest ponies, donkeys and cattle

The walk begins and finishes at the farm, it is easy to build a relaxed half-term plan around it, breakfast before heading out, or lunch and cake waiting for you when you return.

A Relaxed, Family-Friendly Farm Setting

Half term does not need packed itineraries to feel special. Often, children get the most enjoyment from simple experiences- space to move, animals to see and time that is not rushed.

At Hockey’s, families can visit the farm animals, stretch their legs and enjoy the atmosphere of a working farm. It is welcoming, informal and easy to navigate, making it well suited to multi-generational visits, dogs on leads and anyone who prefers relaxed days over scheduled attractions.

Warming Up at the Farmyard Café

Fresh air naturally leads to hungry appetites, and the Farmyard Café is a key part of the half-term experience. Open throughout the holidays, it offers freshly prepared food, hot drinks and comforting favourites that suit all ages.

Whether you are stopping in for breakfast, lunch or a post-walk coffee and cake, it is a space designed for people coming in from the outdoors, muddy boots included. It is also a great way to anchor your day, giving structure without pressure.

Local Food & Seasonal Shopping in the Farm Shop

Before heading home, many visitors take the opportunity to browse the farm shop. Stocked with local produce, seasonal food and butchery cuts, it allows you to turn a day out into something practical as well, from supper sorted to stocking up for the rest of half term.

The emphasis on local suppliers and quality ingredients makes it easy to shop with confidence, whether you are planning family meals or something a little more special.

Half Term Meets Valentine’s Day

February half term often overlaps with Valentine’s Day, and a visit to Hockey’s makes it easy to plan for both in one go.

The farm shop is full of thoughtful Valentine’s gift ideas, from sweet treats to bottles worth saving for a quiet evening in. Choosing something local and well made adds meaning, and it avoids the last-minute rush that Valentine’s Day can bring.

If cooking is part of your Valentine’s plans, the butchery counter is not to be missed. White Park beef is now available and is exceptional in both quality and flavour. Carefully reared and beautifully marbled, it is ideal for a special steak night at home. If steak is on the menu this Valentine’s Day, White Park beef offers something genuinely memorable.

An Easy Half-Term Day Out in the New Forest

What makes Hockey’s Farm such a strong half-term choice is its simplicity. There is no rigid structure, no need to book ahead and no pressure to do everything. You can arrive early or late, stay briefly or make a full day of it.

Walk, eat, browse, explore or simply enjoy being outside together.

For families looking for half-term ideas in the New Forest, couples planning a Valentine’s meal, or visitors wanting a taste of local food and countryside, Hockey’s Farm offers a welcoming place to do it all.

Fresh air, good food and time together, exactly what February half term should be.