New Forest Knowledge

New Forest Knowledge, provides access to a wealth of information about the New Forest from a range of sources.

The New Forest Knowledge website was launched in autumn 2017, and now contains over twenty thousand entries.

Users can browse via a map-based search element and contribute their own research and photographs. Items that can be found in the system include books, maps, manuscripts, reports, paintings, photographs, audio clips and short videos.

Who we are

A free entry, dog friendly museum in the heart of the New Forest, suitable for all ages. With an extensive reference library, a fabulous gift shop, and café!

New Centre Manager

We are delighted to announce Dr Katharine Walker as the new Centre Manager for the New Forest Heritage Centre.

We're recruiting!

We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic individual to take on the role of Collections and Engagement Manager.

Read our July Newsletter here

Collections Assistants (Kick Start)

We are recruiting!

We look forward to welcoming you this year

Read about what we have to offer, but don't forget to follow the code!

Refurbished café, seating inside and out

Local produce, light bites, snacks, cakes, tray bakes and so much more. Dog friendly.

Sharing the history of the New Forest

A free-entry museum, gallery and reference library situated in the heart of Lyndhurst, the New Forest Heritage Centre is dedicated to sharing the history and traditions of this diverse and beautiful area. With a gift shop and café on site, it’s a great place to start your New Forest journey.

For on-line access to some of our collection please visit https://nfknowledge.org/

You can also search seven of our catalogues at https://www.newforestheritage.org.uk/library/

Opening Hours

We are now fully open, 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week, with social distancing precautions in place

To book for the Library, please visit https://www.newforestheritage.org.uk/library/

We look forward to welcoming you again later in 2021.

Become a friend

It costs more than £1,000 a day to run the New Forest Heritage Centre. Become a friend and help protect and preserve the history of the New Forest.

Group Visits

From school visits to special interest groups, our education team can tailor sessions to meet your requirements

Christopher Tower Reference Library

Christopher Tower New Forest Reference Library is home to one of the largest collections of New Forest books, maps, photographs and other ephemera. Opening Hours: Wednesdays 10.00am - 4.00pm & Fridays 10.00am - 12.30pm