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 the excellent Tip Leaf & Bean café!

Our Gift Shop

Visit our fabulous shop which stocks all manner of New Forest related gifts - for yourself or a for loved one, or click on our shop page to buy on-line

Nature Heals - Photography Exhibition by Trevor Parsons

Trevor Parsons is a local wildlife and landscape photographer who loves to wander the New Forest. Trevor has discovered how good nature is for his mental health and is raising awareness of nature’s link to his wellbeing in the media. This exhibition will showcase his incredible photographs and tell his story.

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 cafe on site, it’s a great place to start your New Forest journey.

Following recent government guidance we are currently closed. We will review this as guidance changes, but hope to reopen in early December.

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

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