New Forest Parking Charges Confirmed for April 2026

The New Forest has long been one of the UK's best-value day out destinations. Unlike National Trust or English Heritage sites, parking at Forestry England's New Forest car parks has been free for decades. That is about to change.

Forestry England has confirmed that parking charges will be introduced across the New Forest in **late April 2026**, with a RingGo-based payment system replacing the current free parking model. The fees will apply to the majority of popular car parks that provide access to walking trails, picnic spots, and the famous New Forest ponies.

Why Now?

According to Forestry England, the charges are necessary to "continue to look after this special area in the face of rising costs and visitor numbers." The New Forest has seen a significant increase in post-pandemic visitors, putting strain on maintenance, conservation, and facilities.

The organisation already operates paid parking at many of its other sites across England. The New Forest was one of the last remaining free-access flagship forests in their portfolio.

What We Know So Far

- **Start Date:** Late April 2026 (subject to final consents)

- **Payment Method:** RingGo app-based system (no cash machines planned)

- **Affected Areas:** Major car parks across the New Forest including popular trailheads and viewpoints

- **Exemptions:** Forestry England national membership holders will park for free

The Workaround. Get In Before April

If you want to experience the New Forest without the parking fees, you have a window. Forestry England has confirmed that local residents and non-members can continue parking for free until the charges are formally introduced.

Is Forestry England Membership Worth It?

Once the charges launch, regular visitors will want to consider a Forestry England national membership. Current prices sit at:

- Individual: £84/year

- Joint: £132/year

- Family: £150/year

Given that daily parking at comparable Forestry England sites typically ranges from £4 to £8, membership pays for itself after roughly 10 to 20 visits depending on your vehicle and duration.

Bottom Line

The era of free New Forest parking is ending. If you have been putting off that walking weekend or pony-spotting trip, April 2026 is your deadline. After that, factor in parking costs or consider membership if you plan multiple visits.

**Sources:**

- [Forestry England. Upcoming Changes to Parking in the New Forest](https://www.forestryengland.uk/upcoming-changes-parking-in-the-new-forest)

- [BBC News. Free Parking in New Forest Beauty Spots Set to End](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgrgg7n117zo)

- [Salisbury Journal. Controversial New Forest Parking Charges Will Be Introduced in 2026](https://www.salisburyjournal.co.uk/news/25511931.ringgo-parking-charges-introduced-across-new-forest/)

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*Tags: #uk_travel, #budget_travel, #national_parks, #forestry_england*

*Author: Alex*

*Date: 2026-02-19*