Classic Travelling invites you to spend a relaxed day discovering the gentle beauty and timeless charm of the New Forest. Nestled in the heart of southern England, this historic landscape has captivated visitors for centuries with its enchanting mix of ancient woodlands, wide-open heathlands, and peaceful glades. It’s a place where ponies, donkeys, and deer still roam freely as they have done for generations, and where quaint thatched cottages sit nestled in quiet villages seemingly untouched by time.
Our day begins with a warm welcome from 9:30am at the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum near New Milton, a hidden gem set just outside the forest’s edge. This fascinating museum is home to one of the finest private collections of motorcycles in the world, featuring rare and historic machines restored to pristine condition. You will have time to enjoy coffee and pastries in the museum café, admire the vehicles on display, and meet fellow classic car enthusiasts – an ideal opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones before we take to the road. At approximately 10:30am, we will set out on a two-hour drive that winds through the very heart of the New Forest – a route thoughtfully chosen to showcase the region’s most scenic and characterful sections. Expect ancient oaks and beeches and postcard-perfect villages where traditional pubs, village greens, and wandering ponies await at every turn.
By around 12:30pm, we’ll arrive at a welcoming country inn for a leisurely lunch (pre-ordered for your convenience), where delicious, seasonal food awaits. It’s a chance to enjoy the company of fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed setting and share stories from the morning drive. After lunch, our journey continues northward and we’ll begin to leave the bounds of the National Park, travelling through Hampshire’s idyllic countryside on our way to the elegant and historic city of Winchester. Our final stop is the superb Winchester Autobarn, a stylish and atmospheric motoring venue that blends a passion for classic cars with modern hospitality. Here, we’ll gather for refreshments before making our way home or to our (optional) overnight stay nearby, the Grosvenor Hotel.
About Driving Days
New for 2026, our single-day Driving Days are designed to offer a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore some of the most beautiful regions of the UK. Each event is carefully planned to combine scenic routes, charming stops, and group meals, all at a gentle pace allowing you to get to know the area and enjoy a relaxing drive in your vintage classic, or sports car. With numbers limited to just 20 cars, the atmosphere is friendly and personal. There is always time to admire one another’s vehicles, share stories, and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded enthusiasts. Whether you come alone, with a partner, or with friends, you will be in the company of those who share a passion for classic motoring and discovering new places.
Our routes highlight the best of each region, from sweeping countryside and hidden lanes to historic towns and villages. Carefully chosen cafés, inns, and restaurants provide opportunities to pause and relax, often showcasing local flavours and produce. Each day concludes near hotels with the option of staying overnight for those who wish to make a weekend of it. Driving Days are also an ideal taster of Classic Travelling tours – a sample of the style, pace, and character of our longer accompanied journeys, while giving you the chance to experience the pleasure of touring in good company. We are always open to suggestions for future regions!
