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After what’s been a busy summer, with beaches packed with holidaymakers and pretty towns flooded with tourists snapping pictures, a retreat without the crowds might be just what you’re looking for. That means no more battling for the last space in the car park, queuing up for half an hour for an ice cream, or making a booking weeks in advance, but rather a slower pace with ample open space for that well-deserved breather.

Sounds good, doesn’t it? Yet, you don’t need to compromise on location to experience such a slice of luxury, as Lonely Planet has named the best places in Europe to escape the crowds. And there’s a recommended destination in the UK, conveniently positioned just 90 minutes from London, for a quieter retreat.

Nestled on the south coast of England between Southampton and Bournemouth is the enchanting New Forest National Park. Spanning 219 square miles, it’s made up of ancient woodland and open heathland, where you’ll spot free-roaming ponies, cattle, donkeys and deer among its stunning terrain – there’s even said to be pigs come autumn!

There are more than 140 miles of scenic walking trails and footpaths through the national park, whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a day on foot. Some of its routes pass by idyllic villages, including Burley with pubs and handmade fudge, and Lyndhurst, known as the ‘capital of the New Forest’, with its charming high street packed with independent shops, a variety of pubs, cafés, and the New Forest Heritage Centre.

While exploring the National Park, there’s even a chance to discover its 40-mile ‘secret’ coast, with golden-sand beaches and salt marshes. The hidden gem can get overlooked by visitors due to the 193,000 acres of woodland in the New Forest, but it’s certainly worth exploring as it stretches from the clifftop village of Barton-on-Sea in Hampshire to the town of Totton, near Southampton.

Thanks to its 40-mile coastline, there are opportunities to go paddleboarding and sailing amid coastal scenery, alongside walking trails and cycling routes elsewhere in the national park. With so much to see and explore, it’s easy to spend days venturing around the New Forest, whether you’re looking for a beach, woodland or village escape, all without the crowds.

Offering some advice for those looking to spend in the national park, the New Forest website shared: “If you’re not sure where to start, we’d recommend visiting Lymington for its bustling quay, independent shops and Saturday market, Milford on Sea for coastal walks and sea views, and Hythe for its historic pier and ferry to Southampton. For something a little quieter, explore the charming village of Buckler’s Hard.”

There’s also a range of places to eat in the New Forest if you forgot to pack a picnic, from country pubs and farm shops to award-winning restaurants and cosy cafés. And if you’re looking to extend your trip, there are plenty of accommodation options, from lavish hotels and snug B&Bs to woodland camping and glamping, along with self-catering cottages and rural holiday parks. It really does have it all, minus the hordes.