I would recommend staying in lymington

Sorry unknown

Hi, as a resident I can tell you it is open

There's a place in the North of the forrest called Tom's field, tents, caravans, not far from local pub; there'll be loads of other places on Google.

It’s is Brockenhurst and we drove but according to google maps it would take approx 90 minutes to walk

Yes Blackwater Arboretum is fenced to prevent damage to the trees by the wild animals. The public use the gates and can enter the Arboretum at any time. There is a car park on the other side of the road close by.

I agree, do that route to the pub.

Hi Aimie, I would suggest going to Bolderwood or Blackwater Car Parks as they would give you a real taste of the Forest and have picnic areas and toilet facilities situated in the Forest. They are also not far off the mail route you would travel if going to Lymington ferry terminal. If you needed to have a quick stop if you had been caught in traffic then stop in Lyndhurst and head to Bolton's Bench. Sadly no picnic benches but there are benches. The New Forest National Park is free to enter.

Yes lots. Get an OS map and take a compass.