New Forest, Hampshire

It may be synonymous with wild ponies, but there are plenty more cute creatures in the New Forest (left). Take a trip to the Wildlife Park and you should spot many adorable mammals, from the Asian short-clawed otter to the grey wolf, polecats, wild boar and lynx.

Where to stay Grade II-listed Burley Manor is a restaurant with rooms that combines old manor-house charm with a contemporary twist. With eight acres of grounds, it offers a peaceful sanctuary. Doubles from £129pn, including breakfast; burleymanor.com