The best MTB trails in Hampshire

Embark on the Brockenhurst loop, a moderate mountain biking adventure through the heart of New Forest National Park. This route spans 22.3 miles (35.9 km) and involves a manageable 597 feet (182 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will cycle through ancient woodlands and expansive open heathlands, experiencing the diverse terrain that defines this unique landscape. Keep an eye out for the iconic free-roaming New Forest ponies as you pass by tranquil spots like Hatchet Pond, offering peaceful views along your ride.

Starting your ride from Brockenhurst is straightforward, as the village has a railway station, making it easily accessible by public transport. If you do not bring your own bike, you can find bike hire facilities right in the village. The route also features numerous pubs along or near the trail, perfect for a break and refreshment. Be aware that this area is popular, so you should always be mindful of other users sharing the paths.

This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique natural environment of the New Forest. You will encounter the famous free-roaming ponies and cattle that are a hallmark of the park, adding to the distinctive charm of your journey. The path also guides you past scenic points like Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, showcasing the area's natural beauty and making it a notable choice for exploring the region.

This moderate mountain bike loop from Wickham takes you through the diverse landscapes of the South Downs National Park, covering 28.0 miles (45.0 km) with 1549 feet (472 metres) of elevation gain. You will ride through rolling hills, chalk downlands, and woodlands, experiencing a mix of unpaved tracks, gravel, and singletrack. Expect picturesque countryside views, including glimpses of the River Meon, and a significant climb to Old Winchester Hill, which offers fantastic panoramic views over West Sussex and even the Isle of Wight on a clear day. The ride typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete.

While generally suitable for all skill levels, this route requires good fitness due to its length and climbs. Be prepared for varied terrain; some sections, particularly within the Forest of Bere, can become very muddy during wet weather. The trail includes portions of the Meon Valley Trail, which follows a disused railway line and offers a flatter riding experience, contrasting with the more demanding ascents elsewhere. Consider your fitness and skill level, as some parts may require advanced riding techniques or even pushing your bike.

This loop is known as the most popular mountain biking trail in the Wickham area, celebrated for its combination of varied landscapes. You will pass through the historic Forest of Bere, home to 19th-century oak trees that support rare lichens, bats, and nesting woodland birds. The route's appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty, historical context, and the rewarding challenge of Old Winchester Hill, making it a highly-rated experience within the Komoot community.

Embark on the Bolderwood loop from Lyndhurst, a moderate mountain biking adventure spanning 20.4 miles (32.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1007 feet (307 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 36 minutes. As you cycle, you will navigate well-maintained gravel tracks, winding through ancient woodlands and across open heathlands, with towering Douglas fir trees marking sections of the Bolderwood Ornamental Drive. The diverse terrain offers a rewarding experience for riders with good fitness.

Planning your ride on this route is straightforward, as it primarily uses gravel tracks suitable for most mountain bikes and even hybrid bikes. While some parts involve low-traffic roads, the unpaved sections are generally gentle and easy to manage. A good fitness level is recommended to comfortably enjoy the full distance and elevation. Be sure to check local conditions before you head out, especially regarding weather and trail status.

The Bolderwood loop showcases the varied beauty of the New Forest National Park, providing a chance to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for ponies, donkeys, and deer as you ride. A notable highlight is the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, where a dedicated viewing platform offers an excellent opportunity to observe fallow deer in their natural habitat. This trail provides a deep dive into the unique ecosystem of the New Forest.

Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through the New Forest National Park with the Pipers Wait & Franchises Wood loop. This 18.4-mile (29.6 km) route, featuring 1029 feet (313 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a diverse landscape of dense woodlands and open heathland. You can expect to complete this scenic ride in about 2 hours and 17 minutes, encountering free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and deer along the way.

While the trail is suitable for all skill levels, it does require good fitness to tackle its varied terrain. Some sections may involve crossing brooks, which can become muddy, especially during winter months. As a popular local favorite, the route is generally well-regarded by the cycling community, offering a rewarding experience without extreme climbs.

The New Forest is renowned for its unique environment, blending ancient woodlands with expansive heathland. This particular loop is a prime example of the region's charm, allowing you to explore natural features and wildlife by bike. It's a great way to experience the distinctive character of the national park, known for its gentle rolling hills rather than steep ascents.

Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through the New Forest with the Avon Tyrrell loop from Burley. This 17.6 miles (28.3 km) route offers a dynamic ride, taking you through ancient woodlands and across open heathland. You will gain 664 feet (202 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes, encountering both smoother paved sections and more rugged unpaved paths. As you pedal, keep an eye out for the iconic New Forest ponies grazing freely, adding to the picturesque scenery. The trail provides a varied experience, suitable for those looking for a balanced challenge.

Planning your ride on this New Forest loop is straightforward. You can easily find parking options in or near the charming village of Burley, which serves as an excellent starting point for your journey. If you do not have your own bike, consider renting one from the nearby Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre, making it convenient to hit the trails. The New Forest National Park is well-known for its extensive network of car-free paths, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cycling.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and outdoor activity hubs. You will pass by the Avon Tyrrell Mountain Bike Centre, a notable landmark and a focal point for various outdoor pursuits in the region. The trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse ecosystems of the New Forest, from dense ancient woodlands to expansive, sun-drenched heathlands. It is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural heritage of this protected landscape while enjoying a rewarding mountain bike ride.

Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through the New Forest with the Roydon Woods loop from Beaulieu. This 20.6-mile (33.1 km) route guides you through ancient woodlands, open meadows, and diverse copses, offering a varied landscape for your ride. You will gain 524 feet (160 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes, making it a good workout. Enjoy scenic views of the Lymington River and pass by the tranquil Hatchet Pond, providing a classic New Forest backdrop. The trail features a mix of singletrack, paved roads, and some rough gravel paths, ensuring a dynamic experience.

Prepare for a ride that demands good fitness, as some sections may require advanced mountain biking skills. You might encounter wet conditions or parts where pushing your bike is necessary, so plan accordingly. Remember that you will share the paths with hikers, dog walkers, and horse riders; practicing good trail etiquette is essential for everyone's enjoyment. Local bike hire shops in the area can often provide maps and valuable insights into the current trail conditions.

This loop offers a true New Forest experience, immersing you in the unique natural environment of the national park. As you mountain bike through the area, keep an eye out for various wildlife, including deer and numerous bird species. The blend of ancient woodlands and open spaces makes this route a notable way to explore the diverse ecosystems of the New Forest.

Embark on a moderate mountain bike adventure through the Avington Park, King Alfred's Way & Watercress Way loop from Winchester. This 22.6-mile (36.3 km) route, which you can complete in about 2 hours and 36 minutes, offers a diverse ride with 1285 feet (392 metres) of elevation gain. You will navigate varied terrain, including quiet roads, tarmac cycle routes, and significant off-road sections. Expect to encounter chalk downlands, rolling hills, dense forests, and open meadows, all while enjoying panoramic views across picturesque river valleys like the Itchen and Meon. The trail also features gravel paths, chalky singletrack, and portions of old railway lines, providing a rich mix of surfaces for your ride. A highlight is cycling through the scenic Avington Park, adding a tranquil element to your journey.

This loop is rated as moderate, suggesting it is accessible to mountain bikers with a reasonable level of fitness and skill. The varied terrain includes chalk downlands, rolling hills, and dense forests, so a mountain bike or gravel bike is recommended for the mixed surfaces. Touring bikes might struggle on some of the off-road sections. Be prepared for a blend of quiet roads, tarmac cycle routes, and significant off-road segments, including gravel paths and chalky singletrack. The route is generally peaceful, offering beautiful countryside views throughout.

This particular loop intelligently combines sections of two well-known long-distance trails, the King Alfred's Way and the Watercress Way, with the scenic beauty of Avington Park. King Alfred's Way is a 350-kilometer circular off-road adventure route rich in history, traversing landscapes that defined the ancient kingdom of Wessex. The Watercress Way, a 27-mile circular route, uniquely links old railway lines with historic livestock droves, passing through charming chalk downland and along the Rivers Itchen, Arle, and Dever. This combination offers a ride through millennia of heritage, showcasing a blend of natural beauty and historical significance in the quintessential south of England countryside.