The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ashurst

Ashurst offers a wide variety of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 150 easy routes, with a total of more than 340 tours available, ensuring plenty of options for families to explore the beautiful New Forest National Park.

The family-friendly trails around Ashurst typically feature gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for all ages. You'll find a mix of open forest lawns, ancient pasture woodland, and diverse inclosures. Many paths are well-maintained, but some areas might have natural, uneven surfaces, especially after rain.

Yes, there are several easy and short circular options. For example, the The Fountain, Ashurst – The Fountain Pub loop from Ashurst is an easy route just under 5 km, perfect for a shorter family outing. Many trails in the area, including those around Churchplace Inclosure, are designed as loops through woodlands and open heathlands.

The Ashurst area is rich in natural beauty and historical interest. You might spot free-ranging ponies and cattle, and during autumn, even pigs foraging for acorns. Look out for ancient woodlands like those in Churchplace Inclosure. While hiking, you can also explore nearby historical sites such as Devil's Dyke or Chanctonbury Ring hillfort, which offer stunning views.

Yes, Ashurst and the New Forest are generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially around livestock (ponies, cattle, and pigs) that roam freely. Always follow the New Forest National Park's 'Dogs on Leads' guidance to protect wildlife and livestock. Remember to pick up after your dog.

Ashurst is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the woodlands burst with new life, while autumn offers stunning foliage and the chance to see pigs foraging. Summer is also great, but trails can be busier. Winter walks can be magical, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions.

Ashurst village itself offers options for refreshments. Many family-friendly pubs are located within or close to the New Forest National Park, providing a welcoming stop for food and drinks after a hike. The The Fountain, Ashurst – The Fountain Pub loop from Ashurst even starts and ends near a pub, making it convenient for a post-walk treat.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the diverse landscapes ranging from open heathland to ancient woodlands, and the accessibility of trails for families. The chance to spot New Forest ponies and other wildlife is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Ashurst is well-connected by public transport. Ashurst New Forest railway station provides direct access to the village, making it a convenient starting point for many walks without needing a car. Local bus services also operate in the area, connecting Ashurst to other New Forest villages and towns.

No, there are generally no specific permits or fees required for recreational hiking on public footpaths and bridleways in the New Forest National Park. However, it's always good practice to respect private land and follow the Countryside Code. For specific information on the New Forest, you can visit the official New Forest National Park Authority website: newforestnpa.gov.uk.

The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming animals. Families can expect to see the iconic New Forest ponies, cattle, and donkeys. During autumn, you might also spot pigs, known as 'pannage pigs,' helping to clear the forest floor of acorns. The woodlands are also home to various bird species and deer, offering great opportunities for wildlife spotting.