The best cycling routes around New Forest

There are over 760 touring cycling routes available in the New Forest. This includes a wide variety of options, with 372 easy routes, 300 moderate routes, and 88 more difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

The New Forest offers diverse terrain, characterized by ancient woodlands, vast open heathlands, and even a 40-mile 'secret' coastline. Most routes feature relatively flat terrain with gentle rises and low hills, making it accessible. You'll find extensive networks of dedicated, often car-free, waymarked trails, with some routes incorporating gravel sections.

The New Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2500 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning and varied landscapes, the peaceful car-free routes, and the unique experience of encountering free-roaming ponies and deer along the trails.

Yes, the New Forest is ideal for beginners and families, with many routes designed to be family-friendly and mostly off-road. An excellent easy option is the Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland loop — New Forest National Park, which is 11.0 miles (17.6 km) and winds through impressive ornamental trees.

For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the New Forest offers longer routes with varied terrain. The Hawkhill Trail loop — New Forest National Park is a difficult 14.6 miles (23.5 km) route that passes through sites with visible evidence of World War II history. Another moderate option with gravel sections is the Lyndhurst, Bolderwood & Roydon Wood gravel loop from Brockenhurst.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the New Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. The Northern Forest Circular — New Forest National Park is a moderate 18.0 miles (29.0 km) option, offering a great way to explore the northern parts of the forest.

Cycling in the New Forest allows you to experience ancient woodlands, vast open heathlands, and even a coastline. You'll likely encounter free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle, and donkeys. Specific scenic areas include the majestic Rhinefield Ornamental Drive and the Blackwater Arboretum. For panoramic views, consider routes near Holm Hill or Ragged Boys Hill.

Many routes connect charming villages and significant attractions. You can cycle to places like Brockenhurst, Burley, Lyndhurst, and Beaulieu, which offer amenities. Notable attractions include the Hatchet Pond, the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary (with a viewing platform), and the historic village of Buckler's Hard on the Beaulieu River. The Beaulieu to Brockenhurst loop is a great way to explore some of these areas.

While many areas of the New Forest are dog-friendly, it's essential to keep dogs under close control, especially due to the free-roaming livestock and wildlife. Always check specific route guidelines or local signage for any restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or sensitive areas. Generally, dogs on leads are welcome on most public rights of way.

The New Forest is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is popular but can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but some trails may be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.

Yes, the New Forest has numerous charming villages and towns like Brockenhurst, Burley, Lyndhurst, and Beaulieu, which offer a variety of pubs, cafes, and shops perfect for a break. Many also provide accommodation options, from B&Bs to hotels, making it easy to plan multi-day cycling trips.

Several key villages in the New Forest, such as Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst, have good public transport links, including train stations (Brockenhurst) and bus services. These locations often serve as excellent starting points for cycling routes, allowing you to arrive without a car. It's advisable to check train and bus operator policies regarding bikes before you travel.

The New Forest has numerous car parks, often located at popular trailheads or near villages like Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst, and Burley. Many of these are Forestry England car parks. Always check for any parking fees or time limits, and ensure your vehicle is securely locked, especially if leaving bikes unattended.