The best walks and hikes around Lyndhurst
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Hikes around Lyndhurst explore the heart of the New Forest National Park. The region is characterized by a mix of ancient woodlands, open heathland, and well-maintained forest trails. Routes often feature gentle hills and pass by notable landmarks and areas known for native ponies and deer.
Best hiking trails around Lyndhurst
- The most popular hiking route is Lyndhurst Hill & Acres Down loop β New Forest National Park, a 6.1 mile (9.9 km) trail that takes about 2 hoursβ¦
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.6
(93)
407
hikers
9.86km
02:39
120m
120m
Embark on the Lyndhurst Hill & Acres Down loop for a moderate hike through the diverse landscapes of New Forest National Park. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) route, with an elevationβ¦
4.7
(39)
155
hikers
8.26km
02:11
70m
70m
Step into a world of giants on the Tall Trees Trail Circular, a moderate hike that leads you through impressive rows of towering redwoods and Douglas firs. This 5.1-mile (8.3β¦
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3.9
(23)
93
hikers
3.90km
01:00
20m
20m
Hike the 2.4-mile Bolton's Bench & Bisterne Dragon loop from Lyndhurst, exploring New Forest views and a legendary dragon sculpture.
4.1
(17)
90
hikers
12.2km
03:10
80m
80m
Hike the moderate 7.6-mile Lyndhurst, Boltons Bench & Matley Wood loop in New Forest National Park, enjoying diverse landscapes and iconic p
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
1.97km
00:31
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bolton's Bench is a well-known natural knoll and landmark situated on the edge of Lyndhurst, the "capital" of the New Forest. A prominent ancient yew tree grows at the top of the hill, which is surrounded by grassy lawns where the New Forest's famous ponies, donkeys, and cattle often graze freely. According to a medieval tale, a dragon that terrorized the nearby village of Bisterne was slain on the site by a knight named Sir Maurice de Berkeley. The dragon's body supposedly became the hill, and the ancient yew trees grew where the knight and his hounds later died.
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An amazing and very charming place that hides some secrets from the past..
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Beautiful scenic section just before you get to the dead trees.
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Nothing lives in this place. Legend from commoners ( habitants of the new forest ), tell of the death of a young boy here in the early 1800's. His family buried him here and within days the woods around his body decayed and died. Birds won't even sit on the branches. it's a very eerie place.
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Amazing place to explore, good footwear is a must as it can be wet, but worth every visit
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A somewhat ridiculously beautiful track in Holidays Hill Inclosure between the pond at the track junction to the north-west and the Reptile Centre to the south-east. The way sunlight trickles down through the trees here is incredible. There are many impressively tall and large trees here, and the sense of peace is all-pervading. Enjoy it while you're here!
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In Holidays Hill Inclosure, this spot encourages you to "Listen" - to the trees, that is. Slow your life down to a crawl and listen to the language of nature. A lovely idea, this.
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The New Forest Reptile Centre is open all summer until the end of September. Discover more about British reptiles and amphibians and how they are being conserved in the New Forest. Specially created display enclosures allow you to study these animals in close-up. This includes the only collection of all the native lizards, snakes, frogs and toads, including Britain's only venomous snake - the adder - and the rarest lizard - the sand lizard. In addition to reptiles and amphibians, the New Forest Reptile Centre is home to 'A Date With Nature in the New Forest', which affords an opportunity to see birds of prey close up on nest cams.
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More Information
Face to face with ancients and giants
The New Forest has over 1,000 ancient trees, believed to be the highest concentration in Western Europe. Some of the best hiking trails around Lyndhurst take you into their austere company. A number of short trails begin in nearby Bolderwood, which boasts the 500-year-old Knightwood Oak and is one of the best places to spot wild deer in the New Forest. Venture deeper into the woods to discover the ancient yew trees, some of which are 1,000 years old.
Other trails explore the forestβs arboretums, featuring some of the tallest, toughest and heaviest trees in the World. Stroll beneath towering redwoods and marvel at Englandβs tallest sequoia, standing proud at 167 feet (51 m). The forestβs unique habitat is rich with wildlife, from rare moths and butterflies to marvellously patterned species of fungi. Study closely, but make sure you do not pick them.
Exploring the open heathland
However, thereβs more to hikes around Lyndhurst than forest trails. The national park is also home to the most extensive area of open heathland remaining in Europe. Semi-wild ponies roam freely across a landscape of yellow flowering gorse and heather under huge blue skies. There are hundreds of miles of trails and footpaths to explore.
It is worth noting that between March and the end of July it is important to stick to the main trails, as ground-nesting birds, such as the snipe, curlew and redshank need to rear their young safely during this time. Trails that are out of bounds should be signposted.
A village steeped in folklore and Royal tradition
Ever since William the Conqueror set up hunting grounds here, Lyndhurst has been a haunt for Royals, attracted by the surrounding natural beauty. It is also steeped in folklore. Shorter walks around Lyndhurst include nearby hill Boltonβs Bench, said to be the remains of the Bisterne Dragon, slain by a valiant knight and his trusty hounds.
The Dragon was said to have lived on nearby Burley Beacon, a small hill above Burley β a picturesque traditional village of thatched cottages and old-world charm. Break your hikes up by sampling some of the local produce, such as New Forest apple juice or cider, before exploring the nearby historical sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting from Lyndhurst?
Yes, the area around Lyndhurst is ideal for circular hikes. Most trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. This makes logistics simple, whether you're parking a car or starting from the town centre.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Lyndhurst?
Lyndhurst is very dog-friendly, and dogs are welcome on most trails in the New Forest. However, it's important to keep them under control, especially around the free-roaming ponies and during bird nesting season (March to July). Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any easy, family-friendly trails?
Absolutely. For a short and engaging walk with the family, the Reptile Centre Discovery Trail is an excellent choice. It's a gentle path that offers a great opportunity to learn about the local wildlife in a manageable distance for little legs.
What kind of wildlife might I see on a walk in the New Forest?
The New Forest is famous for its iconic free-roaming ponies. You are also very likely to see deer, especially if you visit the highly-regarded Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, which has a dedicated viewing platform. The ancient woodlands are also home to a wide variety of birdlife.
Where is a good place to park for a walk near Lyndhurst?
There are numerous car parks throughout the forest that serve as excellent starting points for hikes. Millyford Bridge Inclosure is a popular spot that provides direct access to several well-maintained paths through the woodland. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Are there any long-distance or more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a longer day out, there are several more substantial routes. The Lyndhurst, Boltons Bench & Matley Wood loop is a great example, offering a 7.5-mile (12 km) journey through varied landscapes including open heath and dense woodland.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Lyndhurst?
The hiking routes around Lyndhurst are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful mix of ancient woodland and open heathland, the well-maintained paths, and the frequent sightings of New Forest ponies.
Are there any walks that are particularly good for seeing impressive trees?
For a walk focused on magnificent trees, head to the Blackwater Arboretum. It features trails that wind through some of the oldest Douglas Firs in the country, along with a collection of trees from around the world. It's a beautiful and peaceful location for a woodland walk.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from near Lyndhurst?
You'll find a wide variety of options, with over 120 designated hiking routes around Lyndhurst. These range from short, easy strolls of less than 2 miles to more challenging treks, with the majority being rated as easy or moderate.
Are the trails accessible by public transport?
Yes, Lyndhurst is known as the 'capital' of the New Forest and is accessible by bus services that connect to nearby towns and train stations like Brockenhurst. Many trails can be started directly from the village, making it a convenient base for exploring the area without a car.
Can I find a walk that ends near a pub?
Yes, as a bustling village, Lyndhurst has several traditional pubs. Many circular routes start and finish in or near the village centre, making it easy to plan a hike that concludes with a refreshing drink or meal at a local establishment.
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