The best walks and hikes around Ringwood
4.5
(905)
7,841
hikers
38
hikes
Hikes around Ringwood explore the western edge of the New Forest National Park and the banks of the River Avon. The area's terrain is characterized by a mix of ancient oak woodlands, open heathland, and riverside paths. Routes often lead into the New Forest, with its network of trails, or north towards the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve.
Best hiking trails around Ringwood
- The most popular hiking route is Ziegler Passage & Smuggler's Road loop — New Forest National Park, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 55 minutes to complete. This route follows paths through the New Forest's characteristic woodland and heath.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Dockens Water at Rockford Ford – The Alice Lisle loop from Poulner, a moderate 5.0 mile (8.0 km) path. The trail follows the Dockens Water stream and passes through sections of the New Forest.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hightown Common – Ziegler Passage loop from Hightown, a 3.3 mile (5.3 km) trail leading through Hightown Common, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Ringwood is defined by riverside walks, open heathland, and ancient woodlands within the New Forest. The trail network provides a range of easy and moderate options suitable for different fitness levels.
- The routes in Ringwood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 850 reviews. More than 7,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Ringwood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
4.7
(3)
12
hikers
7.39km
01:59
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(1)
2
hikers
1.99km
00:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(13)
59
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
25
hikers
5.14km
01:23
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
11
hikers
14.9km
03:57
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sunday lunches coming out looked amazing . Great beer garden. Fab stopover on our route home.
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22 miles across the forest to beaulieu love this area
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This is an amazing trail run for people who want to get out there and try trail running unaided and find your way through without proper paths and trails.
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This parcel of land consisting of 40 acres, was acquired by the Open Spaces Society in 1929, in memory of George Shaw-Lefevre, 1st Baron Eversley who founded the society. It was passed to the National Trust, together with a memorial seat, designed by architect Elisabeth Scott. It's a wonderful place as it's the smallest common of the new forest, so tends not to be busy. Fantastic area to see the wild horses of the common.
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A very serene and peaceful little stream in the new forest. I came on a rainy day, but can imagine it looking beautiful in the summer days.
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Wonderful countryside views here - Dockens Water is a very beautiful river. If the ford here is flooded, do not worry; there is a footbridge provided for walkers so no need to get your feet wet!
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Very pleasant set of paths and tracks on the southern side of Hightown Common, just on the northern edge of Hightown Lower Copse. Very pleasant woodland, lots of grass, shrubbery, bushes and peace and quiet around here.
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This memorial was erected by the Commons and Footpaths Preservation Society in memory of their founder and late president The Right Honourable George John Shaw Lefevre Baron Everlsey. The bench next to it was designed by Elisabeth Scott, the architect of the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. It's a good place to rest, and immediately next to the car park, so very convenient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Ringwood suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the area is very accommodating for beginners and families. There are over 25 easy trails to choose from. A great option is the Hightown Common — New Forest National Park walk, which is a short and relatively flat route through beautiful heathland.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in the New Forest near Ringwood?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Ringwood and in the New Forest. The open heathland and woodland paths are great for walking with dogs. However, please be mindful of wildlife, especially during ground-nesting bird season (March to July), and keep your dog under control.
What is the terrain like on the hikes around Ringwood?
The terrain is quite varied. You can expect a mix of ancient oak woodlands, open heathland, and gentle riverside paths along the River Avon. Most routes are on well-maintained paths and are generally flat or have gentle inclines, making them accessible for most fitness levels.
How many hiking trails are available near Ringwood?
There are over 40 marked hiking routes to explore in the Ringwood area. These range from short, easy strolls to more moderate, longer walks, offering plenty of options within the New Forest National Park and along local waterways.
Can I find a circular walk that stops at a pub?
Yes, several routes offer the chance for a pub stop. The Dockens Water at Rockford Ford – The Alice Lisle loop from Poulner is a popular choice that passes near The Alice Lisle pub, allowing you to combine a scenic walk with some refreshment.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Ringwood?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery of the New Forest, the mix of woodland and heath, and the well-kept paths that make for enjoyable walking.
Are there any long-distance walking paths that pass through Ringwood?
Yes, the Avon Valley Path, a 34-mile long-distance footpath, runs through Ringwood. You can walk sections of it, enjoying the scenic riverside environment. The Hightown Common – Ziegler Passage Bridge loop from Ringwood incorporates parts of the area's extensive trail network for a longer day out.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming ponies and cattle. Depending on the season and time of day, you might also spot various species of deer, birds of prey, and a rich variety of birdlife, especially around the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve north of Ringwood.
Are the trails accessible all year round?
Yes, hiking around Ringwood is a year-round activity. Each season offers a different experience, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the stunning golden colours of autumn in the New Forest. Some paths can get muddy in winter, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Where are the best places to start a hike in the New Forest from Ringwood?
Many hikes start from car parks on the western edge of the New Forest. Popular starting points include Hightown Common and areas near Poulner. These locations provide direct access to the network of paths, such as the trails leading through the Hightown Common – Ziegler Passage loop from Hightown.
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