Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop
Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop
4.6
(78)
434
hikers
Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop
02:22
9.25km
30m
Hiking
Explore the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop, a moderate hike spanning 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 100 feet (30 metres). This route offers a pleasant mix of coastal paths and peaceful woodlands, taking around 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. You will experience…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.64 km
Lepe Loop Trail Section
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Tip by
4.55 km
Lepe Lookout and Lighthouse
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
9.25 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.27 km
2.91 km
2.85 km
196 m
Surfaces
2.79 km
2.38 km
1.56 km
1.44 km
1.03 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
18°C
9°C
20 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop?
Parking is available at Lepe Country Park. It's advisable to check the official New Forest National Park website for any specific parking fees or regulations before your visit.
Is the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop is generally dog-friendly. However, please keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife habitats, and follow any local signage regarding leash rules.
What is the best time of year to hike the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer vibrant displays of flora, especially near Exbury Gardens. Autumn provides beautiful colors in the woodlands. Winter can be peaceful, but some sections may become very muddy, requiring appropriate footwear.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop itself, as it's part of the New Forest National Park. However, parking at Lepe Country Park may incur a charge.
What is the terrain like on the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop?
The loop features diverse terrain, including coastal paths, well-defined woodland trails, open fields, and minor roads. Surfaces vary from gravel and paved sections to natural earth. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on byways and woodland paths, especially after rain or in winter.
What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?
You'll experience a rich mix of landscapes, including splendid sea views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight, shingle beaches, tranquil woodlands with oak and hazel trees, and open farmland. The coastal sections are particularly scenic.
What historical sites or landmarks can be found along the trail?
Lepe holds significant historical importance, particularly its wartime links to D-Day. Along the foreshore, you can still see evidence of World War II activity, including structures related to the 'Mulberry Harbours' and the embarkation of troops. You'll also pass the Lepe Lookout and Lighthouse.
What wildlife can I see on the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop?
The coastal sections are excellent for birdwatching. You can often spot a wide variety of wading birds, such as oystercatchers and curlews, feeding on the mudflats, as well as dark-bellied Brent geese.
Are there any specific challenges or conditions to be aware of on the trail?
Yes, be aware that the foreshore route can be affected by high tide; an alternative parallel road is available in such cases. Also, certain byways and woodland paths can become very muddy during damp conditions or in winter, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended.
Does the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop connect with other trails?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Lepe Off Road Cycle Trail, Columbary Walk, Shore Walk, and Gypsy Lane, offering opportunities to explore further if desired.
Are there facilities like cafes or restrooms available near the trail?
Lepe Country Park typically has facilities including a cafe and restrooms. It's a good idea to check their opening hours, especially outside of peak season.
Is the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop suitable for families or beginners?
While generally considered a moderate hike, the trail is suitable for most skill levels and offers easily accessible paths. A good level of fitness is recommended for the full loop, but shorter, flatter sections within Lepe Country Park are very family-friendly.
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Trail Reviews
Great loop just over 5 miles, lots of interesting views.
Our first tour according to the Komoot app with a PERFECT rating. A walk through beautiful nature and views.
OK, let's tick off the negatives first: It was way too hot to hike. The car park was £7.5 - exorbitant. The beginning of the tour on the "beach" long was really stupid. Only climb over big stones. We then dodged onto the street and walked on asphalt first 😥. Once again there wasn't a single bank on the whole tour. - - - That's it with the nagging. The rest was just great. The best and most varied hike we've had here in the New Forest. Only small paths with luckily plenty of shade. A meadow of butterflies (or moths), thousands, it just fluttered. Narrow winding paths that are hardly recognizable, very dark forests and then meadows again or sometimes narrow through rapeseed fields - today there was everything. Except people. Hit: 0. Apart from us, no one was crazy enough to hike in the heat. Shortly before the finish there was soda and ice cream as a reward 😊