Our favourite New Forest cycle routes

New Forest National Park is a haven for cycling enthusiasts and beginner’s alike. With beautiful natural surroundings, there is no better place to explore by bike. Whether on your own or with your family, the tranquil settings of the New Forest cycle routes will heighten your spirits and leave you feeling invigorated.

Popular cycling routes

With over 100 miles of approved cycling routes ranging from 3 to 21 miles, there are plenty of options for beginners and regular cyclists. Many of the longer cycle routes begin from Brockenhurst, which is the most central area in the New Forest. The village is the perfect place to stop for a picnic, a traditional cream tea or a drink in the pub before starting your cycle. We recommend riding from Brockenhurst to Fordingbridge, which can be up to 22 miles long depending on which forest roads you follow. The Ornamental Woods trail is 15 miles long and winds past beautiful natural scenery. 

A shorter route is the Woodland Trail which begins at the village of Burley. This route is ideal for a gentle family bike ride. At just 8.5 miles on mostly off-road gravel tracks, this trail is not too long or difficult for children (although if you have very young ones, take them round in a fitted child seat). Also starting in Burley is the 9 mile Hill Fort route. This is an interesting ride down quiet lanes and part of an old railway track, passing the stunning streams of Mill Lawn.

The popular route to the pretty village of Beaulieu is a must-see if you don’t mind a longer ride. This route is around 13 to 19 miles and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours on mostly forest tracks. However, there is an opportunity to rest and grab a bite to eat when you pass Turfcutter’s Arms on the East Boldre high street. We also recommend stopping off at the National Motor Museum before setting off back to your campsite.

Cycling rules and regulations

Although the New Forest promotes cycling as a great way to see and get around the park, there are some rules and regulations that must be adhered to to ensure the safety of you, others around you and the natural surroundings. When following a cycle route, always stick to the marked tracks that you are using and be careful not to veer off into the road, since this could be dangerous for you and other motorists. On narrow roads, ride in single file to give motorists plenty of space to go around you. Be aware of heavy vehicles such as lorries and tractors where the driver’s vision of the road may be obscured.

Take care when cycling past horse riders. Cycle slowly and quietly and give them plenty of room. If you get too close, you could startle the horse. The same general rules also apply when passing cattle or ponies in fields.

You must plan your time carefully so that you are off the cycle tracks by dusk. Be sure to wear bright colours and use lights in poor visibility and when it starts to get dark. All these regulations will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip as you cycle the New Forest.

Equipment to bring

The New Forest is mostly made up of flat, well-defined tracks that are suitable for an ordinary bike, but it is always good to consider various options such as tyre thickness and suspension if you’ll be riding over bumpier terrain. Of course, if you don’t want to purchase a bike or equipment, another option would be to cycle hire from various places in the New Forest where you can also get some friendly advice from the staff. It is also important for riders to wear a helmet at all times, especially children. We recommend bringing lights for riding in the dark, a tyre pump, a water bottle to keep you hydrated and a bike lock.

A first aid kit may also be useful in case the little ones have any scrapes and plasters to ease the pain of foot blisters. A small rucksack is great to hold items such as snacks, a cycle map and a camera. Sunglasses can help with your vision on a particularly bright day. On colder days, it is wise to wear lightweight layers that can easily be pulled on and off, as well as waterproof clothing in case it should rain. The best time to cycle the New Forest is in spring when it can be sunny but relatively mild so you won’t get too hot whilst cycling. This way you also avoid the risk of heat exhaustion that occurs in the summer months, particularly if you are not used to cycling.

Without a doubt, cycling the New Forest National Park is one of the best ways to see the park and spend time during your camping holiday. The whole family will enjoy seeing the beautiful surroundings and wildlife.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Find campsites in the New Forest here.