Top 5 cycle routes in the New Forest
6th Jul 2020
Discover the beauty and hidden treasures of the New Forest this summer from the comfort of your bicycle seat. The New Forest is awaiting your discovery.
With over 100 miles of approved cycle trails, there is no better way to explore this incredible national park. The New Forest provides some of the best opportunities to visit historic sites, glorious views and enjoy terrific woodland adventures. From short distances to long, from heathland to rivers, these are our top 5 cycle routes.
Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard | 2miles | Great for families
One of the most popular routes for families is from beautiful Beaulieu to the historic Buckler’s Hard. Your first stop will be the National Motor Museum, perfect for any car fanatics. The Palace House is also a must see, with the most beautiful grounds and gardens to be explored. Continue your adventure on the footpath along Beaulieu River to Buckler’s Hard. This beautiful village is home to the Maritime museum, having once been a shipbuilding yard. You can learn about this history of this 18th century village, or enjoy an ice cream whilst watching boats float along the river before heading back to Beaulieu. This may be a short route, but you’ll be sure to make a day of it as it is full of interest and heritage.
Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland | 8 miles | Easy/Medium | Some road access
Beginning in Brockenhurst, this route will take you through areas rich in flora, fauna and wildlife. Cycling on mainly off-road tracks, you will be able to take in fantastic views of the unique New Forest Landscape. As you approach Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, the majestic Douglas firs and redwoods will tower over you. Take in this view in amazement as you cycle past some of the oldest and tallest trees in Britain.
Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst | 6.5 miles | Medium | Some hills | Gravel tracks
Often regarded as the capital of the New Forest, Lyndhurst provides a route through from the forest to Southampton and the M27 however more importantly; it is home to an impressive Ferrari and Maserati garage, The National Park Tourism Centre and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your appetite after your journey. This particular route will take you into the heart of the forest providing plenty of opportunity to see the ponies, deer and if you’re lucky, pigs!
Lyndhurst to Hatchet Pond | 8 miles | Medium | Some hills
This beautiful route will guide you to one of the most tranquil places of this national park. Through glorious woodlands with huge beeches, chestnuts and mossy banks, you will end at Hatchet Pond, the largest area of fresh water in the New Forest. Relax and take in the scenery. If you can stay to watch the sunset, you will certainly not be disappointed.
The Old Railway | 9 miles | Medium | Gravel tracks
This cycle route will take you along the Castleman’s Corkscrew, a railway line named after Charles Castleman, which is now disused. If you are quiet enough, you may be lucky enough to see some of the 3000 ponies who roam the New Forest.
Whether you cycle for fitness or for fun, these top 5 routes will help you to see more of this glorious national park!
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