With over 100 miles of car-free cycle trails winding through ancient woodland, open heathland and pretty villages, the New Forest National Park is one of the finest places to explore on two wheels anywhere in the UK.
Whether you’re planning a gentle family ride or something a bit more adventurous, there really is a route for everyone. We’ve put together some of the best cycling routes in the New Forest, along with practical tips on bike hire and where to stay.
Why Cycle in the New Forest?
The beauty of cycling in the New Forest is that it lets you get wonderfully close to nature at your own pace. The network of well-drained gravel tracks and quiet country lanes means you can ride through stunning scenery year-round, spotting free-roaming ponies, highland cattle and deer along the way. Most routes are predominantly off-road, flat and safe, making them ideal for families and leisure cyclists, while longer circular routes offer a proper challenge for those who want one.
What Are the Best Family-Friendly Cycling Routes?
For families or anyone looking for a relaxed ride, these routes are a fantastic starting point.
The Hawkhill Trail – 9.1 Miles
This is a brilliant choice for families because the entire route is safe and off-road. Starting from Roundhill Campsite, you’ll pass fascinating Second World War history including the airfield at RAF Beaulieu. It’s a lovely way to enjoy the forest without worrying about traffic.
Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard – 2 Miles
One of the most popular short routes in the New Forest, this ride takes you from the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu to the historic village of Buckler’s Hard along the river. At just two miles, it’s perfect for younger children or a gentle afternoon outing.
The Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland – 10.8 Miles
A looped route starting and finishing at Brockenhurst, this ride takes you through gorgeous ornamental woodland packed with wildlife and beautiful scenery. It’s predominantly off-road with easy-to-ride forest tracks, and bikes can be hired from Cyclexperience near Brockenhurst railway station if you don’t have your own.
Which Routes Suit More Adventurous Cyclists?
If you’re after something longer and more rewarding, the New Forest has plenty to offer.
The Old Railway – 9 Miles
Follow the route known as ‘Castleman’s Corkscrew’ from Brockenhurst to Burley along a disused railway line. It’s an easy-to-medium ride taking around two to three hours, and a wonderful way to explore the variety of landscapes the forest has to offer.
The Northern Forest Circular – 17.8 Miles
For a more intense ride, this longer route takes you across the beautiful north of the New Forest with rolling hills, magical heathland and stunning views that stretch for miles. There are several lovely country pubs and cafes along the way if you need a well-earned break.
Lyndhurst to Burley – 23 Miles
A great option for experienced cyclists, this route passes through ancient woodlands and enjoys beautiful views between two of the New Forest’s most charming villages. It can be shortened or extended using off-road tracks and country lanes depending on how you’re feeling.
The Seaside Ride – 23 Miles
For those who love cycling by the sea, this varied route follows quiet lanes to Lymington before joining the coast path with views across to the Isle of Wight, Hurst Castle and the Needles. At over 20 miles, it’s an ideal ride for an electric bike.
Where Can You Hire Bikes in the New Forest?
You don’t need to bring your own bike to enjoy cycling in the New Forest. There are several well-equipped cycle hire shops across the area offering a wide range of bikes, from mountain bikes and road bikes to electric bikes and children’s bikes. Some also hire trailers for dogs and children, child seats and even tandems.
Key hire locations include Cyclexperience in Brockenhurst, New Forest Cycling in Burley, The Woods Cyclery in Lyndhurst, and Jaunt-e Bikes in Milford on Sea, who offer unique electric Monkey Bikes. There are also hire shops in Beaulieu and Godshill near Fordingbridge.
How Should You Stay Safe While Cycling?
The New Forest National Park Authority asks all cyclists to follow the New Forest Cycling Code:
- Cycling is permitted only on waymarked tracks and designated routes.
- When approaching people and animals, call out a warning and pass slowly and wide.
- Wear bright colours to stay visible, always use lights after dark, and keep to a safe speed.
Downloadable maps of the full cycle network are available from the National Park Authority website, or you can pick one up from any of the cycle hire shops.
Where to Stay for a New Forest Cycling Break
The New Forest is a wonderful destination for a cycling holiday, and having a comfortable base to return to after a day on the trails makes all the difference. Our New Forest properties are perfectly placed for exploring the forest’s cycle network, with Fordingbridge sitting right on the edge of the National Park.
Criddlestyle Cottage is a picturesque thatched cottage ideal for families, while Riverside Lodge, our award-winning self-catering accommodation, offers a stunning riverside setting for smaller groups. Both properties welcome dogs, so your four-legged friends can join you on the adventure too.
Staying with Short Stay Homes means booking direct with no fees and our best rate guaranteed. We own all our properties, so you’ll always deal with a team that genuinely knows and loves the area. We’re always happy to help with recommendations for routes, bike hire and local pubs to refuel along the way.
If you’d like to plan your New Forest cycling break, please get in touch or check availability today.
