The New Forest National Park covers 566 square kilometres of ancient woodland, open heathland, coastline and gentle valleys – all waiting to be explored on foot. With around 143 miles of walking trails winding through breathtaking landscapes, there truly is a route for everyone, whether you fancy a short stroll with the dog or a full day’s ramble through some of southern England’s best scenery.
We’ve put together our favourite walks across the New Forest, from accessible paths perfect for families to longer hikes that will have you reaching for your thermos by lunchtime.
What Makes the New Forest So Special for Walking?
The New Forest is far more than just woodland. You’ll find open heathland carpeted with heather, peaceful streams and lakes, ancient inclosures fenced to protect growing timber, and stretches of beautiful coastline. Wild ponies graze freely, deer move quietly through the bracken, and in autumn you might even spot pigs enjoying their ancient right of pannage – foraging for acorns in the woods. The Forestry Commission has created well-signposted gravel tracks along many trails, with plenty of car parks dotted along the routes, so you can make your walk as long or short as you wish.
Which Easy Walks Are Best for Families?
If you’re looking for something gentle, the New Forest has some lovely shorter routes that are perfect for families, older guests, or anyone who simply prefers a relaxed pace.
Rockford Common
This 3.5-mile route takes roughly an hour and a half and is a beautiful introduction to the New Forest. The path crosses open common where heather blooms in gorgeous purple during the summer months, and you’ll pass close to Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve – repurposed gravel pits now teeming with wild birds. It’s a particularly lovely walk for guests staying near Fordingbridge, as the common is just a short drive away.
Blashford Lakes
For an even shorter outing, the accessible Blashford Lakes trail covers just three quarters of a mile in around half an hour. It’s ideal for a morning wander with the dog or a gentle leg-stretch before breakfast. Entry to the nature reserve is by donation, and birdwatchers will find plenty to keep them occupied.
Lyndhurst Village
At just 1.25 miles, this accessible route is perfect for those who want to explore the heart of the New Forest’s unofficial capital. Lyndhurst itself is full of places to eat and drink, making it easy to combine a stroll with a leisurely lunch.
Which Moderate Walks Offer a Bit More Adventure?
Ready to stretch your legs a little further? These walks offer more varied terrain and scenery without requiring a full day’s commitment.
Fritham Walk
One of the most popular trails in the New Forest, this 4.5-mile route takes around two and a half hours and guides you through three different inclosures and the atmospheric open heath of Fritham Plain. Keep your eyes open for grazing deer and wild ponies. The whole route follows paths that are less prone to muddy puddles, which is always welcome news. Better still, the Royal Oak pub sits less than 100 metres from the car park.
Burley Walk
This 2.5-mile circuit takes roughly an hour and a half and offers spectacular panoramic views across the New Forest heathland. The initial section runs alongside Burley golf course, and a short stretch follows a dismantled railway line where steam trains once passed through. Burley village has plenty of places to refuel, including the Queen’s Head and Old Farmhouse Restaurant and Tea Rooms.
Stuckton Iron Works
A moderate 3.75-mile walk taking around two hours, this route near Fordingbridge explores the site of historic iron works and passes through lovely stretches of New Forest countryside. It’s a fantastic option for guests staying in our Fordingbridge properties, being just a short distance away.
What About Full Day Hikes?
For keen walkers looking to make a proper day of it, the New Forest has some wonderful longer routes.
Hampton Ridge and Abbots Well from Fritham
This 17-kilometre hike takes in sweeping heathland views and visits the site of a small well used for centuries by travellers on the old road to Southampton. You’ll pass through inclosures, cross open moorland and bag a trig point along Hampton Ridge. The sandy soil here has a distinctive reddish colour due to its high iron content – a lovely detail to spot as you walk.
Burley, Castleman’s Corkscrew and the Naked Man
At 24 kilometres, this is a proper full day’s walking. Part of the route follows the disused Southampton and Dorchester Railway, which took such a winding path through the forest it became known as Castleman’s Corkscrew. You’ll also pass the Naked Man – the stump of an ancient oak tree once used for hanging convicted highwaymen. The route crosses Wilverley Plain, where you might spot New Forest ponies having a munch.
Our Top Tips for Walking in the New Forest
A few things worth keeping in mind before you set off:
- Layer your clothing so you can adjust as you warm up – three layers is a good starting point.
- A sturdy pair of walking boots or wellies is essential, especially after rain when paths can get boggy.
- Pack a thermos of something warm, some snacks, and a map if you’re heading into quieter areas.
Your New Forest Base with Short Stay Homes
Our properties near Fordingbridge make a wonderful base for exploring many of these walks. Criddlestyle Cottage, Mews Hill, and our award-winning Riverside Lodge are all beautifully situated within easy reach of Rockford Common, Blashford Lakes, and the Stuckton Iron Works trail.
All of our properties welcome dogs, so there’s no need to leave your four-legged walking companion behind. When you book directly through our website, you’ll pay no booking fees and enjoy our best rate guarantee. We’re always happy to share our favourite local routes and help you plan your days out – just let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll point you in the right direction.
For more information or to check availability, please contact us or browse our New Forest properties on the website.
