Jump aboard the train to the New Forest and step into the fresh air of this charming location, full of wonderful places to explore and free roaming animals to spot. Not only is using the train a brilliant way to get to the New Forest, but it’s also handy to travel around when you’re here and hop from location to location. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this enchanting destination by rail…
Getting to the New Forest by train
Begin your journey from major cities, such as London, Southampton and Bournemouth, with direct connections to New Forest train stations. The main railway line serving the area is the South Western Railway, which offers regular services to train stations in the New Forest, including Brockenhurst, Beaulieu Road, Ashurst and Sway.
Did you know it takes just 90 minutes to travel from London Waterloo to the New Forest by train? Leave the urban sprawl of the country’s capital city behind, enjoy glorious views of rolling countryside from the train carriage, and end up in our magical forest, where natural beauty awaits.
If you’re coming from somewhere that’s not on the same line as our train stations, then there are lots of other lines that connect with nearby stations including Southampton and Bournemouth, that will bring you to the New Forest with just 1 changeover - making it very easy to get here from multiple places around the UK!
Where are our train stations located?
The New Forest has 8 train stations, allowing you to venture across the whole of the New Forest by rail.
Our main train station is Brockenhurst. The largest village in the New Forest, serving an ideal base for your explorations. Imagine thatched cottages, cosy pubs and wandering donkeys down the high street! There are plenty of locations to rest the night in Brockenhurst, as well as lots of spots to grab a bite to eat. Hire bikes as you step off the train from Cyclexperience and begin your cycling adventure right away, with this bike hire centre being located in the station's car park!
If you want to step off the train into the middle of the New Forest, with a network of walking pathways surrounding you, head for Beaulieu Road Station. Located between two of our most wonderful villages, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst, expect to be welcomed by free roaming ponies as you exit the carriage. There are excellent walks located nearby the train station, as well as a gorgeous country pub, The Drift Inn, and a wonderful hotel, Beaulieu Inn.
Ashurst is another excellent train station for nature lovers. The station is a short walk away from access to the open forest, allowing you to start your forest journey as you arrive. In Ashurst, there are also some lovely local pubs and cafes to visit, as well as good access to attractions including Longdown Activity Farm and The New Forest Wildlife Park.
The village of Sway is known for its peaceful location and beautiful surrounding open forest, as well as being home to one of our main train stations. Offering quaint shops, a deli, pubs, and the infamous Sway Tower, a unique 14-story structure, Sway is a brilliant location to visit. Plus, this station also has great access to walking paths through the New Forest.
Connect from Brockenhurst to Lymington, a historic coastal town in the New Forest. This location is buzzing with activity and has so much to offer, with its long high street full of shops, cafes, hotels and pubs, and a glorious quay to enjoy an ice cream in the sun, a lovely marina where you can hop on a boat and links to beautiful walking paths along the coast.
Other stations include New Milton, Totton and Hinton Admiral.
With so many train stations, it’s a perfect way to get around the New Forest via public transport when you’re already here, as well as travelling via train to get here.
Tips for travelling by train in the New Forest
- Plan ahead! Check the train schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack light. While the trains are comfortable, packing light will make it easier to navigate and explore on foot and bike when you arrive at the destination.
- Stay connected! Download maps and guides for walking and cycling to your phone and visit our website ahead of your arrival to find all the information and inspiration you need for your visit.