Cycling in the New Forest

Welcome to The New Forest, where, if you truly want to experience all the great things we have to share, two wheels are definitely better than four! Ancient woodland, heaths, pretty villages and a 40-mile ‘secret’ coast and cycle-friendly accommodation are just some of the amazing things we have to offer cyclists. Plus, the real bonus is there are over 100 miles of car-free approved cycle trails here the New Forest.

There are a multitude of options for the cyclist here in the New Forest. Whether you prefer to ride mountain bikes, hybrid or road bikes. Take a look at the various options available to you below. It doesn’t even matter if you don’t have your own bike, there are several places in the New Forest National Park where you can hire bikes for a couple of hours, a day or for longer stays. 

Family-friendly cycling routes
 

We have miles of off-road tracks and low speed-limit roads, where you can enjoy easy and relaxed cycling and see thousands of free-roaming ponies and cattle, perfect for families or those simply wishing to enjoy a leisurely ride at their own pace.

One of the most popular routes for families is the two mile cycle between Beaulieu and Buckler’s Hard. Hire your bikes in Beaulieu village (or bring your own), make a stop at the Beaulieu National Motor Museum and then ride along the two-mile path following the Beaulieu River south towards the picturesque maritime village of Buckler’s Hard.

If you fancy cycling a bit further with your family then the 6½ mile route between Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst is a firm favourite. All but 0.2 miles of this route are on off-road tracks, perfect for getting those pedals turning! The section that is on the road is on a very quiet country lane. Cycle through Forestry Commission inclosures and see how many animals you can spot along the way.  Bikes can be hired from Cyclexperience, found next to Brockenhurst railway station so you don’t even need to travel to the area by car.

Slightly longer again is Cyclexperience’s ‘Back through Balmer Lawn’ route. At just under 14 miles, this route is predominantly off-road with easy-to-ride forest tracks through thick pine, oak and beech woodland.

If you’re based in Burley you can hire a bike from Forest Leisure Cycling and enjoy riding one of their many suggested routes from the village. Popular routes with families include cycling along the disused railway track (with tea stops and pubs along the way), the 11 mile Owl and Reptile ride which stops at Liberty’s Owl and Reptile Centre and the 12-18 mile Deer Sanctuary ride.

After an exciting day of cycling, exploring and soaking up the New Forest’s heritage, you may find the smallest members of your family sleep very soundly!

Off-road cycling
 

The majority of our cycling routes here in the New Forest feature a strong element of off-road cycling. Plus, our off-road cycle network is easily accessible by rail or road so whether you prefer to bring your own bikes or hire them here when you arrive, there are several options available.

Hire a bike from Cyclexperience and enjoy one of their suggested routes. The ‘Burley on your Backside’ route for example is a 22 circular route from Brockenhurst to Burley with 85% of the route being on Forest tracks. Burley makes a great half way stop and is perfect for a spot of energising cake or handmade fudge!

Equally, Forest Leisure Cycling, based in Burley, have lots of predominantly off-road routes. The 24 mile Rhinefield Ride is one such example, this adventurous ride is mainly on gravel tracks and takes in Bolderwood and the Ornamental Drive. Or, if you fancy a shorter ride that’s nearly 100% off road then why not cycle their 8½ mile Woodland Trail route?

Long distance cycle routes
 

For the more advanced cyclist, our long distance cycle routes offer both on and off road trips where you can explore all that The New Forest has to offer.

The 25 mile Lyndhurst to Burley route is a great example. The route can be shortened or extended using off road tracks and country lanes depending on your preference.

Forest Leisure Cycling have ‘The Royal Oak Ride’ which is one of their more challenging routes. Hire bikes from them in Burley and cycle a 32 mile journey to the northwest boundary of the forest and passing several country pubs along the way.

If you fancy some sea air on your cycle then why not enquire with Brockenhurst-based Cyclexperience with their ‘Seaside Ride’. This circular 23 mile route passes through Lymington, along the Solent to Keyhaven before returning to Brockenhurst. As with many of the other routes, there are plenty of places to stop en-route including tea rooms, country pubs and cafes.

All our cycle hire shops are also have a wealth of information about longer distance routes that you can enjoy, with apps, maps and equipment available to buy or hire.

No matter which ride you choose to do in the New Forest, please ensure that you read our ever important Cycling Code before you head off on your journey so that you have the best and safest experience possible.

Cycling events in The New Forest
 

Look out for a variety of cycling events that take place throughout the year in The New Forest. Whether you fancy a long distance or perhaps a more sedate ride, keep an eye on our what’s on pages for top cycling events taking place across the National Park.

Be a Forest Friendly Cyclist
 

The New Forest National Park is a wonderful place to visit and you can help it stay that way by being a Forest friendly visitor.

Cycling is allowed only on the waymarked tracks and other designated routes. When approaching people and animals, call out a warning and pass slowly and wide. Try to leave gaps for overtaking vehicles and never ride more than two abreast. Keep to a safe speed, wear bright colours to be visible and always use lights in the dark.

New Forest Cycling Holidays and Bike Hire
 

We have nearly 70 hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages signed up to our Cyclists’ Welcome scheme – so you’ll be assured of all the help and assistance you need to enjoy the perfect New Forest cycling break. Many provided secure places to store your bike and equipment as well as suggestions for routes in and around the area. Look out for the logo when you're on business pages!

If you need to hire a bike when you are here there are cycle hire shops at various locations in the New Forest including: Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Burley, Godshill and Lyndhurst.

Take a look at the various routes below and plan your next cycling adventure!