Beaulieu Cycle Routes | Discover | New Forest Collection

When it comes to the best ways of seeing and enjoying the New Forest, cycling takes some beating; the freedom, fresh air and thrill of two wheels. Whether you’re staying at Beaulieu Inn or one of our other nearby New Forest Collection hotels, you have access to over 100 miles of approved cycle trails, and in the immediate vicinity, there are a myriad of cycle routes in Beaulieu for all abilities and ages.

Cycling in the New Forest will see you through many landscapes, passing through the green fields, magical woodlands and charming towns and villages. The huge assortment of New Forest cycling routes ensures an exciting and relaxed way to see the beauty of the New Forest, all while enjoying some time outdoors and welcoming exercise and fresh air.

Here is a handful of New Forest cycling route favourites:

Bike to Beaulieu (13 or 22 mile loop)

An easy scenic route ideal for families, which can be broken up by lunch at the Turfcutter’s Arms in East Boldre. You’ll find it just after you’ve gone past Hatchet Pond. If you want the longer version, head through Beaulieu and along the river the picturesque Buckler’s Hard. The return route is via a disused runway once used by American planes in the Second World War.

Hawkhill Trail (9 miles easy)

A great traffic-free trail which begins at Round Hill Campsite and passes by the haunting Beaulieu Airfield and through some great forest sections. It also includes New Copse Railway Cottage, Pignall and Parkhill Inclosures, Denny Wood, Hawkhill Inclosure.

Beaulieu Heath Road – Brockenhurst rail crossing loop (14 miles easy)

One of the easier Beaulieu cycle routes which is great for any fitness level; it skirts Roydon Woods Nature Reserve and the route is mostly paved.

Beaulieu hill climb – Fair Wind Flyer Loop (19 miles easy/intermediate)

An easy road ride which is suited to any fitness level. The hill climb itself comes between the 4 and 5 mile marker, but you’re rewarded with a nice downhill section later. One of the route’s highlights is Hythe Pier, which is the seventh longest in the country, stretching 700 yards into Southampton Water.

Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard cycle (13 – 21 miles easy)

This easy route can take up to 4 hours to complete and spans from 13 – 21 miles, leaving much for you to decide. Along this Beaulieu cycling route, you’ll spot plenty of interesting things. On the banks of the Beaulieu River, you’ll spot Buckler’s Hard. Further along, you’ll see Hatchet Pond, the New Forest’s largest body of freshwater and home to some of the rarest wetland plants and freshwater animals.

Beaulieu to Brockenhurst cycle (16 miles moderate)

This New Forest cycling route is an equal split of road cycling and off-road cycling. You’ll begin your ride in Beaulieu Village, which is situated at the head of the Beaulieu River. The village dates back to the 13th century when the village grew up around the abbey. Cycling through here you’ll spot many beautiful and historic spots, and on the return leg, you’ll cycle through the woodland and experience the magic of the New Forest nature.