The New Forest is a cyclist’s dream; whether it’s on or off road, there are more than 120 routes to explore, along rivers, bridleways and woodland tracks. Even better news is that you don’t need to be the next Laura Kenny or Chris Froome – there are cycle routes for all abilities – from short outings to longer, more challenging routes.
Whatever you take on, you can do so safe in the knowledge that there’s always a great breakfast to set you up at our hotels, or else you can return to a warm welcome and a cold beer…
Here’s just a selection of some of our favourite cycle routes:
If you’re not planning to take on the Tour de France any time soon, this easy 9-miler is just for you.
Starting near Woods Cyclery in Lyndhurst and finishing near the bus station, it’s mostly paved routes with lovely views along the way – including, of course, the chance to see some of the New Forest’s world famous wild ponies.
This scenic Rhinefield Detour loop is perfect for the sights and to break a sweat; an hour and a half over about 13 miles, there are tricky sections, but you’re rewarded with some great views and gravel tracks to really stretch out and get those legs working.
Start off at the Library Car Park for this 22-mile intermediate ride, which takes you to the picturesque Lymington Quay and back again.
You’ll take in Splash Lane, Mill Dam and hopefully catch sight of some wild ponies along the way. Stop off in Lymington for lunch and a walk around this charming estuary town, before heading back to Lyndhurst for a refreshing pint at Forest Lodge.
If your two passions are bikes and food, then this is the route for you; the Woodland Explorer Trail is a wonderful 25-mile ride which takes in beautiful scenery but also allows you to sample some of the great food and drink the New Forest has to offer.
Starting from the main car park in Lyndhurst, you take in a few great pubs like the Swan Inn and New Forest Inn before passing the Canadian War Memorial and into Burley village, where you can sample some great New Forest Cider and New Forest Fudge. The trail takes you back to Lyndhurst, where you can reward yourself with a cup of tea – or maybe an afternoon tea at Forest Lodge? You will have earned it…
If you want to really challenge yourself, this loop from Lyndhurst that takes in Ober Water Ford is what you need; it’s just over 23 miles, and may even require you to push your bike at some points.
Start at Boltons Bench Lane car park, and after some great gravel biking, head through the ford, through Dead Tree Moor and onto some scenic woodland riding. The ride ends at Woods Cyclery, where you can reward yourself with a cup of tea and a cake. Well done!
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