The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around New Forest

The New Forest offers a vast network of dog-friendly hiking trails. You can explore over 440 routes suitable for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks.

The New Forest boasts incredibly diverse terrain. You'll find ancient woodlands with towering oaks and yews, vast open heathlands with heather, and even a 'secret' coastline with mudflats and salt marshes. Many trails follow well-maintained paths, but be prepared for varied surfaces depending on your chosen route.

Yes, to protect the free-roaming ponies, cattle, and deer, and ground-nesting birds, it's important to keep your dog under close control. In many areas, especially during bird nesting season (March to July) or near livestock, dogs must be kept on a lead. Always follow local signage and be mindful of the unique wildlife.

The New Forest is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm weather for exploring, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter provides crisp, quiet walks. Consider the season when planning your hike; for example, some areas might be muddier after rain, and summer can be hot for dogs on open heathlands.

Absolutely! The New Forest has nearly 200 easy dog-friendly routes. For a gentle introduction, consider the Brockenhurst Station Off Road Cycle Trail, which is an easy 7.3 km hike with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are over 220 moderate and 25 difficult dog-friendly routes. A good option for a moderate, longer hike is the Whitefield Moor loop, which covers over 13 km through varied New Forest landscapes.

Many of the dog-friendly trails in the New Forest are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The Coopers Hill & Fritham Plain loop from Fritham is an excellent example of a circular route, offering a diverse 11.4 km journey through woodlands and open plains.

You'll encounter numerous natural highlights. Keep an eye out for the tranquil Hatchet Pond, a haven for birdwatchers, or explore areas with impressive viewpoints like Holm Hill and Ragged Boys Hill. The New Forest is also famous for its ancient woodlands and free-roaming animals.

The New Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars from over 5,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the chance to see free-roaming animals, and the variety of well-maintained trails that cater to all abilities, making it a fantastic destination for dog owners.

Yes, many villages within and around the New Forest, such as Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, are very welcoming to dogs. You'll find numerous pubs and cafes that offer water bowls and often allow well-behaved dogs inside or in their outdoor seating areas. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand.