The best traffic-free bike rides around New Forest
4.7
(931)
5,749
riders
153
rides
Gravel biking around New Forest offers a diverse landscape characterized by ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and rolling hills. The region features an extensive network of car-free tracks and quiet lanes, ideal for exploring its natural beauty. Riders can encounter free-roaming ponies and deer while traversing varied terrain, from fast, smooth paths to more challenging sections. The New Forest also includes a coastline with mudflats and saltmarshes, providing opportunities for coastal rides.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around New Forest
…Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.6
(38)
219
riders
39.8km
03:22
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
122
riders
61.0km
04:54
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(40)
119
riders
31.2km
02:13
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
83
riders
36.9km
03:14
300m
300m
Embark on a moderate gravel biking adventure through the New Forest, where ancient woodlands and open heathland create a captivating landscape. This route, covering 22.9 miles (36.9 km) with 981…
4.8
(17)
81
riders
43.5km
03:44
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The New Forest offers numerous gravel trails through forests, woodlands, and across open heathland, ideal for gravel cycling and bikepacking. These routes range from fast, smooth, and relatively flat paths to more challenging terrains with some rough and muddy sections, often connecting with quiet country lanes. You can expect to encounter wildlife like ponies, donkeys, and deer, and routes cater to all ages and abilities, with varying lengths and difficulty levels. GPS devices are recommended for navigation, and the area offers bike hire, campsites, pubs, and cafes for refreshments.
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This fireplace, located in Hampshire, England, was part of a hutted camp for Portuguese soldiers who helped the Canadian Forestry Corps produce timber for the war effort. The fireplace was retained by the Forestry Commission as a memorial, acknowledging the Portuguese Government's financial help with its renovation. The fireplace is all that remains of the cookhouse from the camp. Other remnants of WWI and WWII sawmills are also nearby.
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Fab bike ride, few kissing gates but no problem, takes you into Milford on Sea
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Very quick service as basic ploughman's with about a dozen options. Great food
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Nice little Memorial with a few different tracks close by
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Just to note that this small section of trailway has some looser stones which will be unsuitable for slimmer (road bike) tyres but the further you travel West towards Ringwood, the surface becomes more forest like and therefore more pleasant to ride on.
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There is a section against the harbour wall which has about 10 benches all along it. facing the boats and yachts
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in the New Forest?
Komoot offers over 150 dedicated gravel bike routes in the New Forest that prioritize minimal traffic, ensuring a peaceful and immersive experience. These range from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on New Forest gravel bike trails?
The New Forest offers a diverse range of terrain, from fast, smooth, and relatively flat gravel tracks through ancient woodlands and open heathlands to more challenging sections with rougher surfaces. You'll encounter picturesque rolling hills and even coastal paths along the 26 miles of coastline, featuring mudflats and saltmarshes.
Are there any family-friendly, traffic-free gravel routes in the New Forest?
Yes, the New Forest is excellent for family-friendly gravel biking with many quiet, car-free tracks. Routes like the 'Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst Heart of the Forest Circular' are easier and connect charming villages, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I can see along the trails?
Many routes pass by significant natural features and attractions. You might encounter free-roaming New Forest ponies, donkeys, and deer. Specific highlights include the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, the scenic Bolton's Bench offering panoramic views, and the tranquil Hatchet Pond. Coastal rides can take you past Hurst Spit.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the New Forest has options like the Fritham, Hyde and ridge top rides, which covers over 60 km and features varied terrain and ridge tops. Another option is the Castleman’s Corkscrew and Linford Bottom route, offering a substantial ride through diverse landscapes.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the New Forest trails?
The New Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 900 reviews. Riders frequently praise the extensive network of quiet, car-free tracks, the stunning natural beauty of the ancient woodlands and heathlands, and the frequent wildlife sightings, especially the New Forest ponies.
Can I find circular gravel routes in the New Forest?
Yes, many of the New Forest's gravel routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Three village circular, which winds through the forest and connects charming villages, and the Bolderwood Loop from Lyndhurst.
Are there any coastal gravel biking options in the New Forest?
Absolutely. The New Forest boasts 26 miles of coastline, and you can find routes that incorporate these unique landscapes. The Maritime Lymington and the coastal marshes route, for instance, takes you through coastal areas, offering views of mudflats and saltmarshes.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in the New Forest?
The New Forest is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and stunning seasonal colours. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter rides are possible, but some sections might be muddier, so appropriate gear is recommended.
Are there facilities like cafes or pubs along the no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, the New Forest is well-equipped with amenities. Many gravel routes pass through or near charming villages where you can find pubs, cafes, and even bike hire facilities. It's always a good idea to check your chosen route for refreshment stops beforehand.
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