The best traffic-free bike rides around New Forest

There are over 160 traffic-free road cycling routes in the New Forest, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection, with more than 80 routes considered easy and 70+ routes of moderate difficulty.

The New Forest offers a varied landscape for road cycling. While many routes are relatively flat, you can expect gentle undulations and some moderate climbs, especially when traversing the open heathlands. For example, the Bolderwood, Blissford Hill and Burley village loop includes around 480 meters of elevation gain over its 69 km.

Yes, the New Forest is very welcoming for beginners. With over 80 easy routes available, you can find plenty of options that are relatively flat and shorter in distance, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without excessive challenge. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances to start.

The New Forest is rich in natural beauty. You'll frequently encounter free-roaming ponies, cattle, and deer. Routes often pass through ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and picturesque villages. Notable spots include the Ornamental Drive – Bolderwood and Rhinefield Redwoods, and the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. You might also pass by serene spots like Hatchet Pond.

Absolutely. The open heathlands provide expansive views, especially at places like Whitefield Moor. Keep an eye out for spots like Bolton's Bench, which offers a classic New Forest vista. Many routes also weave through enchanting woodlands, providing a beautiful, sheltered cycling experience.

The New Forest is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth, while autumn brings stunning foliage colours. Late summer sees the heathlands adorned with purple heather, creating a vibrant landscape. Always check local weather conditions before you head out.

Many villages within the New Forest, such as Brockenhurst and Burley, serve as excellent starting points and offer parking facilities. For example, routes like the Ringwood & Burley loop often begin from these accessible locations.

Yes, public transport is a viable option. Brockenhurst, a popular starting point for many routes, has a railway station with good connections, making it easy to access the heart of the New Forest without a car. From there, you can easily connect to various cycling paths.

Yes, the New Forest is well-equipped with charming villages that offer cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Many routes pass through or near these villages, providing convenient stops for refreshments and meals. It's always a good idea to check your chosen route for specific points of interest before you set off.

Yes, many of the best traffic-free road cycling routes in the New Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Burley, Ringwood & Boldrewood loop from Brockenhurst and the Landford & Hale Purlieu loop from Fordingbridge.

The New Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of cycling through ancient woodlands and open heathlands, the frequent encounters with free-roaming animals, and the extensive network of quiet roads and dedicated cycle tracks that make for a truly traffic-free experience.