The best walks and hikes around Ashurst And Colbury
4.5
(2873)
18,298
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking around Ashurst And Colbury offers a gateway to the New Forest National Park, characterized by diverse landscapes. The terrain features ancient woodlands, expansive open heathlands, and serene riverside paths along Bartley Water. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making the area suitable for a range of fitness levels. The region provides a mix of shaded forest trails and open meadows.
Best hiking trails around Ashurst And Colbury
- The most popular hiking route is Ashurst Stroll — New Forest National Park…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.4
(14)
87
hikers
4.53km
01:09
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
173
hikers
6.32km
01:37
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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64
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ashurst And Colbury
Tips from the Community
Bolton's Bench is a well-known landmark and natural knoll in the New Forest, located just outside Lyndhurst, named after an 18th-century Duke of Bolton. It features ancient yew trees at its summit and offers picturesque views over the village, heathlands, and surrounding landscapes. The site is popular for walks, dog walking, and picnics, and is home to free-roaming New Forest ponies and cattle. While the bench itself commemorates the Duke, a local legend also attributes the hill's formation to a battle with a dragon, with the yew trees growing from where the knight and his dogs fell.
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The carpark here can get really busy especially on weekends or holidays. If you're planning on driving here to start your ride make sure it's early to beat the parking madness
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A nice route, two or three gates, cycle friendly, steady climbs, excellent ride
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A major New Forest landmark, Bolton’s Bench is situated on the outskirts of Lyndhurst right in the centre of the New Forest. The Bench actually commemorates the 18th century New Forest Master Keeper, the Duke of Bolton, and it attracts many visitors who come to sit under the giant yew tree at the top and take in the views. Looking west from the top you will see the centre of Lyndhurst town, the skyline dominated by the classic spire of St. Michael’s & All Angels church. Looking east you will see a great view of the Open Forest heathlands stretching over White Moor, Matley Heath and further towards the waterside village of Hythe.
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Churchplace Inclosure has gravel trails that weave through a mix of oak and beech trees. Keep an eye out for deer, and woodpeckers. The woods can be particularly good for spotting butterflies from June to August.
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Crook Hill railway bridge crosses the South Western mainline, making it a good place to rest while train-spotting. The railway track forms the boundary of Ashurst Wood to the west and Churchplace Inclosure to the east.
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A very accessible set of paths in the Bolton's Bench / White Moor area here. Lovely, long views in most directions from here. Only a few minutes away from Lyndhurst and lovely, comfortable tracks here... what's not to enjoy?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Ashurst and Colbury suitable for dogs?
Yes, the area is very dog-friendly. The open heathlands and woodland trails of the New Forest provide excellent spaces for walking with your dog. However, always be mindful of the free-roaming ponies and other wildlife, and keep your dog under control, especially during ground-nesting bird season (March to July).
Can I get to the walking trails using public transport?
Absolutely. Ashurst has a train station (Ashurst New Forest) with direct connections, making it a great starting point for hikes. Many trails are accessible directly from the station, allowing you to explore the area without a car. For example, the Crook Hill Railway Bridge – Churchplace Inclosure loop is a convenient option that starts near the station.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
Yes, many of the best walks are loops that bring you back to your starting point. These routes allow you to experience a variety of scenery without retracing your steps. A great example is the Costicles Enclosure – Busketts Lawn Inclosure loop, which takes you through beautiful woodland inclosures.
What are some easy, family-friendly walks near Ashurst?
The region is ideal for family outings, with many flat and manageable trails. The Ashurst Stroll is a particularly popular choice for families due to its short distance and easy terrain. Additionally, the Ashurst Recreation Ground has a 'wild play' area, perfect for kids to enjoy after a walk.
Where can I park to go hiking around Ashurst and Colbury?
There are several car parks throughout the New Forest that serve as convenient starting points for hikes. Ashurst village itself has parking, and you can find dedicated forest car parks near popular trailheads. It's best to arrive early on weekends and holidays as they can fill up quickly.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The landscape is classic New Forest. You'll hike through a mix of ancient woodlands with towering oak and beech trees, open heathlands covered in heather, and peaceful paths alongside the meandering Bartley Water. A highlight for many is encountering the famous free-roaming New Forest ponies.
Are there any pubs on the walking routes?
Yes, the villages in and around the New Forest are known for their traditional pubs, and many are located along or near popular walking trails. Ashurst itself has welcoming pubs where you can stop for refreshments, making it easy to combine a good walk with a rewarding meal or drink.
How many hiking trails are there in the Ashurst and Colbury area?
There are over 30 curated hiking routes to explore around Ashurst and Colbury. These range from short, easy strolls suitable for all abilities to more moderate, longer treks for those seeking a challenge, ensuring there's a trail for every type of hiker.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Ashurst and Colbury. Reviewers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of woodland and heathland, and the tranquility of the area. The chance to see the iconic New Forest ponies is also a consistently mentioned highlight.
Are there any particularly long hikes for a full day out?
Yes, if you're looking for a more challenging day hike, there are several longer routes. The Bolton's Bench – Bolton's Bench Main Path loop is a great option, covering over 16 km and requiring a good level of fitness to complete. It offers a fantastic way to see more of the diverse New Forest landscape.
What is a good walk through the woodland enclosures?
For a classic woodland experience, the Churchplace Inclosure loop is an excellent choice. This route takes you through a forested area, offering a peaceful walk under the tree canopy and showcasing the ancient woodlands that define the New Forest.
Most popular routes around Ashurst And Colbury
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