Sway, Bolderwood & Brockenhurst loop from Lymington —New Forest National Park

This challenging road cycling route is estimated to take approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes to complete. However, this duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make, and weather conditions.

This route is classified as a 'difficult' or 'Hard road ride' due to its considerable length of 130 km (approximately 80.7 miles) and an elevation gain of around 735 meters. It requires very good fitness and is not recommended for beginners. Some segments might even necessitate pushing your bike.

The route predominantly features mostly well-paved surfaces and easy-to-ride sections. However, be aware that general cycling in the New Forest can sometimes involve road surfaces that are not the best, with potholes. While primarily a road ride, some segments on routes of moderate to hard difficulty within the New Forest may include unpaved or more challenging sections. You'll encounter a mix of quiet roads, main roads, and dedicated cycleways.

The loop starts and ends in Lymington. You can typically find parking in Lymington town centre or near the train station. Lymington has two train stations, Lymington Pier and Lymington Town, offering connections that could facilitate public transport access to the starting point.

The New Forest National Park is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife. You'll pass through idyllic tranquil forests, ancient woodlands with beautiful, very tall, majestic Redwood trees, especially along the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive. Keep an eye out for free-roaming New Forest ponies, donkeys, cattle, and deer. The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is a particular highlight, offering a chance to see herds of fallow deer.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle on public roads and designated cycle paths within the New Forest National Park. However, always adhere to the New Forest Cycling Code to protect the environment and wildlife.

The best times to cycle this route are generally spring, early summer, and autumn. During these seasons, the weather is usually more pleasant, and the New Forest scenery is particularly vibrant. Summer can be lovely but may bring more traffic, while winter can be cold and wet, potentially making road conditions more challenging.

The route offers several highlights. You'll pass through charming villages like Sway, Brockenhurst, and Lymington, which are great for refreshment stops. Scenic sections include South Baddesley Road, Beaulieu Heath Road, and the beautiful Rhinefield Ornamental Drive. Keep an eye out for the St Leonard's Grange Barn Ruins and enjoy views from Milkham Junction. Be prepared for challenging sections like the Blissford Hill (25% Gradient).

While the New Forest National Park is generally dog-friendly, this specific route is a long and difficult road cycling loop. It is not suitable for dogs to accompany cyclists, especially given the distance, road surfaces, and potential for fast-moving traffic. If you wish to bring a dog to the New Forest, consider shorter, off-road walking or cycling trails where dogs can be safely exercised on a lead.

Yes, this route briefly intersects with or runs parallel to several other paths. Notably, it covers sections of the New Forest On Road Cycle Routes and New Forest Cycle Routes. You may also encounter parts of the European walking route E9, the Solent Way, and the National Byway.

Yes, the route passes through or near several charming New Forest villages. Lymington, Sway, and Brockenhurst offer convenient stops with cafes, shops, and pubs where you can refuel. Brockenhurst, in particular, is known as a cycling hub and provides bike hire facilities and services.