The best walks and hikes around New Forest

Embark on the Whitefield Moor loop for a moderate hike through the diverse landscapes of New Forest National Park. This 8.2-mile (13.2 km) route, with a gentle 274 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete. You will wander along gravel paths and natural ground, transitioning from open heathland with gorse to serene woodland glades alongside the tranquil Ober Water. The trail also leads you through the impressive Tall Trees Trail, where towering redwoods and Douglas firs create a striking canopy. Expect varied scenery, from expansive moorland views to the unique Blackwater Arboretum, and keep an eye out for wild ponies and deer.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is well-marked and generally flat, making it suitable for families and a wide range of hikers. You can find accessible parking and toilets conveniently located at the Whitefield Moor car park, which serves as the trailhead. While the paths are well-maintained, some areas can become muddy after rainfall, so waterproof footwear is advisable. Wooden bridges over Ober Water might also be slippery in wet conditions.

The Whitefield Moor loop is notable for showcasing the New Forest's rich biodiversity and charm in a single, accessible route. It seamlessly blends ancient woodlands, significant arboretums, and expansive heathlands with bubbling streams. A unique highlight is the presence of free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle, and donkeys, which are an integral part of the landscape. The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot various birds and deer, adding to the immersive experience.

This easy 4.5-mile (7.3 km) hiking route offers a gentle exploration of the New Forest National Park. You will experience a varied landscape of open plains, dense forested enclosures, and heathland, all while gaining a modest 67 feet (21 metres) in elevation. The trail guides you through charming woodlands, providing ample opportunities to spot the iconic New Forest ponies roaming freely. Expect a leisurely pace, taking around 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete, as you follow mostly flat gravel and forest tracks. A highlight is passing the scenic Whitefield Moor, which offers expansive views across the park.

The trail conveniently begins directly from Brockenhurst Railway Station, making it very easy to reach if you are using public transport. If you prefer to drive, parking is readily available within Brockenhurst village. You will find various amenities, including pubs and cafes, in Brockenhurst itself, as well as in the nearby Burley village. This makes it simple to grab a refreshment before or after your hike.

This route stands out for its accessibility and the quintessential New Forest experience it provides. It is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the unique natural environment of the park, characterized by its ancient woodlands and open heathlands. The presence of the famous New Forest ponies adds a distinctive charm, making it a memorable outing. Consider this trail if you want a relaxed hike that showcases the region's natural beauty without demanding strenuous effort.

Embark on the Solent Way: Beaulieu to Buckler's Hard, an easy hike through the New Forest National Park. This gentle route follows the Beaulieu River estuary, offering diverse scenery from open farmland and serene meadows to ancient woodlands. You will frequently glimpse the tidal river, where you can spot various birds, especially near the bird hide close to Buckler's Hard. The trail covers 4.4 miles (7.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 89 feet (27 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the paths are generally well-maintained, some riverside sections can become muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. You will find refreshment options and toilets conveniently located at both Beaulieu Village and Buckler's Hard. If you plan to bring your dog, remember to keep it on a lead for much of the walk to protect local wildlife and livestock.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As you hike, you will pass historical sites such as the Duke's Bath House, which dates back to 1760. The destination, Buckler's Hard, is a fascinating 18th-century shipbuilding village, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history. The trail provides a tranquil escape, allowing you to connect with both nature and the rich heritage of the New Forest.

Embark on the Lyndhurst Hill & Acres Down loop for a moderate hike through the diverse landscapes of New Forest National Park. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) route, with an elevation gain of 407 feet (124 metres), typically takes about 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will wander through ancient and ornamental woodlands, featuring pine, oak, and beech trees, before emerging onto expansive open heathlands. From Acres Down Viewpoint, you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the park, and you might even spot the famous New Forest Ponies roaming freely. The trail combines well-maintained forest paths, unpaved tracks, and some gravel sections, offering a varied and picturesque experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that paths can become wet and muddy, especially during winter months, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The route is generally accessible, featuring bridges and gates, with few challenging obstacles like stiles. Its proximity to Lyndhurst, often called the capital of the New Forest, means you have easy access to pubs, tea shops, and other amenities before or after your hike. While some parts use hard gravel tracks, making them more manageable in winter, always check local conditions.

This trail is notable for its rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You will experience the quintessential New Forest landscape, transitioning between ancient woodlands and open heathlands, all while having the chance to encounter diverse wildlife. The route also passes by the Canadian War Memorial, a poignant tribute to troops who prepared for the D-Day landings here. Keep an eye out for significant trees, including potentially the largest beech in the New Forest, adding to the unique character of this area.

Explore the Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop, a moderate hike spanning 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 100 feet (30 metres). This route offers a pleasant mix of coastal paths and peaceful woodlands, taking around 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. You will experience open fields and tranquil sections with oak trees and hazel coppices, providing a varied landscape throughout your journey.

When planning your visit, be aware that some byways and woodland paths can become very muddy, especially after rain or during winter months, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Parking is generally available at Lepe Country Park, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. If high tide affects the foreshore path, an alternative parallel road is available for you to use.

This trail is notable for its splendid sea views across the Solent, offering clear sightlines to the Isle of Wight, particularly from the Lepe Lookout. As you hike along the foreshore, you might spot various wading birds like oystercatchers and curlews, or even dark-bellied Brent geese feeding in the mudflats. The diverse habitats make it a great spot for wildlife observation.

Embark on the Brockenhurst and Tall Trees Trail, a moderate hike spanning 8.7 miles (14.0 km) with a gentle 250 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes you deep into ancient woodlands, where you will walk beneath the impressive canopy of Giant Redwood and Douglas Fir trees, some of the tallest in the United Kingdom. The experience feels cathedral-like as you pass through these towering giants. Expect to spend around 3 hours and 37 minutes exploring diverse sections of native woodland and open heathland.

Before you set out, be aware that parts of the trail, particularly those leading from Brockenhurst, can become quite muddy and marshy, especially after rain. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable hike. You will find convenient facilities, including picnic areas and toilets, at the Blackwater car park, which serves the main Tall Trees Trail loop. This makes it a good starting point or a place to take a break.

This trail offers a unique glimpse into the New Forest's rich ecosystem, where ancient woodlands meet open heathland. The Rhinefield Ornamental Drive section, known as the Tall Trees Trail, is a highlight, showcasing the remarkable scale of these introduced tree species. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, as you traverse the varied landscapes of this notable New Forest route.

Embark on an easy coastal hike along the Solent Way, stretching 4.7 miles (7.6 km) from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle. This route offers a unique experience on a shingle spit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. With a minimal elevation gain of just 18 feet (5 metres), you can expect to complete this walk in about 1 hour and 54 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing. As you walk, you will feel the distinctive terrain underfoot, with the sea on one side and the vibrant Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve on the other.

When planning your visit, remember that walking on the shingle can be tiring, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure your comfort. While you can hike the entire distance both ways, a popular option is to take a ferry from Keyhaven directly to Hurst Castle and then walk back along the spit. This is especially convenient during the peak season, which runs from late March through early November, offering you flexibility and a different perspective on the journey.

This trail leads you directly to the historic Hurst Castle, a significant landmark that provides a fascinating glimpse into centuries of coastal defense. From the castle, you can enjoy expansive views across The Needles Passage. The Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve, which borders the trail, is a haven for diverse birdlife, including Brent geese and oystercatchers, and if you are lucky, you might even spot seals resting on the distant reaches of the spit.

This moderate 10.2-mile (16.4 km) hike connects the charming villages of Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst, offering a classic New Forest experience. You will gain 398 feet (121 metres) in elevation over an estimated 4 hours and 16 minutes. The route takes you through varied terrain, from well-kept gravel paths to sections that can be muddy after rain. You'll walk through beautiful New Forest woodland and open heathland, enjoying the tranquil Footpath Along the Stream. Keep an eye out for the famous free-roaming animals, including deer, as you explore.

You can start this loop from either Brockenhurst or Lyndhurst, as both villages offer convenient parking options. While the paths are generally easy to follow, it's a good idea to wear waterproof hiking shoes. Some sections can get quite muddy and have puddles, especially after wet weather. Be aware that parts of the trail are shared with cyclists, so stay alert and mindful of others on the path.

This route is a great way to experience the unique natural environment of New Forest National Park. The mix of ancient woodlands and open heathland provides a home for diverse wildlife. You might even find a section that feels like a "Jurassic Park" setting, particularly after heavy rainfall, adding a unique touch to your adventure. The trail highlights the special character of the New Forest, known for its ancient landscapes and wild ponies.