Seven Circular Cycle Routes In The New Forest

The publication aside has been compiled by the New Forest Cycle Experience, using routes which thousands of cycle hirers have already enjoyed. The routes vary in mileage with most starting from Brockenhurst, in the heart of the Forest. Brockenhurst is the most ideal location for cycling in the New Forest, being situated on a main line railway and allowing the closest access to over 100 miles of gravel forest tracks.

The full pack contains the following routes which have been designed such that start points can be picked up throughout if you do not wish to start at Brockenhurst. The routes follow gravel tracks and the only road work is on minor roads in order to link up between tracks. Please keep to these gravel tracks and help protect the fragile areas.

The New Forest is a working forest and the Forestry Commission's annual programmeof timber production means that extreme care should be taken in the presence of timber operations and some enclosures may be closed at short notice. Thank you for your cooperation and we hope you enjoy the routes below:

1. Bike To Beaulieu - 12.7 miles
This route takes you through woodland to Hatchet Pond and back on open heathland with views of the Isle of Wight. As an extension, Beaulieu or Buckler's Hard can be reached by following quite lanes from East Boldre. (Short/long version available).
Gravel Track - 80% Pubs - 3

2. Bite of Wight - 11 miles
Catch the ferry to Yarmouth and explore the Isle of Wight. This varied circular route reaches Freshwater via a disused railway and takes in magnificent views from the top of the Downs before returning on quite lanes. You can cycle from Brockenhurst or catch a train directly to Lymington Ferry Terminal. (Short/long version available).
Off-Road - 70% Pubs - 8

3. Northern Link - 19.2 miles
The full route takes you through the Ornamental Arboretums and two deer sanctuaries before reaching the north of the Forest. An alternative extension takes you on to Lyndhurst or you can simply return to Brockenhurst via the Ornamental Drives. (Short/long version available).
Gravel Track - 60% Pubs - 2 (if extended)

4. Burley On Your Backside - 21.2 miles
Even more self explanatory in its name than Bike to Beaulieu! This route takes you westwards along an old railway line and passes through Burley before returning to Brockenhurst via forest track.
Gravel Track - 70% Pubs - 2

5. Lotta Lyndhurst Loop - 12.3 miles
A loop through the forest which leaves Brockenhurst in a NW direction, passes through the outskirts of Lyndhurst (short stretch of main road!) and returns from the East.
Gravel Track - 80% Pubs - 2

6. Lymington Link - 25 miles
This route is the exception in that it mainly uses quiet road rather than forest track. It has been included in this pack as Lymington contributes much to the area as the major harbour in the New Forest district. The route itself incorporates much of the "Solent Way".

7. Back Through Balmer Lawn - 11.5 miles
This route incorporates a woodland circuit to the North East of Brockenhurst and allows for a pub stop if you require refreshment. (Short/long version available).
Gravel Track - 90% Pubs - 1

Many of these routes can be used in conjunction with each other, to enable you to tailor a bicycle tour to the ability and interests of an individual or group.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, New Forest Cycle Experience cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or subsequent changes.

All seven routes and the publication itself can be purchased directly from:

New Forest Cycle Experience, in Brockenhurst.
Click here for their members page, the members shop within the Mall or their website.