Welcome to the New Forest!
The natural beauty of this area is simply breathtaking, and there is nothing better than exploring it on foot.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an all-day hike, you’ll find countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors here.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 15 best walks in the New Forest.
From Brockenhurst to Beaulieu, Burley to Bransgore, and Lyndhurst to Minstead, there is something for everyone.
So grab your walking boots and let’s get started!
Brockenhurst to Beaulieu
Stroll through the forest from Brockenhurst to Beaulieu, and you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning views and lively wildlife!
This lovely walk takes you from the village of Brockenhurst to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu.
Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of the New Forest, including the picturesque heathland, wooded valleys, and wetlands.
You’ll also have the opportunity to spot some of the area’s wildlife, including the famous New Forest ponies.
As you traverse the trails, you’ll be able to take a break in the quaint village of Beaulieu, where you can visit the museum, grab some refreshments, or just admire the stunning scenery.
This is a great walk for anyone looking to take in the beauty of the New Forest and experience some of its wildlife.
Burley to Bransgore
Discover the charming villages of Burley and Bransgore on a pleasant journey through the countryside!
This picturesque walk takes you along winding country lanes and through lush green meadows, allowing you to take in the stunning views of the New Forest.
The route begins in Burley, a pretty village with a long history of smuggling and witchcraft, and is a great place to visit for those interested in the past.
From here, the route takes you along quiet country lanes, dotted with thatched cottages and rolling hills, before arriving in Bransgore.
You’ll pass through an ancient wood on your way, offering a great opportunity to spot wildlife.
Bransgore is a charming village nestled between the hills and is home to a picturesque church.
It’s a great spot to take a break, enjoy the scenery, and explore the village.
This is a great walk for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the New Forest and take in the views of the countryside.
Lyndhurst to Minstead
Meander through enchanting villages and verdant meadows as you explore the beautiful route from Lyndhurst to Minstead in the New Forest!
The picturesque walk takes you through woodlands alive with the sound of birdsong, and passes by tranquil streams that reflect the sunshine.
This trail is ideal for all levels of walker, with flat terrain and mostly easy-going paths. You’ll be able to spot plenty of wildlife along the way, from deer to birds of prey.
As you make your way through the lush greenery, you’ll come across quaint villages such as Emery Down and Bramshaw. Enjoy a pit stop in one of the traditional pubs or tea rooms for refreshments before you continue.
The final stretch takes you through the captivating Minstead Woods, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and a carpet of bluebells in the spring months.
The breathtaking views from Minstead make it the perfect spot to end your journey.
Rhinefield Ornamental Drive
Take an enchanting journey through the heart of the New Forest on the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive! This two-mile loop trail is a great way to explore the forest, and can be accessed from the Rhinefield car park.
The trail is suitable for all ages and abilities, perfect for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. As you traverse this scenic route, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation, with picturesque views of the nearby lake.
Along the way, you’ll pass by several interesting sights, including a unique Iron Age hill fort and a section of the historic Roman road. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for the native deer, badgers, rabbits, and other species that inhabit the area.
With its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is a great way to get back to nature and take in the beauty of the New Forest.
Bolderwood to Fritham
Embark on a journey through the wilds of the New Forest from Bolderwood to Fritham and enjoy the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife along the way! This walk is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the New Forest, as it takes you through a variety of landscapes, from open areas of moorland to ancient woodlands.
Along the route, you’ll get to see some of the most iconic sights in the area, such as the deer enclosure at Bolderwood, the ancient oaks of Fordingbridge, and the breathtaking views from the top of William’s Hill. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the New Forest’s diverse wildlife, including deer, birds, and butterflies.
The Bolderwood to Fritham walk is suitable for all fitness levels and should take around three to four hours. It is a great way to get some exercise while exploring the beauty of the New Forest. The route is well-marked and there are plenty of stops along the way where you can rest and take in the views.
You can also find plenty of traditional pubs and cafes in the area to enjoy a delicious meal or snack before or after your walk. So why not give this wonderful walk a try and explore the beauty of the New Forest?
Alderholt to Godshill
After enjoying the beauty of Bolderwood to Fritham, I’m ready to take on the next great walk in the New Forest. This time, I’m headed to the Alderholt to Godshill walk.
This walk is one of the most scenic in the area and is sure to please any outdoor enthusiast.
The Alderholt to Godshill walk is a 4-mile round trip, taking about 3-4 hours to complete. You’ll start in the small village of Alderholt and be surrounded by beautiful views of the New Forest.
As you continue your walk, you’ll pass through small meadows and fields, a few old cottages, and a small lake. You’ll eventually reach the top of the hill, where you can get a spectacular view of the area.
The entire walk is quite peaceful, and you’ll be able to take in the wildlife, such as deer, horses, and birds. Once you reach Godshill, you’ll be treated to a lovely old village, with great places to eat and drink.
All in all, it’s a wonderful walk that’s sure to be enjoyed by all.
Wilverley to Burley
Next up on my journey through the New Forest is a hike from Wilverley to Burley.
This walk is great for those looking for a long but tranquil hike, as it’s about 11 miles long and takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the New Forest.
The route is mostly flat, allowing for a slow and easy pace as you take in your surroundings.
It winds through some of the less visited areas of the forest, such as Wilverley Inclosure, with its ancient woodlands and dense foliage.
You’ll also pass many heathlands, where you can spot wild ponies and other amazing wildlife.
The hike ends at Burley, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding area from the top of the hill.
All in all, this is a great walk to take if you want to explore the New Forest in a peaceful and unhurried way.
The New Forest Tour
Leaving Wilverley, I set off on the New Forest Tour, an easy and leisurely route that takes me through the stunning beauty of the area.
The route begins by taking me through some of the Forest’s most beautiful sites, including its many heaths, woodlands, and streams.
As I wander through these areas, I can’t help but be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds me. Every vista I pass by is breathtaking, with its lush greenery, crystal clear streams, and wildflowers in bloom.
I’m also in awe of the many animals that inhabit the Forest, including the famous New Forest ponies.
As I continue on this journey, I’m reminded of why I love this part of the country so much.
The Avon Valley Path
Treading through the picturesque Avon Valley Path, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from everyday life.
This 8-mile route takes you through the Hampshire countryside, winding along the banks of the River Avon with stunning views of the valley.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or a more challenging walk, the Avon Valley Path has something for everyone.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank to catch sight of the local wildlife, or take a more challenging route through the forest for panoramic views of the valley.
With a variety of terrain, you can explore the area on foot or by bike, taking time to appreciate the stunning natural beauty as you go.
The Avon Valley Path truly is an idyllic spot for a tranquil wander and a great way to connect with nature.
Pilley to Bramshaw
Heading from Pilley to Bramshaw, you’ll find yourself enjoying a peaceful saunter through the Hampshire countryside. This five-mile walk starts in the small village of Pilley and passes through the picturesque Avon Valley, taking in views of the rolling hills and river.
Take your time as you meander through the woods, taking in the wildlife and the views of the surrounding area. The route follows a bridle path and crosses several fields, so you’ll be able to take in the natural beauty and peace of the English countryside.
As you reach Bramshaw, you’ll be rewarded with a final view of the valley and a chance to explore the local area. Make sure to explore the local pubs and eateries before heading back to Pilley.
This is a great way to spend a day out in the New Forest and take in the beauty of the area.
Hatchet Pond to Lymington
Exploring Hatchet Pond to Lymington offers a unique glimpse into the pristine beauty of the English countryside. The path begins at Hatchet Pond, a picturesque lake surrounded by tall pine trees.
From there, you can take a leisurely walk along the winding trail, which is lined with wildflowers and lush grass. As you continue on your journey, you will have the chance to spot native wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and badgers.
The path eventually leads to a breathtaking view of Lymington, with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Along the way, you will pass by charming villages and rustic farms, while soaking up the tranquility of the English countryside.
This 3.5-mile route is ideal for both hikers and casual strollers alike, and can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Brockenhurst to Sway
Embark on a journey from Brockenhurst to Sway and discover the stunning beauty of the New Forest.
This 8-mile walk takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside the New Forest has to offer. The path takes you past some of the oldest trees in the forest, and you can spot some of the more unusual wildlife that inhabit the area.
As you walk, you can also take in the incredible views of the forest from the top of Sway Hill, where you can look out over the forest in all its glory.
Along the way, you will pass through some of the prettiest villages in the area, such as Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.
The walk is an easy one with very few inclines, making it ideal for families or those just looking for a relaxing stroll through nature.
The route is also well-marked, so it’s easy to stay on track even if you’re unsure of the way.
Take a break at one of the many pubs or cafes along the way and enjoy the stunning scenery as you go.
Lymington to Keyhaven
Meander through the picturesque villages of Lymington and Keyhaven, and experience the serene beauty of the New Forest like never before. This walk is a gentle and easy 4.5-mile route across the Hampshire coast, and is suitable for all ages and abilities. It’s a great way to take in the stunning coastal scenery, with views of the Isle of Wight and the Needles.
The route passes through a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills to ancient woodlands and salt marshes. Along the way, you’ll spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and a variety of birds. You’ll also be able to explore the area’s fascinating history, with a range of sites to explore, such as the ruins of Keyhaven Castle, and the old Lymington quay.
There’s plenty of spots to stop and relax, too, with plenty of pubs and tea rooms to choose from. So, why not explore the beauty of the New Forest and take this memorable walk from Lymington to Keyhaven?
Milford to Totton
Take a peaceful journey from Milford to Totton and experience the raw beauty of the New Forest. This 4.2 mile route is perfect for those looking to take a leisurely stroll and admire the breathtaking scenery of the region.
Along the way, you’ll pass the historic Christchurch Harbour, a nature reserve with over 500 acres of wetland and grassland, and the Rufus Stone, a historic monument commemorating the death of King William II. You’ll also have the chance to spot some of the area’s unique wildlife, including deer, badgers, and foxes.
The walk culminates in Totton, a market town with a rich history. Here, you can explore the local shops, restaurants, and cafes, or take a break at the nearby Riverside Park. With its picturesque views of the River Test, Riverside Park is the ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
No matter what you choose to do, the journey from Milford to Totton is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard
Cruise through the stunning landscape of the New Forest on your journey from Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard. This trail offers a great combination of a picturesque view, a fascinating history, and some pleasant walking.
As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by lush trees of beech, oak, and holly, as well as the rolling hills of the New Forest.
The first part of the walk takes you through the charming village of Beaulieu, home to the famous Palace House and its beautiful grounds. As you make your way through the village, you’ll pass the beautiful Beaulieu River, where you can spot a variety of wildlife. You can also visit the Beaulieu Motor Museum, which houses a number of classic cars and motorcycles.
The rest of the walk takes you through the charming village of Bucklers Hard, known as the birthplace of the British Navy. This quaint village offers a wealth of attractions, such as the Maritime Museum, the 18th-century Shipyard, and the beautiful Beaulieu River. As you continue your walk, be sure to stop and admire the fascinating 18th-century buildings, as well as the beautiful views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
At the end of your journey, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Solent, the stretch of water between the Isle of Wight and the mainland.
Conclusion
Wrapping up my list of the 15 best walks in the New Forest—it’s been a joy to explore the area and discover all the wonderful paths, hikes, and routes it has to offer.
From Brockenhurst to Beaulieu, Burley to Bransgore, and Lyndhurst to Minstead—the area offers something for everyone. Whether you’re after a short stroll through a wooded area or a full day of trekking around the forest, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your needs.
All in all, the New Forest is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. So what are you waiting for? Get exploring!