21 Best Walks in New Forest With AMAZING Scenery!
Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀
Looking for walks in New Forest? You’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for a walk in the New Forest that’s perfect after a Sunday Roast, I’ve got you covered.
Luckily, there are hundreds of walks in the New Forest, and most of the easy walks still have incredible English countryside views. Let’s be honest, the whole of the New Forest is a picturesque view in itself!
Whether you want a circular walk around the tarns, a peaceful stroll to a waterfall, or a scenic viewpoint, there are plenty of New Forest walks to choose from. As we continue to return to the New Forest, we will add more and more scenic walks to the list, so be sure to bookmark them for future reference!
So, let’s get started and discuss 21 walks in the New Forest (that have great views).
Best Walks in New Forest: A Summary
There are many easy and flat walks in the New Forest, and below are some of the best.
Some walks in the New Forest will include some rocky terrains, but this has been noted in each section. There can be steeper inclines and slightly higher altitudes, but in general, the easy walks in this list can be completed by most people (including those with a fear of heights, like me!).
Each walk has a detailed paragraph explaining the walk itself, the terrain and some important notes to consider. I’ve also used ‘traffic light’ colours to help:
Green (easy)
You only need minimal fitness levels for these easy New Forest walks. Flat or very low incline walk, usually a shorter distance, and takes under an hour to complete. Dog-friendly, wheelchair friendly, pushchair friendly… easily walked by everyone and anyone.
Amber (easy-moderate)
Average fitness levels are required for these New Forest walks. Mainly flat terrains but with some slight uphill climbs. Can be walked by most people (including those with a fear of heights).
Red (moderate)
Average fitness levels are required for these New Forest walks. Some harder inclines and uphill walking throughout.
🗺️ TOP TIP: All of the main walking routes can be found on the New Forest walking app. It’s free to download and easy to use! It’s perfect for when you need a New Forest walk starting point.
Where to Stay in New Forest
If you are visiting New Forest for the first time, I recommend the following accommodations. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the summer months, as they book up quickly!
🐴 The White Buck: perfect for couples and new visitors in the New Forest. Set in a traditional English pub, it’s one of the cosiest and best-located hotels in New Forest! ➡ CHECK PRICES NOW!
🍳 Clayhill Bed and Breakfast: for a centrally located stay, serving one of the best full English breakfasts in the area! ➡ CHECK PRICES NOW!
👨🏼🌾 Luxury Shepherd’s Hut: for a unique stay in the New Forest. Perfect for a couple’s weekend staycation! ➡ CHECK PRICES NOW!
21 Best Walks in New Forest
1) The Tall Trees Trail, Blackwater
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 2.5km/1.5 miles
⏰ Time: 1 hour
📍Starting point: Blackwater or Brockhill Car Park
A short but rewarding walk is the Tall Trees Trail in New Forest. Follow the marker posts and you’ll be guided along an endearing path beneath the mighty Douglas firs and redwoods that were planted during the reign of Queen Elizabeth.
The canopy of treetops and abundance of tall trunks is enough to take your breath away. Within a few minutes of starting your walk, you will be completely surrounded and immersed by the towering trees!
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users. Benches are located along the path. One of the easiest walks in New Forest.
2) Knightwood Oak, Ornamental Drive
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: Less than 0.25 miles
⏰ Time: 15 minutes
📍Starting point: Knightwood Oak car park on Ornamental Drive
One of the most famous walks in New Forest leads you to the famous 500-year-old Oak tree. Believed to have been planted before 1600, the tree was a popular tourist attraction during the Victorian era. It’s a short, 15-minute walk for those wanting fresh air and an easy New Forest walk.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users. Benches are located along the path, with multiple rest stops. One of the easiest walks in New Forest.
3) Deer Watch Trail, Bolderwood
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 0.75km/0.5 miles
⏰ Time: 25 minutes
📍Starting point: Bolderwood car park
Another short and easy walk in New Forest is to the deer viewing platform from the Bolderwood car park. Unfortunately, we missed out on seeing any large antlered friends, but during the summer months, chances are you will see some free-roaming deer in the distance.
Walk through the forest to reach the platform overlooking the fenced fields where wild herds are frequently seen.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is the forest floor, but the majority is flat throughout. There are small bumps and logs throughout the journey which may prove more difficult for some walkers. One of the easier walks in New Forest.
4) Blackwater Arboretum Trail, Brockenhurst
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 0.75km/0.5 miles
⏰ Time: 25 minutes
📍Starting point: Blackwater car park
A really easy circular route past tree species from all over the world. Known as a trail to ‘excite the senses’. As you walk through the woodland, you will pass through the ‘Arboretum’ which houses a beautiful collection of trees from countries all over the world.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users. Benches are located throughout.
5) Radnor Trail, Bolderwood
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 3km/2 miles
⏰ Time: 45 minutes
📍Starting point: Bolderwood car park
A longer walk which passes both ancient and modern woodland. Pass by chestnut, oak, and beech dating back to the 1860s, and stop by the Lymington River for a picnic. The Radnor Trail is a great walk in the New Forest to start your day.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but there are some short steep inclines. One of the more moderate walks in New Forest.
6) Jubilee Grove Trail, Bolderwood
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 1.5km/1 mile
⏰ Time: 30 minutes
📍Starting point: Bolderwood car park
Start this route the same way you would for the Deer Watch Trail, but continue on to see some old majestic trees and thick woodlands. Benches are dotted along the route to allow you to sit and take in your surroundings.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but there are some short steep inclines.
7) Stuckton Iron Works, Fordingbridge
🥾 Distance: 4.5 miles/7 km
⏰ Time: 2-3 hours
📍Starting point: The Three Lions, Stuckton, Fordingbridge
A great New Forest walk with beautiful views of the countryside, Avon Valley and Dorset. There is a lot of history on the walk to be seen, including a cemetery that dates back to the Bronze Age. You’ll then see the house of Thomas Sheppard on Stuckton Road, who was the inventor of mill components.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: A rough, gravel path with some uneven trails. Can get extremely muddy when wet.
8) Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 7.2km/4.5 miles
⏰ Time: 60-90 minutes
📍Starting point: Beaulieu car park
This route follows the Beaulieu River and ends in the 18th Century village of Buckler’s Hard. You’ll be taken through more shady woods and over boardwalks, with great views of the water. You can even stop off for a pint in Monty’s pub for a true English countryside day out.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but due to the distance, it has been given an Amber rating.
Related post: Best Pubs in New Forest
9) Wilverly Inclosure
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 4.2km/2.5 miles
⏰ Time: 45 minutes
📍Starting point: Wilverly car park
This beautifully misty and magical walk through the diverse woodlands will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale! Keep your eyes peeled for fairy houses and allow your imagination to transport you to another world.
Spot local wildlife as you walk through the ancient woodlands, and drop in the Old Station Tea House in Holmsley for some famous cream tea. Is there anything more English than that?
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but there are some very slight steep inclines.
10) Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 6.4 km/ 4 miles
⏰ Time: 60-90 minutes
📍Starting point: Keyhaven Village
Keyhaven is a delightfully small coastal village in the New Forest. The walk takes you along Solent Way and into Keyhaven’s marshes, with views of the Isle of Wight and the Needles. It’s also a great time to spot a wide variety of birds local to the area.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but due to the distance, it is moderately challenging.
11) Beaulieu Heath and Hatchet Pond
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 4.2km/2.5 miles
⏰ Time: 45 minutes
📍Starting point: Rans Wood car park
Beaulieu Heath is a large area of heathland in the New Forest, with many trails and walks.
This New Forest walk will bring you close to the Bronze Age history of the area, with close-ups of the ancient burial grounds which date back over 3,500 years. The walk will then loop around Hatchet Pond, with surrounding ponies, horses, and cows.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users.
12) Hale and Woodgreen, Woodfalls
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 9.2km/5.75 miles
⏰ Time: 2-3 hours
📍Starting point: Woodfalls bus stop, SP5 2NN
Hale and Woodgreen is a peaceful walk through the villages of the New Forest. You will follow a trail in the Avon Valley Path, then to the village of Hatcht Green.
Start off 10 miles south of Salisbury, and descend into the valleys of the River Avon and past Georgian mansions, Hale House, and thatched cottages. One to spend the day meandering with a rewarding hearty meal at the Horse and Groom in Woodgreen.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users.
13) The Jane Austen Route, Chawton
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 8km/5 miles
⏰ Time: 2-3 hours
📍Starting point: Chawton Village car park
Chawton is a quaint English village that Jane Austen called home for the last eight years of her life. The easy stretch of level walking fields takes you through the village, into the equally idyllic Upper Farringdon, where Jane used to frequently visit.
On the walk, you will follow her footsteps through the countryside. It’s a beautiful walk with connections to English literature!
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users.
14) Blashford Lakes and Rockford Common, Ringwood
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 8km/5 miles
⏰ Time: 2-3 hours
📍Starting point: The Alice Lisle Pub car park
A New Forest walk through the heathlands may have inspired some of Jane Austen’s novels, and this route is one which may just spark your own imagination.
Take this relaxing stroll past the lakes, through woodlands lined with birch, willow, alder, and spot over 26 species of dragonfly. You’ll also be accompanied by the famous New Forest ponies en route.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: This New Forest walk has a path that is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users.
15) Ober Water Trails, Brockenhurst
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 1.5km (red trail) 2.5km (yellow trail)
⏰ Time: 1-2 hours
📍Starting point: Whitefield Moor car park
Two circular routes in New Forest follow the Ober Water midway between its source and the sea. Close to the water, the open grassy fields of Whitefield Moor are beautiful. There are plenty of areas for you to explore.
Top tip: Bring your wellies, as it can get pretty muddy!
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout.
16) Reptile Trail, Lyndhurst
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 2km/1.5 miles
⏰ Time: 1 hour
📍Starting point: Reptile Centre car park
This circular walk is a lovely short stroll in the New Forest. You’ll start and finish at the Reptile Centre (which is open all summer), discovering more about British reptiles and amphibians. The trail also includes finding out about how reptiles are being conserved in the New Forest.
The reptile displays include snakes, lizards, frogs and toads.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout. It can be completed by all, including pushchair and wheelchair users.
17) Solent Way, Milford-on-Sea
Red (moderate)
🥾 Distance: 15km/9 miles
⏰ Time: 3-4 hours
📍Starting point: Milford-on-Sea
Solent Way is a 60-mile-long trail near the New Forest. However, it is split into different sections and walks. This particular route starts at the Milford-on-Sea front and ends at Emsworth Harbour.
A large part of the walk is through the New Forest, and will take you through different terrains.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: Most of the paths are easy to walk but the distance makes it more challenging.
18) Fritham walk, Lyndhurst
Red (moderate)
🥾 Distance: 11km/7 miles
⏰ Time: 3-4 hours
📍Starting point: The Royal Oak Pub
The Fritham walk is one of the most popular walks in the New Forest. Its path takes you from the Royal Oak Pub and southwest over Fritham Plain. Walk through the shaded woodlands area spotting wild berries and wildlife!
The walk will take you 3-4 hours but it all pays off when you stop for a pint and a hearty meal at the Royal Oak afterward!
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but due to the distance, it can be challenging.
Related post: Best Pubs in New Forest
19) Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst loop
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 10miles/16km
⏰ Time: 4-5 hours
📍Starting point: From the centre of Lyndhurst follow Gosport Lane, or from Brockenhurst Station turn down Brookley Road
Start your walk from Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst by arriving at either village and doing a circular loop through either. Wind your way along village roads, woodland tracks, and of course, stop off and enjoy some tea rooms along the way.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, but due to the distance, it can be moderately challenging.
20) Linwood Circular walk
Amber (easy-moderate)
🥾 Distance: 7km/4.5 miles
⏰ Time: 2 hours
📍Starting point: High Corner Inn car park
A circular New Forest walk that starts off at the family-run High Corner Inn pub and loops around through the Broomy Inclosure, Hallickshole Holl, and Sloden Inclosure. The route then brings you back downhill to the Holly Hatch before finally returning to the pub.
Along the southern coast of the New Forest, you will find beaches and coastline. Barton on Sea is one of the most popular beaches close to the New Forest.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is moderately smooth, with some inclines.
21) Ashurst Stroll
Green (easy)
🥾 Distance: 4km/2.5 miles
⏰ Time: 1 hour
📍Starting point: Ashurst Railway Station
A short and easy circular walk that explores a variety of landscapes in the New Forest. Start from the railway station and cross through forest lawns, walk through a timber plantation and pass the historic remains of a saltpetre house.
🌳 FINAL NOTES: The path is smooth and gravelled, and flat throughout.
Getting around New Forest
New Forest is best visited with a car. If you’re visiting for a short amount of time, it’s worth hiring a car to get around to some of the trails, hikes and parks.
If you’re looking to hire a car in New Forest, we rent our cars from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! ➡ You can check out the prices for car hire in New Forest now!
For cheap train tickets to and from New Forest, check out Trainline. We book with them whenever we are travelling around the UK, (including to and from airports). ➡ CHECK TRAIN PRICES NOW!
Getting to New Forest
🇬🇧 GETTING TO NEW FOREST FROM THE UK
If you are already in the New Forest, you will need to head towards Hampshire either by car or train. The New Forest is best explored by car. If you need to hire a car in the UK, I recommend using this company.
If you are using public transport, you will need to book train tickets to Brockenhurst Station. From there, you can travel to the New Forest. For cheap train tickets to and from New Forest, check out Trainline.
✈️ GETTING TO NEW FOREST INTERNATIONALLY
The nearest international airports to the New Forest are Bournemouth Airport and Southampton Airport. London is also only a train journey from the New Forest, so flying into Heathrow is also an option.
From the airport, you will need to board a train to New Forest. For cheap train tickets to and from New Forest from the airports, check out Trainline.
Alternatively, you can hire a car from the airport and drive to New Forest. If you’re looking to hire a car in New Forest, we rent our cars from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!
Best walks in New Forest: FAQs
1) How long does it take to walk around the New Forest?
There are many possible walking trails in the New Forest. These all vary in length and time.
2) Are you allowed to walk in New Forest?
Yes! You can walk through the different walking trails in New Forest. There are some amazing and beautiful walks in New Forest, and it’s one of the best activities to do when visiting.
3) What are the longest walks in the New Forest?
The Solent Way walk is the longest walk in New Forest. It is 60-miles long, and divided into eight sections.
4) Can you walk to the New Forest from Brockenhurst?
Brockenhurst is in the New Forest. There are many walks in which you can take around Brockenhurst and New Forest.
5) When is the best time to visit the New Forest?
England has four seasons (summer, winter, autumn and spring), and you can either choose to sip on a pint in the snow in December or check out a beer garden in the summer. Or you might fancy sitting amongst the blossom in spring, or crunching on the orange leaves in autumn.
Prices will be the highest during the summer months and around Christmas time. If you’re budget backpacking, I recommend visiting New Forest either in spring or autumn when accommodation is more budget-friendly.
6) Do I need a car to travel around the New Forest?
Yes. Visiting the New Forest is best done via car, as the public transport isn’t great and isn’t reliable.
You can hire a car and drive around the entire country at your own pace. Driving in England is safe and straightforward. Some of the main towns and cities are a distance away from each other, so to maximise your time in the New Forest, you may want to hire a car.
If you’re looking to hire a car in England, we rent our cars from this company. They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! ➡ You can check out the prices for car hire in New Forest now!
7) Do I need a SIM card to travel around New Forest?
Yes, it’s worth downloading an eSIM on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive in England.
ESIMs are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡ You can check out the prices and packages for eSIMs here!
Best walks in New Forest: In a Nutshell
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about the best walks in New Forest. When you’re planning a trip to New Forest, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below!
If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at first-time backpackers on a budget. I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend (read more here!), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!
Keep an eye out for more New Forest content, all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here!
As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!
Happy travelling 🙂
Jennie x
🇬🇧 Where to next?
- 13 of the Best New Forest Pubs (Updated Guide)
- 13 Tips for Walking in the Lake District (Guide)
- Getting Around the Lake District Without a Car FULL GUIDE
MEET THE AUTHOR!
Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.
If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).
