The best family-friendly hikes and walks around New Forest

The New Forest offers a vast network of trails, with over 1,700 hiking routes available on komoot. More than 1,000 of these are rated as easy, making them ideal for families looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure.

The New Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars from over 5,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of encountering free-roaming ponies and donkeys, the diverse landscapes ranging from ancient woodlands to open heathlands, and the well-maintained paths suitable for all ages.

Yes, the New Forest has several trails suitable for pushchairs and those seeking accessible paths. Moors Valley Country Park, for example, offers a network of flat, well-maintained trails perfect for families with young children or pushchairs. Many of the forest tracks are also wide and relatively flat, making them suitable for easier access.

Absolutely! The New Forest is famous for its abundant wildlife. You're very likely to encounter free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and cattle. Deer are also common, especially at spots like the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, which offers easy walks and a viewing platform. Keep an eye out for various bird species around Hatchet Pond and other wetland areas.

Yes, many family-friendly routes in the New Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Whitefield Moor loop, which takes you through varied forest landscapes. The Brockenhurst Village route also offers a pleasant circular walk through charming surroundings.

The New Forest is rich in natural beauty and unique landmarks. You can explore the ancient woodlands and towering trees along the Tall Trees Trail and Blackwater Arboretum. Hatchet Pond, the largest body of fresh water in the New Forest, is a tranquil spot for birdwatching. For impressive views, consider highlights like Holm Hill or Ragged Boys Hill. You might also spot the Dead Trees Marsh, a unique natural monument.

Yes, the New Forest boasts beautiful coastal areas. The Exbury & Lepe Country Park loop offers refreshing walks with views of the Solent. The Lepe Walk is another excellent option, featuring country lanes, woodlands, and stunning shoreline views, mostly flat and well-marked for all skill levels.

Dogs are generally welcome on trails in the New Forest, but it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially due to the free-roaming livestock and wildlife. Many areas require dogs to be on a lead to protect the animals and ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific regulations on each trail.

The New Forest offers something special in every season. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and newborn foals, while summer provides warm weather for exploring the woodlands and coast. Autumn is spectacular with changing leaf colours and the 'pannage' season when pigs roam freely. Even winter offers crisp, quiet walks. For families, late spring to early autumn generally provides the most comfortable weather conditions.

Many of the New Forest's trails are suitable for shorter, easier walks. For instance, the Solent Way: Beaulieu to Buckler's Hard route is an easy option, offering pleasant scenery without significant elevation. The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary also has short, well-maintained paths perfect for little legs.

Some areas of the New Forest are accessible by public transport. Towns like Brockenhurst, often considered a gateway to the New Forest, have a train station and bus services that can connect you to various trailheads. The Brockenhurst Station Off Road Cycle Trail, for example, starts directly from the station, making it convenient for those arriving by train. It's always best to check specific route access and local transport schedules in advance.