Cycle routes in the New Forest National Park

Please follow both the Highway Code and this New Forest Cycling Code which is supported by cycling groups and local organisations.

Be considerate

• Ride positively and well clear of uneven road edges but with consideration for other road-users. To allow vehicles to overtake safely, leave gaps for them to pull into and move into single file when necessary and safe to do so. Never ride more than two abreast.
• Off road, cycle only on the waymarked network of Forestry Commission tracks, bridleways, byways, restricted byways and designated routes.
• Use this map to plan your route, check the Forestry Commission website for route closures, and try to be off Forest tracks by sunset.
• Be polite to other cyclists, motorists, pedestrians and residents.
• When passing people and animals, use your bell or call out a warning and allow them plenty of room. Be prepared to stop if necessary.
• Do not drop litter or feed the animals; human food and litter are a danger to them.
• Close gates behind you so the animals don’t stray
• Respect the quiet of the Forest.

Be safe

• Pass animals slowly and to one side if possible.
• Take extra care near horse riders; a kick or fall from a horse could be fatal. Be prepared to stop. Use your bell or call out a friendly warning well in advance. When it is safe, pass wide and at walking pace, to one side only. Look out for any reaction from the horse.
• Keep to a safe speed, on and off road, particularly on narrow lanes, steep hills and bends. Look out for pot holes, poor surfaces and cattle grids.
• Look out for and obey safety signs. Do not pass large vehicles and trailers until you know it is safe to do so.
• Ensure you are visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing. Use lights after dark and in poor daytime visibility.
• Avoid the use of earphones.

Follow the Forest Cycle Code

Come and explore the New Forest on two wheels...

Exploring by bike is the ideal way to discover the magnificent beauty and fascinating wildlife that can easily be missed by car. The off-road and road-based New Forest cycle network offers something for all the family to enjoy.

The Forestry Commission provides over 100 miles of off-road waymarked cycle routes. Most of these routes are particularly suited to families with children and can also be used by people on mobility scooters. The routes are marked on the ground with wooden posts, each numbered. Some of these are shown on the map to help you to find your way around. These marker posts also display an Ordnance Survey grid reference.

This map brings together these managed routes with all similar networks in the New Forest National Park and links to the surrounding area.

The New Forest is a beautiful, tranquil and environmentally sensitive place enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike. Mutual respect and courtesy are essential to enable those with different interests to enjoy the Forest together.

This is a working forest, with forestry, farming and equestrian activity on its narrow roads and tracks. Ponies, cattle and other animals are free to roam the Forest and most of its roads. Be aware that animals are easily startled and may suddenly move into your path.

Hawkhill Inclosure Off Road Cycle Trail

14.8km / 9.2m

Hawkhill Inclosure car park

Key (Hawkhill trail)

• Start/finish
• Hawkhill trail
• Shortcuts
• Waymarker Posts
• B Road
• Parking

Route directions

1. From Hawkill Inclosure car park retrace concrete path to B3055 and cross to cycle track opposite.
2. At ‘T’ junction turn right.
3. Turn right and follow gravel cycle track.
4. Bear left at car park and continue on track towards Roundhill campsite & take tarmac road straight on. Note water tower on your right.
5. Continue through site towards reception & B3055. Cross B3055 to forest track opposite.
6. Continue down hill over crossing in track through gate at Copse Cottage towards and over railway bridge.
7. Through gate at Stubby Copse Inclosure and continue on gravel tracks.
8. On reaching tarmac road turn right at ‘T’ junction.
9. Continue straight on following main track towards railway.
10. Cross railway on bridge and take next left signed ‘Beaulieu’.
11. Turn right at junction in track signed ‘Beaulieu’.
12. At major gravel crossroad turn left and follow cycle track sign.
13. Turn right at next junction.
14. At gate adjacent B3055 retrace path back to car park.