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New Forest Cycling Guide

Summary

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Guidance for cycling in the New Forest to protect wildlife and keep everyone safe in a working landscape. Plan routes with a map and stay on the signed, waymarked network, avoiding narrow animal paths that can damage nature. Be ready to stop quickly because walkers, horse riders, other cyclists, and free-roaming animals may be on tracks at any time. Follow all safety and diversion signs, as tracks may be temporarily closed. Ride at a safe speed and watch for potholes, uneven surfaces, cattle grids, underpasses, and large forestry or farm vehicles. Pass animals and horse riders slowly and with plenty of space, and use a bell or call out when overtaking people. Take litter home, close gates, and respect the Forest’s tranquillity.

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newforestnpa.gov.uk • forestryengland.uk/new-forest

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NPA 01249

New Forest Cycling Guide

The New Forest is a world capital for wildlife and a working landscape with commoning and forestry operations all year round.

Know where to go

Use a map to check and plan your route.
Stay on the waymarked network marked with wooden posts.
Avoid the smaller, narrow pathways made by animals – using these can cause real damage to wildlife and nature.

Be aware and be safe

Be prepared to stop quickly – other cyclists, walkers, horse-riders and free-roaming animals can be on the tracks at any time.
Obey all safety and diversion signs – some tracks may be temporarily closed for safety reasons.
Keep to a safe speed – look out for potholes, uneven surfaces, and cattle grids.
Take care at underpasses – make sure they are clear and safe before entering.
Watch out for large forestry and farm vehicles on the tracks.

Look out and look after

Pass forest animals and horse-riders wide and slow.
Use your bell or call out a warning when passing other people – allow them plenty of room.
Take litter home.
Close gates behind you.
Respect the tranquillity of the Forest.