Cycling in the New Forest

Cycling in the New Forest is one of the best ways to get around. Tranquil settings, dirt tracks and open roads surrounded by Mother nature what more could a cyclist want?

New Forest cycle rides can be at many different levels. From road going high performance training rides and sportives or more sedate and relaxed family rides on the many miles of forest tracks.

About me

I live in the New Forest and I enjoy cycling on both my mountain bike and road bike. My preferred bicycle is a Pashley Guv’nor single speed machine. This is great for both road and approved cycle tracks. The retro styling encourages me to go at a slightly more sedate pace than a state of the art carbon fibre machine. Which means I have plenty more time to enjoy the view. The only road I can’t get up on my Guv’nor in the forest is Blissford Hill, everything else I can just about manage. I have completed a couple of sportives on the Guv’nor and in 2012 will be attempting both MTB and road sportives on the machine…

Your bell is your best friend

The forest attracts many visitors including horse and pony riders and dog walkers. A polite ring of your bell can warn people of your presence. My Pashley bell has a lovely tone and most people on hearing it will make room for you with a smile.

Stick to the road and the approved cycle routes

Apart from very few exceptions the New Forest is not the place to go for extreme mountain biking. There are very strict laws regarding where you can cycle off road. Unless you want to risk a hefty fine, stick to the approved New Forest cycle tracks.

By going off track you also give other cyclists a bad name! Cyclists are not always the flavour of the month in the forest so it is in every ones interest to do the right thing!

Respect the forest

Whatever type of cycling you enjoy remember there are wild animals in the forest! Ponies, cattle and other creatures do not follow the Green Cross Code! So make sure you give them plenty of room, be prepared to stop, and try not to startle them. The reason for sticking to the approved New Forest cycle routes is that the forest can very easily get damaged by mountain bikes and nesting birds and other animals can be detrimentally effected by any off track riding.

Slow down and enjoy the view

Slow down for ponies, horses, pigs, cattle, dogs and their walkers and even snakes! Remember there are wild animals around every bend or corner. Be prepared to stop. I have even had an adder lunge at me as I cycled on the road near Holmesley! Watch out, it is wild out there! Fortunately neither reptile or rider was hurt.

Wear a helmet

I would strongly advise cyclists to wear a helmet whilst cycling in the New Forest, especially on the road. Unfortunately, some people drive very fast and some pay scant regard for the safety of cyclists.