Top 5 Scenic Running Trails in the New Forest
Fancy running somewhere new and exciting? Consider these New Forest running trails...
Set off from a country hotel for a tranquil run on winding forest tracks and smooth scenic roads, over peaceful heathland trail, and enjoy miles of breathtaking National Park. When you stop for a breather, all you’ll hear is the heartening bray of New Forest ponies, joyful birdsong and the relaxing sigh of the leaves in the summer breeze – it’s just you and our ancient woodland.
You needn’t be a pro to try these New Forest running trails. Perhaps you want to simply get out and make your own way, or log on to your trail app of choice, be it Strava, Komoot or AllTrails and get running…
Running From our New Forest hotel:
Run to Whitefield Moor & Ober Water
10 miles and right from our Brockenhurst hotel doorstep. When running in a clockwise direction, this relatively flat scenic running route takes you towards Brockenhurst train station, out to Whitefield Moor around Ober Water. Then it’s over to the Blackwater Arboretum and along the impressive Tall Trees Trail, and back through woodland and forest trails.
Set out on the Brockenhurst Village trail
Get to know the area on this 5-mile route of varied terrain and iconic New Forest views. You’ll want to stop and take photos of the ponies as you run on forest track around our very own village of Brockenhurst. This beautiful running route is flat and easy-going, making it suitable for most abilities or those looking for a gentle low-miler right from our door.
Run from Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst
A spectacular circular running route for idyllic forest views, this 13.5-mile route is fairly easy-going but long enough for those wishing to maintain or up their miles. Taking in riverside, woodland, heathland and some urban terrain in the form of the village of Lyndhurst, where you can stop at half way for a coffee and a cheeky cake, then meander or race back. (Our hotel spa, SenSpa, is waiting!)
Running Just a short drive away in the New Forest…
Jog to see the sea
If you’re seeking coastal vibes during your short New Forest break, head over to Lymington to start your scenic run. This New Forest running route is predominantly flat and around 5.5 miles. Winding its way from the historic market town of Lymington on the Solent Way to the Keyhaven Marshes Reserve where there are 500 acres to explore, with an abundance of wildlife and birdlife to spot on the way.
Set off from Emery Down
Just a short drive from our New Forest hotel takes you to the edge of Lyndhurst, where you will find the small village of Emery Down. From here the route takes in some of the very best picturesque landscapes of our National Park. Steeped in history, the charming village was once known as ‘Emerichdon’ in 1379, believed to be referring to the land that most likely belonged to the Emery family. Run past its beautiful chapel, take on river crossings and muddy woodland trail, over heathland paths and gravel tracks, looping round the forest before returning to Emery Down.
Get moving at the Blackwater Arboretum
New to running? Perhaps you’ve done the couch to 5k challenge and you’re looking for somewhere to stretch the legs and keep progressing. This short but sweet 2-mile New Forest running trail is the perfect length to simply get you moving without committing to big miles during your weekend break. A flat and easy route for most, enjoy the shade of the canopy on summer days. Set off on this scenic route among ancient trees whether you wish to run, walk or a bit of both, to take in the impressive towering giants or Douglas Firs and Redwoods, and the chance to see deer roaming and squirrels scampering among the moss and leaves.
Run around Fritham village
For runners looking for more of a challenging running route with scenic views to boot. This circular route begins near the village of Fritham and takes on more than 500 ft of elevation in total as it winds its way up and over rolling heathland and through forest on mostly gravel track.
Sign up to run the New Forest Marathon – 8th September 2024
No matter whether you wish to enjoy a woodland walk, a 5 or 10 km or the full marathon, the Garmin New Forest Marathon is back with events designed for all abilities.
“The New Forest Marathon has been the cornerstone of Hampshire running calendar for the past 38 years, raising over £1.33 million for local good causes and attracting thousands of competitors. The nationally recognised marathon has been ranked in the top 10 marathons in the UK for 20 years.”
If September is a little too soon, start training while you’re staying with us in the New Forest and set your sights on a future event.
The scenic running routes in our New Forest National Park are plentiful, with trails and tracks suited to all styles of running from road to trail, and paths to suit all abilities. Run all day long or simply jog for half an hour. We hope you feel inspired during your New Forest break to keep moving or start your running journey, no matter your reason to run.
