The New Forest is one of the UK’s most enchanting places to explore with your dog. Stretching across ancient woodland, heathland and open grasslands, this national park offers endless space for dogs to run, sniff and roam free. With miles of trails, gentle gradients, and plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafes nearby, it’s the perfect place for an adventure with your four-legged friend.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best dog friendly walks in New Forest National Park, covering everything from peaceful woodland trails to scenic coastal paths. Each route has been chosen for its accessibility, beauty and suitability for dogs who love to explore.
1. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Trail
Located near Lyndhurst, the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is one of the most popular and scenic walking spots in the New Forest. The circular trail winds through tall beech trees and ancient woodland, leading to a deer-viewing platform where you can often spot herds grazing in the open glades. The well-maintained paths make it ideal for families and dogs alike, with shaded stretches and gentle inclines.
Dogs will love exploring the forest floor, darting between the trees and following woodland scents. There are plenty of open areas where dogs can enjoy some off-lead time, though recall is important due to the deer. Picnic areas and parking are available near the car park, making this a great half-day outing.
Distance: 2.5 miles / 4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some (recall is crucial with the deer)
Parking Availability: Yes
2. Wilverley Inclosure Walk
Wilverley Inclosure near Brockenhurst offers a mix of wide gravel tracks and quiet forest trails that are perfect for walking dogs year-round. The route meanders through towering pine and oak woodland, with a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to spot ponies and birds along the way. The inclosure is fenced, giving you peace of mind when letting your dog off the lead.
The varied landscape keeps walks interesting, and there are several loop options depending on how far you want to go. There’s a large car park, picnic area and even a nearby tearoom for refreshments after your walk.
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
3. Blackwater Arboretum Trail
This enchanting trail near Rhinefield is known for its diverse collection of trees from around the world, including redwoods and Douglas firs. The circular walk is peaceful and well-marked, with wide paths that make it ideal for dogs and owners looking for a relaxing stroll. The towering trees create a calm, shaded canopy that’s perfect on warmer days.
Dogs will love exploring the earthy woodland scents and weaving through the impressive tree trunks. Benches are dotted along the trail, and the area connects easily to other forest paths for longer adventures. Free parking is available at the Blackwater car park.
Distance: 1.5 miles / 2.4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
4. Hatchet Pond and Beaulieu Heath
Hatchet Pond, the largest body of water in the New Forest, offers stunning views and an easy-going circular trail. The mix of open heathland, sparkling water and woodland edges makes it a great choice for dogs who love variety. The flat terrain is suitable for all fitness levels and can be extended onto Beaulieu Heath for a longer route.
Dogs can paddle in shallow areas of the pond and enjoy plenty of off-lead exploration, though keep an eye out for wildlife. The scenery here is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, with reflections dancing across the water. There’s a spacious car park right beside the pond.
Distance: 2 miles / 3.2 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
5. Lyndhurst Parish Circular Walk
Starting in the heart of the New Forest’s capital, this circular trail takes you through a blend of ancient woodland and open heath. It’s a lovely introduction to the area, combining charming village sights with peaceful forest stretches. The path is clearly marked and easy to follow, offering a pleasant mix of shaded and open sections.
Dogs will enjoy the changing scents and sights along the way, from the bustling village centre to the quiet forest beyond. With dog-friendly pubs like The Fox and Hounds nearby, it’s easy to make a full day of it. Parking is available in Lyndhurst village car parks.
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
6. Rhinefield Ornamental Drive
One of the most picturesque drives and walking areas in the New Forest, Rhinefield offers wide forest tracks surrounded by majestic conifers and redwoods. The trail is ideal for long, leisurely walks with dogs, with plenty of soft forest floor underfoot. The paths are mostly flat, and the peaceful surroundings make it a relaxing walk.
Dogs can be let off lead in most areas, and there’s little traffic once you’re away from the road. With its towering trees and tranquil atmosphere, this route feels truly immersive. Parking is available at Blackwater or Whitefield Moor car parks.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
7. Keyhaven Marshes Coastal Path
For something different, the Keyhaven Marshes route offers beautiful coastal views across to the Isle of Wight. The trail follows a flat path along the Solent Way, passing salt marshes, lagoons and birdwatching hides. It’s a refreshing change of scenery from the forest, with salty air and wide horizons.
Dogs will love the long stretches of open path and the chance to sniff around the grassy edges of the marshland. There are plenty of spots for a quick rest, and you’ll find parking in Keyhaven village or nearby Milford on Sea.
Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
8. Fritham and Eyeworth Pond Walk
This circular walk near Fritham is a local favourite, combining charming woodland, open heath and the serene Eyeworth Pond. The area is teeming with wildlife, including ducks and ponies, making it a lovely place for relaxed exploration. The route offers gentle hills and a variety of terrain to keep things interesting.
Dogs will love splashing in the pond edges and exploring the woodland paths. There’s a dog-friendly pub, The Royal Oak, conveniently located in Fritham for a post-walk pint. Parking is available close to the village green.
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
9. Balmer Lawn and Brockenhurst Loop
This scenic loop takes in open grasslands, small streams and stretches of forest near Brockenhurst. It’s a popular spot for dog walkers thanks to its easy access and gentle gradients. The route follows quiet paths and gravel tracks, with the chance to see New Forest ponies grazing freely.
Dogs will enjoy cooling off in the shallow stream crossings and the freedom of the open spaces. The nearby Balmer Lawn Hotel is dog friendly and makes a great post-walk stop. Parking is available in Brockenhurst or Balmer Lawn car park.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
10. Burley Village Circular
Starting from the quaint village of Burley, this route explores a mix of forest trails and open heathland. The village itself is steeped in charm and surrounded by peaceful walking paths that are perfect for dogs of all sizes. Expect a mix of woodland tracks and gentle inclines with beautiful views across the forest.
Dogs will have plenty of freedom here, and the route passes several open areas where they can run off lead safely. Burley also has a handful of dog-friendly cafes and shops, making it a great day out. Parking is available in the village centre.
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in New Forest National Park
Explore these walks using our handy map below. Click the icons to get more information on each of these walks and directions to the nearest car park.
Forest-and-heath loop from the village with views over Castle Hill and easy post-walk facilities.
Distance (Miles): 4.5
Distance (KM): 7.2
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Open lawns, streams and forest edges near Brockenhurst with easy access and gentle gradients.
Distance (Miles): 4.0
Distance (KM): 6.4
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Mixed woodland and open heath with a serene pond; links to Fritham village and dog-friendly pub.
Distance (Miles): 3.0
Distance (KM): 4.8
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Flat coastal path along the Solent Way with lagoons and bird hides; huge views to the Isle of Wight.
Distance (Miles): 5.0
Distance (KM): 8.0
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Classic forest tracks under towering conifers with streams and arboretum links; easy navigation.
Distance (Miles): 4.0
Distance (KM): 6.4
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Village-to-forest loop mixing open lawns, heath and ancient woodland; great intro to the area.
Distance (Miles): 3.5
Distance (KM): 5.6
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Flat loop around the New Forest’s largest pond with open heath and water margins; extend onto Beaulieu Heath.
Distance (Miles): 2.0
Distance (KM): 3.2
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Short, sheltered loop beneath giant conifers and redwoods with picnic spots and facilities at Blackwater.
Distance (Miles): 1.5
Distance (KM): 2.4
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Wide gravel tracks through fenced inclosure woodland. Gentle gradients and loop options; good sight lines for recall.
Distance (Miles): 3.0
Distance (KM): 4.8
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Circular woodland walk from the deer viewing platform with wide, easy paths. Expect beech and conifer forest, glades and frequent deer sightings.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Distance (KM): 4.0
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
Explore even more dog friendly locations across the UK with The Wildpack Map, our curated list of hiking routes, campsites, road trips and much more.
Before You Go
- Always check local wildlife guidance before letting dogs off lead.
- Carry water, especially during summer months.
- Make sure you have essential dog hiking gear for long days out.
- Be mindful of grazing ponies and cattle across the park.
- Keep waste bags handy and dispose of them responsibly.
- Consider visiting quieter areas outside peak times for a more peaceful walk.
What’s Nearby?
Dog friendly walks in Bournemouth
The New Forest is just a short drive from Bournemouth, making it easy to combine peaceful woodland trails with coastal paths and clifftop walks. Bournemouth’s mix of heathland, sea views and quieter nature reserves offers a nice contrast to the forest interior.
Dog friendly beaches in Dorset
The New Forest sits just inland from some of Dorset’s best dog friendly beaches, making it easy to combine woodland walks with coastal time. These beaches are ideal for cooling off after a longer hike, particularly outside peak summer months when restrictions are minimal.
Dog friendly walks in the South Downs National Park
If you enjoy wide open landscapes and longer hikes, the South Downs offer a natural next step from the New Forest. Expect rolling hills, chalk paths and big views, with plenty of routes that suit both steady strolls and more challenging days out.
Dog friendly walks along the Dorset coast
Dorset’s coastal paths provide a contrast to the forest terrain, with clifftop trails, hidden coves and inland circular routes. These walks work well as day trips or as part of a longer South Coast itinerary.
Dog Friendly Beaches in Bournemouth
If you’re happy to travel a little further, Dorset has no shortage of dog friendly beaches beyond Bournemouth itself. From quieter shingle bays to long sandy stretches with fewer seasonal restrictions, it’s an easy area to extend a coastal trip, particularly outside peak summer months.
Dog Friendly Beaches on the Isle of Wight
Head across the water and relax on some of the most beautiful dog friendly beaches that the UK has to offer.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for peaceful woodland strolls or open heathland adventures, the New Forest offers some of the best dog friendly walks in the UK. With endless trails, scenic views and countless dog-welcoming spots to stop along the way, it’s no wonder this national park is a firm favourite among dog owners. So grab your lead, pack some treats and set off to explore one of Britain’s most beautiful walking destinations.