✅ Essentials Checklist
- Cycling kit if cycling (the New Forest has outstanding off-road trails)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers (terrain is gentle)
- Waterproof jacket (showers can appear quickly)
- Insect repellent — midges and horseflies in summer
- Tick removal tool (Lyme disease risk from deer ticks is real here)
- Sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Map or OS Maps app (phone signal drops in woodland)
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Comfortable walking or cycling clothes
- Waterproof jacket
- Light layers
- Long trousers for woodland walks (tick protection)
- Walking shoes or trainers
- Cycling helmet if cycling
⭐ Nice to Have
- Bike — hire available at multiple centres in the forest
- Binoculars (fallow deer, Dartford warbler, hobby falcon)
- Camera
- Picnic kit
- National Trust or Forestry England membership
- Field guide to New Forest wildlife
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the New Forest ponies dangerous?
The free-roaming New Forest ponies are wild animals and should not be fed, touched or approached closely. They can kick and bite without warning. Keep dogs on leads near them and never approach a foal — the mare will be close. They are generally calm around people who give them space.
Is the New Forest good for cycling?
Excellent. The Forest has over 100 miles of designated cycle trails through woodland and open heath, including waymarked family routes. Cycle hire is available at Brockenhurst, Burley and Lyndhurst. The terrain is flat to gently rolling and suitable for all abilities.
Do I need to worry about ticks in the New Forest?
Yes — the New Forest has one of the highest Lyme disease risk levels in England due to the large deer population. Wear long trousers tucked into socks in woodland and long grass, use DEET-based repellent, and check for ticks after every walk. Remove any ticks promptly with a tick removal tool — never squeeze the body.