Why we love it

• Beautiful scenery: The New Forest has a huge area of “open forest,” heathland, old woodland, and lots of public rights of way.

• Traffic-free trails: Many routes are away from busy roads, making running safer and more peaceful.

• Variety of surfaces: Depending on where you run, you can have road, soft trails, firm tracks, or more rugged terrain, good for trail-style running.

• Wildlife: You’ll often see ponies, cattle, and other animals  which is wonderful to run among them, but also requires some caution.

Considerations

• Navigation: Because it’s a large area with many types of land (common land, crown land, different footpaths), it’s a good idea to use a map (e.g. Ordnance Survey) or follow waymarked trails.
• Ground conditions: Some parts can be muddy or soft, especially after rain, so good trail shoes are useful.
• Livestock risk: Animals roam freely; you need to be mindful of ponies, cattle, pigs etc. especially during busy times.

Rules & Guidelines

Here are the key rules to follow (especially when running) to be forest-friendly:

1. New Forest Code – see New Forest National Park Authority

   • Keep your distance from free-roaming animals; do not feed or touch them.

   • Take all your litter home, including dog waste.

   • Dogs must be under close control (and leashed where needed).

   • Avoid campfires, BBQs, and any lighting of fire.

   • Stick to main tracks as much as possible (to protect vegetation and wildlife).

   • No wild camping.

   • Park only in designated car parks: don’t park on verges or gateways.

   • Be extra careful when driving: animals (ponies, etc.) may be on or near the road.

2. During Sensitive Months

   • There are ground-nesting birds: runners (and others) are asked to stay on main tracks in some areas.

   • Dogs are especially expected to be on leads to reduce disturbance.

3. Event Permissions

   • If you want to organise a running race or large event in the New Forest, you need permission from Forestry England.

   • There are legal protections for habitats, so some areas and times of year are restricted for organised events.

4. Safety & Preparedness

   • Bring a charged phone and tell someone where you’re going / when you expect to be back.

   • Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the conditions.

   • If running with a dog: make sure your route is suitable; some trails may be more difficult.