8 Beautiful Dog Walks in the New Forest: Explore Coastal Paths, Forest Trails, and Hidden Ponds with Your Four-Legged Friend
The New Forest, nestled in the heart of southern England, is a haven for nature lovers and one of the best places in the UK to explore with your dog. Spanning ancient woodlands, open heathland, coastal stretches, and peaceful ponds, this National Park is as rich in variety as it is in history and wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for a short, shaded stroll or a longer, invigorating walk, the New Forest is full of dog-friendly trails that will have tails wagging. Here are eight of the best dog walks in the New Forest — featuring some popular spots and a few hidden gems.
1. Highcliffe Beach: A Coastal Escape for Sandy Paws
Located just on the edge of the New Forest, Highcliffe Beach is a dog-friendly coastal spot that’s perfect for seaside adventures. With cliffs, sandy stretches, and views over to the Isle of Wight, it’s ideal for dogs that love a paddle and a good run.
While some sections may have seasonal dog restrictions, nearby paths and woodland trails provide year-round walking options. It’s also close to Steamer Point Nature Reserve, which adds a woodland twist to your beach visit.
📍 Best for: Coastal views and sea air
🐾 Dog perks: Splash zones, long sandy stretches, off-lead freedom outside of summer restrictions
2. Hatchet Pond: Peaceful Dog Walks Around the Water
Just outside Beaulieu, Hatchet Pond is the largest body of freshwater in the New Forest and a great spot for a relaxed walk with your dog. You’ll often see ponies and donkeys wandering nearby, so it’s a good idea to keep dogs on a lead in some sections.
There are circular routes around the pond and short woodland walks nearby. It’s also a popular picnic stop, so feel free to bring a flask and some treats for you and your pup.
📍 Best for: Scenic water views and gentle loops
🐾 Dog perks: Splashing in shallow edges, varied smells, picnic-friendly spots
3. Setley Pond: A Local Hidden Gem
Setley Pond, near Brockenhurst, is a quieter and lesser-known spot that’s perfect for peaceful dog walks. It’s used by local model boat clubs, which adds a quirky charm, and is surrounded by heathland and open fields for free roaming (when safe).
Ideal for dogs that prefer space and less foot traffic, Setley is a lovely area for off-lead exploring, with the bonus of being close to Brockenhurst village amenities.
📍 Best for: Calm, off-the-beaten-path walks
🐾 Dog perks: Open space, water access, fewer crowds
4. Wootton Bridge: A Forest Hideaway
Near Sway, the area around Wootton Bridge offers a wonderful mix of forest tracks, open clearings, and a peaceful stream for your pup to splash in. The walking routes are part of the Wootton Coppice Inclosure, with looped trails and easy access for all walking levels.
This is a great spot if you want tranquil, shaded dog walks surrounded by the sounds of nature — and not many people.
📍 Best for: Wooded hideaways and gentle trails
🐾 Dog perks: Shady paths, natural water spots, great for off-lead runs
No dog-walking list would be complete without the core trails of the New Forest National Park itself. This vast, protected area has hundreds of miles of paths, from wide gravel tracks to peaceful bridleways.
There’s truly something for every dog here, including popular walking spots like:
- Wilverley Inclosure – ideal for circular routes and secure off-lead space
- Blackwater Arboretum – quiet and scenic woodland paths
- Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary – where you might spot fallow deer from viewing platforms
📍 Best for: Variety and accessibility
🐾 Dog perks: Endless trails, shaded walks, wildlife watching
For riverside serenity, head to the trails along the Beaulieu River, especially around Buckler’s Hard. This historic shipbuilding village is now a quiet spot for scenic strolls through woodland and along the riverbanks.
Dogs love the smells and sights here, and while otters and water birds can be seen, the paths are wide enough to keep control without stress. A great combination of history, nature, and water.
📍 Best for: Riverside rambles
🐾 Dog perks: Wildlife sightings, historical stops, water access
Stretching across 60 miles from Milford-on-Sea to Emsworth, the Solent Way includes beautiful coastal stretches of the New Forest. A popular dog-friendly section runs between Lymington and Keyhaven, featuring salt marshes, shingle beaches, and views of Hurst Castle.
It’s ideal for well-behaved dogs that enjoy long walks and open skies, though some parts may require a lead due to ground-nesting birds.
📍 Best for: Coastal adventures
🐾 Dog perks: Salty air, scenic variety, paddle-perfect spots
8. The New Forest Cycleway: Great for Walks Too!
Don’t be put off by the name — the New Forest Cycleway is a network of multi-use paths that are equally ideal for dog walking. Starting from locations like Brockenhurst, Burley, and Ashurst, you’ll find a mix of open heath, shady woodland, and flat, accessible routes.
Because many routes are wide and well-maintained, they’re great for families, older dogs, or just peaceful afternoon dog walks.
📍 Best for: Easy, long-distance dog walks
🐾 Dog perks: Consistent terrain, quiet stretches, great sniff spots
Top Tips for Dog Walking in the New Forest
- 🐕 Keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife.
- 🧴 Bring water, especially in warmer months — not all routes have access to streams or taps.
- 💩 Always clean up after your dog — there are plenty of bins at car parks and trailheads.
- 📅 Check seasonal rules — some areas have restrictions during bird nesting season (March–July).
- ✅ Stick to marked trails to protect the landscape and avoid disturbing wildlife.
From salty sea air at Highcliffe to the peaceful stillness of Setley Pond, the New Forest offers a dream playground for dogs and their humans. With its blend of coast, forest, river, and open heath, there’s perfect dog walks for every pup — whether they love to roam, swim, sniff, or simply trot by your side.
So pack the lead, grab your walking boots, and head to one of England’s most beautiful natural spaces. The New Forest is waiting — paws and all. 🐾🌳
