How to get there: take the train from London Waterloo to Beaulieu Road or Brockenhurt, which takes 1 hour 30 minutes
Ride length: up to 30 km
Whether you want to cover a few miles on your ‘Brommie’ or smash out an epic tour, the New Forest is full of car-free cycle paths in ancient woodland. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. Make sure you catch a glimpse of the famous ponies. There are 5,000 of them, trotting along the forest trails and grazing freely, as well as Bison, otters and birds of prey.
Take a 90-minute train to Beaulieu Road. The ride is a twelve mile circular route utilising mostly gravel paths, which are extensively waymarked. Head anti-clockwise starting at Waymarker 294. You’ll ride towards Lyndnhurst. Stop for cake at Lime Wood Hotel (they have a dress code & request you book), explore the New Forest Centre, and learn all about the area’s unique landscape and history. After refuelling, continue onto Waymarker 259 and towards New Park.
You’ll cross Bolderford Bridge (mentioned in the Doomsday Book). To finish, eat local at The Pig in Brockenhurst, where you can take the train back to London. If you want to get a few more miles in, cycle toward waymarker 286 and east back to Beaulieu Road station, grabbing a well-earned pint and Hampshire beef burger at Drift Inn, before heading back to the capital.