The Ultimate Tour De Forest Guide to Attractions, Cafés, Pubs and Hidden Gems
Looking for the perfect day out while exploring the New Forest by bike?
At Tour De Forest, we believe the journey is just as important as the destination. Our bike hire location places you within easy reach of some of the New Forest’s most beautiful villages, historic attractions, cosy country pubs and independent cafés. Whether you’re planning a family cycling adventure, a romantic day out or simply looking to escape into nature, there’s no shortage of fantastic places to discover.
Here’s our guide to some of the best attractions, food stops and hidden gems you can visit whilst enjoying one of our New Forest bike hire routes.
Beaulieu: History, Heritage and Riverside Beauty
Beaulieu is one of the New Forest’s most popular destinations and a must-visit stop for cyclists. Combining fascinating history, stunning scenery and excellent food, it’s the perfect place to spend a few hours during your ride.
National Motor Museum
One of the South’s most famous visitor attractions, featuring over 280 historic vehicles, iconic motoring exhibits, Palace House and beautiful gardens. The museum forms part of the wider Beaulieu attraction and is a fantastic family day out.
Website: National Motor Museum
Visitor Information: Beaulieu Attraction
Beaulieu River
One of the few privately owned tidal rivers in Britain, offering beautiful riverside views, walking opportunities and seasonal boat trips.
Website: Beaulieu River
Buckler’s Hard
A beautifully preserved 18th-century shipbuilding village where vessels for Nelson’s Navy were built. Visitors can explore the museum, riverside walks and enjoy scenic cruises on the Beaulieu River.
Website: Buckler’s Hard
Best Places to Eat in Beaulieu
Monty’s Inn
A traditional country pub serving hearty British favourites, local produce and family-friendly dining in the heart of Beaulieu.
Website: Monty’s Inn
The Montagu Arms
One of the New Forest’s most respected country house hotels, offering exceptional dining and beautiful surroundings.
Website: The Montagu Arms
The Terrace Restaurant
The Montagu Arms’ elegant restaurant, ideal for special occasions and fine dining.
Website: The Terrace Restaurant
Royal Oak, Hill Top
A classic New Forest pub located on the edge of the open forest and popular with walkers and cyclists.
Website: Royal Oak, Hill Top
East Boldre: A Favourite Stop for Cyclists
Just a short ride from Tour De Forest, East Boldre offers the authentic New Forest experience with quiet lanes, open woodland and welcoming local businesses.
The Turfcutters Arms
A longstanding favourite among our customers, The Turfcutters Arms combines traditional New Forest charm with excellent food, a large garden and a warm welcome. It is dog-friendly, family-friendly and ideally located for a cycling stop.
Website: The Turfcutters Arms
Why Cyclists Love It
- Traditional New Forest atmosphere
- Great food and local ales
- Large outdoor garden
- Dog friendly
- Family friendly
- Excellent location on popular cycling routes
East Boldre Community Stores (Chapel Stores)
The local community shop is ideal for picking up snacks, drinks and essentials before continuing your ride. The store also stocks a range of local produce and New Forest products.
Website: East Boldre Community Stores
East End: Hidden Gem
East End Arms
This characterful country pub is known for locally sourced ingredients, quality food and a relaxed atmosphere. A perfect location to pause and recharge during a longer cycling route.
Website: East End Arms
Brockenhurst: The Heart of the New Forest
Brockenhurst is often regarded as the cycling capital of the New Forest. With free-roaming ponies, excellent cafés, pubs and restaurants, it’s a destination every visitor should experience.
Popular Pubs and Relaxed Dining
The Huntsman
A traditional New Forest pub close to Brockenhurst Station, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a spacious garden and seasonal pizza kitchen.
Website: The Huntsman
The Snakecatcher
A much-loved family pub named after local New Forest legend Harry “Brusher” Mills. Offers traditional pub food, local ales, sports viewing and a welcoming atmosphere.
Website: The Snakecatcher
Foresters Arms
A popular village pub located on Brookley Road.
Website: The Forester’s Arms
Commoners
A stylish bar and restaurant serving food, wine, cocktails and relaxed dining throughout the day.
Website: Commoners
Forest Park Country Hotel
Located on the edge of the open forest and offering modern British dining.
Website: Forest Park Hotel
Recommended Restaurants
Enzee Italian
Family-run Italian restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine.
Website: Enzee Brockenhurst
Albero Italian
Popular local restaurant specialising in pizza, pasta and traditional Italian dishes.
Website: Albero Italian
Britannia Thai
A highly regarded Thai restaurant in the centre of Brockenhurst.
Website: Britannia Thai
The Pig
One of the New Forest’s most famous dining destinations, renowned for its kitchen garden philosophy and locally sourced food. Located near Brockenhurst in the heart of the Forest.
Website: The Pig
Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa
Offers several dining experiences including French and Thai cuisine.
Website: Careys Manor
Rhain’s Diner
Relaxed casual dining popular with visitors and locals alike.
Website: Rhain’s Diner
Balmer Lawn Hotel
Offering lunch, afternoon tea and evening dining overlooking the open Forest.
Website: Balmer Lawn Hotel
Coffee Stops, Bakeries and Tea Rooms
No cycling adventure is complete without cake and coffee.
Our favourite spots include:
- The Beaulieu Bakehouse
- Pallets Tea & Coffee House
- Bellord & Brown
- The Absent Pony
- The Paddle in the Forest
- The Bakehouse
- Esme’s Tea Rooms
- The Brock Tearoom
- Terrace Café
Perfect for a quick refreshment stop before continuing your New Forest adventure.
Why Explore the New Forest by Bike?
Cycling allows you to experience parts of the New Forest that many visitors never see. You’ll discover hidden villages, quiet woodland tracks, open heathland and countless independent cafés and pubs, all while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace.
With hundreds of miles of cycle-friendly routes, the New Forest is one of the UK’s finest destinations for bike hire and outdoor adventures.
Ready to Explore?
Whether you’re planning a family day out, a weekend adventure or a relaxing ride through the New Forest, Tour De Forest has the perfect bike for your journey.
- Quality bike hire
- Family-friendly options
- Easy access to New Forest cycle routes
- Local route advice from our experienced team
Book Your Bike Hire
Visit Tour De Forest Bike Hire and start exploring the very best of the New Forest on two wheels.




