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:

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.

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