Best New Forest Motorcycle Routes from Totton
One of the best things about being based in Totton is that we’re literally on the doorstep of the New Forest. Five minutes from the shop and you’re on proper country roads with views that make you remember why you ride in the first place. Here are three of my favourite routes — whether you’ve got a spare hour or a full day.
Route 1: The Classic New Forest Loop
Distance: About 35 miles | Time: 1–1.5 hours with stops
This is the one I do most often, and it never gets old. Head out of Totton on the A336 towards Lyndhurst — the “capital” of the New Forest. The road through Ashurst is a nice warm-up, and once you’re past Lyndhurst the roads open up beautifully.
From Lyndhurst, take the A337 down to Brockenhurst. This stretch is gorgeous in autumn when the trees are turning. Watch out for ponies on the road — they genuinely don’t care about traffic and will stand in the middle of the road staring at you. Keep your speed sensible.
From Brockenhurst, cut across to Beaulieu on the B3055. If you’ve got time, the National Motor Museum is worth a visit, but even the ride through the village is lovely. Then head back to Totton via the B3056 through Dibden Purlieu. The whole loop takes about an hour if you crack on, or a leisurely hour and a half with a tea stop.
Best stop: The Oak Inn in Lyndhurst does a proper coffee and you can sit outside and watch bikes come through.
Route 2: The Coastal Run
Distance: About 50 miles | Time: 2–3 hours
If you want something longer with sea views, this one’s a cracker. Head south from Totton through the forest to Lymington. The road from Brockenhurst to Lymington along the B3055 is one of the best in Hampshire — sweeping bends, decent surface, and not too much traffic midweek.
Lymington itself is a pretty Georgian town with a harbour full of yachts. Stop for fish and chips at the quay, then continue west along the coast road to Milford on Sea. On a clear day, you can see the Isle of Wight and the Needles from the clifftop. It’s a proper postcard view.
You can extend this by pushing on to Barton on Sea and even Christchurch if you’re feeling adventurous. Coming back, take the A337 through the forest for a different return route.
Best stop: The Beach House at Milford on Sea — great food, amazing view, and bike parking right outside.
Route 3: The Evening Blast
Distance: About 20 miles | Time: 45 minutes
Sometimes you just want to get out for a quick ride after work. This short loop is perfect. Head from Totton through Marchwood to Hythe, then along the waterfront road with views across Southampton Water. Continue to Beaulieu Heath and back through the forest.
The roads around Beaulieu Heath are quiet in the evenings and there’s something special about riding through the forest as the light starts to fade. Just keep your eyes peeled for deer — they’re most active at dusk.
Best stop: The café at Lepe Country Park if you catch it before closing. The view across the Solent is worth the detour.
When to Ride
Spring and autumn are my favourite seasons for New Forest riding. Summer gets busy with tourists, and the roads around Lyndhurst can be gridlocked on bank holidays. Winter’s fine on dry days — just watch for mud and leaves on the road, especially through the wooded sections.
If you’ve just picked up a bike from us at LozMoto and fancy a ride, ask me for route tips when you collect it. I’m always happy to point you in the right direction — literally. And if you see me out on the road, give us a wave.
