New Forest Travel and Transport

April 18th 2008
Lyndhurst by-pass
Proposals from Lyndhurst Parish Council for a bypass cutting across the heathland of White Moor (behind Bolton’s Bench) have been shelved, and so have County Council proposals for an inner link road. This is great news for local residents whose homes are close to the proposed routes, and for those who appreciate the New Forest and its wildlife. Not necessarily so good, though, for those passing through.

But there’s still hope (maybe). A focus group is to be formed to help shape a 5 million pound package of measures to reduce congestion and associated pollution. Options being considered include a bus priority lane along the one-way system; changed traffic light phasing; a low cost or free-of-charge shuttle bus service into the Forest from Ashurst and Beaulieu Road stations; and variable signage on the M27, based on daily traffic volumes. (Source: Lymington Times).

Getting here and getting about - New Forest travel information

The New Forest is readily accessible by rail and other forms of public transport, and from the motorway network and main trunk roads - the M27 borders the north-east of the New Forest whilst the A31, A337 and A35 also pass through.

Car parks are provided throughout the area, but use of a car is not essential. All the walk routes included on this web site, for example, start from a village centre, although all pass by a car park that acts as an alternative start point.

Ashurst, Beaulieu Road and Brockenhurst railway stations provide excellent alternative starts for exploration, and so do many bus stops. Indeed, future New Forest Explorers' Guide walk routes will start from stations and bus stops so that those who prefer to use public transport can do so.

And of course, cycling is always an attractive option, using the many miles of cycleways that criss-cross the New Forest.