New Forest Cycling Week
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- Becca Petrie
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With a hint that summer may finally be on its way, it’s time to start looking ahead. This year’s New Forest Family Cycling Week will run from Friday 24th July to Saturday 1st August 2026. It may feel a long way off, but now is the perfect moment to get it in the diary and start looking forward to another memorable summer.
For those who have been before, you’ll know exactly what makes the week so special. For anyone new, it’s a relaxed, welcoming gathering where people of all ages and abilities come together to enjoy cycling, fresh air, and good company. Whether you’re a keen rider, a casual cyclist, or simply prefer a gentle walk and a picnic, there is always something to enjoy.
Days tend to take on a rhythm of their own. There are scenic rides through the forest, longer outings for those who want to stretch their legs, and plenty of opportunities for beach trips, paddling and crabbing. Along the way there are picnics, wildlife spotting, and the all-important ice cream stops. Back at camp, games, quizzes and children’s races bring everyone together, while the evenings offer a chance to relax, laugh and enjoy everything from informal gatherings to the ever-popular barn dance.
What really makes the week work, though, is the people. The rally is entirely volunteer-led, and its character comes from those who take part. Rides are led by whoever is keen to share a route, activities happen because someone has an idea and runs with it, and everyone contributes in their own way. It’s not about perfection, but about creating something inclusive, flexible and friendly that everyone can be part of.
We will once again be based in the rally field at Hurst View Leisure Campsite in Pennington, which has become a much-loved home for the week. You can book your stay direct with them in advance if you prefer to plan ahead, or simply arrive and join us. Either way, you’ll find a warm welcome. Please mention the cycling rally when booking.
If you enjoy the week, the best way to help it grow is simply to spread the word. Invite friends, bring family members, and encourage anyone who might be curious about cycling or camping to come along. Many people join for the first time not knowing quite what to expect, and quickly become part of the group.
New Forest Family Cycling Week has always been about keeping things simple, open and enjoyable. It may not be polished, but that is very much part of its charm. It is a chance to switch off, spend time outdoors, and share a week of small adventures and good company.
We hope to see many familiar faces again this summer, and plenty of new ones too. For now, save the date and start the countdown.
Announcements will also be made via the Announcements on the WhatsApp Community which you can request to join.
Information about the group rides
All rides are volunteer led so the nature of the rides will vary according to what you and your fellow campers want to offer. There's no pressure to lead if you're not comfortable to do so, but the more variety the better.
Rides during the week are as relaxed and varied as the people who come along, making the most of the New Forest’s quiet lanes, gravel tracks and open spaces. Many are gentle, sociable outings with plenty of pauses for picnics, wildlife spotting or an essential ice cream stop. Others go a bit further or pick up the pace for those who want a longer day out. There’s no set programme - just a shared understanding that the riding should be enjoyable, not a test.
To keep that variety, we do rely on people stepping up to lead rides. It doesn’t need to be anything formal or complicated -just a route you’re happy to share and a willingness to guide a small group. Even one or two extra ride leaders over the week makes a real difference, helping ensure there’s something for everyone each day. If you’ve enjoyed a particular ride in the past or know the area even a little, it’s well worth considering.
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