New Forest tops UK solo travel rankings for safe, scenic walks
The New Forest has been named the best national park in the UK for solo travellers, praised for short, well-marked routes and strong transport links. It follows a new index that scores parks on safety, accessibility, and infrastructure for lone explorers.
The New Forest has been crowned the UK’s top destination for solo travellers, according to a new study that ranks national parks on accessibility, safety, and infrastructure for lone explorers. The analysis, conducted by outdoor clothing brand TOG24, placed the Hampshire park at the top of its Solo-Friendly Travel Index, ahead of the South Downs in second place.
The index evaluated factors including route accessibility, terrain difficulty, visitor infrastructure, and ease of navigation, with a focus on how comfortably people could explore alone. TOG24 cross-referenced AllTrails route data with on-the-ground checks to assess real-world conditions for solo hikers.
Key Points
- ✅ The New Forest ranked first for solo travel suitability
- ⚡ Short, well-marked woodland walks were a standout feature
- 💡 Strong transport links and village-connected routes boosted its score
The New Forest’s dominance came from its high concentration of easy circular routes, reliable public transport links, and well-maintained visitor facilities. Its short waymarked woodland walks, heathland trails, and village-linked paths were particularly praised for offering safe, manageable options for lone walkers.
The South Downs, Hampshire’s second national park, followed closely behind, recognised for its network of accessible walking routes and rail-linked trailheads. The South Downs Way and village-to-village paths were highlighted as ideal for solo hikers, with many routes starting near train stations.
| National Park | Solo Travel Score | Top Feature |
|---|---|---|
| New Forest | 94/100 | Short, waymarked woodland walks |
| South Downs | 89/100 | Rail-linked circular routes |
In a separate study last April, the New Forest was also named the UK’s best road trip destination, scoring 60.7 out of 100 in Autotrader’s ‘Perfect Driving Weather’ index. The ranking considered factors like low rainfall, clear skies, scenic routes, and minimal traffic congestion, making it a standout for both drivers and solo walkers.
📋 By The Numbers
- 94/100 — New Forest’s solo travel score
- 60.7/100 — New Forest’s perfect driving weather score
- 89/100 — South Downs’ solo travel score
Erin Baker, a car leasing expert at Autotrader, said: “Every driver knows the feeling—windows down, the road stretching ahead under clear skies. We wanted to see which UK roads deliver that experience most often, and the New Forest topped the list.” The park’s ancient woodlands, free-roaming ponies, and well-kept paths make it a rare destination where both drivers and walkers find ideal conditions.
💡 Pro Tip
Start your solo walk at Brockenhurst station—its central location offers direct train links and easy access to the New Forest’s most popular trails, including the 2.5-mile Blackwater Trail.
The TOG24 index comes as Hampshire’s national parks see a surge in solo visitors, with many seeking safe, accessible outdoor spaces post-pandemic. The New Forest’s mix of gentle terrain, clear signage, and frequent ranger patrols makes it a top choice for those exploring alone.
- 📊 The New Forest has 140 miles of well-marked walking routes, including 60 miles of easy terrain
- 🔍 South Downs’ rail-linked trails allow hikers to start walks without a car
- ⚠️ Solo travellers are advised to carry a fully charged phone and check weather updates before heading out
The rankings underscore Hampshire’s reputation as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, whether driving or walking solo. With its blend of natural beauty, infrastructure, and safety, the New Forest stands out as the premier destination for lone explorers in the UK.