Hythe Ferry to Calshot

Starting from Southampton Town Quay you'll take the ferry to Hythe and explore the quiet lanes and cycle paths of the New Forest.  Enjoy the short crossing over Southampton Water and take in the great sea views of passing ferries and cruise ships.  Arriving in Hythe take a short walk along the Pier which sits next to the oldest continuously operating public pier train in the world. Cycle along quiet lanes and cycle paths onto the New Forest and Beaulieu, famous for its National Motor Museum and Abbey.  Sample the divine cakes in the many tea shops before working it off on the one mile climb to Hill Top. Rest your legs on the downhill to the coast,  reaching the world famous Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway. There's a great cafe here and comfort stop. The route continues to the coast road and up to Lepe which has great views of the Isle of Wight before heading inland. Did you know Lepe is famous for the building of The Mulberry Harbours used in the D Day landing of France. Stop at the Calshot Activity Centre, take a look at the Velodrome or Ski Slope and watch some serious climbers. The old aircraft hangars were once the home of the Flying boats that took off from Southampton Water, and Lawrence of Arabia was once stationed here. The route then takes you onto Hythe for the return ferry trip to Southampton.