FAMILIES can enjoy a new bike ride thanks to a 10-year deal between the New Forest National Park Authority and the Beaulieu Estate.

Cyclists can now ride a two-mile track along the Beaulieu River from Beaulieu village towards Buckler’s Hard.

The scenic off-road track was recently opened by John Lynn, cycling projects manager at the New Forest National Park Authority.

The route has been repaired and resurfaced by the Beaulieu Estate as part of the £3.8 million Local Sustainable Transport Fund from the Department for Transport.

The fund is shared between the New Forest and South Downs National Parks with the aim of encouraging 370,000 visitors to switch to car-free travel by March 2015.

New Forest National Park Authority chairman Julian Johnson said: "The route is ideal for families looking for a gentle bike ride away from traffic. We’re grateful to the Beaulieu Estate for this 10-year agreement which makes it even easier for families to explore the natural beauty of the national park without a car."