When you think of London, hiking isn’t one of the things that’ll pop into your head. You might think of art museums, historical buildings, art galleries, and maybe places where you can party. But it isn’t very famous for having great hiking and trekking spots. But if you want to take an off the beaten adventure in London, there are actually several hiking spots that you and your nature-loving friends can challenge here and near the city! If you’re curious about these outdoor adventure attractions, then that’s definitely enough reason for you to read on! So, without much ado, get your mouse wheel scrolling and let’s check out the best hiking and trekking spots in London, UK.
1. The London Wall Walk
Have you heard of the London Walk? While it may not be the hiking trail that you have in mind (you’re thinking of a mountain or a forest, don’t you?). we’ve included this on our list because walking along the walls of London Wall can be as tiring and as rewarding as walking a hiking trail in the woods. The London Wall is fascinating because it has been standing tall for roughly 1700 years, with minimal changes. If you decide to take on the wall, your starting point will be at Tower Hill Postern Gate and ends at Noble Street Wall, and you’ll walk around 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles).
The London Wall Walk
Address: St Alphage Garden, Barbican, London EC2Y 5HH, United Kingdom
Website: The London Wall Walk
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Horniman Nature Trail
The Horniman Nature Trail is a relaxing trail to take. If you want to bathe in nature’s calm while seeing beautiful butterflies that flutter out and about, then this is the place for you. The trail is ideal for people who want an early morning jog while enjoying the sight of the wide array of flora and fauna in the area. Dogs aren’t allowed on the trail, with the exception of guide dogs, and, while they are open every day, they may close early when the weather isn’t that friendly, and depending on the season.
Horniman Nature Trail
Address: Horniman Museum and Gardens, London Rd, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ, United Kingdom
Website: Horniman Nature Trail
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
3. Parkland Walk
Walking in Parkland Walk is literally a walk in the park! It’s not going to consume much of your energy unless you decide to jog here instead of slowly walking its trail. It was once a railway linking Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace, and it is as historic as it can be because it dates back to the late 1800s. After being abandoned as a railway, it was repurposed to be a recreational site and is presently considered as the longest linear natural reserve in all of London. It stretches 4 kilometers long (2.5 miles). It is a great place to go cycling or dog walking.
Parkland Walk
Address: Florence Road, London N4 3EY, United Kingdom
Website: Parkland Walk
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
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London Tour Guide
Robert Woolf
I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Guide, and a Westminster Guide. The reviews I receive from clients speak of their enjoyment from the local knowledge and the humour I bring to my tours. Born within sight of Hampton Court Palace, I am a Londoner and apart from 2 years in the Middle East, I have worked in this capital city all my business and tour guiding careers. I have travelled widely and I appreciate what appeals to visitors coming to London. I can tailor my tours to interest children. I guide couples, families and larger tour groups. I particularly enjoy visits to Westminster Abbey, where I also volunteer guiding students and children through its wonderful interior – on my tours you will hear about monarchs, why scientists and poets are remembered, the architecture and religious history. The Abbey is the story of England. Come on an engaging and fun tour with me. There is so much to show you !
Tours by Robert
4. Mole Gap Trail
By the River Mole is a trail that you should visit if you’re in London: the Mole Gap Trail. It’s a 10-kilometer (6-mile) relaxing path to take, great if you just want to chill and leave the city life temporarily. Walking the trail takes about 3 hours to finish, depending on how fast a walker you are, but taking your trekking slowly is recommended as there are many sights that your eyes and soul will appreciate along the way. You can either take a bus or hail a cab to get to Mole Gap Trail. There’s also a beautifully landscaped winery nearby which makes the brief travel from London worth your time.
Mole Gap Trail
Address: Leatherhead, Surrey, England
5. Box Hill Circular
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, then you’re likely up to take the Box Hill Circular trail! The path has several steep parts, and it is roughly 13 kilometers long (about 8 miles), and takes 3 to 4 hours to complete. The stunning surrounding of the trail makes up for its toughness. You might want to bring your trusty camera with you so that you can take pictures every now and then, at the same time you feel like taking a quick rest. You can replenish all your lost energy during the trek by going to the on-site cafe in the National Trust Visitor Centre, where you can get a refreshment.
Box Hill Circular
Address: Surrey, England, UK
6. The Seven Sisters
If you love being stunned by places of beauty, then expect to be stunned by The Seven Sisters cliff! This cliff is set beneath the sea, so you will not only be able to enjoy trekking the gorgeous cliffside, but you’ll also be able to appreciate the friendly sea breeze that will caress you whilst trodding the trail. It is best that you prepare your leg muscles, as the hike can be challenging because of the steep parts. You’ll start your hike from Seaford and finish it in Eastbourne. The well-trodden path features grasslands, rivers, hills, and sands, experiences that make the tiring trek worthwhile.
The Seven Sisters
Address: Exceat, Seaford BN25 4AD, England
7. Stonor Circular
Stonor Circular is a site that has witnessed more than mankind’s history; the stone circle is made from boulders that date back to the Ice Age. Now, the circular is a popular walking place where you can relax while appreciating the beautiful landscape. The surrounding is covered in green grass, verdant trees, and are inhabited by rabbits, deer, and other small animals. The trail is meant to be experienced and enjoyed and not to be challenged.
Stonor Circular
Address: Stonor, Henley on Thames
Website: Stonor Circular
8. Richmond Park Circular
If you need to stimulate your creativity, or if you just want to relax, and even if you’re hoping for a good brisk walking trail, Richmond Park is the perfect place to be! With the beautiful landscape and the shades of the tall trees, plus the wildlife such as deer and rabbits roaming out and about the area, you’ll feel as close to nature in London as you can be! The loop is 7.6 kilometers long (about 4.7 miles), and you will likely share the trail with other walkers and joggers, which is a good way to meet new friends.
Richmond Park Circular
Address: Richmond upon Thames, London, England
9. Epping Forest Oak Trail
The Epping Forest Oak Trail is another place near London where you can enjoy nature in the form of trees covered with moss, and grasslands. It is also home to the Deer Sanctuary where you can watch deers as they graze for food. The trail is moderately tough, especially in winter when it becomes muddy. This trail stretches 24 kilometers (about 15 miles), and as soon as you reach the halfway point, there are several establishments where walkers can get a refreshment. Bringing a compass and a map is recommended as the trail isn’t waymarked.
Epping Forest Oak Trail
Address: Essex, England
Website: Epping Forest Oak Trail
10. Chess Valley Walk
The Chess Valley Walking trail starts at Chesham Station and ends at Rickmansworth Train Station or vice versa, depending on which starting point you will choose. The trail is about 16 kilometers long (10 miles), and the path is pretty straightforward and easy to take. The trail will give you varied surprises, such as the wild animals, grassy lands, and woods, and gardens. Dogs are allowed to accompany the hikers, however, they need to be well-behaved!
Chess Valley Walk
Address: Chesham, Bucks - Rickmansworth, Herts, England
Enjoy walking these trails
These are some of the trails that you should try whenever you feel like relaxing or when you need a bit of a challenge. Don’t forget to visit one of the best hiking and trekking spots in London, UK when you visit the city and enjoy a memorable experience.
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