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The 11 Best Hikes Around London

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day? Explore the scenic beauty and tranquil nature just a stone's throw away from London. From rolling hills to picturesque trails, there are countless hiking options for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll or an experienced hiker seeking a challenging trek, there is a perfect trail awaiting you. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which hike to embark on. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:

So lace up your hiking boots, pack a snack, and get ready to discover the natural beauty surrounding London. Here are the best hikes around London to add to your outdoor adventure bucket list.

Our method for this guide

We chose these places in London based on what visitors say about them, the information available on each and how easy they are to reach.

Featured positions are clearly marked and only offered to businesses that already earned their place in the guide.

Top 3Complete listMapHow to pick one

Standout options

Each option links to its full entry below.

#1
Hiking In London
4.8137 reviews
#2
Regent’s Canal Walk
4.8132 reviews
#3
Parkland Walk
4.61,816 reviews

Browse 11 local options

Hiking In London#1
Notable strengths

  • Customers appreciate the scenic routes and designated trails along the river.

  • The organizers are praised for their welcoming and accommodating attitude towards hikers of all fitness levels.

  • The logistics of the trips are well taken care of, allowing hikers to simply show up and enjoy the experience.

Hiking In London

4.8137 reviews
15 Dance Sq, London EC1V 3AJ, United Kingdom

Hiking In London is an athletic club that offers memorable hiking experiences through the beautiful landscapes of London. With a rating of 4.8, customers rave about the well-organized trips and friendly hosts. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Hiking In London provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all nature enthusiasts. Join them on your next adventure and explore the stunning sights of London's countryside.

Regent’s Canal Walk, London#2
Notable strengths

  • Nice long walk from Paddington to Camden passing by Little Venice

  • Invitation to slow down, appreciate nature, and savor historical vibes

  • Beautiful canalside walk with lots of green, flowers, and wild birds

  • Peaceful and calming experience with historical character and charm

Regent’s Canal Walk

4.8132 reviews
City Rd, London N1 8AP, United Kingdom

Regent’s Canal Walk offers a picturesque and serene hiking area in London, United Kingdom. With a rating of 4.8, this beautiful trail attracts nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a leisurely stroll. The walk is wheelchair-accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

Explore the lush greenery, colorful boats, and blooming wisteria along the canal. As per the 132 reviews, customers rave about the tranquility and beauty of the walk, recommending starting from Little Venice and heading towards Regent's Park or Camden Town. Don't miss out on this tranquil urban escape!

Parkland Walk, London#3
Notable strengths

  • Flat, disused railway line perfect for running, walking, and dog-walking.

  • Great trail for running, walking, and biking, with wildlife and a small park to explore.

  • Picturesque pathway dotted with interesting discoveries like sculptures, graffiti, and nature preserves.

Parkland Walk

4.61,816 reviews

Open 24 hours

Florence Road, London N4 3EY, United Kingdom

Parkland Walk is a picturesque nature preserve located in London that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking along the disused railway line to exploring with children and pets, this trail is perfect for all nature enthusiasts. With a rating of 4.6 based on 1816 reviews, Parkland Walk has garnered high praise from visitors. Some key points from reviews include:

Visitors have highlighted the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Parkland Walk, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers. Let Parkland Walk be your escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a serene environment to unwind and connect with nature.

Thames Path, London#4
Notable strengths

  • A great way to see London landmarks.

  • Beautiful sightseeing opportunities along the path.

  • Well-maintained, safe, and busy with cyclists and runners.

  • Iconic views on the north bank and beautiful spaces on the south side.

Thames Path

4.7111 reviews

Open 24 hours

London SE28 8PR, United Kingdom

Thames Path offers a stunning hiking area along the Thames River, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore London's landmarks and beautiful scenery. The path is wheelchair-accessible and welcomes dogs to join in on the adventure.

Customers have shared their positive experiences, emphasizing the following key points:

Lea Valley Walking Trail, London#5
Notable strengths

  • We really enjoyed our walk through the Lea Valley walking trail after visiting nearby Springfield Park. Plenty of good views around, and could get a bit windy on windy days but was fine when we went.

  • Only walked the Hackney stretch of this trail. Narrowboats moored along the banks of the river and street art make it very picturesque. Dog-friendliness: not ideal because there are so many cyclists, but we have managed all right.

  • Love to walk here in the evenings! Peaceful and needed for the mind! Nature is our best friend!

  • A bit of a cloudy day when when I went about, if you like boats, you'll see plenty of them moored there, a lot of history about the place. Had a lovely walk.

Lea Valley Walking Trail

4.824 reviews

Open 24 hours

Unnamed Road, London E17, United Kingdom

Lea Valley Walking Trail offers a serene escape in the bustling city of London. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as Birdwatching, Cycling, Hiking, Jogging, and Walking along the trail. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing furry friends to join in on the adventure.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Lea Valley Walking Trail, highlighting the following key points:

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Lea Valley Walking Trail, a hidden gem just a stone's throw away from the city.

The London Wall Walk 13#6
Notable strengths

  • One visitor appreciated the incorporation of ancient history into the local city design and found it a pleasant surprise to stumble upon at night.

  • Another reviewer noted the historical significance of the site but mentioned limited activities beyond the cafe and museum.

  • A different visitor praised the modern Cor-ten steel addition to the Barbican skywalks and recommended a brief visit for historical remnants.

  • Lastly, a reviewer found the site to be interesting and enjoyable for learning about London's history.

The London Wall Walk 13

4.5130 reviews

Open 24 hours

St Alphage Garden, Barbican, London EC2Y 8BD, United Kingdom

The London Wall Walk 13 offers a glimpse into history with its historical landmark status. Visitors can explore the original city wall and boundary, along with a cafe and a moveable museum. The site has received a rating of 4.5 stars based on 130 reviews.

Greenway Walking Trail, London#7
Notable strengths

  • A linear 8-kilometer trail with flat terrain and occasional scenic views. Perfect for urban explorers looking for a peaceful walk.

  • Fantastic nature trail with diverse wildlife, ideal for cycling, scootering, and dog walking.

  • A cool place for walking or cycling, offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle.

  • Great cycle path for commuting, although some mention it can be busy with fast electric scooters and bikes.

Greenway Walking Trail

4.611 reviews
350 Lonsdale Ave, London E6 3PN, United Kingdom

Greenway Walking Trail: Explore the beauty of nature at this stunning hiking area in London. The trail offers a variety of activities including cycling, jogging, and walking, making it a perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. With wheelchair-accessible entrances and being dog-friendly, it ensures everyone can enjoy the serene surroundings.

Customer Reviews:

Jubilee Walkway, London#8
Notable strengths

  • Trully a great walkway for tourist to enjoy St. James's Park.

  • The squirrel look friendly and cute but beware of their sharp teeth.

  • The views are stunning, especially during fall season.

  • Easy trail with beautiful trees and massive park with fountains.

Jubilee Walkway

4.510 reviews
London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom

Jubilee Walkway offers an incredible opportunity for hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore the beauty of London SW1A 2BJ, United Kingdom. This hiking area is not only perfect for adults but also children and pets, as dogs are allowed to join the adventure.

With a remarkable rating of 4.5, based on 10 reviews, it's evident that visitors have had an amazing experience at Jubilee Walkway. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike, Jubilee Walkway provides a memorable experience for all who visit. Don't miss out on this picturesque destination in the heart of London.

New River Walk, London#9
Notable strengths

  • A beautifully maintained linear park following a former water supply canal

  • Gorgeous path by the little river, surrounded by beautiful trees and plants

  • Good for peaceful walks or relaxing book reading on comfortable benches

New River Walk

4.7435 reviews
New Riv Path, London N1 2LD, United Kingdom

New River Walk is a charming Park located in London, UK, that offers a tranquil retreat for visitors. With a rating of 4.7 stars based on 435 reviews, it is evident that customers have had positive experiences at this park.

Customers have praised the park for its beauty, peaceful ambiance, and hidden gem status. Whether you're looking for a quiet stroll, a place to read, or simply admire nature, New River Walk provides the perfect setting for a relaxing outing.

New River Path (South Section), Finsbury Park - Stoke Newington, London#10
Notable strengths

  • Great walk with scenic views

  • Sections have been improved with path upgrades

  • Some areas can get muddy

New River Path (South Section), Finsbury Park - Stoke Newington

3.726 reviews

Open 24 hours

London N4 1QX, United Kingdom

New River Path (South Section) in Finsbury Park - Stoke Newington offers a picturesque hiking area in London that is perfect for both jogging and walking. The trail is accessible with a wheelchair-friendly entrance and is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on and off-leash. Customers have given the path a rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 26 reviews.

These reviews highlight the beauty of the surroundings and the recent improvements made to the trail, while also noting that some parts may be muddy. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more active hike, New River Path's South Section is a great outdoor destination in London.

Horniman Nature Trail, London#11
Notable strengths

  • Great nature trail if you find it. I had a great time disappearing here.

  • The best RER experience.

  • Excellent, had a good day.

Horniman Nature Trail

4.449 reviews
Horniman Museum and Gardens, London Rd, London SE23 3PQ, United Kingdom

Horniman Nature Trail is a hidden gem located within the Horniman Museum and Gardens in London. This lush garden offers various activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking along its trails. The trail is kid-friendly and even allows dogs to join in on the adventure.

Visitors praise the diverse wildlife and serene ambiance of the trail, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of London. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or an educational adventure, Horniman Nature Trail offers something for everyone.

The main points in one table

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Hiking In London 4.8137
#2Regent’s Canal Walk 4.8132
#3Parkland Walk 4.61,816
#4Thames Path 4.7111
#5Lea Valley Walking Trail 4.824
#6The London Wall Walk 13 4.5130
#7Greenway Walking Trail 4.611
#8Jubilee Walkway 4.510
#9New River Walk 4.7435
#10New River Path (South Section), Finsbury Park - Stoke Newington 3.726
#11Horniman Nature Trail 4.449

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Map of Hikes Around London

London offers a variety of beautiful hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll through lush parks or a challenging trek through rolling hills, there is a hike for everyone in and around the city. Check out the map below to discover the best hiking spots in London and start planning your next adventure today. View Ranking

Choosing Hikes in London

  1. Distance and level of difficulty.
  2. Scenic views and points of interest.
  3. Accessibility and transportation options.
  4. Amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.

Frequent questions

Best hiking trails near London

London boasts a variety of scenic trails for all levels of hikers. Some popular options include Epping Forest, the North Downs Way, Surrey Hills, and the South Downs National Park. These trails offer breathtaking views and diverse landscapes for a memorable outdoor experience. If you prefer shorter hikes, destinations such as Richmond Park, Hampstead Heath, and Box Hill are perfect for a quick escape from the city. These trails offer a refreshing getaway without venturing too far from London. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there's a trail near London that's perfect for you. Don't forget to check the current trail conditions, pack plenty of water and snacks, and enjoy the great outdoors!

Wildlife and nature on London hikes

Exploring the hiking trails near London offers a unique opportunity to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. From deer in Richmond Park to birds in Epping Forest, these trails provide an up-close encounter with nature. For nature enthusiasts, the Richmond Park Wildlife Walk and the Raptor Trail in Surrey Hills are popular options. These trails offer a chance to observe wildlife in their natural surroundings and learn more about conservation efforts. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance, avoid feeding animals, and respect their habitat. These hikes provide a glimpse into the rich biodiversity surrounding London, making them a must-do for nature lovers.

Planning a day hike near London

Before embarking on a day hike near London, it's essential to plan your route, check the weather forecast, and pack accordingly. Make sure to bring a map or GPS device, plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit in case of emergencies. Consider the distance and difficulty of the trail, as well as the time of year and trail conditions. Popular day hikes near London include the Ridgeway Walk, Box Hill Circular, and Seven Sisters Cliffs, each offering a unique outdoor experience. Whether you're hiking solo or with a group, always inform someone of your plans and estimated return time. With proper planning and preparation, a day hike near London can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Tips for hiking near London

When hiking near London, consider the following tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure: Following these tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience near London, while also preserving the natural beauty of the trails for future generations. Stay on designated trails to protect the environment. Respect wildlife and their habitats by observing from a distance. Bring a fully charged phone, map, and emergency supplies in case of unexpected situations. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. Travel with a buddy or inform someone of your plans for added safety. Leave no trace by properly disposing of trash and respecting nature.

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