Easy hikes and walks around the Thames
4.5
(5350)
69,044
hikers
3,240
hikes
Easy hiking trails around the Thames offer diverse landscapes, from historic cityscapes to tranquil riverside paths and rolling countryside. The region is characterized by its iconic river, which provides flat, accessible routes, alongside gentle hills and woodlands further from the immediate banks. These trails often feature a mix of urban and natural environments, providing varied scenery for hikers.
Best easy hiking trails around the Thames
- The most popular easy hiking route is Goring-on-Thames to Hartsford loop, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 32 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views along the river and through the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Jubilee Walkway, an easy 4.3 miles (6.9 km) path. This trail navigates through central London, passing many notable landmarks.
- Local hikers also love the Marlow & Thames Path loop, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail leading through riverside scenery and the town of Marlow, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around the Thames is defined by riverside paths, historic towns, and gentle hills, with options for different ability levels. The network includes many easy loop trails along the Thames, suitable for short walks.
- The routes in Thames are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 4,900 reviews. More than 68,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Thames's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.7
(42)
159
hikers
5.93km
01:32
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(25)
216
hikers
5.98km
01:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(15)
86
hikers
6.87km
01:48
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(16)
80
hikers
7.14km
01:49
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
44
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(26)
131
hikers
6.06km
01:33
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(14)
68
hikers
6.54km
01:40
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(22)
66
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
100
hikers
4.97km
01:20
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(14)
54
hikers
6.03km
01:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Thames
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Chiltern Way — Hike some of the prettiest scenery in England
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Other adventures around the Thames
Tips from the Community
Rivers and canals crisscross the country, as they were – especially in the early days of industrialisation – a very essential part of the transport infrastructure. After all, the factories needed the delivery of raw materials in previously unknown quantities, and the finished goods then had to find their way to the traders. Many of the canals originate from this era. Later, the railways and, later still, trucks took over the task of transporting goods. However, when building the artificial waterways and making the rivers navigable, it had to be taken into account that differences in altitude always had to be overcome, and so locks are often lined up along the canals and rivers – at more or less large intervals, depending on the local situation. Shipping could only be made possible with their help.
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To be honest, I found it most interesting from the outside. We were through the inside quickly, and for that price, I thought it was too expensive... It's a matter of opinion.
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Located between the Millennium Bridge to the west and London Bridge to the east, Southwark Bridge is a great starting point for exploring London on foot. During our stay in London, we stayed in a hotel on the south side of the bridge. It was ideal for us.
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Simply a beautiful bridge with ingenious technology and a glass floor on the upper level.
1
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view of tower bridge
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On a river as broad as the Thames, even the formidable HMS Belfast seems almost modest. She became a branch of the Imperial War Museum in 1978.
3
0
fantastic view of london skyscrapers
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0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there around the Thames?
The Thames region offers a wide variety of easy hiking trails, with over 2,000 routes available. These paths cater to different preferences, from urban strolls to tranquil riverside walks and countryside explorations.
Are there any easy circular walks along the Thames?
Yes, the Thames region is well-suited for easy circular walks. For example, the Goring-on-Thames to Hartsford loop offers scenic views along the river and through the countryside. Another popular option is the Marlow & Thames Path loop, which combines riverside scenery with the charm of Marlow town.
What kind of landmarks can I see on easy hikes around the Thames?
Easy hikes around the Thames offer a mix of historical and natural landmarks. In central London, the Jubilee Walkway passes iconic sites like the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Tower Bridge. Further afield, you might encounter natural features like Wittenham Clumps or the Magna Carta Memorial.
Are there family-friendly easy walks along the Thames?
Many easy trails along the Thames are suitable for families, offering gentle terrain and interesting sights. The Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament loop is a great option for families wanting to explore central London's famous landmarks on an easy path.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hiking in the Thames region?
The Thames region's easy hiking trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 5,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from historic cityscapes to tranquil riverside paths, and the accessibility of these routes for various ability levels.
Can I find easy walks with historical significance around the Thames?
Absolutely. The Thames region is rich in history. For instance, the Oxford Historic loop via The Thames Path allows you to explore the historic city of Oxford. Many trails also follow ancient routes or pass by historical towns and villages, offering glimpses into the past.
Are there any easy walks that include woodlands or natural areas?
Yes, beyond the urban and riverside paths, you can find easy walks that venture into woodlands. The Henley Park and Lambridge Wood loop, for example, takes you through the Chiltern Hills, offering a more natural setting with gentle hills and wooded areas.
What is the best time of year for easy Thames walks?
The Thames region offers diverse hiking conditions throughout the year. Spring and autumn generally provide milder weather and beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers or vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular for riverside walks, though it can be busier. Many easy trails are accessible year-round.
Are there easy walks that offer views of the wider countryside?
Yes, some easy trails extend beyond the immediate riverbanks to offer views of the surrounding countryside. The Basildon Park Blue Walk loop in the North Wessex Downs provides an easy route through parkland with broader landscape vistas.
Are there easy walks near charming towns along the Thames?
Many easy walks are located near or pass through charming towns. The Marlow & Thames Path loop is a prime example, allowing you to explore the picturesque town of Marlow alongside your riverside stroll. Similarly, the Thames Path and Eton Circular offers views of Eton and its historic college.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around the Thames?
Easy hikes around the Thames typically feature flat, accessible paths, especially along the riverbanks. You can expect a mix of paved sections, well-maintained gravel paths, and some grassy tracks. Routes further from the immediate river may include gentle hills and woodlands, but generally remain easy to navigate.
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