4.5
(658)
5,424
hikers
479
hikes
Hiking around Ruislip Lido offers a blend of lakeside tranquility and extensive woodlands within the London Borough of Hillingdon. The area is centered around a 60-acre reservoir, surrounded by ancient woodlands that form part of the Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve. These woods feature diverse tree species and gentle, accessible paths, making them suitable for easy hiking trails. The terrain is generally flat, with minor elevation changes, providing a pleasant environment for walks.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.9
(8)
160
hikers
2.75km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.88km
01:17
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4
hikers
6.91km
01:50
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.33km
01:25
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The woods are managed by the London Borough of Hillingdon, which inherited them from the former Ruislip-Northwood Urban District. The council maintains the volunteer-run Ruislip Woodlands Centre in the grounds of Ruislip Lido, a reservoir within Park Wood. Ruislip Woods received the Green Flag Award in 2006. Coppicing of the woods continues today, under a 20-year rotation to aid in the natural growth of the woodland
0
0
A lake-side cafe set in an idyllic location surrounded by woodland. The ideal pit stop for home-made food and cakes that's open year round.
0
0
Medieval farm complex including a 13th C. barn and 16th C. manor house, plus the remains of a Norman motte and bailey. Now occupied by community spaces, and host to a regular crafts and food market.
0
0
Useful to have these sets of lights when going between two woodlands
0
0
A sandy beach in London, Ruislip Lido is a popular place for recreation, be that running, swimming or walking. The lido spent nearly 80 years in a state of disrepair but was restored and reopened in 2010. It was originally built as a reservoir for the Grand Union Canal.
1
0
The middle stop on the narrow gauge railway which is popular with families visiting Ruislip Lido. Haste Hill Station is so rarely used it is a request stop only, meaning you have to ask the driver to make a special stop for you. The other stations on Ruislip Lido Railway are Willow Lawn and Woody's Bay and are far more visited being the site of the car park and the beach!
0
0
The ancient woodland here is the largest in Greater London. It feels like a real forest, yet within the city. It is quiet and calm, even when the lido is busy on hot summer days. There is a cafe at the lido for refreshment before, during or after your hike.
0
0
There are over 300 easy hiking trails around Ruislip Lido. These routes primarily feature gentle, accessible paths through ancient woodlands and around the 60-acre reservoir, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
Yes, many of the easy trails are ideal for families. The paths are generally flat and well-maintained, passing through engaging woodlands and alongside the lido. Children can also enjoy attractions like the miniature railway and play areas near the lido.
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Ruislip Lido. However, as the area includes parts of the Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve, it's important to keep dogs under control, preferably on a leash, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The easy hiking trails around Ruislip Lido are characterized by generally flat terrain with minor elevation changes. You'll mostly walk on well-trodden paths through diverse woodlands and along the lakeside, offering a comfortable and accessible walking experience.
Yes, circular walks are very popular around Ruislip Lido. For example, the Ruislip Lido – Ruislip Lido loop from Ruislip offers a pleasant circuit around the reservoir, allowing you to experience both the lakeside and woodland scenery.
The trails showcase the diverse natural beauty of Ruislip Lido. You'll encounter ancient woodlands with various tree species like oak, hornbeam, and beech, as well as the expansive 60-acre reservoir itself. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including butterflies, bats, and various bird species.
The easy trails in Ruislip Lido are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil lakeside atmosphere, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the accessibility of the well-maintained paths, making it a refreshing escape within London.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Ruislip Lido. It's advisable to check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth visit.
Ruislip Lido is accessible by public transport. You can typically reach the area via local bus services from nearby Underground stations, such as Ruislip or Northwood Hills, which are on the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines. Check Transport for London for the most current routes and schedules.
Yes, there are cafes and restaurants available at Ruislip Lido itself, providing options for refreshments before, during, or after your hike. These are conveniently located near the main lido area.
For a pleasant woodland walk, consider the Horse Pond (Ruislip Duck Pond) – Ruislip Running Track loop from Ruislip. This 4.1 km (2.5 miles) trail leads you through charming woodland areas and past the lido, typically taking just over an hour to complete.
The Woodland Pedestrian Crossing – Ruislip Lido loop from Ruislip is an excellent choice. This 6.9 km (4.3 miles) easy path provides scenic views of the reservoir and takes you through significant sections of the ancient woodlands, offering a comprehensive experience of the area's natural beauty.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.