The best family-friendly hikes and walks around the City of London

There are over 70 family-friendly hiking trails around the City of London, ranging from easy urban strolls to more moderate paths. Most of these, around 54, are considered easy, making them suitable for families with children of all ages.

Within the City itself, trails are generally flat and paved, following river paths or urban walkways like the Jubilee Walkway. For more varied terrain, areas like Hampstead Heath offer woodlands and meadows, while Epping Forest provides ancient woodland paths. The wider Greater London area, accessible from the City, includes diverse landscapes from riverbanks to gentle hills.

Yes, many family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An excellent example is the Tower Bridge and London Bridge to the London Eye circular, which offers iconic views and is a manageable distance for families. The Jubilee Walkway — City loop from Royal Exchange to St. Paul's Cathedral is another great option for a shorter, easy circular walk.

Many routes pass by iconic London landmarks. For instance, the View of the Shard – Tower of London loop from London Fenchurch Street takes you past the Tower of London and offers views of The Shard. Other routes might lead you to St Paul's Cathedral, the Millennium Bridge, or the historic Leadenhall Market. You can also find tranquil spots like St Dunstan-in-the-East churchyard within the City.

Absolutely. The City of London is exceptionally well-served by public transport, including Tube, DLR, and bus networks. Many of the urban walks, such as sections of the Jubilee Walkway, are designed to be easily accessible from various stations. For trails further afield in Greater London, routes like the London Loop are specifically planned with public transport access in mind.

Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than summer. However, urban walks are enjoyable year-round. During winter, many parks and trails remain accessible, though some paths might be muddy in more natural areas like Epping Forest. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of the urban paths within the City of London are paved and flat, making them suitable for pushchairs and toddlers. Sections of the Thames Path and the Jubilee Walkway are generally pushchair-friendly. For natural settings, look for designated accessible paths in larger parks like Richmond Park, though some woodland trails might be uneven.

Many parks and open spaces in and around London are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a lead in certain areas or under close control. Always check specific park regulations before you go. Urban walks along the Thames Path or through city parks are generally fine for well-behaved dogs.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of historical landmarks and green spaces, the accessibility of the trails, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems within the bustling city.

The City of London offers countless cafes, restaurants, and pubs, especially along popular walking routes. Many parks also have designated picnic areas or cafes. For example, you might find a spot near Sky Garden, 20 Fenchurch Street for a break, or enjoy a picnic in one of the City's many small gardens like Postman's Park.

Yes, there are several easy and shorter options perfect for families with young children. The Jubilee Walkway — City loop from Royal Exchange to St. Paul's Cathedral is just over 4 km (2.5 miles) and offers a delightful urban exploration. Many of the smaller city parks also provide short, easy loops for a quick family stroll.