The best family-friendly hikes and walks around London

London offers a vast network of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 2,300 easy routes and more than 1,300 moderate options, providing plenty of choices for families of all experience levels.

Absolutely! Many trails around London are perfect for families with young children. For example, the Jubilee Walkway offers an easy urban stroll through iconic London sights. Areas like Epping Forest also feature shorter, well-surfaced trails ideal for little legs, such as the popular Oak Trail.

Yes, many of London's best family-friendly hiking spots are remarkably accessible by public transport. Epping Forest is easily reached via the Central Line, and Hampstead Heath is well-served by tube and bus. Even destinations slightly further afield, like sections of the Thames Path or the Chiltern Hills, can often be accessed by train, making day trips feasible without a car.

London and its surrounding areas boast a surprising variety of natural landscapes. You can explore ancient woodlands in Epping Forest, rolling chalk hills and charming villages in the Chilterns, vast green spaces with roaming deer in Richmond Park, or the wild, heathland beauty of Hampstead Heath. The Thames Path offers gentle riverside walks, while Box Hill provides stunning views over the Surrey Hills.

Yes, circular routes are a great way to explore without retracing your steps, and many family-friendly options exist. The Hampstead Heath Circular is a popular choice, offering diverse scenery and panoramic views. Another excellent option is the Farthing Downs & Happy Valley loop from Coulsdon, which provides a lovely countryside experience.

While not all trails are pushchair-friendly, many parks and designated paths offer smooth, accessible surfaces. Large Royal Parks like Richmond Park and sections of the Thames Path are generally suitable. When planning, look for routes described as 'easy' or 'accessible' as these often indicate flatter, well-maintained paths.

Many of London's green spaces and trails are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. Places like Hampstead Heath, Richmond Park, and Epping Forest are popular choices for dog walkers. Always remember to keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife, and check local signage for any specific restrictions or lead requirements.

Many routes offer fascinating points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Kensington Palace and Gardens, or the impressive Windsor Castle. Natural highlights include the serene St. James's Park Lake or the unique Walthamstow Wetlands Canal and Lock. Exploring these routes can lead to discovering both natural beauty and rich history.

The komoot community highly rates hiking around London, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the surprising amount of green space within and just outside the city, the excellent public transport links to trailheads, and the variety of landscapes that make it easy to escape the urban bustle and enjoy nature with family.

Yes, London offers unique routes that blend natural beauty with urban landmarks. The Thames Path: The Championship Course is a great example, following the river through various districts. Another option is the Alexandra Palace & Highgate Wood loop from Finsbury Park, which offers a mix of parkland, woodland, and city views.

Spring and autumn are particularly lovely for family hikes around London. In spring, woodlands burst with wildflowers, and in autumn, the changing leaves create stunning scenery, especially in places like Epping Forest or the Chiltern Hills. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy.