The best hikes from bus stations around the Thames

There are over 1,600 hiking trails around the Thames that are easily accessible by bus. This includes a wide variety of routes, from short urban strolls to longer riverside paths, ensuring there's something for every preference.

Yes, many routes are designed for easy walking. For instance, the Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament loop from Charing Cross is an easy urban walk, and the Coley Water Meadows & Fobney Island Nature Reserve loop from Coley Park offers a gentle nature experience. Over 1,100 of the available routes are rated as easy.

Absolutely. Many trails are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without needing additional transport. The Bushy Park circular from Hampton Court Palace is a great example, offering a scenic loop through historic parkland. Another option is the Coley Water Meadows & Fobney Island Nature Reserve loop.

The trails often lead through beautiful natural spaces. You can explore areas like Wittenham Clumps, enjoy the serene Long Water and Fountains in Hampton Court Park, or visit Ham Common Pond. Many routes also feature views of the Thames itself and its surrounding green spaces.

Yes, the Thames region is rich in history. You can walk past iconic sites like Parliament Square Garden, visit the Magna Carta Memorial, or enjoy the View from King Henry's Mound. Routes like the Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament loop offer a direct connection to central London's heritage.

Many of the easy and moderate routes are family-friendly, offering relatively flat terrain and interesting sights. Parks and nature reserves often have well-maintained paths suitable for all ages. Consider routes that pass through open green spaces or offer points of interest like historical landmarks to keep children engaged.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of trails via public transport, the diverse scenery ranging from urban landmarks to peaceful riverside paths, and the well-maintained routes that make for enjoyable walks.

Absolutely. Many routes provide excellent viewpoints. For example, the View from King Henry's Mound is a popular spot. You can also find scenic vistas from places like One Tree Hill or the View of the Valley from Winter Hill, which are often part of longer routes accessible by bus.

While many routes are easy, there are also moderate options for those seeking a longer walk. The Woolwich Arsenal to Bleak Hill loop is a moderate trail covering over 15 km, offering a more extended experience with some elevation changes. There are 517 moderate routes in total.

Yes, you can explore sections of the Kennet & Avon Canal. The Burghfield & Linear Park loops from Southcote along the Kennet & Avon Canal is an easy route that allows you to walk alongside this historic waterway, enjoying its tranquil atmosphere and canal-side scenery.