The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bilsthorpe
4.5
(913)
7,675
hikers
7
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Bilsthorpe offer a blend of natural woodlands, open fields, and repurposed former industrial sites. The landscape features varying elevations, with a high point of 312 feet (95 meters) to the southwest, providing diverse terrain for exploration. The area is characterized by firm tracks suitable for walking in all seasons, with many routes leading into or connecting to larger natural areas like Sherwood Forest.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Bilsthorpe
- The most popular family friendly…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.6
(7)
16
hikers
8.26km
02:12
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
36
hikers
19.0km
04:55
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
10.1km
02:36
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
22.2km
05:50
180m
180m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The first mention of Farnsfield emerges in 956AD in a document in which King Edwy of Northumbria gave the Danish Archbishop of York, Oscytel, the manor of Southwell, which included the farmstead of Farnsfield. Farnsfield was a small community of farmsteads scraping a living from agriculture in a clearing at the edge of Sherwood Forest. By 1520 Farnsfield was the responsibility of Southwell Minster under the Archbishop of York, Cardinal Wolsey. Most people were farmers and poor land, bad weather, disease and starvation were constant hazards. By the 1600s more specialised trades were developing in Farnsfield including bakers, tailors and shoemakers. By the late 1700s sheep rearing was the main source of income from outside.
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The church dates from the 15th century but was rebuilt between 1859 and 1860 by Thomas Chambers Hine and Robert Evans following a fire. Only a fragment of the tower from the 15th-century building survives.
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The trail is 7.5 miles and built on the former railway line of the Midland Railway. It stretches from Southwell to Bilsthorpe and passes the villages of Farnsfield, Kirklington and Maythorne.
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The church, dedicated to St Margaret of Antioch stands on a rise above the village, with recorded evidence of a moat and with the former large parsonage house and manor house in close proximity. In the early years of the 13th century the presence of a priest is recorded and the earliest extant fabric of the body of the church has been dated to the 14th century.
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Great, easy going trail for all abilities. Well maintained.
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The trail is 7.5 miles and built on the former railway line of the Midland Railway. It stretches from Southwell to Bilsthorpe and passes the villages of Farnsfield, Kirklington and Maythorne. You can walk, cycle or horse ride along the trail and there are a number of free car parks to allow access.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Bilsthorpe?
There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Bilsthorpe featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences suitable for different ages and fitness levels, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
Are there any easy walks suitable for families with young children or pushchairs?
Yes, Bilsthorpe offers accessible paths that are great for families with young children or pushchairs. The Southwell Trail loop from Kirklington Road, for example, utilizes a former railway line, providing a relatively flat and well-maintained surface. Additionally, the Bilsthorpe Leisure Trail, which connects to Sherwood Pines, is designed for easy access and integrates into the wider county leisure network.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Bilsthorpe?
The terrain around Bilsthorpe is quite varied, offering a mix of former industrial sites repurposed for recreation, natural woodlands, and open fields. You'll find well-maintained paths, firm tracks, and some areas with gentle elevations. Trails like the Cockett Plantation loop often feature woodland paths, while others might traverse open farmland.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Many of the family-friendly routes around Bilsthorpe are circular, making them convenient for day trips. Examples include the Eakring Windmill – Daffodil Tearoom loop and the Cockett Plantation loop, both designed to bring you back to your starting point.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to look out for on these trails?
Bilsthorpe's trails often lead to or pass by interesting features. You can explore areas near the iconic The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, or discover the atmospheric Thieves Wood, known for its folklore. The area also features Bilsthorpe Moor with its open fields, and the diverse landscapes of Cockett Plantation.
Are there places to eat or drink near the family-friendly trails?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Eakring Windmill – Daffodil Tearoom loop specifically mentions a tearoom, providing a pleasant stop. Additionally, areas like Sherwood Pines Trail Centre, which is accessible via the Bilsthorpe Leisure Trail, has a cafe and visitor center.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Bilsthorpe?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Bilsthorpe, with an average score of 4.54 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the variety of landscapes that make these routes enjoyable for families.
Is there parking available for family hikes in Bilsthorpe?
Yes, parking is generally available. For example, a portion of the Southwell Trail can be accessed from Forest Link Car Park in Bilsthorpe. Many trailheads or nearby attractions like Sherwood Pines Trail Centre also offer dedicated parking facilities.
What is the typical length and duration of family-friendly hikes in this area?
The family-friendly hikes in Bilsthorpe vary in length and duration. You can find shorter loops like the Eakring Windmill – Daffodil Tearoom loop at around 8.26 km, which takes a few hours. Longer routes, such as the Southwell Trail loop, can extend to about 19 km, offering a full day's adventure for more active families.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails around Bilsthorpe?
While specific regulations can vary by trail section or nature reserve, many public footpaths and trails in the Bilsthorpe area, including parts of the Southwell Trail and woodland walks, are dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Bilsthorpe?
Bilsthorpe offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming daffodils and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days out, and even winter walks can be charming, especially on the firm tracks through woodlands. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
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