The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Winnersh

Rolling through Dinton Pastures in the evening is fast, quiet, and just eerie enough to keep you sharp. The gravel trails run smooth, looping through open glades and shadowy patches where the bats skim low and the bugs feel unusually organised. Signs still warn: “No faster than a jogger.” If we’re still honoring old world metrics, that’s Daniel Komen’s 2 mile world record from 1997—about 24 km/h (15 mph). Back when things were still… consistent. Whether the rule’s enforced is unclear, but if the rangers are still around and still armed like they were during the “wildlife management years,” best keep it respectful. You don’t want to find out what counts as a pest now. Bring good lights, stay smooth on the corners, and be aware: things move in the treeline. Usually ducks. Occasionally something else. Either way-yield with confidence. Ride safe. Keep your exits in mind. And remember: dusk is when the place starts to remember

The lake at Dinton Pastures is visitable on a circuit if you’re scavenging for evening peace and quiet. It’s a decent spot: open water views, good sightlines, and the option to commandeer a plastic boat or pedalo if you need to make a quick exit across the lake. Locals say the islands are off-limits. Makes you wonder what’s really out there. The pontoon looks inviting, but stepping on it feels… wrong. Like there might be a claymore wired just past the “no entry” sign. Still, the view over the lake as the sun drops is solid. Serene, even. Main hazard here isn’t infected—it’s wildfowl. Geese, ducks, maybe mutant swans. Droppings everywhere. Biohazard levels questionable. Footwear strongly advised. Some paths could do with a daily pressure wash—or a visit from a hazmat team. Still, if you’re passing through and need a place to breathe, this spot does the job. Just keep your back to the water. And don’t feed the birds.

Walk across the car park

Two egrets and a heron on this occasion but you’ll often see cormorants fishing or perched on the adjacent tree.

Old Forest Meadows, locally referred to as 'the worm,' is a hidden treasure nestled along Old Forest Road in Wokingham (nearest postcode RG41 1HL). This SANG (suitable alternative natural greenspace) was once farmland but now serves as an enchanting retreat, inviting you to embrace the local natural beauty. As you meander through this verdant sanctuary, you'll encounter the serene Emm Brook, gracefully crossed by winding paths. Stay attuned to the sights and sounds of wildlife; watch the elusive kingfisher darting along the brook and listen to the harmonious melodies of blackcaps, chiffchaffs, and whitethroats in the woodlands. Occasionally, a solitary kestrel graces the meadow skies, adding to the allure of this natural haven. During mid-summer, the meadows burst into life with vibrant ox-eye daisies, while yellow flag iris thrives along the brook and ponds. Innovative three-stage fencing ensures the safety of the resident wildlife, keeping them separated from the nearby road. Old Forest Meadows is also home to a thriving deer population, often seen passing through the area, adding an enchanting touch to the landscape. As twilight descends, a captivating spectacle unfolds—the emergence of bats. Old Forest Meadows becomes a realm of fluttering wings and echolocation as these nocturnal creatures take flight. Keep your gaze fixed on the evening sky for a glimpse of these fascinating mammals. Dragonflies frequently visit the 'wormponds' scattered around the reserve, their agile movements resembling advanced drones. Beyond its natural allure, Old Forest Meadows offers an excellent recreational haven for locals. The winding paths create an ideal setting for walking, jogging, and cycling. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, an invigorating jog, or a gentle bike ride, this greenspace accommodates all preferences. Its gravel footpaths ensure accessibility for everyone, including wheelchair users, thanks to gentle inclines. While a dedicated car park is absent, you can conveniently find parking on nearby residential streets. Old Forest Meadows beckons not only wildlife enthusiasts but also those seeking an accessible outdoor experience. It's a place where nature, exercise, and tranquility seamlessly coexist, making it a cherished destination for the local community. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, savor the joy of walking, jogging, or cycling, and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Old Forest Meadows.

In this beautiful area located between Winnersh and Emmbrook, you can enjoy wildflower meadows and walks along the various paths around the Emm Brook and the different ponds in the area.

These meadows around Emm Brook offer a pleasant circular walk for running, where you can also observe many bird species and several ponds. Perfect for enjoying nature without straying far from the city.

Dinton Pastures Country Park is the largest in the area. Its numerous lakes, rivers, and meadows offer an ideal setting for running or training. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, it's also a perfect spot; within the park, you can find strategic areas to enjoy watching waterfowl.