The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Tunstall

There are nearly 180 family-friendly hiking trails around Tunstall, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and skill levels. You'll find 79 easy routes perfect for a relaxed outing and 86 moderate trails for those looking for a bit more adventure.

The terrain around Tunstall varies, offering a mix of landscapes. You can expect gentle paths through woodlands, such as those found near Cromers Wood Picnic Area, and open countryside. Some routes might feature slight inclines, but most family-friendly options are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Tunstall are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Will You Marry Me Tree – Cromers Wood Picnic Area loop from Sittingbourne is an easy circular hike that families often enjoy.

The area around Tunstall is rich in history and natural beauty. You might encounter historical sites like Thurnham Castle Ruins or enjoy views of the impressive Leeds Castle. Other notable points include the Lenham Cross and the historic All Saints Church, Hollingbourne. These highlights add an extra layer of discovery to your family hike.

For toddlers and very young children, look for the 'easy' graded routes with shorter distances and minimal elevation gain. The Pedestrian Tunnel Under the M2 loop from Sittingbourne is an easy option, offering a relatively flat and manageable distance for little legs. Tunstall Park in Stoke-on-Trent, while not directly covered by these specific routes, is known for its wheelchair-friendly paths and leisure playground, which can be ideal for families with strollers or very young children.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Tunstall, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 270 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodland sections, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore charming countryside, making it a great destination for family outings.

For a route that combines natural beauty with interesting stops, consider the Cromers Wood Picnic Area – Rodmersham Community Orchard loop from Tunstall. This moderate trail takes you through pleasant landscapes and connects two lovely community spots, offering a nice balance for a family adventure.

Tunstall offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers, especially along riverwalks like the one in Arkansas (though not directly covered by these routes, it illustrates seasonal beauty). Autumn provides stunning foliage in areas like Tunstall Forest in Suffolk. For the routes listed, temperate weather in spring and autumn is often ideal, but summer is also great for picnics, and winter walks can be magical if prepared for the conditions.

For families seeking a longer adventure, the Rodmersham Community Orchard – Cromers Wood Picnic Area loop from Sittingbourne is a moderate 15 km route. Another option is the Doddington Place Gardens – Cromers Wood Picnic Area loop from Tunstall, which is over 16 km and also moderate, offering a more extended exploration of the local area.

The Tunstall region is home to diverse wildlife. In areas like Tunstall Forest in Suffolk, you might spot fallow deer, muntjac, and various ground-nesting birds such as the Nightjar and Woodlark. Near Tunstall Reservoir in the North Pennines, birdwatchers can look for Great Crested grebe, tufted duck, and goosander, along with up to 13 species of butterflies. Keep an eye out for local birds and small mammals on your walks.