The best walks and hikes around Maplebeck
4.6
(453)
4,945
hikers
190
hikes
Hikes around Maplebeck explore the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside, characterized by a mix of farmland, ancient woodlands, and nature reserves. The area provides access to historic landscapes like Sherwood Forest and country parks such as Rufford Abbey. The terrain generally consists of gentle gradients on well-defined footpaths, making it suitable for a range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Maplebeck
- The most popular hiking route is the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Kersall CP, a 6.4 mile (10.3…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.3
(3)
13
hikers
10.3km
02:43
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
8
hikers
7.08km
01:54
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
hikers
6.97km
01:50
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
17.4km
04:33
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
9.31km
02:27
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
9-Hole Crazy-Golf course, £5 per person or £10 for a group (up to 4)
1
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Delightful & easy path around the Lake and over several footbridges. Suitable for all ages, all abilities and all weathers! Lots of viewpoints and bench seats.
1
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Great view looking towards Lincolnshire, on a good day you can see Lincs Cathedral.
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Originally created in 1750 as a water-source for a corn mill, the lake is now a haven for wildlife, especially waterfowl. A path of crushed limestone circles the lake, most of this is flat and accessible, with one incline near "Scotland Bank" which may be a challenge to some wheelchair users.
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Between 1729 and c.1845 many improvements were made to the Rufford estate. For example, the addition of the bath house, the creation of the lake and mill buildings, the construction of the brewhouse, water tower and coach house, and also the addition of five ice houses. Although Rufford Abbey once boasted five ice houses, only two remain today. All were constructed around 1820, when the estate was owned by John Lumley-Savile, 8th Earl of Scarbrough (1788–1856). The five ice houses are located near Rufford lake, created c. 1750; for the simple reason that the movement of ice from its source was easier. Not all of Rufford's ice houses faced north, as accessibility and the logistics of the ice may have meant that the builders found it easier to place the doorways facing the lake rather than northerly. It is believed that ice was mainly taken from Blackwalk Pond, which was drained to make way for housing in the 20th century. Blackwalk Pond was used to serve the abbey in Rufford's monastic era, and later supplied water to Rufford's water tower and brewhouse, which remain on site today.
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New cafe. Only stopped for a drink but looked like a nice place and well placed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Maplebeck?
Yes, there are over 190 hiking routes to explore in the Maplebeck area. The trails range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, with the majority being easy or moderate, making it a great destination for various fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Maplebeck?
The trails around Maplebeck are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the region's mix of quiet woodlands, historic sites like Sherwood Forest, and the well-maintained paths through country parks.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Certainly. The region is excellent for family outings. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Bilsthorpe. Additionally, Rufford Abbey Country Park and Clumber Park offer numerous well-marked, gentle paths suitable for all ages, often with facilities like cafes and toilets.
Can I take my dog on the trails?
Most public footpaths and country parks around Maplebeck are dog-friendly. Areas like Sherwood Forest and Clumber Park welcome dogs, though they may need to be on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife or livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Where can I find a good circular walk?
The area is perfect for circular hikes. A great option that showcases the local landscape is the Eakring Windmill loop from Eakring. It's a pleasant walk through open fields with views of the historic windmill. Many trails starting from Maplebeck itself are also loops, such as the popular figure-of-eight walk to Winkburn.
Are there any long-distance hikes available?
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Rufford Lake – Rufford Abbey loop from Eakring is a substantial 17.5 km route. You can also connect various public footpaths to create longer day hikes, such as linking trails through Sherwood Forest or along sections of the Southwell Trail, a former railway line.
What are the best starting points for walks in the area?
Maplebeck village itself is an excellent starting point for several walks, including routes towards Winkburn and Eakring. For access to Sherwood Forest, the main visitor centre car park is ideal. Rufford Abbey and Clumber Park also have large car parks that serve as convenient trailheads for exploring their grounds.
Where can I find information on parking?
Parking for walks starting in Maplebeck is typically on-street, so please park considerately. Major attractions like Sherwood Forest, Rufford Abbey Country Park, and Clumber Park have dedicated pay-and-display car parks. Some smaller nature reserves may have limited free parking areas.
Can I get to the trails using public transport?
Accessing the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging as Maplebeck is a small village. Bus services connect to larger nearby towns like Newark and Southwell, from which you may need to use a taxi or walk to reach specific trailheads. It's best to check local bus timetables in advance.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect?
The landscape is classic Nottinghamshire countryside: rolling farmland, ancient oak woodlands, and peaceful nature reserves. You can explore the legendary Sherwood Forest, home to the Major Oak. Nature reserves like Mansey Common and the wetlands at Langford Lowfields offer fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and spotting butterflies.
Are there any walks with good views?
Yes, the rolling terrain provides several spots with rewarding views. The walk that forms a figure-of-eight between Maplebeck and Winkburn is known for its excellent vistas over the countryside. On a clear day from some of the higher points in the area, you might even see as far as Lincoln Cathedral.
Are there any historic sites to see on a walk?
The area is rich in history. You can walk in the footsteps of Robin Hood in Sherwood Forest, explore the grounds of the former Cistercian monastery at Rufford Abbey Country Park, or visit Dukes Wood, which was the site of the UK's first onshore oilfield during WWII and is now a nature reserve.
Most popular attractions around Maplebeck
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