The best walks and hikes around Plaistow
4.5
(1104)
8,218
hikers
619
hikes
Hiking around Plaistow offers a retreat into the English countryside of West Sussex. The region's landscape is characterized by gentle hills and expansive woodlands, with paths winding along the River Lox and around Shillinglee Lake. The extensive tree cover provides a shaded setting for walks through the area's quiet, rural terrain.
Best hiking trails around Plaistow
- The most popular hiking route is Loxwood Lock – Baldwin's Knob Lock loop from Loxwood, a 3.7 mile (5.9 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This easy walk follows the Wey and Arun Canal.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Loxwood Lock – Sidney Wood Car Park loop from Loxwood, a moderate 7.3 mile (11.8 km) path. The route passes through varied woodland scenery.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Baldwin's Knob Lock – Loxwood Lock loop from Loxwood, a 12.9 mile (20.8 km) trail leading through the surrounding countryside, often completed in about 5 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Plaistow is defined by canal-side paths, expansive woodlands, and gentle hills. The network of trails provides options suitable for different fitness and experience levels.
- The routes in Plaistow are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 950 reviews. More than 7,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Plaistow's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.0
(2)
47
hikers
6.03km
01:33
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
36
hikers
9.12km
02:21
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
22
hikers
7.30km
01:52
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
8
hikers
20.9km
05:27
150m
150m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
6.36km
01:38
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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The Wey and Arun Canal, finished in 1816, established a crucial link between the Wey Navigation near Guildford and the south coast via the River Arun. This canal played a pivotal role in the inland transportation network designed to ensure secure passage from London to Portsmouth, facilitating the transportation of goods to sustain the dockyards during the Napoleonic Wars. Despite its initial success in efficiently transporting a substantial volume of cargo, the advent of railways ultimately led to the formal closure of the canal in 1871.
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On this navigable stretch of the Wey and Arun Canal, Brewhurst Lock was restored in the 1990s and is in full working order.
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Baldwin's Knob lock has been restored and was the first lock to have been refurbished on the disused Wey & Arun Canal. It opened in its current form in 1994 and originally in 1816.
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The Drungewick Aqueduct carries the Wey and Arun Canal over the River Lox which feels like quite a unique experience as you walk alongside one waterway to look down over another. The canal itself fell into disrepair but the Wey and Arun Canal Trust is working on restoring it to a navigable waterway again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Plaistow suitable for beginners?
Yes, the area is very welcoming for beginners. There are over 300 easy-rated walks to choose from, typically featuring gentle hills and well-defined paths. A great option to start with is the Baldwin's Knob Lock – Drungewick Aqueduct loop from Loxwood, which is a relatively short and flat walk along the canal.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
The countryside around Plaistow is generally great for walking with dogs. You'll find plenty of space in the woodlands and along the canal paths. However, you may encounter livestock in fields and other walkers, so it's always best to keep your dog under control and on a lead where required.
What are the trails like in the Plaistow area?
The hiking experience here is defined by the classic West Sussex landscape. Expect to find trails that wind through expansive woodlands, follow the peaceful Wey and Arun Canal, and cross gentle, rolling hills. The extensive tree cover makes many routes pleasantly shaded.
Are there any good options for a family walk?
Definitely. The region's flat canal paths and gentle woodland trails are ideal for family outings. The terrain is generally easy-going, making it accessible for a wide range of ages and abilities. Look for shorter, easy-rated loops for a relaxed day out.
I'm looking for a moderately challenging hike. Any suggestions?
For a more substantial walk that explores the area's woodlands, consider the Loxwood Lock loop from Ifold. At nearly 9 km, it offers a good mix of canal paths and forest tracks without being overly strenuous.
How many hiking routes are available around Plaistow?
There's a wide variety to explore, with over 590 hiking routes in the region. These range from short, easy strolls to more demanding all-day walks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and preference.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Plaistow?
The routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, which has been explored by over 7,600 hikers. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands and the scenic, easy-to-follow paths along the canal.
Is it possible to go for a long, challenging hike?
Yes, there are options for those seeking a full day of hiking. The area has over 30 difficult-rated trails. These longer routes connect various woodlands and canal sections, offering a rewarding challenge with significant distance and varied terrain.
What is the best time of year to hike in Plaistow?
Plaistow offers a wonderful hiking experience year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush, shaded woodland canopies, and autumn showcases spectacular foliage. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, though paths may be muddy, so proper footwear is essential.
Are the trails mostly circular loops?
Yes, many of the most popular routes are designed as circular loops, which is convenient as they start and end in the same place, often near a village or car park. This makes planning your hike straightforward.
What kind of footwear do I need for hiking in this area?
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. While many paths are well-maintained, some woodland and field sections can be uneven or become muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is a good idea for comfort in any season.
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