The best walks and hikes around Pugneys
4.4
(587)
7,432
hikers
427
hikes
Hiking around Pugneys Country Park is centered on a 250-acre site, originally a quarry, characterized by two large lakes. The terrain features generally flat, well-maintained paths encircling the lakes, alongside woodland trails that introduce gentle inclines. Open grasslands and wildflower meadows contribute to the diverse environment. As a Local Nature Reserve, the park offers opportunities for wildlife observation.
Best hiking trails around Pugneys
- The most popular hiking route is Sandal Castle Ruins loop from Portobello, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail that takes around 1 hour to complete. This route combines a walk by the lake with a path leading up to the historic castle ruins.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Navigation Pub – Bridge Over the River Calder loop from Arriva Yorkshire, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This route offers a mix of lakeside and riverside scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Sandal Castle – Pugneys Country Park Lake loop from Belle Vue Stadium, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail leading through the park's green spaces and past historical landmarks, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Pugneys is defined by accessible lakeside paths, woodland trails, and routes connecting to historical landmarks. The network provides options suitable for family strolls as well as longer, more varied hikes.
- The routes in Pugneys are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 560 reviews. More than 7,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Pugneys's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.0
(1)
78
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
398
hikers
3.95km
01:00
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
3.93km
01:00
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
If you're into spiders and get a cheap laugh out of juvenile graffiti then don't miss this tunnel
0
0
I expect this was for charity but there a lots of them loose from Jurassic Park lol
0
0
Steps up onto the Bridge and back down. The are bike strips which are really helpful
0
0
Not much left but still interesting. Plenty of people about up there
0
0
What a performance getting to Sandal Castle from Pugneys Country Park HUH
0
0
The walker kitchen is now open the food looks absolutely delicious
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking routes at Pugneys Country Park suitable for families with pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Yes, the main path around the 100-acre lake is a 1.6-mile circular route that is flat, well-maintained, and fully accessible for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. It offers lovely views across the water towards Sandal Castle.
Can I bring my dog to Pugneys Country Park?
Pugneys Country Park is a popular spot for dog walking. Dogs are welcome, but they should be kept under control, especially around the Local Nature Reserve area to protect the wildlife. Many of the surrounding trails are also dog-friendly.
Are there any engaging walks for children?
Absolutely. The park features the 'Blown Away' adventure trail, which is based on a children's story and includes sculptures and activities around the main lake. For more options, you can explore other story trails in the Wakefield district.
Where can I park my car when visiting for a walk?
Pugneys Country Park has its own large pay-and-display car park with ample space for visitors. It's the most convenient place to park for any of the walks that start and end within the park itself.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes that connect to other parks?
Yes, for a more substantial walk, you can hike from Pugneys to Newmillerdam Country Park. The Newmillerdam Lake – Grebes and baby Coots loop from Portobello is a popular moderate route of about 7 miles that connects the two parks through varied woodland scenery.
What is the best walk for historical interest?
For a walk rich in history, the trail leading up to the ruins of the 13th-century Sandal Castle is your best choice. This route offers panoramic views of the Calder Valley and takes you past the site of the Battle of Wakefield. The Sandal Castle Ruins loop from Portobello is a great option for this.
Are there any cafes or pubs for walkers nearby?
Within Pugneys Country Park itself, you'll find The Boat House Café, which offers refreshments with views over the lake. It's a convenient stop before or after your walk. For a pub, you would need to venture into the nearby villages of Sandal or Walton.
How does walking at Pugneys compare to Newmillerdam Country Park?
Pugneys is defined by its two large, open lakes with mostly flat, accessible paths, making it ideal for easy strolls and family outings. Newmillerdam offers a more enclosed, woodland experience with its central lake surrounded by mature trees and slightly more varied, undulating paths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the routes around Pugneys?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, accessible paths around the main lake and the beautiful views of Sandal Castle from the park.
Are there any good spots for wildlife and nature watching?
Yes, the smaller of the two lakes in the park is a designated Local Nature Reserve. A quiet woodland trail leads to this area, where you can find two bird hides perfect for observing the diverse birdlife and other aquatic species.
Can I go for a run at Pugneys Country Park?
Pugneys is an excellent location for running. The flat 1.6-mile loop around the main lake is a popular, traffic-free route for runners of all abilities and is also the course for the local parkrun event.
Are there any easy circular walks available?
The park specializes in easy circular walks. Besides the main 1.6-mile lake loop, there are other short and simple routes like the Hiking loop from Crigglestone, which provides a pleasant 2.4-mile walk with minimal elevation change.
Most popular routes around Pugneys
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
