The best walks and hikes around Virginia Water
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Hikes around Virginia Water are centered on the large lake of the same name, located at the southern edge of Windsor Great Park. The area is characterized by its mix of woodland, landscaped gardens, and generally flat, well-maintained paths. Many routes follow the lakeside, passing historical features like the Leptis Magna ruins and the Cascade waterfall.
Best hiking trails around Virginia Water
- The most popular hiking route is Virginia Water loop, a 4.5 mile (7.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This Virginia Water circular walk follows the perimeter of the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Virginia Water Ruins – Virginia Water Lake Pavilion loop from Blacknest, an easy 3.2 mile (5.1 km) path. The route offers a shorter option for exploring the Roman ruins and the lake.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the View of Windsor Castle – Deer Park, Windsor Great Park loop from Blacknest, a 13.5 mile (21.7 km) trail leading through Windsor Great Park, often completed in about 5 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Virginia Water is defined by lakeside paths, expansive parkland, and formal gardens. The network of trails offers accessible options for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Virginia Water are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 750 reviews. More than 11,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Virginia Water's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Virginia Water loop offers a picturesque hiking experience, blending natural beauty with historical landmarks. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.3 km) hike, with only 99 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll enjoy expansive lakeside views of Virginia Water Lake, often with swans, and wind through enchanting woodlands. Keep an eye out for the impressive Cascade Waterfall, an 18th-century ornamental feature. The paths are generally well-maintained, making for an accessible walk.
The trail is generally accessible for most fitness levels, including families with pushchairs and individuals using wheelchairs, thanks to its largely well-maintained paths. These paths consist of compacted gravel, asphalt, natural surfaces, and some grassy areas. While you can enjoy the loop year-round, spring offers a particularly vibrant experience with extraordinary displays of daffodils, azaleas, magnolias, and cherry blossoms in the Valley Gardens. Plan your visit to allow extra time to explore the various sights along the way.
What truly sets this route apart is its rich blend of natural splendor and historical significance. You'll encounter unique features like the Leptis Magna Roman Ruins, authentic fragments gifted in 1816, and the striking 100-foot (30.5-meter) Totem Pole, a gift to Queen Elizabeth II. The trail is steeped in history, originally envisioned as a royal pleasure ground in the 18th century as part of Windsor Great Park. Its combination of accessible paths, diverse scenery, and significant historical attractions makes it a rewarding experience.
4.8
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423
hikers
8.91km
02:19
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(18)
140
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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158
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.26km
01:23
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The first 50% was a lovely walk but after we turned of the Royal Mile, it was spoiled by road noise all the way to the car park
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If you would like to compare this historic monument with a much more recent one for Queen Elizabeth II (1926 to 2022), just follow the link to the corresponding hiking highlight in the komoot system =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/3388562
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more stuff plundered by the British Empire... Originally from Libya! 🤣
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interesting, but you have to walk a little bit
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great area, good for walking, taking a breath
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There was a notice explaining that the totem pole has reached the end of it's life and is due to be taken down and laid to rest during 2024. Fortunately it was still standing when I visited in early May
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More Information
Exploring a regal lakeside
Once just a stream, a lake was built here in the mid-18th century, although it wasn’t long until it was replaced by the much larger one you can walk around today. To see all of its glorious angles, the best hiking trails around Virginia Water follow its lakeside, taking you over pretty bridges and giving you unrivalled views. The terrain is easy underfoot, either tarmac or packed earth, both of which are suitable for pushchairs.
By Wick Pond to the north east stands the totem pole, a 100-foot (30 m) tall commemorative monument celebrating British Columbia’s centenary. Its brightly coloured faces greet you just a stone’s throw from the water. South of the totem pole, you can admire much of the lake from the Botany Bay viewpoint.
Virginia Water’s most notable sights
Windsor Great Park is vast and dates back to the 13th century so it’s hardly surprising that there are plenty of fascinating places to be found within its boundaries. Thanks to its rather comprehensive network of trails, you don’t have to walk far from Virginia Water to uncover fascinating sites.
One of the most majestic places to hike from Virgina Water is the Valley Gardens, Grade I-listed botanical gardens that have lots to offer throughout the year. Spring is arguably the best time to visit thanks to the extraordinary array of daffodils, azaleas and magnolias which fill the gardens with every colour imaginable.
Just west of the gardens lies Temple Bungalow, a beautiful old house and its neighbouring boathouse, which sits on the water’s edge. Together, they look like they’ve wandered right out of a picture book.
In the south east of the woodland surrounding the lake lie Roman ruins. The remnants weren’t left here by the Romans though. Instead, they were plundered from the ancient Libyan city of Leptis Magna and rehomed here in the 1800s, long after the city had been destroyed. The folly remains today like a relic of the Roman Empire, but many of the stones were actually sourced locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking trails around Virginia Water suitable for families with pushchairs?
Yes, many of the main paths around Virginia Water Lake are well-maintained with tarmac or smooth, compacted stone surfaces, making them ideal for pushchairs and family walks. The area is generally flat, especially the main lakeside circuit.
Can I bring my dog on hikes at Virginia Water?
Virginia Water is a very popular destination for dog walking. Dogs are welcome throughout most of Windsor Great Park, but they should be kept under control. Be aware of specific areas, like The Savill Garden, where restrictions may apply.
What is the best way to get to Virginia Water using public transport?
The most direct way is to take a train to the Virginia Water railway station. From the station, it is a manageable walk to the entrance of the park and the lake, making it quite accessible for those arriving without a car.
Where can I park for a walk at Virginia Water?
There are several car parks available, with the main ones being the Virginia Water car park and The Savill Garden car park. These are pay-and-display and can get very busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any long-distance hiking routes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging day out, there are longer trails available. For example, the View of Windsor Castle – Deer Park, Windsor Great Park loop from Blacknest is a 13.5-mile (21.7 km) hike that extends into the wider park, offering a full day of exploration.
Is there a walk that specifically features the waterfall?
The Cascade, a 30-foot waterfall, is a key feature on most routes around the lake. A short and pleasant option that includes it is the Virginia Water Ruins – Virginia Water Lake Pavilion loop, which also takes you past the historic Roman ruins.
Are there toilets and cafes available along the trails?
Yes, facilities are available at the main hubs. You will find toilets, cafes, and refreshment kiosks at the Virginia Water Pavilion near the main entrance and also at The Savill Garden visitor centre.
What is the best time of year to visit Virginia Water for a walk?
Virginia Water offers something beautiful in every season. Spring is famous for the vibrant azaleas and rhododendrons in the Valley Gardens. Summer is perfect for picnics by the lake. Autumn provides stunning fall colours, and winter offers crisp, peaceful walks, with the Cascade waterfall being particularly impressive after rainfall.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from?
There is a wide variety of options, with over 400 hiking routes mapped around Virginia Water on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls to more demanding long-distance treks, ensuring there's a path for every fitness level.
Is there a good circular walk that starts from The Savill Garden?
Yes, you can easily start a walk from The Savill Garden. A popular route is the Virginia Water Ruins – Wick Pond loop, which connects the gardens to the main lake attractions over a moderate distance of about 5.5 miles (8.9 km).
What do other hikers think of the trails at Virginia Water?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 750 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful scenery around the lake, and the variety of landscapes, from formal gardens to woodland.
Most popular routes around Virginia Water
Most popular attractions around Virginia Water
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