Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve
Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve
4.3
(96)
457
hikers
45
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve traverse a unique lowland fenland habitat, characterized by predominantly flat terrain. The reserve encompasses 500 acres of diverse landscapes, including wetlands, extensive reedbeds, damp woodlands, and wildflower meadows. Hikers will find a network of grassy paths and wooden boardwalks, offering accessible routes through this important conservation area.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.7
(3)
20
hikers
3.90km
00:59
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
11
hikers
5.26km
01:22
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(6)
13
hikers
5.96km
01:32
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.59km
01:26
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
23
hikers
6.29km
01:36
20m
20m
Hike the easy 3.9-mile Holme Fen National Nature Reserve loop, exploring silver birch woodlands and wetlands to see the historic Holme Post.
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Be careful when starting route 2 as the start can be easily missed going through the gate.
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They may look like out of place lampposts but Holme Posts are part of history. The posts were buried in 1848 to measure how much the land sunk after Whittlesey Mere, once on this site, was drained. The peat lake floor had been soaked in water but after drainage, the peat shrank, as did the height of the land. The top of the posts, once level with the ground, are now around 4m above it. The posts are generally accepted to mark the lowest land point in Great Britain at 2.75m below sea level.
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Holme Fen is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is in the location of Whittlesey Mere, once the biggest lake in England, which was drained in the mid 19th century so the land could be used for farming. This south western shore of the huge lake could not be made dry enough for farming.
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They may look like strange green lampposts but Holme Posts are part of history. The posts were buried in 1848 to measure how much the land sunk after Whittlesey Mere, once on this site, was drained. The peat lake floor had been soaked in water but after drainage, the peat shrank, as did the height of the land. The top of the posts, once level with the ground, are now around 4m above it. The posts are generally accepted to mark the lowest land point in Great Britain at 2.75m below sea level.
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Burnhams Mere was created when the area was cut for peat, resulting in this wildlife haven.
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Holme Fen is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is in the location of Whittlesey Mere, once the biggest lake in England, which was drained in the mid 19th century so the land could be used for farming. This south western shore of the huge lake could not be made dry enough for farming.
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It's a sweet hamlet, with a collection of thatched cottages and a pub only a short walk away.
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Quiet, narrow lane leading through Holme Fen nature reserve, the lowest point in the UK.
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There are over 25 easy hiking trails in Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve, offering a variety of routes through its unique lowland fenland habitat. These trails are generally flat and accessible, making them suitable for most visitors.
The easy hikes in Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve feature predominantly flat terrain. You'll find a network of grassy paths and wooden boardwalks. While generally accessible, some areas can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain.
Woodwalton Fen is unique due to its rare lowland fenland habitat, one of only four remaining fragments of ancient wild fens in the region. It offers a glimpse into a lost world, with diverse landscapes including wetlands, extensive reedbeds, damp woodlands, and wildflower meadows, all teeming with extraordinary wildlife.
Woodwalton Fen is a haven for wildlife. You might spot over 400 species of wildflowers, including the rare Fen Violet, and more than 900 species of moths and butterflies. Birdwatchers can look for kingfishers, marsh harriers, cuckoos, and various waterfowl. Otters are also increasingly seen along the drains.
No, dogs are not permitted within Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve. This restriction is in place to protect the abundant and sensitive local wildlife.
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular. For example, the Holme Fen Forest Path loop from Holme is a popular easy circular route. Another option is the Lady's Wood Bluebells loop from Raveley Wood, which is also a circular trail.
Within the reserve, you can find the historical Rothschild Bungalow, a thatched retreat built in 1911. There are also several bird hides offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. The diverse habitats themselves, such as extensive reedbeds and damp woodlands, are points of natural interest.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the reserve, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained, flat paths that make for enjoyable and accessible walks.
Woodwalton Fen offers beauty year-round. Spring and summer are excellent for wildflowers and butterflies, with routes like the Lady's Wood Bluebells loop being particularly vibrant. Autumn brings rich colors, and winter offers quiet solitude and unique birdwatching opportunities.
Yes, the reserve is excellent for birdwatching. While specific trails are not named in the guide data, the region research mentions the Marsh Harrier Trail and the Waterbirds Trail, which visits bird hides and the Great Raveley Drain, offering prime spots for observing various bird species.
While specific parking locations are not detailed, Woodwalton Fen National Nature Reserve typically provides designated parking areas for visitors. It's advisable to check the reserve's official website or local signage upon arrival for the most current information on parking facilities.
Yes, the predominantly flat terrain and network of paths and boardwalks make many of the easy trails suitable for families with young children. The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife also adds to the family-friendly appeal, though remember dogs are not allowed.


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