Easy hikes and walks around Oxleas Wood
4.4
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7,136
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Hiking around Oxleas Wood offers a network of easy hiking trails through ancient deciduous woodlands, some dating back over 8,000 years. The area is situated on Shooters Hill, providing elevated positions with views of the London skyline. Hikers can explore diverse landscapes including meadows and small streams, with over half of the woodland designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The terrain generally features gentle gradients suitable for easy walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Oxleas Wood
- The most popular easy hiking route is Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Falconwood, a 4.3 miles (6.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 51 minutes to complete. This route includes a visit to Severndroog Castle and offers panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Royal Borough of Greenwich, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This trail provides access to Severndroog Castle and its scenic viewpoints over London.
- Local hikers also love the Severndroog Castle β Oxleas Wood loop from Welling, a 3.8 miles (6.1 km) trail leading through ancient woodlands and past the historic castle, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Oxleas Wood is defined by ancient woodlands, elevated viewpoints, and open meadows. The network offers easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels and family-friendly outings.
- The routes in Oxleas Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Oxleas Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.0
(1)
15
hikers
6.74km
01:49
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
6.31km
01:42
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
28
hikers
6.74km
01:50
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The lower of the two meadows in Eltham Park North is below Long Pond and has views of London. The bottom half of the field is on a hill which has grassy passages through the vegetation weaving between trees and bushes.
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Not a castle but a viewing tower. The surrounding woodland is Castle Woods which is part of the much larger Oxleas Woods.
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Lovely small viewing tower with its own cafe and small woods - Castle Wood. Part of much larger Oxleas Woods.
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Know to locals as βthe secretβ. Lots of great tracks and trails branching in all directions from the cafe.
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The parks and woodlands around Eltham often have nice views over London.
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Just below Severn Droogs Castle, in a clearing above a hilly field, is the rose garden. Jack wood is to the left -Castle Wood to the right; a large ornate brick step system is directly behind that climbs to the castle.
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Lovely park with a duck pond surrounded by mtb friendly woods. A bridge in the woods crosses over a road into Eltham Park South.
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The big ditch in Oxleas Wood. MTB jumps have been dug around one end. Possibly itβs a remnant of The βlost river Wogebourneβ which ran through the woods. Possibly a defensive man-made earthwork or one to deter livestock from crossing over.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Oxleas Wood?
Oxleas Wood offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails. There are over 370 easy routes available, making it a great destination for relaxed walks through ancient woodlands and meadows.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on an easy hike in Oxleas Wood?
Easy hikes in Oxleas Wood primarily traverse ancient deciduous woodlands, some dating back over 8,000 years. You'll encounter diverse trees like ancient oaks and beeches, along with open meadows and small streams. The area is situated on Shooters Hill, providing elevated positions with occasional views of the London skyline.
Are there any family-friendly easy trails in Oxleas Wood?
Yes, Oxleas Wood is very suitable for families. The network of trails offers gentle gradients and well-marked paths, perfect for leisurely strolls with children. Many routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Oxleas Wood?
Oxleas Wood is a popular spot for dog walkers. Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but please ensure they are kept under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors. Always follow local signage regarding leash requirements.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the easy trails?
A key attraction is Severndroog Castle, an 18th-century Gothic folly with a viewing platform offering panoramic views across London. You can visit it on routes like the Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Falconwood. Other natural highlights include Oxleas Meadows and various ancient woodland sections.
Are there any circular easy walks in Oxleas Wood?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Oxleas Wood are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Royal Borough of Greenwich is an easy 4.8 km circular path that includes the castle and its scenic viewpoints.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Oxleas Wood?
The easy trails in Oxleas Wood are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained paths suitable for a relaxing outdoor experience.
When is the best time of year to visit Oxleas Wood for easy hikes?
Oxleas Wood is beautiful year-round. Spring is particularly enchanting with carpets of bluebells. Autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer provides lush greenery and shade, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks. The gentle gradients make it suitable for easy hikes in most conditions.
Are there cafes or facilities near the easy hiking routes?
Yes, the Oxleas Cafe is a popular spot within the woods, offering refreshments and a meeting point. Severndroog Castle also houses a tea room, providing a convenient stop during your hike.
How long do easy hikes in Oxleas Wood typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the Severndroog Castle β Oxleas Wood loop from Welling, which is 6.1 km, typically takes about 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. Shorter options are also available for quicker strolls.
Can I reach the easy trails in Oxleas Wood using public transport?
Oxleas Wood is accessible via public transport. Various bus routes serve the surrounding areas, and some trails, like the Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Royal Borough of Greenwich, are designed to be easily reached from public transport hubs.
What kind of wildlife might I see on an easy hike?
Oxleas Wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for rare birds like spotted and green woodpeckers, as well as various small mammals. In spring, the woodlands are famous for their vibrant bluebell displays.
Most popular routes around Oxleas Wood
Most popular attractions around Oxleas Wood
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