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United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Nottinghamshire
Newark And Sherwood

Gonalston

Easy hikes and walks around Gonalston

4.5

(789)

6,292

hikers

392

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Gonalston traverse the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside, characterized by a mix of farmland and small woodlands. The area features the Dover Beck, a small river with riverside paths, and the scenic Railway Pit Lakes, former gravel pits that are a focal point for many routes. These natural features provide a tranquil setting for exploration on foot.

Best easy hiking trails around Gonalston

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Railway Pit Lakes loop from Thurgarton, a…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

4.6

(7)

47

hikers

#1.

Railway Pit Lakes loop from Thurgarton

5.27km

01:20

10m

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Beth
July 13, 2025, Railway Pit Lakes

Can be busy in summer with BBQs which may ruin the enjoyment a little.

1

0

As you approach this quaint little spot, you may think you've got to wade through a ford! but there's a bridge to the side where you get a nice view of the old brick buildings with the beck running underneath. Very nice, surprising location!

0

0

Grace Mulligan
November 15, 2024, The Old Forge

This fine old blacksmiths forge dates back to 1845 and has a horseshoe surrounding the entrance. It's a Grade II listed building.

2

0

Opened on 4 August 1846. This two track section runs between Thurgarton & Lowdham stations. Both freight and passenger services run through here. Rolling stock can be found on the wikipedia page for Thurgarton Station.

1

0

This is a nice bridge and surrounding area to cross over. The fella in the house before crossing was talkative and friendly. Maybe he was wondering why I stopped outside of his garage area, where he was working, to take a photo

1

0

Find or place interesting books

0

0

nice restaurant

0

0

Dated 1845, with its fine horseshoe surround to the main entrance, Listed Grade II.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Gonalston?

There are over 200 easy hiking trails around Gonalston, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 6000 routes in the area.

What is the typical terrain like on easy hikes around Gonalston?

The easy hikes around Gonalston primarily traverse the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside, featuring a mix of open farmland and small woodlands. You can expect gentle undulations, riverside paths along the Dover Beck, and circuits around the scenic Railway Pit Lakes.

Are there many circular routes for easy hikes in Gonalston?

Yes, many of the easy hiking routes around Gonalston are circular, starting and ending in charming nearby villages such as Thurgarton, Epperstone, and Lowdham. This makes planning your hike convenient and allows you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

Are the easy trails around Gonalston suitable for families with children?

Yes, many easy trails in Gonalston are well-suited for families. Routes like the Railway Pit Lakes loop from Thurgarton are gentle and relatively short, making them ideal for walks with children. The varied scenery of woodlands and open fields keeps young explorers engaged.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hikes in Gonalston?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the easy hikes around Gonalston. However, as many routes pass through farmland, it's important to keep dogs on a lead, especially when livestock are present, to ensure their safety and respect local wildlife and agricultural practices.

What natural features can I expect to see on these easy trails?

You'll encounter several notable natural features. The Dover Beck Stream offers pleasant riverside paths, while the scenic Railway Pit Lakes are a focal point for popular routes like the Railway Pit Lakes – The Reindeer, Hoveringham loop from Lowdham. Small woodlands also provide shaded sections and diverse flora.

Are there any interesting landmarks or points of interest near the easy hiking trails?

While the focus is on natural beauty, you can find interesting points nearby. For example, the historic Dover Beck itself has historical significance, having powered mills and formed part of Sherwood Forest's boundary. You might also encounter charming village churches or traditional pubs in the starting villages. For specific attractions, consider visiting Southwell Minster, a stunning cathedral a short drive away.

Are there options for parking near the easy trailheads?

Yes, many easy hiking routes around Gonalston start from villages like Thurgarton, Epperstone, and Lowdham, which typically offer public parking facilities. For instance, the Dover Beck Stream – Wooden Gate and Waterway Path loop starts from Lowdham CP (Car Park), indicating convenient parking options.

How can I reach the easy hiking trails around Gonalston using public transport?

Gonalston and its surrounding villages like Lowdham are accessible by public transport, primarily bus services connecting to larger towns in Nottinghamshire. Checking local bus schedules for routes serving Thurgarton, Epperstone, or Lowdham would be the best way to plan your journey to a trailhead.

What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes in Gonalston?

The rolling Nottinghamshire countryside around Gonalston is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the gentle terrain makes for pleasant walks, though paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Are there any pubs or cafes along the easy hiking routes?

Yes, several easy routes pass through or near villages that host traditional pubs, perfect for a refreshment stop. For example, the Railway Pit Lakes – The Reindeer, Hoveringham loop from Lowdham includes a pub, and other routes starting from villages like Lowdham or Thurgarton will have local establishments nearby.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Gonalston?

The easy trails around Gonalston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil setting, the well-maintained paths, and the picturesque views of the countryside, especially around the Railway Pit Lakes and along the Dover Beck.

What makes the easy hikes around Gonalston suitable for beginners?

The easy hikes in Gonalston are ideal for beginners due to their minimal elevation gain and generally well-defined paths. Routes like the Wooden Gate and Waterway Path – Dover Beck Stream loop from Lowdham CP offer gentle gradients and manageable distances, allowing new hikers to enjoy the outdoors without significant challenge.

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