4.5
(295)
1,275
hikers
171
hikes
Easy hiking trails around High Roothing traverse a rural landscape characterized by winding lanes, expansive farmers' fields, and historical architecture. The area, part of west Essex's "Hundred Parishes," offers leisurely walks amidst traditional English countryside. A significant natural feature is Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest known for its biodiversity and scenic lake. The region's gentle terrain and historical settings provide accessible options for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.4
(10)
22
hikers
4.95km
01:17
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
10
hikers
6.82km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.73km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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An amazing place, not too much to see, brilliant view from the top, have a guided tour to understand why it was here and what it was like back in the day.
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Sign and view on the Filtch Way, next to the entrance into Hatfield Forest.
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Need to pay for car entrance at the National Trust forest. Check opening times as they can stop letting cars in after a certain time.
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Bought a coffee from the National Trust cafe and sat near to the lake in Hatfield Forrest.
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Insure the gates are closed after you, watch out for sudden dips and holes if you’re riding cross-country and take your time.
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Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.
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Running for 15 miles between Bishop's Stortford and Braintree, the Flitch Way is totally traffic free and very flat. It is a fantastic place to hike with a good surface. The railway was opened in 1869 but closed 83 years later in 1952. It continued to operate for freight only until 1972. There is a cafe, toilets and visitors centre to the east of here at Rayne.
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The long drags at 3% can sometimes be worse than the short but steeper hills. Great riding around this area and pretty much traffic free.
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High Roothing offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 70 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 170 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
Easy hikes in High Roothing are characterized by gentle terrain, primarily traversing picturesque rural landscapes, winding lanes, and expansive farmers' fields. The elevation changes are minimal, making them suitable for leisurely walks. You'll find paths through traditional English countryside and ancient woodlands.
Yes, many easy trails in High Roothing are suitable for families. The gentle terrain and scenic views make for enjoyable outings. For example, the routes within Hatfield Forest are particularly popular for families, offering exploration of ancient woodlands and a serene lake.
Many trails in High Roothing are dog-friendly, especially those through rural landscapes and woodlands. When hiking with your dog, always ensure they are under control, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock. Hatfield Forest, a significant natural feature in the area, generally welcomes dogs, but specific rules may apply in certain sections, so it's always good to check local signage.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. A prominent feature is Hatfield Forest Lake within Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest known for its diverse flora and fauna. You can also encounter historical listed buildings, some dating back to the 14th century, and the 13th-century parish church of All Saints near High Rodingbury Wood. For historical structures, consider exploring areas near Pleshey Castle Earthworks.
Yes, many of the easy hikes around High Roothing are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Holy Trinity Church loop from Pleshey and the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop, which are both popular options for a complete experience.
Parking facilities are generally available near popular trailheads and attractions. For instance, Hatfield Forest has designated parking areas for visitors. In villages like High Roothing, you may find roadside parking or small car parks, especially near local amenities. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
High Roothing offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer allows for leisurely walks in the sun. Autumn is particularly scenic with changing foliage, and you might even find wild blackberries and sloe berries. Winter walks can be tranquil, especially through the ancient woodlands. The gentle terrain makes it accessible in most conditions.
Yes, you can find cafes and pubs in and around the villages near High Roothing, offering refreshments during or after your hike. For example, the Rumblebees Café loop from Flitch Green specifically mentions a cafe. Hatfield Forest also has a cafe. It's advisable to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.
The easy trails in High Roothing are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil rural landscapes, the historical charm of the villages, and the well-maintained paths, particularly within areas like Hatfield Forest.
Yes, many easy trails are relatively short, perfect for a quick walk. For example, the Holy Trinity Church loop from Pleshey is about 3.1 miles (5.0 km) and can be completed in just over an hour, offering a pleasant and accessible option.
While High Roothing is a rural area, some public transport options may connect to nearby towns or villages. However, direct access to specific trailheads might be limited. It's generally recommended to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving for more flexibility to reach the starting points of the hikes.


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