Easy hikes and walks around Hatfield Broad Oak
4.5
(383)
2,175
hikers
46
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Hatfield Broad Oak are primarily defined by the expansive Hatfield Forest, a preserved medieval royal hunting ground. This area features ancient woodlands, a tranquil lake, and a winding river, providing a rich natural environment. Beyond the forest, the region is characterized by rolling pastoral landscapes and a network of quiet lanes and footpaths connecting small hamlets. The terrain generally presents gentle gradients, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Hatfield Broad Oak
…Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.0
(3)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
5.57km
01:26
30m
30m
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.
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.72km
01:28
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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Hatfield Forest is a 403.2 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex, three miles east of Bishop's Stortford. It is also a National Nature Reserve and a Nature Conservation Review site. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. A medieval warren in the forest is a Scheduled Monument. Hatfield is the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest and dates from the time of the Norman kings. Other parts of the once extensive Forest of Essex include Epping Forest to the southwest, Hainault Forest to the south and Writtle Forest to the east. Hatfield Forest was established as a Royal hunting forest in the late eleventh century, following the introduction of fallow deer and Forest Laws were imposed on areas by the king. Deer hunting and chasing was a popular sport for Norman kings and lords and the word ‘forest’ strictly means place of deer rather than of trees. In the case of Hatfield the area under Forest Law consisted of woodlands with plains.
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Good for morning fuel at the west end of the Flitch Way. Open: 9:00-14:30 Weekdays, 09:30-13:30 Weekends. https://order.storekit.com/the-coffee-shop/menu
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The soup of the day is a nice treat to warm you up after a stroll around the forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Hatfield Broad Oak?
There are over 20 easy hiking trails around Hatfield Broad Oak, primarily within and around the historic Hatfield Forest, offering diverse options for exploring the area's natural beauty.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Hatfield Broad Oak?
Easy hikes in Hatfield Broad Oak feature generally gentle gradients across rolling pastoral landscapes, agricultural land, and the ancient woodlands of Hatfield Forest. The paths are well-suited for accessible walks, with a mix of quiet lanes and footpaths.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Hatfield Broad Oak?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The routes within Hatfield Forest, such as the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood, are particularly popular, offering engaging natural environments with ancient trees and wildlife for children to discover.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Hatfield Forest and the surrounding footpaths are generally dog-friendly, making it a great place to hike with your canine companion. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife and livestock, and always clean up after them.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on these easy hikes?
You'll encounter a wealth of natural and historical features. Within Hatfield Forest, you can explore ancient woodlands with trees over 1,000 years old, a tranquil Hatfield Forest Lake, and a winding river. Beyond the forest, the charming village of Hatfield Broad Oak itself is a conservation area with historic buildings, including the 12th-century St. Mary the Virgin Church.
Are there any circular easy walks available?
Yes, many of the easy routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice and the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from HUB, both offering convenient loops through the forest.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes in Hatfield Broad Oak?
Parking is available at various points, particularly around Hatfield Forest. For instance, the Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Elgins Car Park starts directly from a designated parking area, providing easy access to the trails.
What is the best time of year to go for an easy hike in this region?
Hatfield Broad Oak is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn transforms the ancient woodlands into a spectacle of color. Even in winter, the forest provides a serene and atmospheric hiking experience, though paths can be muddy.
Are there places to eat or drink near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, after your hike, you can find welcoming establishments in Hatfield Broad Oak village. Local pubs, such as The Three Horseshoes, offer traditional English cuisine and a chance to relax and refuel.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Hatfield Broad Oak?
The easy trails in Hatfield Broad Oak are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the abundance of wildlife, making it a rewarding experience for all.
How long do the easy hikes typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies, but many popular routes can be completed within 1.5 to 2 hours. For example, the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice takes approximately 1 hour 51 minutes, while the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood is about 1 hour 26 minutes.
Is public transport available to reach the hiking areas?
While Hatfield Broad Oak is primarily accessed by car, some routes, like the Hatfield Forest Cafe – Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Takeley Station, offer starting points accessible from nearby public transport links, such as Takeley Station.
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