Easy hikes and walks around Takeley
4.5
(284)
1,769
hikers
322
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Takeley are primarily found within and around Hatfield Forest, an ancient woodland and deer park. This area features a diverse landscape of woodlands, open spaces, and a central lake, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. The paths are generally well-maintained, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors seeking accessible walks. The region is characterized by its historical working landscape, managed by the National Trust.
Best easy hiking trails around Takeley
- The most popular easy…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
(3)
23
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.
Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
13
hikers
6.66km
01:44
50m
50m
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.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Takeley
Other adventures around Takeley
Tips from the Community
Sign and view on the Filtch Way, next to the entrance into Hatfield Forest.
0
0
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.
0
0
Bought a coffee from the National Trust cafe and sat near to the lake in Hatfield Forrest.
0
0
Insure the gates are closed after you, watch out for sudden dips and holes if you’re riding cross-country and take your time.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
1
The soup of the day is a nice treat to warm you up after a stroll around the forest.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Takeley?
Takeley offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 170 routes suitable for various ability levels. These trails primarily explore the ancient woodlands and open spaces of Hatfield Forest.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Takeley?
The easy trails in Takeley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 260 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the serene atmosphere of Hatfield Forest, and the beautiful lake views.
Are there easy hiking trails around Takeley with parking?
Yes, many easy hiking trails in Takeley, especially those within Hatfield Forest, offer convenient parking options. For example, the popular Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice starts near parking facilities.
Can I reach easy hiking trails in Takeley using public transport?
Yes, some easy trails are accessible via public transport. The Hatfield Forest Cafe – Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Takeley Station is a great option for those arriving by train, offering a pleasant walk directly from the station into the forest.
Are there family-friendly easy walks in Takeley?
Absolutely. The easy trails around Takeley, particularly within Hatfield Forest, are ideal for families. The paths are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for children. Routes like the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood offer engaging scenery for all ages.
Are the easy hiking trails around Takeley suitable for dogs?
Yes, Hatfield Forest is a popular destination for dog walkers, and many of the easy trails are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after your pet.
Are there circular easy walks available in Takeley?
Most of the easy hiking trails in Takeley are circular loops, providing a varied experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Elgins Car Park and the Hatfield Forest Cafe – Hatfield Forest Lake loop from Takeley.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Takeley?
Easy hikes in Takeley primarily feature well-maintained paths through ancient woodlands, open parkland, and along the shores of Hatfield Forest Lake. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation gain, making it comfortable for most walkers.
What natural features or attractions can I see on easy hikes around Takeley?
On easy hikes around Takeley, you'll primarily explore Hatfield Forest, an ancient woodland and deer park. Key natural features include the beautiful Hatfield Forest Lake and diverse woodland areas. You might also spot various wildlife within the forest.
When is the best time of year to go on easy hikes in Takeley?
Takeley's easy trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides stunning foliage. Even in winter, the well-maintained paths of Hatfield Forest offer peaceful, crisp walks.
Are there easy hiking options in Takeley during winter?
Yes, easy hiking trails in Takeley remain accessible and enjoyable during winter. The paths in Hatfield Forest are generally well-drained, offering pleasant walks through the ancient woodland, often with a unique, tranquil atmosphere.
How long do easy walks around Takeley typically take?
Easy walks around Takeley typically range from 1.5 to 2 hours. For instance, the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice is about 1 hour 50 minutes, while the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes.
Are there any easy walks around Takeley that include a pub?
While specific routes directly ending at a pub are not highlighted, Hatfield Forest is close to several local pubs in Takeley and surrounding villages, making it easy to combine your walk with a visit to a local establishment for refreshments.
Most popular routes around Takeley
Most popular attractions around Takeley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
