The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Great Dawley
4.7
(575)
6,522
hikers
18
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Great Dawley traverse a landscape shaped by both natural features and industrial heritage. The area features prominent hills like The Wrekin, offering expansive views, alongside diverse nature reserves with wooded pit mounds and open water. Hikers can explore reclaimed industrial landscapes, now covered with fir trees, and numerous pools and woodlands that contribute to the region's varied terrain.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Great Dawley
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Iron…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.4
(14)
86
hikers
17.1km
04:33
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
83
hikers
6.35km
01:40
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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72
hikers
5.05km
01:20
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
62
hikers
5.09km
01:20
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
7.22km
01:53
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a gorgeous, relatively flat cycle trail alongside the River Severn.
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As a memorial to the many dead, such memorials – usually called “war memorials” in English – are still very important today. “Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said...” says the so-called “Hymn of Simeon” (Luke’s Gospel, Chapter 2, Verse 29). However, the people commemorated here did not depart in peace, but became victims of war and tyranny. This is why the term “dead soldiers’ memorial” is now sometimes used in German instead of the previously most common “war memorial”. However, such a war memorial, which one encounters so often on the road, regardless of nationality, language and name, is always a testimony to the horror of war and tyranny – still significant and current today. They all have two essential functions, and this is renewed for each generation: -1- Commemorate and remember the victims -2- Remind people to keep the peace
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"In order to be able to transport his goods, the ironworks owner Abraham Darby III was looking for an architect who could build him a stable bridge made of "stone, brick or wood" across the five-kilometer-wide valley of the Severn in central England. Thomas Pritchard accepted the challenge, but he built a bridge made of cast iron, the completion of which in 1781 marked the beginning of the new "Iron Age". It was the largest free-floating bridge construction of the time. Built at the highest point of the valley, the Iron Bridge became a symbol of the industrial power of the Darbys and a monument to the Industrial Revolution." With these words, the website for the television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" presents its film contribution (in German) about the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site "Iron Bridge": https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/ironbridge-grossbrittanien-folge-156/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTUyMDA4
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Jackfield Tile Museum is a museum which presents the history of the British decorative tile industry between 1840 and 1960, the period in which this factory and that of Maw & Co nearby played an important part in this industry.
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Information on the South Telford Way and information on the Ironbridge Gorge site
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War memorial to remember and honour the fallen. Lest we forget.
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Love the old sign above the entrance door!!
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Great little bridge, single file for cars with small footpaths either side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Great Dawley?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking and walking routes around Great Dawley, with 12 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
Are there easy walks suitable for toddlers or prams in Great Dawley?
Yes, many of the trails are easy-going with manageable distances and gentle paths. Routes like the Southwater Lake – Telford Amphitheatre loop from Telford (5 km) or the Southwater Lake – Silkin Way loop from Telford (4.8 km) are excellent choices for families looking for accessible options.
What kind of natural attractions can we see on these family-friendly trails?
Great Dawley's trails often feature beautiful natural landscapes. You can explore areas with diverse water bodies like Horsehay Pool or Badger Village Ponds. The Dawley Hamlets Local Nature Reserve, with its wooded pit mounds and open water, is also a fantastic spot for nature observation.
Are there any historical landmarks to explore along the family-friendly routes?
Absolutely! Great Dawley has a rich industrial past. While hiking, you might encounter remnants of collieries and ironworks. The nearby Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers historical attractions like the Iron Bridge War Memorial, which can be part of a longer family adventure.
Can we find circular routes suitable for families in Great Dawley?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Telford Amphitheatre – Telford Disc Golf Course loop from Dawley is an easy 6.2 km circular hike perfect for families.
Are there trails accessible by public transport in Great Dawley?
Great Dawley has good public transport links, and many trails are accessible from central points. The area around Telford, including Southwater Lake and Telford Amphitheatre, is well-served, making it convenient to reach trailheads without a car.
Where can we find parking for these family hikes?
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and attractions in Great Dawley and the wider Telford area. For routes starting near Southwater Lake or Telford Amphitheatre, there are often designated parking facilities nearby, though it's always good to check local signage.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Great Dawley?
The family-friendly trails in Great Dawley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the blend of natural beauty and historical interest, and the suitability for all ages, making them ideal for a family day out.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for a full day out?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Iron Bridge War Memorial – Coalport Bridge loop from Telford offers a moderate 17 km hike. While longer, it provides a fantastic opportunity to explore more of the region's history and scenic beauty, suitable for older children or more active families.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Great Dawley?
Great Dawley is wonderful for family hikes year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, especially in areas like The Ercall Bluebell Woods. Summer offers pleasant weather for longer excursions, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, many paths remain accessible for a crisp walk, though some routes, particularly around The Wrekin, can get muddy.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints for families?
Yes, for breathtaking views, consider trails that offer glimpses of The Wrekin, a prominent local landmark. While some routes to its summit are more challenging, you can find family-friendly paths that provide excellent vistas of the surrounding countryside. The The Wrekin Hillfort is a notable viewpoint.
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