The best city hikes and walks in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

There are 5 urban hiking trails available in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, offering various distances and experiences for exploring the area.

Yes, many of the urban hiking trails in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve are considered easy. For example, the Ely Cathedral & the River Great Ouse loop and the Ely Cathedral – Cherry Hill Park loop from Ely are both rated as easy, providing accessible options for a relaxed urban hike.

The urban hikes in this area generally feature flat terrain, typical of the fenland landscape. You'll encounter paths along rivers and through urban areas, with minimal elevation changes. The reserve itself is characterized by reedbeds, open water, and wet grasslands, with some trails utilizing boardwalks.

Yes, the flat and generally easy nature of the urban trails makes them suitable for families. The Ely Market Square – Ely Porta (Walpole Gate) loop from Ely is a shorter, easy option perfect for a family outing. Within the wider Wicken Fen reserve, there are also dedicated boardwalk trails that are pushchair and wheelchair-friendly.

Many of the urban trails in the Wicken Fen area are dog-friendly, especially those along public footpaths and riverbanks. However, within the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve itself, dogs are generally welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect the sensitive wildlife and grazing animals like Konik ponies and Highland cattle. Always check specific signage for any restrictions.

While hiking, you can explore the historic city of Ely with its magnificent cathedral, and enjoy views along the River Great Ouse. Within the broader Wicken Fen area, you'll find unique wetland landscapes, including the ancient Sedge Fen and Adventurers' Fen. Keep an eye out for the historic windpump and the diverse wildlife, from various bird species to Konik ponies and Highland cattle. You can also visit Wicken Fen itself, and the Reach Lode and Burwell Lode.

Wicken Fen offers unique experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and nesting birds, while summer provides lush greenery and active insects like dragonflies. Autumn showcases beautiful changing colours, and winter offers a stark, serene landscape with opportunities for spotting overwintering wildfowl. The flat terrain means trails are generally accessible in most conditions, though some paths might be muddy after heavy rain.

Yes, all the urban hiking routes listed for Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve are circular. This includes options like the Ely Cathedral – Ely Porta (Walpole Gate) loop from Ely, which offers a moderate challenge, and the easier River Great Ouse – Great Ouse Towpath loop from Ely.

In Ely, you'll find various cafes and pubs. Within the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve itself, the Docky Hut Café is available at the visitor centre, offering refreshments after your hike.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the unique wetland scenery, and the abundance of wildlife. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to combine nature with historical urban exploration are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Ely is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train, making it easy to access the starting points for many of the urban hikes. From Ely, you can then explore the city and its surrounding paths, or connect to local bus services that may take you closer to the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve itself.

While all trails in the Wicken Fen area offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, the reserve is particularly renowned for its biodiversity. Keep an eye out for Konik ponies, Highland cattle, and a wide array of bird species, including marsh harriers and bitterns. The flat, open landscape along the lodes and through the fens provides excellent visibility for observing nature.