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East Midlands
Nottinghamshire

Trent

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around the Trent

4.5

(1788)

16,097

hikers

907

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around the Trent offer diverse landscapes, primarily characterized by gentle river paths, expansive nature reserves, and historic canal routes. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for various age groups and abilities. This region provides opportunities to explore riverside scenery, observe local wildlife, and enjoy open green spaces.

Best family friendly hiking trails around the Trent

  • The most popular family friendly hiking route is The Big Track, a 4.8 miles (7.8 km) trail that…

Last updated: May 14, 2026

4.4

(9)

160

hikers

#1.

The Big Track

7.77km

01:59

30m

30m

Hike The Big Track, an easy 4.8-mile (7.8 km) loop in Nottingham, offering riverside views and historical sites in under two hours.

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4.0

(26)

92

hikers

Embark on the Trent Valley Way: Trentham Monument Circular, a moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) hike that takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete. You will gain 572 feet…

Moderate
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4.7

(14)

94

hikers

16.0km

04:04

50m

50m

Hike The Big Track in Nottingham, a moderate 9.9-mile route along canals and the River Trent, passing locks and green embankments.

Moderate

Hike a moderate 6.1-mile loop through Attenborough Nature Reserve, enjoying waterland views, birdwatching, and sections along the River Tren

Moderate

4.5

(21)

69

hikers

Hike the moderate 10.6-mile Erewash Valley and Trent Valley Trail Loop through Attenborough Nature Reserve, featuring diverse wildlife and w

Moderate
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Hiking Collection by

Alex Foxfield

Tips from the Community

Ray
December 18, 2025, Canalside Heritage Centre at Beeston Lock

The Canal side Heritage Centre also has a nice tea room with a garden and nice clean toilets. Over the canal next to the Marina Chandlery is another cafe and a licensed bar. On street parking is available behind the Marina. Beeston Railway Station is only a couple of minutes bike ride away.

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just a short detour off the route but worth the stop. quite stunning - and very noisy 😁

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Martin
April 25, 2025, Beeston Lock

Love this place. On both sides! Beeston side offers a café on the lock (+ Marina Club a little further down). Clifton side offers beautiful woodlands nearby.

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A very pleasant walk with a certain degree of hills

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Greg©️
March 31, 2025, Works Pond

Works Pond Bridge currently CLOSED

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Paul Eady
March 14, 2025, Trent Bridge

the whole walk was good it is also wheelchair friendly all the way

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The Trent Valley Way is a 108 mile (174 km) long distance path following the course of the river. This section follows one of the banks through the Attenborough Nature Reserve alongside East Lake.

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Greg©️
December 16, 2023, Meadow Lane Lock

This is Meadow Lane Lock, recently had new gates fitted,

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around the Trent?

There are over 500 easy family-friendly hiking trails around the Trent, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and abilities. In total, the region boasts more than 900 hiking routes.

Are there short walks suitable for young children or those with strollers?

Yes, many of the trails along the Trent are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for younger children and strollers. Look for routes with shorter distances and minimal elevation gain. For example, parts of The Big Track offer accessible sections.

What kind of natural attractions can we see along the family-friendly trails?

The Trent area is rich in natural beauty, especially around its waterways and nature reserves. You can explore places like the Attenborough Nature Reserve, known for its diverse birdlife and peaceful lakes. Other highlights include Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve and St Chad's Water Nature Reserve, perfect for spotting local wildlife.

Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails around the Trent?

Many trails around the Trent are dog-friendly, especially those along the riverbanks and in open countryside. However, specific nature reserves like Attenborough Nature Reserve may have restrictions or require dogs to be on a lead to protect wildlife. Always check local signage or the route description for specific rules.

Are there circular routes available for families?

Absolutely! Many family-friendly routes around the Trent are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Attenborough Nature Reserve loop from the visitor centre, which offers a scenic and manageable circular path.

When is the best time of year for family walks along the Trent?

The Trent area is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for picnics and wildlife spotting. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in the Trent region?

The Trent region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained, accessible trails that are perfect for families. The flat terrain and scenic views are frequently highlighted as major positives.

Are there any interesting landmarks or historical sites to see along the trails?

Yes, beyond natural beauty, the Trent region offers some interesting landmarks. You can visit Trent Lock, a historic canal junction, or admire the architecture of Essex Bridge. These sites add a touch of history to your family's outdoor adventure.

Is parking readily available for family walks in the Trent Valley?

Parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails, especially near nature reserves and visitor centers. Many routes, such as those around Attenborough Nature Reserve, have dedicated parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information before your trip.

Are there cafes or facilities near the family-friendly hiking trails?

Yes, many popular family-friendly areas, particularly around nature reserves and larger towns along the Trent, offer cafes, visitor centres, and public restrooms. For example, the Attenborough Nature Reserve has a visitor centre with amenities. Planning your route can help you identify convenient stops for refreshments.

Can we reach any of the family-friendly trails by public transport?

Many areas along the River Trent are accessible by public transport, particularly those closer to towns and cities like Nottingham. Local bus services often connect to trailheads or points of interest. Checking local transport schedules for specific starting points is recommended to plan your journey effectively.

Most popular routes around the Trent

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