The best walks and hikes around London
4.5
(3397)
58,438
hikers
4,027
hikes
Hiking around London offers diverse landscapes, from expansive ancient woodlands and rolling hills to river paths and chalk cliffs. The region is characterized by numerous green spaces, including Royal Parks and ancient forests, providing a refreshing escape from the urban environment. These areas feature varied terrain, with gentle riverside walks and more challenging routes through hilly sections. London's status as a National Park City highlights its abundance of accessible natural environments for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around London
- The…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(58)
506
hikers
15.5km
04:03
110m
110m
Embark on the Tamsin Trail, a moderate hike spanning 9.7 miles (15.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 368 feet (112 metres). This route typically takes around 4 hours…
4.8
(37)
138
hikers
13.7km
03:39
140m
140m
Embark on the Alexandra Palace & Highgate Wood loop from Finsbury Park, a moderate hike spanning 8.5 miles (13.7 km) with an elevation gain of 452 feet (138 metres), typically…
Sign up for free
4.8
(25)
95
hikers
8.44km
02:16
110m
110m
Embark on the Hampstead Heath Circular, a moderate hike spanning 5.2 miles (8.4 km) with an elevation gain of 348 feet (106 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 16…
4.6
(15)
82
hikers
6.87km
01:48
50m
50m
Embark on an easy urban hike along the Jubilee Walkway, a 4.3 miles (6.9 km) route that offers continuous views of London's cityscape and the River Thames. You will gain…
4.3
(30)
108
hikers
9.89km
02:42
150m
150m
Embark on a refreshing hike through the Farthing Downs & Happy Valley loop from Coulsdon, a moderate route offering diverse terrain and scenic views. This circular trail spans 6.1 miles…
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 London
Vanguard Way – Hike some of the finest countryside in the South East
Hiking the Orange Way — Southern England in the footsteps of a king
Capital Ring — Discover London's hidden green spaces
Europe’s Seasonal Birding Hotspots
Teva Playground Explorers: Adventures Mapped by Us. Made for You.
Discover London’s Outdoor Playgrounds
Walk Britain – 90 car-free adventures in England, Wales and Scotland
Follow the Hogsmill River between two major trails — Thames Down Link
Discover a new side of London — hiking the New River Path
National Cycle Network Route 4 — Greenwich to Fishguard
Other adventures around London
Tips from the Community
The HL (presumably a local landmark) is located right here, ON the bridge. It doesn't exactly look impressive when crossing it. To enjoy the fantastic view you see in the photos, you have to walk all the way around the pond. And today (February) I was ankle-deep in mud. On the other hand, two dozen squirrels were happily dancing around me. A worthwhile detour, but with some limitations, at least in the winery.
1
0
To be honest, I found it most interesting from the outside. We were through the inside quickly, and for that price, I thought it was too expensive... It's a matter of opinion.
1
0
Located between the Millennium Bridge to the west and London Bridge to the east, Southwark Bridge is a great starting point for exploring London on foot. During our stay in London, we stayed in a hotel on the south side of the bridge. It was ideal for us.
0
0
Simply a beautiful bridge with ingenious technology and a glass floor on the upper level.
1
0
view of tower bridge
1
0
On a river as broad as the Thames, even the formidable HMS Belfast seems almost modest. She became a branch of the Imperial War Museum in 1978.
3
0
More Information
Exploring London’s parks
The buzz of the city bubbles over into London’s many parks, making them vibrant places to explore. These are the lungs of the city, where Londoners come to unwind, exercise and socialise away from the hustle and bustle of the streets. Its parks offer some of the finest walks around London.
For classic landmarks of regal London, St James’s Park is a pleasant place to stroll, with its lake and majestic pelicans. You can easily rack up the miles in Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, both set amongst affluent surroundings and the latter boasting classic city views from Primrose Hill. Victoria Park and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offer great walking around London’s more bohemian spots.
Seeking cityscape viewpoints
London is a bustling metropolis that continues to evolve and grow. Its modern skyline expands year-on-year, just as its use of the River Thames develops. Following the river is a superb way to experience and observe the changing face of the city, from the industry of the Docklands to opulent areas such as Chelsea and Fulham.
Many hikes around London seek high viewpoints from which to take in the stupendous urban sprawl of the capital. An island of beautiful countryside that offers sweeping city panoramas, Hampstead Heath and the many trails that criss-cross it are a pleasure to explore. Big skies also await on Blackheath, a large open heathland that connects to beautiful Greenwich Park. One Tree Hill and Observatory Hill both reward you with magnificent views of the Greenwich Peninsula, Canary Wharf and the wider city.
Natural beauty within the M25
Some of the best hiking trails around London take you into areas of such natural beauty, you will forget you are in one of the world’s busiest cities. Epping Forest is home to over 50,000 ancient pollard trees and 100 lakes and ponds, ideal for a woodland escape on the edge of the city limits. Get closer to nature as you explore the marshes of the River Lea, important habitats for wintering birds and the nationally endangered marsh warbler.Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around London?
London offers a vast network of hiking opportunities, with over 4,100 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging day hikes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near London?
The region boasts incredibly diverse landscapes. You can explore ancient woodlands like Epping Forest, enjoy rolling hills in the Chilterns or Surrey Hills, walk along scenic river paths such as the Thames Path, or experience dramatic chalk cliffs like the Seven Sisters. Many routes also feature expansive parklands and charming villages.
Are there family-friendly hiking options around London?
Yes, many areas are perfect for families. Richmond Park, with its free-roaming deer, offers gentle paths suitable for all ages, including the popular Tamsin Trail. Hampstead Heath also provides diverse terrain and open spaces for family adventures. Additionally, many sections of the Thames Path are relatively flat and accessible.
Which trails are suitable for dogs?
Most public footpaths and trails around London are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock or wildlife. Epping Forest, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath are popular choices for dog walkers. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or areas with ground-nesting birds.
Can I find circular hiking routes near London?
Absolutely. Many popular hiking areas feature well-defined circular routes. For instance, the Hampstead Heath Circular is a great option within the city, offering diverse scenery and city views. Further afield, Box Hill in the Surrey Hills offers a challenging 13km circular route with panoramic views.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see on a hike?
Hiking around London often leads to interesting sights. You can enjoy panoramic views of the city from Parliament Hill (View of London from Parliament Hill) on Hampstead Heath, or the iconic white cliffs of Dover. The Thames Path passes numerous historical sites and bridges. For a challenging climb with rewards, consider Box Hill (Box Hill Climb) in the Surrey Hills.
How accessible are hiking trails near London by public transport?
Many excellent hiking spots are easily reachable by public transport. Epping Forest is accessible via the Central Line, and Hampstead Heath has several nearby Underground and Overground stations. The Chiltern Hills and South Downs National Park are well-served by train lines from London, making day trips convenient. For example, the Alexandra Palace & Highgate Wood loop starts near Finsbury Park station.
Is parking available at popular hiking trailheads?
Yes, most popular hiking areas have designated parking facilities, though they can fill up quickly on weekends and public holidays. For example, Box Hill has several car parks. Epping Forest also offers numerous parking areas. It's always advisable to check specific location details in advance, especially for smaller trailheads.
What is the best season for hiking around London?
Each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases stunning foliage, particularly in ancient woodlands like Epping Forest. Summer is ideal for longer day hikes, especially along the coast or rivers. Winter walks can be very scenic, especially after a fresh snowfall, offering crisp air and quiet trails.
Are there any pub walks or places to eat near the trails?
Many hiking routes, particularly in the picturesque villages surrounding London and along the Thames Path, feature traditional pubs and cafes. These offer a perfect opportunity to refuel and relax. Areas like the Chiltern Hills and Surrey Hills are known for their charming village pubs, making them ideal for a 'pub walk' experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in London?
The hiking experiences around London are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the surprising variety of landscapes so close to a major city, the well-maintained paths, and the refreshing escape from urban life. The opportunity to see wildlife and historical sites also adds to the appeal.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking more challenging routes, the Seven Sisters Cliff Walk in the South Downs National Park offers dramatic coastal scenery and significant elevation changes over its 13.8-mile length. Box Hill in the Surrey Hills also provides routes with steep climbs and rewarding views. The North Downs Way and South Downs Way offer sections that can be tackled as challenging day hikes.
Most popular routes around London
Most popular attractions around London
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
