The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oxleas Wood
4.4
(453)
7,139
hikers
478
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Oxleas Wood are set within ancient woodlands covering over 60 hectares in Southeast London. This area features a blend of dense forests, open meadows, and small streams, providing varied terrain for hikers. Situated on Shooters Hill, one of Greater London's higher points at 432 feet (132m), the region offers elevated views across London. The woodlands are ecologically significant, with parts dating back 8,000 years and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Oxleas Wood
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Falconwood, an easy 4.3 miles (6.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 51 minutes to complete. This route offers panoramic views of the London skyline from Severndroog Castle.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Severndroog Castle β Oxleas Wood loop from Welling, an easy 3.8 miles (6.1 km) path. This trail winds through the ancient woodlands, providing a tranquil forest experience.
- Local hikers also love the Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Royal Borough of Greenwich, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail leading through varied woodland and open spaces, often completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Hiking around Oxleas Wood is defined by ancient woodlands, varied terrain with gentle hills, and historical landmarks like Severndroog Castle. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many easy family friendly routes.
- The routes in Oxleas Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Oxleas Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
18.2km
04:52
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
15
hikers
6.74km
01:49
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.31km
01:42
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A relic of the days before mechanical refrigeration, the Ice Well, beside the Tarn in Mottingham, was built around 1760 as an ice store for Eltham Lodge. Though it is some distance from the Lodge, the well was placed here so ice could be cut from the Tarn in winter and placed in the well, which is mostly underground, and the brick lining, shady situation and damp ground would keep the ice cool, allowing the affluent residents access to ice at a time when this was the last word in luxury.
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I ride past The Tarn whilst on a couple of my regular routes to and from favourite trails and woods - thereβs a no cycling sign so I never went in until today - itβs amazing. Typically there was a couple of e bikes buzzing around but if youβre passing itβs well worth looking in. The Tarn is one of Royal Greenwich's Green Flag award winning sites. The Tarn is a beautiful wildfowl and bird sanctuary set within a charming landscaped garden, a well kept secret hidden away just off Court Road in Eltham. Many of it's original features have been retained from the 1930s, as it was originally on the grounds of Eltham Palace. There's a picnic area to sit and watch the wildlife. This unique site was purchased in 1934 when it was turned into a public park, it features a distictive green coloured lake, caused by the algae that grows on it, which makes it so popular with the many species of birds it hosts. The site was purchased in 1934 and turned into a public park and features a picnic area
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Not a castle but a viewing tower. The surrounding woodland is Castle Woods which is part of the much larger Oxleas Woods.
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Lovely small viewing tower with its own cafe and small woods - Castle Wood. Part of much larger Oxleas Woods.
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Know to locals as βthe secretβ. Lots of great tracks and trails branching in all directions from the cafe.
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The parks and woodlands around Eltham often have nice views over London.
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One of the historic fields in Avery Hill Park. Large area with tracks around the perimeter and cutting across. Sparrows Lane runs adjacent and couple of narrow trails cut across the ditch and bushes in places into the field.
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Just below Severn Droogs Castle, in a clearing above a hilly field, is the rose garden. Jack wood is to the left -Castle Wood to the right; a large ornate brick step system is directly behind that climbs to the castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Oxleas Wood?
Oxleas Wood offers a fantastic network of trails, with over 490 routes available for hiking. More than 320 of these are considered easy, making it a great destination for family-friendly adventures.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Oxleas Wood?
You can expect a varied and engaging terrain perfect for families. The trails wind through ancient deciduous woodlands, open meadows, and alongside small streams. As Oxleas Wood is situated on Shooters Hill, one of London's higher points, some routes will include gentle inclines, offering rewarding views without being overly strenuous for children.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for young children or strollers?
Yes, many trails are suitable for families with young children. While not all paths are stroller-friendly due to the natural woodland terrain, there are easier rambles, particularly around Jack Wood and ancient Oxleas Wood, that are more accessible. For a relatively easy walk with a great reward, consider the Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Falconwood, which is just under 7 km.
What interesting landmarks or viewpoints can we discover on a family hike?
Oxleas Wood is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. A highlight is Oxleas Woods Trails, offering diverse paths. You can also visit the 18th-century Gothic folly, Severndroog Castle, which provides splendid panoramic views across London from its viewing platform. The woods also feature Oxleas Meadows, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife, including rare birds.
Are there any specific routes that offer great views of London?
Absolutely! Due to its elevated position on Shooters Hill, Oxleas Wood offers several spots with excellent views. The Severndroog Castle β View of the London Skyline loop from Royal Borough of Greenwich is a fantastic option, specifically designed to showcase these vistas. Severndroog Castle itself has a viewing platform that provides extensive panoramas.
Is Oxleas Wood accessible by public transport for families?
Yes, Oxleas Wood is well-connected by public transport, making it easy for families to visit. Several bus routes serve the area, and nearby train stations like Falconwood and Welling provide convenient access. Many routes, such as the Severndroog Castle β Oxleas Wood loop from Welling, start close to public transport links.
Where can we park when visiting Oxleas Wood for a family hike?
There are several parking options available around Oxleas Wood. Specific car parks are located at key entry points, including near Oxleas Cafe and Severndroog Castle. These provide convenient access to the trail network for families arriving by car.
Are there places to get refreshments or snacks along the trails?
Yes, you'll find convenient spots for refreshments. The popular Oxleas Cafe, located in a meadow at the top of the hill, is a great place to stop for snacks and drinks. Additionally, Severndroog Castle houses a tea room, offering another lovely spot to refuel during your family adventure.
Can we bring our dog on family hikes in Oxleas Wood?
Oxleas Wood is generally dog-friendly, and many families enjoy bringing their canine companions along for hikes. However, it's always best to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or near other visitors. Please remember to clean up after your dog to help keep the woods beautiful for everyone.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Oxleas Wood?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.34 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil ancient woodlands, the varied landscapes, and the sense of escape from the city. Families particularly appreciate the well-marked paths and the opportunities to explore historical sites like Severndroog Castle, making for a memorable day out.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Oxleas Wood?
Oxleas Wood is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days and picnics, and even winter offers crisp, quiet walks. The ancient woodlands provide good shelter, making it enjoyable in most conditions.
Are there any longer circular routes suitable for families with older children?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Eltham Palace β Eltham Palace and Gardens loop from Falconwood is a moderate 10.7 km route that offers a great circular experience. It allows for more extensive exploration of the area's diverse landscapes and points of interest, including the historic Eltham Palace.
Most popular routes around Oxleas Wood
Most popular attractions around Oxleas Wood
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