The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bulcote
4.5
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7,239
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264
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Family friendly hiking trails around Bulcote are primarily characterized by the River Trent, which forms a central feature of the landscape. The area offers readily accessible paths along the riverbanks, including sections of the Trent Valley Way. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various activity levels. Notable features include Gunthorpe Lock and Weir, a focal point for many riverside routes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Bulcote
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is View of the River Trent loop from Burton Joyce, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This easy route offers direct views of the River Trent.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gunthorpe Lock and Weir – Gunthorpe Bridge loop from Burton Joyce, a moderate 5.7 miles (9.1 km) path. This trail explores the area around Gunthorpe Lock and Weir, following the river.
- Local hikers also love the Gunthorpe Bridge – Gunthorpe Lock and Weir loop from Burton Joyce, a 5.1 miles (8.2 km) trail leading through the River Trent valley, often completed in about 2 hours 3 minutes.
- Hiking around Bulcote is defined by the River Trent, the Trent Valley Way, and Gunthorpe Lock and Weir. The network offers options for easy family friendly walks as well as more moderate routes.
- The routes in Bulcote are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 7,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Bulcote's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
9
hikers
5.36km
01:21
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
9.13km
02:18
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
8.16km
02:04
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.23km
01:04
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.73km
00:56
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Gunthorpe Lock is one of the largest locks on the River Trent which was once a major trading route. It's still possible to see commercial barges, but now it's better known for great waterway walks.
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Gunthorpe Lock is one of the largest locks on the River Trent which was once a major trading route. It's still possible to see commercial barges, but now it's better known for great waterway walks.
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Lovely location on the Trent. Lots of easy, flat, traffic-free roads around here. Regularly use this as a lunch stop on rides in the southern half of the Vale of Belvoir. There is an easy 30 mile loop to Newark and back, going through quiet lanes up one side of the Trent and back down the other. I have used the riverside Unicorn pub as an overnight base for cycle-touring in this area.
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Very nice village next to the Trent. Easily accessed by the cycle way. Suitable for all riders.
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A lovely riverside village with a pub and a nice pier - ideal for taking a good photo of your machine!!
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It's a good ride and a hard hill to test your self on
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Really beautifully maintained village with a lot of charm. Worth stopping for a snack by the bridge on the riverside.
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Once the UK’s biggest working farm. The best thing about it today is the virtually traffic-free lanes that surround it. An idyll.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Bulcote?
Bulcote and its surrounding area offer a wide selection of routes suitable for families. You'll find over 260 hiking trails, with more than 120 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for family outings.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Bulcote?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Bulcote, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 745 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessible paths and the scenic riverside views, particularly around the River Trent.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or prams?
Yes, many paths are easily accessible and suitable for all skill levels, including those with young children or prams. For a gentle stroll, consider the View of the River Trent loop from Burton Joyce, which is just over 5 km long and features minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes around Bulcote?
The terrain around Bulcote is generally gentle, especially on the family-friendly routes. You can expect mostly flat paths along the River Trent, with some routes featuring slight inclines. Many paths are well-maintained, making them suitable for various ages and abilities.
Are there circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many of the trails around Bulcote are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. For example, the Gunthorpe Lock and Weir – Gunthorpe Bridge loop from Burton Joyce is a moderate circular route that allows you to explore the riverside without retracing your steps.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?
Many of the trails around Bulcote are dog-friendly, especially those along the River Trent. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in busier areas, and to carry waste bags to maintain the cleanliness of the paths.
What natural features or landmarks can we see on family hikes near Bulcote?
The most prominent natural feature is the River Trent, offering picturesque riverside walks. You'll also encounter the notable Gunthorpe Lock and Weir, a significant attraction and a focal point for many routes. For more natural beauty, consider visiting Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve or the Colwick Country Park Lakes.
Are there any interesting historical sites or places to visit near the family trails?
Yes, the area boasts some interesting historical sites. You could visit the impressive Southwell Minster, a beautiful cathedral, or explore Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, reputed to be the oldest inn in England, located a short distance away.
Where can we find parking for family walks in Bulcote?
Parking is generally available in and around Bulcote, particularly near popular trailheads and villages like Burton Joyce or Gunthorpe. Many routes start from locations with designated parking areas, making access convenient for families.
Are there cafes or pubs near the family hiking trails for a break?
Yes, several routes pass by or are close to villages with amenities. Gunthorpe, for instance, is known for its riverside establishments like Tom Browns Brasserie and The Reindeer, offering places to stop for refreshments or a meal after your hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Bulcote?
The trails around Bulcote are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for picnics. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
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