The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Old Bolsover
4.5
(1490)
11,634
hikers
28
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Old Bolsover traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and repurposed historical routes. The area offers diverse ecosystems and picturesque views, with notable features such as the Vale of Scarsdale and the Carr Vale Nature Reserve. Many routes incorporate accessible paths and public rights of way, making them suitable for various fitness levels and easy family hikes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Old Bolsover
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(21)
65
hikers
11.0km
03:02
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
23
hikers
12.1km
03:09
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21
hikers
7.19km
01:52
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
12
hikers
13.8km
03:47
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
4.75km
01:15
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Fantastic views from the long Gallery side of the castle and from the corner where it meets the Little Castle.
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The Riding House at Bolsover Castle is one of the earliest surviving indoor horse arenas in Britain. It's a landmark in British equestrianism and is still used for demonstrations and events. Built in the 1630s, likely by William Cavendish, the "father of modern dressage", the building was renovated in the 1660s after the Civil War and restored in 1999/2000. The Riding House features a magnificent roof and viewing galleries andan arena with a central training "pillar" used to draw horses in circles. The old stables block is now home to an exhibition on the Duke of Newcastle.
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This wetland reserve is a great place for birdwatching. The mixture of open water, marsh, wet and dry grassland, scrub and trees attracts a rich variety of birds throughout the year. In winter large numbers of wildfowl feed in the wetlands and surrounding grasslands. Large flocks of wigeon graze the banks while teal can be seen preening and feeding on the water's edge. As well as wildfowl, the reserve attracts wintering flocks of finches and buntings, which feed along the field boundaries. A more secretive winter visitor is the water rail, which skulks above the marsh areas. More often heard than seen, it has a distinctive squealing call. Spring and autumn are important times on the reserve, as many birds are on migration and Carr Vale is an ideal place for them to feed and roost. In September, swallows gather in the marsh, in a roost of between 1-2,000 birds. They usually attract hobbies, birds of prey which are skilled hunters on the wing.
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New Bolsover model village is a village adjoining the town of Bolsover in Derbyshire. The pit village was begun in 1891 by the Bolsover Mining Company. It is a model village built by philanthropic colliery owners which was to benefit and improve the lives of workers at Bolsover Colliery. The architects for the village were Arthur Brewill and Basil Baily of Nottingham. The village had a school and a Cooperative store. On the edge of the village were allotments, pig sties and the village cricket pitch. The village had no public houses, but there was an institute that would serve workers no more than three glasses of beer a day. The colliery company employed a policeman and anti-social behavior could result in fines or dismissal.
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Remains of stone tunnel vault with a coped gable. The conduit house is one of four along the escarpment which brought water to Bolsover Castle.
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Sutton Scarsdale Hall was built in the Baroque style on the site of an existing house between 1724 and 1729 for the 4th Earl of Scarsdale. The architect for the new hall was Francis Smith of Warwick, who skilfully incorporated the earlier building of about 1469 within his design.
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Link between Bramley Vale & Carr Vale, also links to Pleasley Pit Park via the Lodge Plantation & Rowthorne Trail.
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Worth the small detour from the main Stockley Trail to follow the water's edge and take in the view.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Old Bolsover?
There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Old Bolsover, with 12 of them rated as easy, making them ideal for families. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from gentle strolls through woodlands to paths with historical points of interest.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Old Bolsover?
The terrain around Old Bolsover is diverse, featuring rolling hills, extensive woodlands, and repurposed historical railway lines. Many paths offer gentle inclines and accessible surfaces, while some routes may include moderate ascents and descents over uneven ground, providing varied experiences for families.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy and shorter walks perfect for families with young children. For example, the Cafe With Outdoor Seating – Carr Vale Pond loop from Bolsover is just under 5 km and offers a gentle experience. Another great option is the New Bolsover Model Village – Carr Vale Pond loop from Bolsover, which is around 7 km and passes through the picturesque model village.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we see while hiking with family near Old Bolsover?
Many family-friendly routes incorporate historical and natural attractions. You can explore the impressive Bolsover Castle, pass through the charming New Bolsover Model Village, or discover the ruins of Sutton Scarsdale Hall. Nature lovers will enjoy the Carr Vale Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatching. The View from Bolsover Castle offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Are the family-friendly trails around Old Bolsover suitable for prams or strollers?
While many trails feature accessible paths, some routes may include uneven ground or moderate inclines. For pram-friendly options, look for routes that specifically mention repurposed railway lines or well-maintained country park paths, as these tend to be flatter and smoother. Always check the route details for specific terrain information.
Can we bring our dog on family hikes in Old Bolsover?
Yes, many of the trails around Old Bolsover are dog-friendly. The region's extensive woodlands and open countryside provide plenty of space for dogs to enjoy. However, please keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, wildlife, or in nature reserves like Carr Vale, and always clean up after your pet.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these trails?
Absolutely! The area is rich in wildlife, particularly at the Carr Vale Nature Reserve. This wetland reserve is known for its diverse bird species, and you might spot various birds, insects, and small mammals throughout the woodlands and open countryside on your family hikes.
What is the best time of year to visit Old Bolsover for family hiking?
Old Bolsover is lovely for family hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and new life, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours for exploration. Even in winter, many paths are accessible, offering crisp views, though some trails might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is always recommended.
Are there any circular walks suitable for families?
Yes, many family-friendly routes around Old Bolsover are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Sutton Scarsdale Hall – Carr Vale Pond loop from Bolsover is a popular circular option that combines historical sites with natural beauty.
Where can we find parking for family hiking trails in Old Bolsover?
Parking is generally available in and around Old Bolsover, particularly near popular starting points like Bolsover Castle or in the town center. Many country parks and nature reserves also offer dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Old Bolsover?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning views of the Vale of Scarsdale, the historical points of interest like Bolsover Castle, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands and nature reserves, making it a fantastic destination for family outings.
Most popular routes around Old Bolsover
Most popular attractions around Old Bolsover
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