The best family-friendly hikes and walks around East Hunsbury
4.5
(658)
5,027
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around East Hunsbury traverse a varied landscape characterized by green spaces, woodlands, and historical features. The area includes significant parks such as Grangewood Park with its woodland trails and Hunsbury Hill Park, which features an Iron Age hill fort and panoramic views. Numerous "pocket parks" and sections of the Grand Union Canal also contribute to a network of accessible paths. The terrain generally offers gentle gradients, with some hillier sections providing diverse walking experiences.
Best family friendly hiking trails around East Hunsbury
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Delapré Abbey – Delapré Woods loop from West Hunsbury, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 25 minutes to complete, exploring woodlands and historical grounds.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Delapré Woods – Delapré Abbey loop from Wootton, a moderate 10.6 miles (17.1 km) path that winds through extensive woods and past the historic abbey.
- Local hikers also love the Hiking loop from Wootton, a 7.4 miles (12.0 km) trail leading through local countryside and green spaces, often completed in about 3 hours 9 minutes.
- Hiking around East Hunsbury is defined by woodlands, historical sites like the Iron Age hill fort, and canal towpaths, offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in East Hunsbury are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore East Hunsbury's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
13
hikers
12.3km
03:14
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
4
hikers
8.57km
02:13
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
6
hikers
21.5km
05:35
130m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
7.89km
02:03
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Tips from the Community
God is not only a theme in theological books; many other authors also repeatedly address him in secular literature. Giovanni Guareschi, with his "invention" of Don Camillo, who converses with the crucified Christ at the high altar, is a very prominent example of this. Even in many crime novels, monks or priests are woven into the plots and naturally bring a spiritual perspective on God and humanity. This is also the case several times in the crime series about the "Healer of Canterbury," published under the pseudonym Celia L. Grace, which the author has set in 15th-century England. In one of these stories, titled "The Poisoners' Feast," Father Clement (the local priest of a village plagued by a series of murders) speaks generally about his parishioners: "May the Lord have mercy on us all. They are good people, they are generous, they attend Mass, they try to live good lives, it's just..." he peered into the darkness. "It's as if things go wrong because they go wrong, Mistress. That's what Augustine said, wasn't it? We want God, we pursue what is good, but we are never in balance with ourselves, not with our neighbors, not with the world, and not with God." (Celia L. Grace, "The Poisoners' Feast") Perhaps a brief rest before this small sacred monument offers those lingering here the opportunity to regain a little more balance with themselves, with their neighbors and the rest of the world, but above all with God—the Lord of heaven and earth.
0
0
Opened on 1st May 1815, the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal includes 17 locks and connects the canal with the River Nene in Northampton.
0
0
Nice cafe, conveniently placed at the top of the gravel climb up from the Grand Union Canal! Indoor space isn't huge but there's plenty of outdoor seating.
0
0
This old bridge sits over the remnants of an old regional railway line that used to run to/from Towcester and join up with the Northampton to Bedford line near the Yardley Hastings ammo depot. The tracks themselves are long gone but peering over the sides you can see the remains of the old track bed with trees either side going off into the distance.
0
1
Fairly popular cafe for Salcey Forest walkers and wheelers alike. Plenty of outdoor seating for nice days (or if you're a bit muddy from the forest!) and there's a bike hire centre too. https://groundscafe.uk/salcey/
0
0
This bridleway passes through the M1 Wind Farm near Roade. You can't very often get this close to a wind turbine farm out in the wild... if you stop and stay quiet enough on a breezy day, you can hear the rhythmic whooshing of the huge turbine blades as they spin through the air!
0
0
Series of descending locks travelling towards Northampton (or ascending if you're going the other way towards Stoke Bruerne). Fairly wide in places so it's easy to build up a fair bit of speed downhill, but bear in mind it's a canal towpath so there will be walkers... ride sensibly, announce your presence and be ready to slow down for pedestrians👍
0
0
Very interesting place with fantastic ground works all the way round.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of family-friendly hiking trails can we find in East Hunsbury?
East Hunsbury offers a diverse range of family-friendly trails, from gentle strolls through woodlands to routes exploring historical sites. You'll find paths suitable for various ages and energy levels, often featuring green spaces, parks, and scenic views. Many routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children, incorporating natural beauty and points of interest.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for young children or strollers?
Yes, East Hunsbury has several easy options perfect for families with young children or those using strollers. The area features numerous 'pocket parks' and accessible paths. For example, parts of the Grand Union Canal at Hunsbury loop offer relatively flat sections. The Ouzel Valley Park is also known for its accessible circular walks, though some inclines might be present.
What natural features or landmarks can we expect to see on these family hikes?
East Hunsbury's trails are rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the picturesque woodlands of Grangewood Park, known for its bluebells in spring, or the diverse landscape of Hunsbury Hill Park, which features an ancient Iron Age hill fort. Penvale Park offers a unique 'Troll Bridge' that children often enjoy. You might also encounter sections of the Grand Union Canal.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in East Hunsbury are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For instance, the Delapré Abbey – Delapré Woods loop from West Hunsbury is a popular circular option. The Ouzel Valley Park also specifically offers easy circular walks along footpaths and canal towpaths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in East Hunsbury?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hiking experiences in East Hunsbury, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the area's blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and well-maintained paths that are enjoyable for all ages. The variety of parks and green spaces, along with the sense of discovery, are frequently highlighted.
Are the trails in East Hunsbury dog-friendly?
Yes, many of the trails in East Hunsbury are dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your furry companions along for a family adventure. Parks like Grangewood Park and Hunsbury Hill Park welcome dogs, though it's always recommended to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to clean up after them.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in East Hunsbury?
Parking is generally available near the main parks and trailheads in East Hunsbury. Hunsbury Hill Park, for example, has designated parking facilities. Many of the local 'pocket parks' and starting points for walks within the housing estates also offer convenient street parking or small car parks. It's advisable to check specific route details for the closest parking options.
Are there any cafes or refreshment stops along or near the family hiking routes?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Hunsbury Hill Park is home to the Drovers Return cafe, which is a convenient stop for snacks and drinks. Additionally, the broader East Hunsbury area has local cafes and pubs that are often family-friendly and located within a short distance of many walking routes.
What are some interesting attractions nearby that we could visit after a hike?
Beyond the trails, East Hunsbury and its surroundings offer several family-friendly attractions. You could visit the Northampton Bike Park for more outdoor fun, or explore the historical Castle Ashby Rural Shopping Yard. The Eleanor Cross in Hardingstone is another notable historical monument nearby.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in East Hunsbury?
East Hunsbury is enjoyable for family hikes throughout the year. Spring is particularly beautiful with bluebells blooming in Grangewood Park. Summer offers pleasant weather for longer walks, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the paths are generally accessible for a refreshing walk, though some areas might be muddy after rain. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for more adventurous families?
For families looking for a longer adventure, East Hunsbury offers several moderate routes. The Delapré Woods – Delapré Abbey loop from Wootton is a good option, covering over 17 kilometers. Another choice is the Hiking loop from Wootton, which is around 12 kilometers and explores varied terrain.
Most popular routes around East Hunsbury
Most popular attractions around East Hunsbury
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
