The best hikes from bus stations around Wicken

There are 10 hiking trails around Wicken that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging walks through the unique fenland landscape.

The bus station hikes in Wicken primarily explore the distinctive fenland ecosystem, particularly around Wicken Fen. This area is one of the few surviving wild fens in East Anglia, characterized by wetlands, reedbeds, and peat soil. You'll experience a unique natural environment that is a haven for diverse plant and animal life.

Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. For a shorter, accessible option, consider the View south from Wicken Fen – Wicken Fen loop from Wicken Fen. This 3.6 km easy route is perfect for a gentle introduction to the fen, and parts of Wicken Fen itself feature all-weather boardwalks that are pushchair and wheelchair-friendly.

Many of the bus-accessible routes in Wicken are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop. An excellent moderate circular option is the Wicken Fen Nature Reserve – Burwell Lode loop from Wicken Fen, which covers about 12 km.

Wicken Fen is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 10,000 recorded species. On your hikes, you might spot rare fenland plants, a wide array of invertebrates, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out for booming bitterns and cuckoos in spring, or hen harriers and short-eared owls in winter. Dragonflies are also prevalent in summer.

Absolutely. The trails often provide views across the expansive fenland. You can explore the White Fen area, and the historic Wicken Lode, a man-made watercourse, is a prominent feature. There are also eight wildlife viewing hides around Wicken Fen for observing the abundant wildlife.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique tranquility of the fenland, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained paths and boardwalks that make exploring accessible and enjoyable.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on many of the public footpaths and bridleways around Wicken. However, within the Wicken Fen Nature Reserve itself, dogs must be kept on a lead to protect the sensitive wildlife and livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserve areas.

Wicken offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for spotting rare plants, dragonflies, and nesting birds like cuckoos. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the reeds, while winter offers opportunities to see overwintering birds like hen harriers and short-eared owls. The all-weather boardwalks make it accessible even in wetter conditions.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Burwell Fen – Cock-Up Bridge, Burwell Fen loop from Wicken Fen is a great option. This route covers over 10 km and allows for a more extensive exploration of the fenland landscape, offering a good balance of distance and immersion in nature.

While the primary focus is natural beauty, you can find historical points of interest nearby. Wicken Fen itself is Britain's oldest nature reserve, cared for by the National Trust since 1899. Further afield, you could visit the impressive Ely Cathedral or the Lode Watermill at Anglesey Abbey, though these might require additional travel from the immediate bus stops.