4.4
(672)
3,834
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Alkborough traverse a landscape characterized by expansive wetland reserves, river flood banks, and paths along the Lincoln Cliff. The area features diverse terrain, including open farmland and elevated viewpoints overlooking the Humber Estuary. These routes offer a mix of flat sections and gentle ascents, providing varied experiences for families.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.6
(7)
34
hikers
9.80km
02:37
110m
110m
This moderate 6.1-mile (9.8 km) hike on the Nev Cole Way takes 2 hours and 37 minutes, gaining 375 feet (114 metres).
4.4
(9)
31
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
18
hikers
8.17km
02:08
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
5.47km
01:27
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Julian Bower is a great example of a well preserved turf maze with its sunken form demonstrating its great age. It is thought that the maze was cut by Spalding Priory before 1220. It is one of few surviving turf mazed believed to be from the medieval period.
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Set in a converted barn The Paddocks Tearoom offers delicious home cooked snacks, farmhouse lunches and freshly baked cakes all prepared on the premises. It's a small tea room, but very popular, so if you're part of a larger group give them a call to pre-book on 01724 721642.
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Alkborough Flats was first flooded in 2006. It is designed to provide a place to store flood water during extreme weather and create a new habitat for wildlife. It has quickly become a massive reedbed with extensive areas of wet grassland, supporting a huge variety of birdlife.
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Julian's Bower is a name which was given to turf mazes in several different parts of England. Only one of this name still exists, here at Alkborough in North Lincolnshire.
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Nice little quaint area where you can see the turf maze and sit down and appreciate the views.
2
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Check opening times as appeared to be closed when I went at midday
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Alkborough offers a selection of 9 family-friendly hiking trails. These routes vary in difficulty, with 5 easy options, 3 moderate, and 1 more challenging trail, ensuring there's something for every family's ability level.
The family-friendly trails in Alkborough feature a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter paths along expansive wetland reserves like the Alkborough Flats, elevated sections along the Lincoln Cliff offering panoramic views, and pleasant walks through picturesque farmland and along river flood banks. Expect a mix of well-maintained footpaths and natural surfaces.
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families with young children. For example, the Julian's Bower Turf Maze loop from Alkborough is an easy 5.5 km route that takes you to the unique turf maze. These shorter trails often have minimal elevation gain, making them enjoyable for little legs.
Many family-friendly hikes in Alkborough incorporate fascinating historical and natural landmarks. You can visit the ancient Julian's Bower Turf Maze, which offers stunning views over the Humber Estuary. Some routes also pass by the historic St John the Baptist Church with its Saxon tower, or the ancient Kell Well spring. The Alkborough Flats themselves are a significant wetland nature reserve, perfect for wildlife spotting.
Yes, several family-friendly routes in Alkborough are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular choice is the St John the Baptist Church β Julian's Bower Turf Maze loop from Alkborough, which is a moderate 15.4 km trail combining river views with historical sites. For a shorter option, consider the Julian's Bower Turf Maze loop from Alkborough.
Many of the trails around Alkborough are suitable for dogs, especially those that traverse public footpaths and open countryside. However, as routes often pass through farmland, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock. Always be mindful of local signage and respect wildlife, particularly in sensitive areas like the Alkborough Flats nature reserve.
The Alkborough Flats are a haven for wildlife, making walks in the area particularly exciting for families. Birdwatchers can spot marsh harriers, bearded tits, avocets, spoonbills, and large flocks of wintering waterfowl. Mammals such as otters, water voles, and brown hares also inhabit this rich ecosystem. Keep an eye out for these creatures, especially near the wetland areas.
Absolutely! The Lincoln Cliff provides dramatic elevated views over the Humber Estuary and the Alkborough Flats. Trails leading along this escarpment, such as parts of the Nev Cole Way, offer panoramic vistas. The area around Julian's Bower Turf Maze also provides stunning, elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
The family-friendly trails in Alkborough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the historical points of interest like Julian's Bower, and the opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, making it a rewarding experience for all ages.
While Alkborough itself is a small village, there are often pubs and cafes in nearby villages like Burton upon Stather, which can be accessed from some of the longer routes. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially if you're planning a longer family outing. Packing snacks and drinks is recommended for all hikes.
Public transport options to Alkborough can be limited. While local bus services may connect to nearby towns, direct access to all trailheads by public transport might require some planning. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving, as many routes offer convenient parking options.


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