The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Barnby
4.4
(265)
2,478
hikers
7
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Barnby are characterized by a mix of gentle river paths, open countryside, and woodland sections. The region features low elevation changes, making it suitable for families. The landscape includes views of the River Waveney and areas within The Broads, offering diverse natural settings for outdoor activities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Barnby
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Ancient Hollow Tree – Barnby Chapel Café & Gallery loop from Barnby, a…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.7
(3)
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
9
hikers
16.1km
04:06
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
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
The magnificent medieval church was first documented in 1369; the detached tower was completed in 1540. It is not located in the usual location because the builders apparently had concerns about placing it too close to the cliff. It is said to be open in the summer and can be climbed. Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson's parents were married here in 1749; his father had previously been a vicar here.
0
0
Nice views of the cruisers on the Waveney although the road pinches as it crosses the bridge so you can't stop to admire them.
0
0
This is the Barnby Chapel which in 2023 had a major refurbishment from derelict building to cafe and gallery space by the new owners. A real gem of a place and if like me your interests are coffee and art you won't be disappointed when stopping here. Great coffee, cakes and savoury snacks with some light lunch options too, all fairly priced. There's plenty of seating inside and out, cycle racks and a water station for those of you bringing along a four legged friend. 5 Stars on the "Reuse of building O'Meter!"
0
0
Enjoy a picturesque stretch of walking along a section of the scenic Anglers Way near Beccles.
1
0
Running over the old iron bridge you will be treated to boating views along the River Quay. A stone bridge crossed the river before but it was too narrow for newer, grander boats to pass under so this was built as an upgrade in 1884.
0
0
Of all the bridges I've ridden over this is definitely one of them!
1
0
Beccles is a picturesque town on the edge of the Broads. The old iron bridge (built 1884), crossing the River Waveney offers great views of the boats moored up at the quay.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Barnby?
There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Barnby, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, perfect for exploring the local landscape.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Barnby?
The family-friendly hikes around Barnby generally feature gentle terrain with minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for families. You'll find paths winding through the picturesque countryside, often near waterways like the River Waveney and The Broads, offering pleasant and accessible walking conditions.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families with young children or those looking for a shorter outing, routes like the Ancient Hollow Tree – Barnby Chapel Café & Gallery loop from Barnby are ideal. This easy trail is just over 4.5 km long and can be completed in about an hour and ten minutes, offering a lovely, manageable walk.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see on these trails?
Many trails offer glimpses of local landmarks and natural beauty. You might pass by the historic Beccles Old Bridge, enjoy views of the River Waveney, or explore areas near The Broads. Some routes also lead past charming local churches or offer scenic viewpoints.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the family-friendly routes in Barnby?
Yes, some routes incorporate stops at local amenities. For instance, the Ancient Hollow Tree – Barnby Chapel Café & Gallery loop from Barnby passes by the Barnby Chapel Café & Gallery, offering a convenient spot for refreshments. You might also find places like Nicolas Everitt Park, which has a cafe, or the The Locks Inn at Geldeston nearby for a pub stop.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Barnby?
The family-friendly trails around Barnby are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, the accessibility of the paths, and the beautiful views of the local waterways and natural landscapes.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails for families looking for a longer hike?
For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, there are several moderate trails. The Grazing Cows in The Broads – Sunset View in The Broads loop from Barnby is a moderate 15.2 km route that takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes, offering a longer exploration of the scenic Broads area.
Can we expect to see any wildlife on these family hikes?
Hiking around Barnby, especially near The Broads and nature reserves like Lound Lakes Nature Reserve or Castle Marshes Nature Reserve, offers good opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local fauna that inhabit these wetland and countryside environments.
Are there any circular routes available for family walks?
Yes, all the family-friendly routes listed for Barnby are circular, meaning you'll start and end at the same point. This makes planning your family outing much easier, as you won't need to arrange transport back to your starting location.
What is the longest family-friendly hike available in the area?
The longest family-friendly hike in the area is the Grazing Cows in The Broads – Sunset View in The Broads loop from North Cove Nature Reserve. This moderate route spans approximately 17.3 km and typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to complete, offering an extensive exploration of The Broads.
Are there historical sites or ruins to explore on these family hikes?
While hiking, you might encounter historical elements. For example, the nearby St Andrew's Church Ruins, Covehithe offers a glimpse into the region's past, providing an interesting point of interest for families to discover.
Most popular attractions around Barnby
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
