The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hungerford

There are over 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Hungerford, with 17 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and abilities. The region offers a diverse array of paths, from gentle riverside strolls to routes through rolling hills and woodlands.

Hungerford is nestled within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), so you can expect stunning countryside views. Many trails follow the tranquil Kennet and Avon Canal Path and the River Dun, offering picturesque waterways. You'll also find mixed farmlands, extensive deciduous woodlands, and open common lands like Hungerford Common.

Yes, there are several easy, circular routes. For a gentle option, consider the "Church of St Lawrence – Tutti Pole Café loop from Freeman's Marsh" which is 6.3 km long and relatively flat, exploring the River Dun and Freeman's Marsh. The Kennet and Avon Canal towpaths also offer pram-friendly sections.

Many trails incorporate historical and natural points of interest. You might encounter the remains of a Roman villa near Littlecote House on routes like the "Bridge Over the River Dun – Avenue to Littlecote House loop from Hungerford". Other notable sights include the historic Combe Gibbet with its panoramic views, or the tranquil Crofton Locks and Pumping Station along the canal.

The trails around Hungerford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the beauty of the North Wessex Downs, and the variety of routes suitable for families, highlighting the well-maintained towpaths and the charming villages encountered along the way.

While specific pubs with play areas aren't detailed for every route, Hungerford town and nearby villages offer various cafes and pubs where families can refuel. For example, the "Church of St Lawrence – Tutti Pole Café loop from Hungerford" specifically mentions the Tutti Pole Café, a popular spot for refreshments.

Hungerford offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended adventures. Autumn showcases stunning foliage in the woodlands, and winter walks can be magical, especially along the canal paths, though some trails might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many trails in the Hungerford area are dog-friendly, especially those along the Kennet and Avon Canal and through common lands. However, please be mindful of livestock in fields, particularly during lambing season, and keep dogs on a lead where necessary. Always clean up after your dog to preserve the natural beauty for everyone.

Parking is generally available in and around Hungerford, including public car parks in the town centre. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot, as some start points may have limited roadside parking or designated small car parks. Always park responsibly and considerately.

Hungerford has a train station with connections, making it possible to access some trails directly from the town centre. The Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, for instance, is easily accessible from Hungerford. For routes starting further afield, local bus services might be an option, but it's best to check specific route access and timetables in advance.

Yes, for families seeking a bit more challenge, routes like the "Cookies Bakery loop from Hungerford" offer a moderate 11.5 km hike with gentle ascents through the countryside. These longer trails provide a good opportunity for older children to explore more of the North Wessex Downs.