The best walks and hikes around Hockerton
4.6
(663)
6,113
hikers
277
hikes
Hikes around Hockerton explore the rolling countryside of Nottinghamshire, a region characterized by gentle hills, well-wooded areas, and tree-lined streams. The landscape is part of the Mid-Nottinghamshire Farmlands, offering a mix of agricultural fields and ancient woodlands. Many routes follow public footpaths and former railway lines, providing varied terrain for walkers.
Best hiking trails around Hockerton
- The most popular hiking route is the Southwell Trail – Southwell Community Orchard loop from Kirklington CP, a 5.5 mile (8.9 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route follows a section of the traffic-free Southwell Trail, a former railway line.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Kersall CP, a moderate 6.4 mile (10.3 km) path. The trail passes through the nature reserve, known for its mix of woodland and open ground.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Southwell Minster – Southwell Minster loop from Halloughton, a 5.1 mile (8.2 km) trail leading through farmland with views of the historic Southwell Minster, often completed in about 2 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Hockerton is defined by gentle farmland paths, trails through ancient woodlands, and routes along former railway lines. The network of public footpaths provides options suitable for a range of fitness levels.
- The routes in Hockerton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Hockerton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.3
(6)
80
hikers
6.10km
01:34
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
35
hikers
4.06km
01:02
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
26
hikers
8.85km
02:15
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
17
hikers
8.09km
02:07
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sadly most of the apple trees that used to be here a few years ago have been chopped down. How many trees makes an orchard? More than there are I would say!
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Great, easy going trail for all abilities. Well maintained.
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The trail is 7.5 miles and built on the former railway line of the Midland Railway. It stretches from Southwell to Bilsthorpe and passes the villages of Farnsfield, Kirklington and Maythorne. You can walk, cycle or horse ride along the trail and there are a number of free car parks to allow access.
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The former Maythorne Mill, its former workers’ cottages and its ancillary buildings, plus a farm, form the greater part of this small hamlet. It was a cotton mill built in 1785 to supply the framework knitting industry with yarns. The speculator that built Maythorne was a Southwell hop merchant. In the early C19th the mill was adapted to produce silk and lace thread. There was also a Mission Hall, a pub & general store. The mainly female workforce was required to wind silk on bobbins, form it into shanks before it was finally washed and pressed and despatched to Nottingham. However, yarn & thread products were not the only items produced here as osier beds provided willow for basket-making and hops were also grown locally. From 1939-45 the mill was used to billet soldiers and in 1948 the land & buildings were put to agricultural use. the mill building has been converted into residential flats & some workshops in various outbuildings. The mill wheel was powered by the River Greet.
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Caudwell's Mill stands on the River Greet on the site of Southwell’s mediaeval Burgage mill. When Charles Caudwell, whose family originated from Derbyshire, bought the mill in 1851 he made changes, thus greatly increasing the mill’s capacity. Wheat was transported to the mill by road, rail and water. Local corn arrived by horse and cart, supplies from further afield came from the R.Trent by barge to a wharf at Fiskerton which still stands. The mill suffered serious fires on three occasions in 1867, 1893 and 1917. On each occasion the opportunity was taken to modernise the plant. Local bakers took their supply of flour from the mill, best known was ‘Mosedale’s’ Bakery and Caudwell’s ‘Greet Lily Flour’ won the Nottinghamshire’s Bakers Cup in 1907, 1908, 1909, 1912 and 1914. The mill was taken over by Associated British Foods, who closed it in 1977 and in 1989 the mill was converted into residential apartments.
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An ‘open access’ orchard, which can be enjoyed at the start of the picturesque Southwell Trail. Within the Community Orchard, three Bramley Apple trees were planted to commemorate the bicentenary of the world famous apple in 2009. The trees were donated by Roger Merryweather who, along with his brother, were the last members of the family involved with running H. Merryweather & Sons Nursery, where the world-famous Bramley Apple was first cultivated. Riverside Walk is ideal for a tranquil stroll alongside the River Greet, from Upton Road to the Greet Bridge on the Normanton Road, while the Orchard is a popular picnic spot.
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The former Palace of the Archbishop of York stands next door to the Minster, adjoining the present official residence of the Bishop of Southwell. The Palace as we see it today dates from the 14th Century and was wrecked during the Civil War. The ruined part can be admired up-close from the Palace Gardens. The surviving built part of the Palace – the Great Hall – was restored in the Edwardian era. The Hall retains its original proportions and the beams of the magnificent vaulted ceiling of the State Chamber are mostly medieval originals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Hockerton suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the Hockerton area are great for walking with dogs. The region's public footpaths through open farmland and woodlands offer plenty of space. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. Trails like the former railway lines are particularly good, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions before you go.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Hockerton?
Definitely. The area is well-suited for families. For a shorter, accessible outing, consider the Caudwell's Mill loop from Southwell. It's a gentle 4 km walk that follows the River Greet and is perfect for little legs. The Southwell Trail, being a flat, traffic-free path, is also an excellent choice for family walks or bike rides.
Where can I find walks with good views?
For expansive views of the Nottinghamshire countryside, seek out trails that take in some of the area's gentle rises. The walk from Halloughton towards Southwell offers lovely perspectives of the surrounding farmland with the magnificent Southwell Minster in the distance. For a scenic picnic spot, locals often head to Robin Hoods Hill, which is known for its great views on a clear day.
What is the terrain like on the Hockerton trails?
The hiking around Hockerton is generally characterized by gentle, rolling terrain. You'll encounter a mix of public footpaths across agricultural fields, tracks through ancient woodlands, and flat, surfaced paths along former railway lines like the Southwell Trail. While most routes are easy to moderate, some paths can become muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, the majority of popular routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. Komoot offers many loop trails, such as the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Kersall CP, which provides a varied walk through woodland and open ground.
Where can I park to start a walk?
Many trailheads have designated parking areas. For example, walks along the Southwell Trail can be started from car parks in Kirklington or Southwell. Some routes, particularly those starting from villages, rely on street parking, so please park considerately. Always check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for specific parking information.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Hockerton?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the peacefulness of the countryside, the well-maintained paths like the Southwell Trail, and the mix of history and nature, especially the views of Southwell Minster from the surrounding fields.
Can I see wildlife on the trails?
Yes, the varied habitats provide good opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Southwell Trail acts as a wildlife corridor where you might see various birds. For dedicated nature watching, the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Bilsthorpe is an excellent choice, taking you through a protected area with diverse flora and fauna. The nearby Besthorpe Nature Reserve is also a popular spot for birdwatching.
Are there any pubs or cafes on the walking routes?
Many walks start, finish, or pass through charming villages like Southwell, Kirklington, and Halloughton, which have traditional pubs and cafes perfect for a post-hike refreshment. The historic town of Southwell, in particular, offers a wide selection of places to eat and drink just a short distance from several popular trails.
How many hiking trails are there around Hockerton?
There is a wide variety of options to explore. You can find over 280 hiking routes around Hockerton on komoot, ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging day hikes. This includes over 150 easy routes perfect for casual walkers and families.
What is the Southwell Trail?
The Southwell Trail is a popular 7.5-mile traffic-free path for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders that runs along a former railway line between Southwell and Bilsthorpe. It offers a safe and level surface, making it ideal for all abilities. The trail passes through countryside and serves as an important local wildlife corridor. You can find more details on the Nottinghamshire County Council website.
Are there any long-distance footpaths in the area?
While Hockerton is best known for its day hikes and circular walks, it is close to sections of longer regional trails. The nearby River Trent has a path along its banks that can be followed for many miles. Additionally, the network of former railway lines, like the Rowthorne Trail and Southwell Trail, can be linked together to create longer, traffic-free excursions through the Nottinghamshire countryside.
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