4.6
(213)
1,786
hikers
127
hikes
Hiking around Barnby Moor offers diverse and accessible natural landscapes, characterized by generally flat terrain suitable for various fitness levels. The region features expansive wetlands, historic canal towpaths, and nature reserves. Routes often follow the course of the River Idle, providing scenic views.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.5
(2)
40
hikers
3.75km
00:57
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
16
hikers
18.3km
04:37
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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beautiful nature reserve with a variety of habitats, including open water, grasslands, and woodlands
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Cross the canal here and down the steps walking along the tow path.
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Bank side ride of River Idle to Tiln. Grassed hard pan wheel tracks in the summer. Gates to lift over at beginning and end.
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This is an area of old quarrying which was rejuvenated into a series of lakes and wetland area. Now managed by the parish council of Lound it's a small nature reserve.
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Viewing area just off the Chain Bridge Lane, perfect for birdwatchers, panoramic views of the wetlands in the Northern half of the Idle Valley Nature Reserve
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Relic from the past, bridge over the River Idle. Formerly allowing heavy machinery access to the old gravel pits. Just off the footpath, the bridge now ends in a field, but nice elevated views up & down the river.
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Take five, lovely spot for a sit down with views of the birds on the Nature Reserve Lake and the sound of the babbling brook behind you
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"Off-Road" dusty (in summer) gravel road, accessible by car and wide enough to park on. Cuts across the middle of the Nature Reserve giving access to the heart of it.
2
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Hiking around Barnby Moor is characterized by generally flat terrain, making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. The routes often traverse expansive wetlands, follow historic canal towpaths, and wind through nature reserves like the Idle Valley Nature Reserve and Daneshill Lakes. You'll find a comprehensive network of trails, from easy walks to more moderate hikes.
Yes, Barnby Moor offers a substantial network of hiking trails. There are over 120 routes available, catering to various preferences and abilities. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
The Barnby Moor area is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the significant wetland area of the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, known for its abundant wildlife. The historic Chesterfield Canal offers picturesque towpath walks, and Daneshill Lakes Nature Reserve provides tranquil trails. Additionally, nearby attractions include Langold Country Park Lake and the Chesterfield Canal Towpath itself, which is a highlight for many hikers.
Yes, Barnby Moor has several easy walks perfect for families. The generally flat terrain and well-maintained paths in areas like Daneshill Lakes Nature Reserve are ideal. For example, the Goat Willow at Daneshill Lakes – Bowness Lake Nature Trail loop from Torworth is a shorter, easy trail that can be completed in under an hour, making it suitable for families.
While specific dog restrictions can vary by nature reserve or private land, many of the public footpaths and canal towpaths around Barnby Moor are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like Idle Valley, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Barnby Moor are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Chesterfield Canal – Whitsunday Pie Lock loop from Bassetlaw and the Idle Valley Nature Reserve – Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop from Bassetlaw, both offering comprehensive circular experiences.
The hiking trails in Barnby Moor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse and accessible landscapes, particularly the tranquil wetlands and scenic canal paths. The variety of routes, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, is also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect.
Absolutely. Barnby Moor offers many easy hiking trails, with over 70 routes classified as easy. These are perfect for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor experience. The Goat Willow at Daneshill Lakes – Bowness Lake Nature Trail loop from Torworth is a great example of an easy, short trail that provides a pleasant walk through nature.
Barnby Moor offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year due to its generally flat terrain. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter walks can be serene, especially along the canal towpaths or through the nature reserves, though conditions may be wetter.
Yes, the region is known for its abundant local wildlife, especially within the nature reserves. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve is a significant wetland area where you can often spot various bird species and other wetland creatures. Daneshill Lakes also offers opportunities for wildlife observation, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular starting points for hikes in Barnby Moor, especially near nature reserves and country parks like Langold Country Park, typically offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check route descriptions on komoot for specific parking information related to your chosen trail.
Yes, for those seeking a more extended and moderate challenge, Barnby Moor has over 50 moderate routes. The Chesterfield Canal – Whitsunday Pie Lock loop from Bassetlaw is a notable moderate trail, spanning over 18 km and following the historic canal, offering a longer and engaging experience.


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