The best walks and hikes around Perry
4.5
(327)
2,964
hikers
187
hikes
Hiking around Perry is centered on the paths surrounding Grafham Water, a large freshwater reservoir in Cambridgeshire. The region is characterized by generally flat terrain, with well-maintained trails that follow the shoreline. These routes offer open views across the water and pass through small sections of woodland, making the area suitable for a variety of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Perry
- The most popular hiking route is Grafham Water loop, a 9.1 mile (14.6 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. This is a full circuit of the reservoir with minimal elevation change.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Grafham Water Mini Golf – Grafham Water Main Car Park loop from Grafham, an easy 3.4 mile (5.5 km) path. The route follows a section of the reservoir's shoreline and is mostly flat.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Fishing Spot at Grafham Water – View of Grafham Water loop from Grafham, a 5.6 mile (9.0 km) trail leading through shoreline paths, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Perry is defined by waterside paths and gentle woodland trails. The network of routes around the reservoir provides options for both short, easy walks and longer circuits.
- The routes in Perry are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Perry's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
4.7
(87)
759
hikers
14.6km
03:45
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
42
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
103
hikers
8.79km
02:15
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Good toilets and outside space. Tea coffee and cakes. Every sandwich has cheese so if you have allegies no food as there are no other options. Used to have full kitchen but the powers that be closed it and now there is just one staff member so it can be a very long wait for service. Shame used to be a good stop.
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Excellent track around the resevoir. Some muddy parts when wet and some loose gravel. One area is quite bumpy but don't let that put you off its a good and interesting ride. The cafe at the western end is self serve and the water for tea is not hot enough and my wife did not like the coffee so we avoid it now. However the outside is much improved so will venture back and update.
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Lovely village... once home to Queen Katherine of Aragon , and one of the most desirable villages to live in .. in Cambridge.
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Rode this route 04/08/24 tough going for kids... long grass etc but a great ride. watch out at Santa Pod raceway if there is an event on.
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From here you can access the cycle/walking path along the top of the dam which gives great views up the length of Grafham Water.
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The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.
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Is it a small town or a big village? Dominated now by the extensive grounds of the independent Kimbolton School.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Perry?
Yes, the area around Grafham Water is ideal for families. A great option is the Grafham Water Mini Golf – Grafham Water Main Car Park loop from Grafham. It's a short, flat walk along a section of the reservoir, making it manageable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are welcome on the paths around Grafham Water, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the local wildlife. The wide, well-maintained trails provide plenty of space for a walk with your canine companion.
What is the longest hike I can do in the area?
The longest single trail is the Grafham Water loop, which is a full circuit of the reservoir. This moderate hike covers just over 9 miles (14.6 km) and offers continuous waterside views.
Are there any challenging or difficult hikes near Perry?
The terrain around Perry is generally flat, so you won't find any strenuous mountain climbs. The main challenge comes from distance. Most routes are rated easy or moderate, with only a few difficult trails available in the wider region. The primary focus is on gentle, scenic walks.
What are the views like on the hikes?
The scenery is dominated by expansive, open views across Grafham Water. The trails follow the shoreline, offering a peaceful waterside experience. You'll also pass through small sections of woodland, which provide a pleasant contrast to the open water.
Are there any waterfall hikes in this region?
No, the landscape around Perry and Grafham Water is characterized by its flat terrain and the large reservoir. There are no natural waterfalls on the local hiking trails.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Perry?
The routes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with many hikers praising the well-maintained paths and beautiful views across the water. The peaceful atmosphere and accessibility for different fitness levels are frequently mentioned as highlights.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from?
There are over 200 routes to explore around Perry. The vast majority are easy or moderate, focusing on the paths around Grafham Water, but there are options for all types of walks.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, there are several car parks situated around Grafham Water that serve as convenient starting points for the trails. For example, the Grafham Water Main Car Park is a popular choice. Be aware that parking charges may apply.
What is the best time of year to hike around Perry?
You can hike here year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for long walks. Autumn provides beautiful colours in the wooded sections, while the open, flat trails are often accessible even on crisp winter days, though you should be prepared for muddy patches after rain.
Are the trails suitable for running or cycling?
Absolutely. The well-maintained, relatively flat paths that circle Grafham Water are very popular with runners and cyclists. The full 9-mile loop is a favorite for a long-distance run or a family bike ride.
Can I get to the trails using public transport?
Accessing the trails directly via public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. The nearest major town with better bus and train links is Huntingdon. From there, you would likely need to take a taxi to reach the main car parks at Grafham Water. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance.
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