4.3
(132)
1,411
hikers
107
hikes
Hiking around Brinkley (E Cambs) offers exploration through gently rolling countryside and open fields, characteristic of the Cambridgeshire landscape. The terrain features varied elevations, rising from approximately 125 feet to 375 feet above sea level. Notable natural features include the historic Devil's Dyke, a 7-mile linear earthwork, and Basefield Wood, providing diverse environments for outdoor activities. An extensive network of footpaths and bridleways allows access to these areas.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
5.0
(4)
15
hikers
8.48km
02:09
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
22.0km
05:44
150m
150m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
9.27km
02:25
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3 outdoorsy things of Newmarkets things in one place
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finally the offical Stour Valley Path signs appear as well as this first overview
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"The Devil's Dyke is one of the largest preserved Anglo-Saxon artworks in England. The massive bank and ditch stretch in a near straight line for 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) from Fen edge at reach, across the open chalk landscape near Newmarket, to the wooden slopes as Woodditton. The Dyke is best preserved at Gallows Hill near Burwell where it si 10.5 m (34 feet) high from the ditch bottom to the bank top."
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The Devil's Dyke stretches from Reach to Woodditton through Newmarket. It is an 11km bank with a ditch on the south west side. In parts it is as high as 9m tall. It is thought to be Anglo-Saxon and a defense barrier.
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Basefield Wood is the highest point on the Stour Valley Path long-distance trail, which follows the River Stour from its source near Newmarket to Cattawade on the Stour Estuary. Despite being 377 feet (115 m) above sea level, the flat landscape means that far reaching views are in short supply.
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Devil's Dyke is a linear ditch that runs in a straight line for 7 miles (11 km) between the villages of Reach and Woodditton. It separates the fenland to the north from the hills to the south and is thought to have been created by the Anglo-Saxons. Keep an eye out for unusual plant species, such as purple milk-vetch and bastard toadflax. It features on the Stour Valley Path and is a hugely enjoyable section, boasting views to distant Ely Cathedral on clear days.
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Local landmark on the highest point, marking the southern end of Devil's Dyke.
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The area around Brinkley is characterized by gently rolling countryside and open fields, with elevations rising from approximately 125 feet to 375 feet above sea level. You'll find a diverse network of footpaths and bridleways, offering varied terrain from open landscapes to woodland sections like Basefield Wood.
Yes, a significant landmark is Devil's Dyke, a 7-mile-long Anglo-Saxon earthwork. Portions of the Devil's Dyke Trail are incorporated into routes, offering potential views of Ely Cathedral on clear days. You can explore this on routes such as the Devil's Dyke β View of the Open Countryside loop from Woodditton. The area also has remnants of a Roman settlement.
There are over 100 hiking routes available around Brinkley (E Cambs), catering to various fitness levels. This includes 59 easy routes, 44 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging options.
The trails around Brinkley are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the expansive views of the Cambridgeshire landscape, and the well-maintained footpath network.
Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families, especially the easier and moderate trails that traverse the gently rolling countryside. These paths offer a chance to enjoy nature and spot local wildlife like deer and foxes.
Most footpaths and bridleways in the countryside around Brinkley are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock or near roads, and to follow the Countryside Code.
Yes, many of the routes around Brinkley are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Basefield Wood β Burrough Green Village Green loop from Stetchworth, which takes you through woodland and open fields.
Beyond the trails, you can explore historical sites like the Roman Road (Cambridge to Haverhill). Other nearby points of interest include White Fen and the Lode Watermill at Anglesey Abbey.
Parking is often available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Little Wilbraham or Stetchworth. It's advisable to check specific route details for designated parking areas.
The area is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, while autumn offers vibrant colors across the fields and woodlands. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter walks can be peaceful, though paths might be muddy.
While much of the terrain is gently rolling, there are more challenging options. For instance, the Devil's Dyke β View of the Open Countryside loop from Woodditton is a difficult 13.7-mile trail that takes approximately 5 hours 43 minutes to complete, featuring more significant elevation changes.
Yes, several routes start or pass through villages with local pubs, such as 'The Carpenters Arms' mentioned in the The Carpenters Arms loop from Little Wilbraham. These offer opportunities for refreshments before or after your hike.


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