The best walks and hikes around Newstead
4.5
(1377)
9,621
hikers
10
hikes
Hikes around Newstead feature a landscape of verdant forests, woodland paths, and serene lakeside strolls. The region's terrain is generally gentle, characterized by trails winding through stands of trees and alongside several bodies of water, including the Upper, Garden, and Lower Lakes. The River Leen also provides pleasant paths for walking.
Best hiking trails around Newstead
- The most popular hiking route is the Newstead Abbey loop, a 6.9 mile (11.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 55 minutes to complete. This moderate hike circles the historic Newstead Abbey area.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is The Spanish Garden – The Monks Stew Pond loop from Newstead, a moderate 4.9 mile (7.8 km) path. The route takes walkers past water features and through wooded sections.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love The Monks Stew Pond – Newstead Abbey loop from Newstead Abbey, a 2.2 mile (3.6 km) trail leading through the abbey grounds, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Newstead is defined by its mix of shaded forest trails, open glades, and lakeside paths. The network of routes offers options suitable for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to longer moderate hikes.
- The routes in Newstead are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,200 reviews. More than 9,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Newstead's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(137)
561
hikers
11.1km
02:53
80m
80m
Hike the moderate 6.9-mile Newstead Abbey loop to explore historical grounds, diverse terrain, and scenic views in Nottinghamshire.
4.9
(7)
76
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
40
hikers
3.02km
00:48
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(5)
26
hikers
7.82km
02:03
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
18
hikers
4.41km
01:10
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A nice little waterfall and you can go behind the waterfall as well
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A nice pond in the middle of Newstead Abbey gardens which you will find not far from the main building
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The boat house offers good views of Newstead Abbey over the lake, can be muddy to get there but is worth walking out there
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Always worth a visit to Newstead Abbey it's a beautiful building with wonderful gardens to wonder around and get lost in the beauty
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Newstead Abbey, located in Nottinghamshire, England, originally served as an Augustinian priory. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it was converted into a private residence. Today, it is most renowned as the ancestral home of Lord Byron. The priory of St. Mary of Newstead, established by King Henry II of England around 1170, was a house for Augustinian Canons. Despite its present name, Newstead was never an abbey but rather a priory.
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A 100m tall Wind Turbine was built in the centre of the site
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Annesley Pit Top is one of few pit tops that has escaped the generic ‘restoration’ process. Campaigning by local birdwatchers and conservation bodies, its uniqueness as an old pit top was thankfully rescued. Having a cluster of small settling ponds and extensive rough grassy areas rendered it particularly attractive for wildlife, and in recognition of its value, it was soon designated a SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy, family-friendly walks around Newstead?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families and beginners. Most of the trails are rated as easy, featuring gentle terrain. A great option is the Bottom Lagoon – Middle Lagoon loop from Newstead CP, which is a short walk of about 3 km around the scenic lagoons.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The hikes around Newstead are known for their peaceful, natural beauty. You can expect to walk through verdant forests and on woodland paths. Many trails also feature serene strolls alongside several bodies of water, including the Upper, Garden, and Lower Lakes, as well as the River Leen.
Are the hiking trails suitable for dogs?
Dogs are often welcome in the general area, but specific restrictions can apply, especially within the grounds of historic sites like Newstead Abbey. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead and to check local signage at the start of your trail for the most current rules.
Where is the best place to park for hiking in Newstead?
The main car park for the area is at Newstead Abbey, which is the starting point for several popular routes. Some routes also begin from the Newstead CP (Car Park). Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends, as these are popular spots.
Are most of the trails circular loops?
Yes, many of the recommended hikes are circular routes that start and end at the same point, which is convenient for parking. For example, the Newstead Abbey loop is a popular circular trail that takes you around the historic estate.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Newstead?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of visitors exploring the area. Reviewers often praise the mix of shaded forest trails, open glades, and scenic lakeside paths that make the region special.
How long are the typical hikes in this area?
There is a good variety. You can find short, easy walks like The Spanish Garden – Newstead Abbey loop from Newstead Abbey, which is just over 2 km and takes less than an hour. There are also longer, moderate options of around 8-11 km that can take up to 3 hours to complete.
Are there any challenging or difficult hikes available?
The hiking in Newstead primarily consists of easy and moderate trails with gentle terrain. The region is not known for difficult or strenuous mountain climbs, making it ideal for relaxed walks and moderate hiking rather than expert-level challenges.
Can I explore the area by bike as well as on foot?
While this guide focuses on hiking, the gentle terrain and network of paths in the area are also popular with cyclists. Many of the wider tracks through the woodlands and around the lakes are suitable for casual bike rides.
Are there any specific natural features or reserves to look for?
The main natural attractions are the various lakes, including the Upper, Garden, and Lower Lakes, and the River Leen. The trails are designed to showcase these water features and the surrounding woodlands, such as those around the historic Monks Stew Pond.
Is it possible to get to the trailheads using public transport?
Yes, the town of Newstead has public transport links. The Newstead railway station is a key hub, and from there, it's possible to walk to the starting points of several trails, including the The Spanish Garden – The Monks Stew Pond loop from Newstead.
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