The best walks and hikes around Ravenshead
4.5
(1498)
11,634
hikers
21
hikes
Hikes around Ravenshead explore a landscape of ancient woodlands, historic parklands, and gently undulating terrain in Nottinghamshire. The area is characterized by its network of public footpaths that connect notable sites like Newstead Abbey and Blidworth Woods. The trails wind through a mix of managed estates, pine forests, and open fields, offering a variety of walking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Ravenshead
- The most popular hiking route is The Monks Stew Pond – Newstead Abbey loop from Ravenshead CP, a 4.7 mile (7.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. This route explores the historic grounds of Newstead Abbey, passing by its ponds and gardens.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is The Monks Stew Pond – The Spanish Garden loop from Ravenshead CP, an easy 3.7 mile (6.0 km) path. The trail is mostly flat and follows well-maintained paths within the Abbey's parkland.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Pig Farm loop from Ravenshead CP, a 3.3 mile (5.3 km) trail leading through local fields and woods, often completed in about 1 hour 26 minutes.
- Hiking around Ravenshead is defined by its accessible woodland paths, historic estates, and sections of long-distance trails like the Robin Hood Way. The network provides numerous Ravenshead circular walks suitable for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Ravenshead are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 680 reviews. More than 7,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Ravenshead's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.8
(11)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
34
hikers
5.91km
01:35
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
15
hikers
7.51km
02:00
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
33
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. 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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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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The Parish Church was probably built in the late part of the 12th century, possibly on the site of the church hinted at in Domesday, the earlier building most likely of wattle and daub. The present church has traces of Norman work in the north and east walls which are two and a half feet thick. It is built of local limestone, with stones of handy sizes not laid in horizontal courses. Originally it was a plain rectangular building consisting of chancel, nave and a small tower. At some time in the XIV century a south aisle was added, and in the next century the porch was built. At the same time as the porch another stage was added to the tower, which is square, pinnacled, and unbuttressed. At some later date the porch was moved from the south to the north side of the church, its old position still clearly marked on the outside of the south wall. Another alteration visible from the exterior, and also on the south, is the blocked up 'Priest's Doorway' in the south wall of the chancel.
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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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Linby is a charming village located near the larger town of Hucknall. It features several notable buildings, including a 12th-century church, and features many quaint stone cottages and green spaces to enjoy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Ravenshead suitable for dogs?
Yes, many of the woodlands and parklands around Ravenshead are great for walking with dogs. Areas like Blidworth Woods and Sansom Woods are popular choices. However, when walking through private estates like Newstead Abbey or areas with livestock, it's important to keep dogs on a lead and adhere to local signage.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Definitely. The region offers numerous gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the The Monks Stew Pond – The Spanish Garden loop from Ravenshead CP, which is a mostly flat and easy-to-follow path within the scenic grounds of Newstead Abbey. The surfaced easy-access trail in Blidworth Woods is also an excellent choice for all abilities.
What is the terrain like on the Ravenshead trails?
The terrain is generally characterized by gently undulating hills, well-trodden woodland paths, and open farmland tracks. While most routes are not overly strenuous, some longer trails can include moderate inclines. The paths within Newstead Abbey and the main trails in Blidworth Woods are typically well-maintained and relatively flat.
Are there any circular walks that start from Ravenshead?
Yes, the trail network is well-suited for circular hikes, and most routes are designed as loops starting and ending in or near Ravenshead. This makes planning a day's hike straightforward without needing to retrace your steps. For example, the Pig Farm loop from Ravenshead CP is a pleasant circular route through local fields and woods.
What are the main points of interest to see on a hike?
The area is rich in history and nature. Key highlights include Newstead Abbey, the former home of Lord Byron, with its beautiful gardens and ponds. You can also explore Fountain Dale, a site famously linked to the legend of Robin Hood and Friar Tuck. The ancient woodlands, such as Thieves Wood and Sansom Woods, are also major attractions.
Can I access any long-distance footpaths from Ravenshead?
Yes, the famous Robin Hood Way, a 107-mile long-distance trail, passes through the area. You can easily join sections of this path for a challenging day hike, such as the part of the trail featured in the Fountain Dale Ponds – St Michael's Church, Linby loop from Ravenshead CP, which explores the varied landscape of woodland and farmland.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Many popular starting points for hikes have parking. For instance, Blidworth Woods has car parks which are convenient for accessing its network of trails. For walks around Newstead Abbey, there are official car parks, though they may require a fee. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends as spaces can fill up.
Are there any walks that feature a pub or cafe?
While the trails themselves are focused on nature, many routes start or finish near Ravenshead village or pass through nearby villages like Linby, where you can find traditional pubs and cafes. Planning a route that loops back towards a village centre is the best way to include a stop for refreshments.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Ravenshead?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful, well-maintained paths through historic estates like Newstead Abbey and the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands. The variety of routes, from short strolls to longer treks, is also frequently mentioned.
When is the best time of year to hike in Ravenshead?
Ravenshead offers a great hiking experience year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful when the woodland floors are carpeted with bluebells. Autumn provides stunning colours in the forests, while summer is perfect for enjoying the open parklands. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, but be prepared for muddy paths.
How many hiking trails are there around Ravenshead?
You can find over 20 hiking routes around Ravenshead on komoot. These range from short, easy loops perfect for an afternoon stroll to more difficult, long-distance treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and interest.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced walkers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are several longer and more strenuous routes. The Sansom Woods Ponds – Sansom Woods Fishing Pond loop from Ravenshead is a difficult-rated hike that covers significant distance and elevation, offering a rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
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