The best walks and hikes around Bartlow

Yes, many trails in the Bartlow area are dog-friendly. The paths often cross open fields and woodlands where dogs can enjoy the walk. One great option is the Hildersham Wood loop from Linton, which offers a varied landscape. As always, please keep dogs on a lead where livestock is present and follow local signage.

Certainly. For a shorter, manageable walk that's great for families, consider the View of Linton – Rivey Hill Water Tower loop from Linton. At just over 4 km, it's an easy trail that still provides a good sense of the local countryside without being too strenuous for younger hikers.

Yes, combining a hike with a pub visit is a popular activity here. Many routes pass through or near villages with welcoming pubs. The Three Hills in Bartlow is a highly-regarded local favorite, making it an excellent starting or finishing point for any walk exploring the nearby Bartlow Hills.

The most significant historical site is the Bartlow Hills, the largest Roman barrow cemetery in Britain. Many trails are designed to specifically feature these monumental burial mounds. You can climb steps to the top of the tallest mound for panoramic views. Some routes also pass near other historic sites like the Ashdon Windmill and Anglo-Saxon churches in nearby villages.

Reaching the trailheads by public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. The nearest major train stations are in Cambridge and Audley End, from which you would likely need to take a bus and then walk, or use a taxi. It is best to check local bus schedules in advance as services can be infrequent. Driving is generally the more straightforward option.

Parking is typically available in the villages that serve as trailheads, such as Bartlow, Ashdon, and Linton. This is usually on-street parking, so please park considerately. Some popular spots, like the area near The Three Hills pub in Bartlow, can be used as a base for your hike.

While the area is best known for its moderate circular walks, you can create longer hikes by linking different paths. For a more substantial moderate walk, the Rivey Hill – Rivey Hill Water Tower loop from Linton is over 11 km and explores the farmland and gentle hills of the region. You can also explore the network of public footpaths to extend your route further.

The landscape is classic English countryside, characterized by rolling hills, agricultural fields, and patches of woodland. The main viewpoint is from the top of the largest of the Bartlow Hills, which offers panoramic views over the surrounding area. Hikes along the River Granta also provide lovely waterside scenery.

The trails around Bartlow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the unique combination of history and nature, particularly the experience of walking around the ancient Roman burial mounds and the peacefulness of the surrounding woodlands.

Yes, you can find lovely woodland sections on many of the hikes. The Bartlow Hills themselves are enveloped in woodland, adding to their secluded feel. For a route that specifically includes a significant woodland section, the trail through Hildersham Wood is an excellent choice, offering a peaceful walk among the trees.

The majority of hikes are easy to moderate, making the area accessible to most fitness levels. The terrain consists of gentle, rolling hills rather than steep climbs. There are over 100 routes to choose from, with dozens in both the easy and moderate categories, so you can easily find a walk that suits your preference.