The best walks and hikes around Great Hallingbury
4.5
(356)
2,185
hikers
362
hikes
Hiking around Great Hallingbury offers diverse landscapes, from the flat trails along the River Stort Navigation to the varied elevations of the Stort Valley. The region is characterized by ancient woodlands, including Hatfield Forest, and open countryside. Terrain rises from approximately 60 meters in the valley to 90 meters at Bedlar's Green, providing a range of gradients for hikers. This area, part of the metropolitan Green Belt, features preserved natural beauty and accessible trails.
Best hiking trails around Great Hallingbury
…Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.0
(4)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
12
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
45
hikers
5.38km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
36
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful grade II listed building. Here is what the official entry says: "2. Mid C16 double fronted house. Exposed post and panel timber-framing, steep red tile pitched roofs. Two and a half storeys. North elevation to Bridge Street has jettied first floor and jettied second floor twin gables. Ground floor has central door flanked by modern mullion and transom windows in original positions and one old mullioned 2-light window. Two modern mullioned oriels on first floor and band of 5 blocked original mullioned 2-light windows. Cable moulded bressummer and carved angle post. Gables have mullioned 2-light windows and pendants to apexes and wall plates. Early C17 extension to west. Two storeys, one bay. Jettied first floor with C19 horizontal sash window. East elevation to Devoils lane has original mullion windows on ground and first floors. Plastered 2-storey, one bay, jettied extension to south with ground and first floor C18 sash windows. Further extension to south. Early C17, matching west extension of north elevation. Two storeys. Jettied, half-timbered first floor with one old mullioned window and 3 modern casements. Interior. Exposed dragon beam in ground floor, much restoration. (RCHM (1911) 65)." (https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1101601?section=official-list-entry)
2
0
Nice historic builing now hosting a restaurant/bar with a relaxed terasse on the upper floor. Good place for a break with a view to enjoy good weather.
2
0
This path follows the beautiful River Stort Navigation canal near South Mill Lock. It’s a lovely flat trail that offers picturesque views, conveniently located just outside Bishop's Stortford.
4
0
We got to meet a beautiful black-and-white horse that took an interest in us as we passed
0
0
Beautiful spot to stop on the bridge over the pond. Only a small wooden bridge but quaint.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Great Hallingbury?
Great Hallingbury offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find flat, leisurely trails along the River Stort Navigation, as well as varied elevations within the picturesque Stort Valley, where the landscape rises from approximately 60 meters to 90 meters. The area also features ancient woodlands like Hatfield Forest and open countryside paths.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or a relaxed stroll?
Yes, Great Hallingbury has over 200 easy routes. For a tranquil walk through woodland, consider the Broom's Plantation loop from Bishop's Stortford, an easy 5.4 km path. The flat trails along the River Stort Navigation are also ideal for leisurely walks.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Many of the hiking opportunities in Great Hallingbury are circular. For example, the Lock and Latte Coffee Stop – Tednambury Lock 4 loop from Bishop's Stortford is a moderate 11.6 km route that follows the River Stort Navigation, offering scenic riverside views.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while hiking?
The region is rich in history. You can explore Wallbury Camp, an Iron Age hill fort, or discover elements of Stane Street, a Roman road. The parish church of Great Hallingbury, dating from Norman times, is also a notable historical feature. For a unique experience, the Henry Moore Studios and Gardens offers a chance to walk amidst monumental bronze artworks in a natural setting.
Are there any natural features or viewpoints to look out for?
Absolutely. The River Stort Navigation provides picturesque waterside views. Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest, is a highlight with its ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a beautiful lake, Hatfield Forest Lake. The Stort Valley itself offers scenic vistas as you traverse its varied elevations.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Great Hallingbury?
The routes in Great Hallingbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the preserved natural beauty, the variety of landscapes from ancient woodlands to river valleys, and the well-maintained paths.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Wooden Bridge Over the Pond – Bishop's Stortford Town Centre loop from Bishop's Stortford is a difficult 20.4 km trail that takes approximately 5 hours 20 minutes to complete, leading through varied countryside.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Great Hallingbury?
Great Hallingbury offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers to the woodlands, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage in places like Hatfield Forest. The flat trails along the River Stort Navigation are pleasant even in winter, weather permitting. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any trails that pass through specific woodlands or forests?
Yes, the area is known for its ancient woodlands. Hatfield Forest is a prime example, offering numerous trails through ancient trees and diverse ecosystems. You can also explore routes that pass through Broom's Plantation and Gravel Pit Coppice, such as the Broom's Plantation – Gravel Pit Coppice loop from Bishop's Stortford.
Are there any trails that start near Thorley Wash Nature Reserve?
Yes, you can find routes that begin near the Thorley Wash Nature Reserve. A moderate option is the Lock and Latte Coffee Stop – The Miller's Cottage loop from Thorley Wash Nature Reserve, which covers about 9.1 km.
How many hiking routes are available in Great Hallingbury?
There are over 370 hiking routes available in Great Hallingbury, catering to various fitness levels. This includes over 200 easy routes, 160 moderate routes, and a selection of more challenging trails.
Most popular routes around Great Hallingbury
Most popular attractions around Great Hallingbury
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
