The best walks and hikes around Little Marlow
4.6
(1694)
13,669
hikers
13
hikes
Hikes around Little Marlow explore a landscape defined by the River Thames and the edge of the Chiltern Hills. The area features a network of footpaths that cross river meadows, pass by lakes, and lead through sections of woodland. The terrain is generally flat with some gentle inclines, making many of the Little Marlow walking routes accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Little Marlow
- The most popular hiking route is Spade Oak Nature Reserve & Warren Wood loop, a 4.5 mile (7.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 55 minutes to complete. This circular walk combines paths through woodland with sections around the Spade Oak Nature Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is St John's Church – Spade Oak Nature Reserve loop from Little Marlow, an easy 2.5 mile (4.0 km) path. This route follows level footpaths along the River Thames and around Spade Oak Lake.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Cock Marsh Nature Reserve – The Bounty loop from Bourne End, a 4.0 mile (6.4 km) trail leading through open marshland, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Little Marlow is defined by riverside paths along the Thames, lakeside trails, and woodland footpaths. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from short, flat walks to more moderate hikes with some elevation gain.
- The routes in Little Marlow are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,000 reviews. More than 7,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Little Marlow's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.3
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31
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7.33km
01:58
90m
90m
Embark on the Spade Oak Nature Reserve & Warren Wood loop, an easy hike that takes you through a delightful mix of landscapes. You will follow tranquil riverside paths along the River Thames, offering peaceful views, before reaching the serene Spade Oak Lake, often bustling with diverse waterfowl. The route then leads you into ancient woodlands like Warren Wood, where you might spot bluebells carpeting the forest floor in spring. This 4.6-mile (7.3 km) journey involves a gentle elevation gain of 303 feet (92 metres) and typically takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.
Before you set out, be aware that certain sections of the path, especially around Spade Oak Lake, can get quite muddy during wetter winter months. Packing appropriate waterproof footwear is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable experience. This popular trail is generally well-maintained, making it a reliable choice for a day hike. Parking is usually available close to the trailhead, but it is always a good idea to check local signage for any restrictions or changes before your visit.
Located within the beautiful Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this trail offers a rich natural experience. You will encounter a variety of habitats, including lakeside, river, meadow, and woodland, providing constantly changing scenery. The presence of Spade Oak Lake, home to diverse waterfowl, adds a unique ecological dimension to your walk. This loop is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the varied natural beauty of the region.
4.5
(2)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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23
hikers
11.5km
02:56
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
20
hikers
9.76km
02:35
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It is not so common for a Christian place of worship – which encompasses the whole of heaven – to be dedicated to “ALL SAINTS”. Usually it is one (or occasionally two) named saints who hold the patronage of a church – and thus usually also of the parish or town in which it is located. But to find the origin of such a dedication, one has to go far back in history, because the model for this practice of dedication to ALL SAINTS can be seen as a pagan custom, according to which there were already central temples in pre-Christian times that were dedicated to all deities (PANTHEON). The probably most famous Pantheon, formerly a pagan temple and now a Christian place of worship, is located in the Italian capital.
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Marlow is a picturesque town on the edge of the Chiltern Hills AONB, and the bridge is one of the highlights. Connecting Buckinghamshire and Berkshire, there has been a bridge on this site since at least 1530, with an original crossing dated at around 1309.
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On the other side of the lakes is sewage works, giving off horrendous smells
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Enjoy a stroll through the charming ancient woodland of Warren Wood near Marlow. The woods feature towering trees, seasonal wildflowers, and plenty of birds to discover.
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This is a beautiful nature reserve situated along the banks of the River Thames near Bourne End and Little Marlow. The reserve hosts a number of habitats such as wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, that provide home to a variety of wonderful bird and animal species.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walks around Little Marlow suitable for dogs?
Yes, the area is great for walking with dogs. Many trails cross open fields and follow riverside paths. The Cock Marsh Nature Reserve – The Bounty loop from Bourne End is a good option, offering wide-open spaces. Just be mindful of grazing livestock and wildlife, especially in nature reserves, and keep your dog under control.
What is a good family-friendly walk in the Little Marlow area?
For a walk that's manageable for little legs, consider the St John's Church – Spade Oak Nature Reserve loop from Little Marlow. It's a short, flat route that follows the River Thames and circles Spade Oak Lake, making it ideal for families and great for spotting birds.
Are there any challenging hikes with good views?
While most trails are gentle, you can find more elevation by heading towards the Chiltern Hills. The Hiking loop from Marlow Bottom offers a more moderate challenge with over 150 meters of climbing, rewarding you with some lovely views over the surrounding landscape.
Where can I find walks that include a pub stop?
Many routes pass near traditional pubs. A popular choice is the walk that takes you through Cock Marsh, which is close to The Bounty pub in Bourne End. This allows you to easily combine a scenic riverside walk with a refreshing break.
What are the trail conditions like? Can the paths get muddy?
The footpaths, especially those along the River Thames and through meadows like Cock Marsh, can become very muddy after rainfall. It's always a good idea to wear waterproof hiking boots, particularly outside of the dry summer months.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The Spade Oak Nature Reserve is a key location for wildlife spotting. As a flooded gravel pit, it attracts a wide variety of wildfowl and other birds. Keep an eye out for different species as you walk the paths around the lake and along the river.
Are there any walks that follow the Thames Path?
Yes, several walks incorporate sections of the Thames Path. A great example is the Marlow Town Centre – Marlow Suspension Bridge loop from Marlow Bottom, which includes a lovely stretch along the river, offering picturesque views of the water and boats.
What are the parking options for starting a walk in Little Marlow?
Parking is available in Little Marlow village, often near the church or local pubs, but it can be limited. For some routes, it may be easier to park in nearby towns like Marlow or Bourne End and start your walk from there, as they offer more extensive public parking facilities.
How do komoot users rate the hiking in Little Marlow?
The hiking routes around Little Marlow are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the peaceful River Thames to the quiet woodlands and bird-rich nature reserves.
How many hiking trails are available around Little Marlow?
There are over 15 curated hiking routes to explore around Little Marlow. These range from easy, flat riverside strolls to more moderate woodland hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.
What are some popular places to hike near Little Marlow?
Besides the immediate village footpaths, hikers often explore several well-regarded nearby areas:
- Chilterns National Landscape: A vast, popular area offering extensive hiking trails through rolling hills and woodland.
- Cock Marsh: A favorite for its wide-open riverside paths and unique landscape managed by the National Trust.
- Bisham Woods: A beautiful and historic woodland offering scenic lookouts over the Thames and Marlow.
Most popular routes around Little Marlow
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