Feeling overwhelmed by city life? Take a break and escape to the countryside. London is surrounded by beautiful trails, just a short trip away. These hikes offer a chance to enjoy nature and see wonderful views.
Our guide shows the best hikes near London for your weekend. You can reach these places in less than 90 minutes. From the historic paths of The Ridgeway to the Seven Sisters’ stunning coasts, there’s a lot to explore. These trails are perfect for adding excitement and calm to your weekends.
Tring to Princes Risborough – The Ridgeway
The hike between Tring and Princes Risborough takes you through southern England’s chalk escarpments. It is part of the Chiltern Hills hikes and stretches for 21.5km. It shows you ancient travellers’ routes, making it a challenging but rewarding walk.
Our adventure starts in the historic town of Tring, close to London. We began our walk at 10:00 AM on 23rd June 2002. The weather was ideal for hiking, at a comfy 20 degrees with a gentle breeze. Our path led us through the beautiful Chiltern Hills, across Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
First, we walked through Pavis Wood and Haddington Hill, then up to Wendover. Coombe Hill offered stunning views over Aylesbury, Wendover, and Tring. Along the way, we followed the iconic Ridgeway trail signs. The journey featured muddy paths over chalk, adding an adventurous twist.
One interesting part was the Chequers Estate. It’s the Prime Minister’s countryside home, full of history. Facing extra security there brought an unexpected thrill.
Descending from Coombe Hill, we passed Whitleaf, seeing Whiteleaf Hill, and the nature reserves at Grangelands and Pulpit Hill. The walk hikes near London through different woodlands offered peace and joy to us nature lovers.
We faced many ups and downs, reaching 246 metres on Whiteleaf Hill and 260 metres on Coombe Hill. Sites like the Neolithic burial mound and the Boer War Monument enriched our trip with history. Our hike ended at Princes Risborough Station around 15:30, marking a fantastic day of discovery.
We plan to walk from Princes Risborough to Marlow next, connecting various trails. This journey has been more than a hike. It’s been a journey through history, nature, and challenges. It’s one of the most scenic walking paths near London.
Seaford to Eastbourne – The Seven Sisters Cliff Walk
The hike from Seaford to Eastbourne is a showcase of coastal beauty. It offers stunning chalk cliff views over a 21.2 km route. Starting at Seaford Beach, hikers witness the majestic Seven Sisters Cliffs. These cliffs are celebrated for their beauty and importance in geology.
This hike takes roughly 6 hours and 45 minutes to complete, with ups and downs along the way. The total climb is 513 meters, and the descent is 525 meters. It’s challenging but fulfilling. Along the South Downs Way, hikers see the Martello Towers. These were built as defences during the Napoleonic Wars. There are 103 towers along England’s southeast coast.
The Belle Tout Lighthouse at Beachy Head is a notable spot. First built in 1902, it replaced an older lighthouse from 1828. The lighthouse used to burn a vast amount of oil nightly. Due to erosion, it was moved 17 meters away from the cliff in 1999. Now, it is a bed and breakfast with beautiful views.
Birling Gap is a busy place, with access by car. It offers a National Trust Café, a visitor centre, a shop, and restrooms. The area features the “Birling Gap Steps,” leading down to the beach. These steps may close during bad weather or cliff falls. The cliffs at Birling Gap erode about one meter yearly, showing the constant conflict between sea and land.
A pub at Beachy Head has great views of the Belle Tout Lighthouse. Near Eastbourne Pier, the trail showcases more breathtaking cliff views. To get back to Seaford, you can take a 31-minute bus ride from Eastbourne Gildredge Road. Buses like the 12X or 12A run this route. Or, take a train for direct services to Brighton or London.
Ockley to Leith Hill
Starting from Ockley station, the Leith Hill hikes are a wonderful journey through nature and history. The trip is about 9 km long and rises about 200 meters up. It’s a great day out for those who love the outdoors.
After walking for 2 km, hikers find themselves in beautiful woods hikes near London. Close by is Vann Lake, a hidden gem full of wildlife. Here, you can see dragonflies, discover different kinds of fungi, and watch birds, all before climbing Leith Hill.
The climb to Leith Hill is a highlight. It’s the tallest point in Southeast England, rising 294 meters above sea level. On top, there’s Leith Hill Tower, built in 1765, with breathtaking views of London on a clear day. These views prove the trek was well worth it.
The whole adventure, from Ockley station and back, is easy to do in a day from London. It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes by train. On the way back, you get to experience the beautiful views again. This hike offers a mix of history, nature at Vann Lake, and stunning sights near London. It’s truly a special trip.
Rickmansworth to Chesham – The Chess Valley Walk
The Chess Valley Walk spans 16.6 km through the Chilterns. It starts in Rickmansworth and ends in Chesham. The route showcases the beauty of chalk streams. It has clear paths marked for walking.
As we walk, we see woods, green fields, and farms. Look hiking trails out for a wall of tall oak trees. The trail has flat areas and small hills, suitable for many hikers. The best time to go is when it’s warm, making the scenery stunning.
We pass historical spots like the Roman farm at Latimer and Chenies Manor gardens. The River Chess flows gently, home to unique animals and plants. Keep an eye out for water voles and orchids.
The path crosses with other trails but is never too crowded. At Sarratt Bottom, there’s a working watercress farm. It shows the local farming way of life.
Our walk ends in Chesham. Here, we find coffee shops and pubs to relax in. With the Metropolitan Line close by, getting back to London is easy. This trip is a great escape from the city.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 16.6 km |
| Starting Point | Rickmansworth Station |
| Ending Point | Chesham Station |
| Seasonal Recommendation | Lighter months |
| Wildlife Sightings | Water voles, orchids, kingfishers |
| Historical Sites | Latimer, Chenies Manor |
| Transportation | Metropolitan Line |
Hassocks to Lewes
Walking from Hassocks to Lewes along the South Downs Way is unforgettable. It mixes good exercise with stunning views. The journey is 18km (11.2 miles) and takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes on foot. If you include train places to hike near me journeys and meal stops, you’ll need about 9 hours and 30 minutes. It’s one of the best short hikes near London.
The walk starts at Hassocks Station and immediately goes uphill into the beautiful Sussex countryside. Soon, you’ll see the historical Jack and Jill Windmills high on a hill. They give a great view of the area.
The hike’s toughness is rated 5 out of 10, making it fairly easy but still a good workout. After the windmills, the trail goes through fields, woods, and lovely villages. It also includes parts of the famous 109-mile South Downs Way. This shows off the beauty of the South Downs National Park.
Halfway, at Plumpton, there’s a spot for a pub break. It’s just 3 kilometers from the station and a great place to rest. Plumpton has an old church with medieval wall paintings, worth a detour.
Nearing Lewes, the trail hikes near London follows the scenic River Ouse for around 2.4 km. Arriving in Lewes is rewarding; the town is full of history, cafes, and shops.
In Lewes, you can visit Anne of Cleves House (admission: £6.60) and Lewes Castle (£10). Afterwards, enjoy some tea and pastries at the White Hart Hotel. Trains back to London Victoria leave twice an hour (hourly on Sundays). The trip takes 1 hour and 7 minutes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 18 km (11.2 miles) |
| Estimated Time | Approx. 5 hours 30 minutes (9 hours 30 minutes for the entire day) |
| Toughness Rating | 5/10 |
| Key Landmark | Jack and Jill Windmills |
| Halfway Stop | Pub at Plumpton |
| Scenic Route | South Downs Way |
| End Location | Lewes |
| Return Transport | Trains from Lewes to Victoria (1 hr 7 mins) |
| Nearby Attractions in Lewes | Anne of Cleves House, Lewes Castle |
| Admission Costs | Anne of Cleves House: £6.60, Lewes Castle: £10 |
Hikes Near London for Scenic Views
Looking for scenic hikes near London? Beautiful countryside views are just a train trip away. These sights offer a break from the city, mixing exercise and nature hikes around London exploration.
Whether you’re experienced hikes near London or prefer easy walks, the green trails near London provide unforgettable views and peaceful countryside breaks. The North Downs Way starts in Farnham, blending woods and city views. Another is the Ankerwycke Park circular walk in Surrey, just 45 minutes from Waterloo station, perfect for a quick getaway hikes close to London.
There are eight beautiful trails, with lengths around 9.9 miles (15.9 km). These cater to different fitness levels. They range from Epping Forest Oak Trail at 6.7 miles (10.8 km) to Seven Sisters cliff walk at 13.4 miles (21.7 km). This selection highlights the diverse outdoor activities near London with amazing views.
Hikes near London: The Seven Sisters hike offers stunning coastal sights, reachable in about 1 hour and 30 minutes from London Victoria. Walking this path, you’ll see breathtaking coastlines and cliffs. Similarly, the Balcombe Lake walk in West Sussex takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. It starts and ends at Balcombe station, providing beautiful nature scenes.
Here’s a simple summary of these hiking options:
| Hiking Trail | Distance | Journey Time (by Train) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Downs Way | 11 miles (17.7 km) | 50 minutes | Woodland, Urban |
| Ankerwycke Park Circular | 7.5 miles (12.1 km) | 45 minutes | Historical landmarks |
| Seven Sisters Cliff Walk | 13.4 miles (21.7 km) | 1 hour 30 minutes | Coastal Views |
| Balcombe Lake Circular | 8.2 miles (13.2 km) | 2 hours 30 minutes | Lakeside, Woodland |
| Epping Forest Oak Trail | 6.7 miles (10.8 km) | 1 hour | Woodland |
Our trails vary from 7.25 to 11 miles long, with elevations between 110 to 500 meters. We selected them to offer both easy and challenging options. These scenic hikes near London provide great views and a genuine English countryside experience.
The White Cliffs of Dover
Take a trip from hikes near London to the stunning White Cliffs of Dover. It’s a beautiful example of the UK’s coastal sights. These tall chalk cliffs stand 350 feet high. They provide great views for walks, with sights stretching to France on clear days. This landmark is an easy day trip from London, mixing sea, sky, and land beautifully.
Many visit Dover to walk along these famous cliffs. The cliff walk covers 8 miles, showing off amazing views. Walkers can also explore the Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a historic tunnel from 1940/41. It adds a unique historical touch to the area’s natural beauty.
Traveling to Dover couldn’t be easier. A train from St Pancras to Dover Priory Station is only 50 minutes. Driving from Central London takes less than two hours. If you’re staying over, try the Best Western Plus Dover Marina Hotel & Spa or The White House Dover.
- The White Cliffs of Dover Walk: 8 miles (13 km)
- Day hike from Kingsdown Campsite to Dover Visitor Centre and back: 24 km
- South Foreland Lighthouse: Built in 1843, site of the first international radio transmission in 1899
- Kingsdown Beach: A secluded shingle beach
The cliffs are made of soft, white limestone from the Cretaceous period. They’re not just beautiful. They also connect us to the UK’s deep history along the coast.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for a trip to Dover:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transport (train from London + local travel) | £25 |
| Accommodation | £75 (£150 for a double) |
| Attractions | £30 |
| Food and amenities | £60 |
| Parking fee at National Trust Visitor Centre | £5 |
Hikes near London: The White Cliffs of Dover are a must-see for lovers of history and nature. Hiking here lets you see stunning views over the English Channel. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and learning about history.
Best Forest Hikes Near London: Epping Forest
Epping Forest sits on the edge of London and Essex. It’s a perfect spot for city-dwellers looking for a break. There are over 284km of paths across 8000 acres. Everyone can find something here, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
The Beech Trail at High Beach is a short 4km walk, taking up to 2 hours. If you’re after a bit more, try the Chestnut Trail at Wanstead Park. It’s 5.2 km and takes about 2 hours. For quick trips, the Golden Hill and Gifford Trails are ideal, taking 30 minutes to an hour.
Looking for variety? The Holly Trail at Chingford Plain is a good hour’s walk. The Hornbeam Trail at Leyton Flats requires about 1.5 hours. The Lime Trail at Wanstead Flats is a quieter option, needing only 30-40 minutes.
Experienced hikers might enjoy the Oak Trail at Theydon Bois, taking 3 to 4 hours. The Rowan Trail at Knighton Woods is shorter, needing 45-60 minutes. The Willow Trail around Connaught Water is a beautiful hour-long walk.
For the adventurers, the ‘Big Walk’ stretches 14.1 miles from Manor Park to Epping. The Epping North Circular Hike and the Epping & Essex Bumbles Walk offer more challenges. Smaller routes include the Queen Elizabeth 1 Hunter Tower to Barn Hoppit and Highams Park to Hollow Ponds trails.
After a hikes near London, local villages offer great spots to rest and eat. Epping Forest walks let you dive into tranquility and history. This ancient woodland, rich in diversity, has witnessed over 10,000 years of history, with trees more than 240 years old.
Here is a detailed table summarising the walking trails in Epping Forest:
| Trail Name | Distance (km) | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Beech Trail at High Beach | 4 km | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Chestnut Trail at Wanstead Park | 5.2 km | 2 hours |
| Golden Hill Trail | 1.6 km | 30 minutes |
| Gifford Trail at Gifford Wood | 2 km | 1 hour |
| Holly Trail at Chingford Plain | 4 km | 1 hour |
| Hornbeam Trail at Leyton Flats | 5.75 km | 1.5 hours |
| Lime Trail at Wanstead Flats | 2.5 km | 30-40 minutes |
| Oak Trail at Theydon Bois | 10.6 km | 3-4 hours |
| Rowan Trail at Knighton Woods | 2.4 km | 45-60 minutes |
| Willow Trail at Connaught Water | 4 km | 1 hour |
| ‘Big Walk’ | 14.1 miles | N/A |
| Epping North Circular Hike | 14.5 km | N/A |
| Epping & Essex Bumbles Circular Walk | 10.3 km | N/A |
| Queen Elizabeth 1 Hunter Tower to Barn Hoppit Circular Trail | 3.9 km | N/A |
| Queen Elizabeth 1 Hunter Tower to Highams Park Circular Route | 7.3 km | N/A |
| Highams Park to Hollow Ponds Walking Route | 11.4 km | N/A |
Ashdown Forest Adventures
Ashdown Forest is just an hour’s drive from southeast London, in East Sussex. It’s a beautiful escape into nature. The area sits at the highest point of the Weald, nestled between the North and South Downs. Because of its location, it often gets a lot of rain, adding to its greenery.
The forest is famous for its large conservation areas. It offers both tough trails and easy walks. Covering about 2500 hectares, it’s home to unique birds like the Dartford warbler, as well as lizards and snakes.
There are many trails to explore in East Sussex. Try the 14 km Ashdown Forest Extended Walk for a challenge or the ‘Long Pooh Walk’ for an easier route. This walk gets its name from A.A. Milne’s “Winnie-the-Pooh”. The trails run through beautiful woodlands and heaths, each offering a different experience.
Ashdown Forest has a long history of human activity, dating back 50,000 years. It was once famous for its medieval iron industry and was also a hunting ground for Henry VIII. There are memorial sites for A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard, the creators of Winnie-the-Pooh. Don’t miss the Heffalump Trap and Roo’s Sandy Pit.
There are several parking spots, such as King Standing, Gills Lap, and Broadstone, which make accessing the trails easy. Bikers can enjoy the Forest Way. It’s a flat, off-road route that is six miles long, stretching from Groombridge to Forest Row. At the end of your hike, the village of Forest Row awaits with lovely shops and places to eat.
The Ashdown Forest is a splendid mix of nature and history. It’s one of the best forest trails near London. You can explore dense forests or heathlands full of gorse. This conservation area promises an adventure to remember.
Mountain Hikes Near London: Box Hill
Box Hill, in the Surrey Hills, offers a tough but rewarding hiking experience near London. You can get there quickly by train from Waterloo or Victoria. This beautiful area has an 8-mile loop that shows off tough paths and stunning views.
The National Trust says the hike can take 4-6 hours. Our trip took about 5 and a half hours, with breaks for picnics and drinks. We started at the National Trust Visitors Centre. This is where you can get maps. We enjoyed various landscapes, like woods, village paths, and steep hills. The stepping stones at Box Hill are especially exciting.
Train tickets hikes near London are about £8 each way, or £5 with a railcard. This makes the hike both easy to get to and budget-friendly. The Box Hill Circular Route is roughly 9.2 miles long. It offers both tough and picturesque parts, perfect for a full adventure. After hiking, many visit local pubs like The Running Horses or King William IV. They end their day with a pint, enjoying the peace of the countryside before going back to London.