Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging trek or a casual walker looking for a more relaxed outing, walking is a fantastic way to exercise and be one with nature. For those who love to wander around – either far or near home – exploring the countryside near London offers a delightful escape, with an abundance of scenic trails that can help one reset and shut out all the noises and distractions that the city sometimes brings.
As one of the most accessible capitals in the world, getting into nature from Central London is far easier than some might believe. From rolling hills and ancient woodlands to tranquil parks and flowing rivers that aren’t the same shade of brown as the Thames, there is an abundance of perfectly picturesque paths waiting to tread within easy reach of London.
Box Hill
Box Hill in Surrey is celebrated for its glorious views of the North Downs. Managed by the National Trust, it boasts several trails ideal for all fitness levels, with the 8-mile Box Hill Hike a firm favourite among locals and Londoners alike. This trail winds through chalk downlands, dense woodlands, and peaceful valleys to landmarks such as the Stepping Stones across the River Mole, which are great fun to cross when the tide is low enough.
After a long walk, visitors can relax at the National Trust cafe or explore the local village of Westhumble, known for its charming cottages and quiet lanes. Easily accessible by train from Central London, with the shortest route from Waterloo station taking around 90 minutes, Box Hill makes for an excellent day out for those craving a good walk amidst some of the most beautiful rolling hills in the South of England.
Ashridge Estate & Bluebell Woods, Hertfordshire
With over 5,000 acres of unspoiled countryside, featuring ancient woodlands, chalk downlands, and sweeping views across the Chiltern Hills, many are eager to explore the Ashridge Estate. In spring, the estate’s famous woods blossom with bluebells, with Dockey Wood in particular attracting visitors' attention. The Ashridge Estate Boundary Trail is much loved and is a chance for walkers to encounter the estate’s rich wildlife, including fallow deer, foxes, and various bird species.
Visitors to the estate will discover historical landmarks, such as the Bridgewater Monument, a towering structure commemorating the Duke of Bridgewater who was instrumental in the construction of the nearby canal (also a lovely scenic walk). Ashridge is accessed from London via Tring station, which is just a 40-minute journey from London Euston, and perfect for those wanting to get outdoors in the country and receive some rural revelations amid sprawling landscapes.
Walthamstow Forest
Walthamstow Forest, part of the much more expansive Epping Forest, can be reached on the London Underground by travelling to the end of the Victoria Line from any of its stops. Journey times from London Victoria are around 40 minutes and are very much worth the effort. The area is known for its dense woodland paths, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's urban sprawl. Walkers can meander through shaded trails surrounded by towering oak and beech trees.
The forest’s history as a royal hunting ground lends a sense of intrigue to its landscapes when one imagines galloping royals from all periods of English history riding through. For those seeking a longer walk, the Oak Trail offers just that, guiding walkers to hidden corners of this enchanting forest off the more beaten track. Walthamstow Forest makes for a perfect escape without venturing far from the capital.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park, London’s largest Royal Park, is a cherished sanctuary for both wildlife and nature lovers. Covering 2,500 acres, the park features an extraordinary mix of ancient woodlands, grasslands, and ponds, all of which support an impressive range of flora and fauna, including a significant colony of more than 600 Red, and Fallow deer. The Tamsin Trail, a 7.35-mile circular path, is a favourite for those who wish to experience the park's landscapes and take in the stunning views of the Thames Valley.
What makes Richmond Park unique is its location within the city limits of London. As implausible as it sounds, this massive reservation is not just a part of the city but also, easily accessed through public transport. Train and Tube services to Richmond will take walkers within a short distance of this regal woodland, offering an incredibly convenient trip to the country, without technically having to leave London to do so.
Deacon Hill, Bedfordshire
Nestled in the Chiltern Hills near Whipsnade in Bedfordshire, Deacon Hill offers a relatively untouched opportunity to walk in the English countryside. This chalky hilltop provides stunning views, and magical meadows filled with wildflowers and butterflies during the spring and summer, enhancing its appeal for nature lovers as a destination for outdoor excursions.
The hill is part of a larger nature reserve, and walkers can embark on a circular route starting in the nearby village of Studham, taking in the quiet charm of the local area. Deacon Hill is easily reachable via Luton train station, which is a half an hour's journey from London St.Pancras or King’s Cross. This area is very much a hidden gem for those willing to venture slightly further afield to truly experience the delights of unspoiled countryside.
These trails provide a welcome respite from the fast pace of city life, inviting walkers to absorb more of the natural surroundings by venturing out of their routines, and into the countryside. Whether you’re looking for a more intense hike or a leisurely stroll, these walks offer an opportunity to explore the beauty that lies just beyond London’s borders, in all of its natural glory.
