England’s capital is an incredible metropolis with an unmistakable city skyline. However, beyond its bustling borders lie some of the UK’s most scenic walking routes. Thanks to the excellent transport links around London, it is easy to escape the city in favour of historic trails, rolling hills, and stunning riverside walks like the 184-mile-long Thames Path. Whether you are looking to amble through the vibrant countryside or embark upon a challenging hike, countless walks near London offer fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and an ideal retreat from city life.
From the dramatic drop of Devil’s Dyke to the stunning stretch of the South Downs ridge, these walking routes showcase the best of England’s natural beauty.
Goring Gap and the Thames Path
Distance: 5 miles
The stretch of the Thames Path from Goring to Pangbourne is a gentle 5-mile route that can be reached from London by train in under an hour. The trail follows the meandering journey of the River Thames through lush landscapes and past historical landmarks and includes a stop at the charming village of Whitchurch-on-Thames. This town is full of picturesque, thatched houses and features one of the few remaining old toll bridges in England. On the way to the quaint village of Pangbourne, where this trail ends, the nature-rich Thames Path offers sightings of many bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and even red kites soaring overhead. Upon reaching Pangbourne, you can stop at one of the many cosy tea rooms and pubs before catching a train back to London Paddington.
Box Hill
Distance: 7 miles
After crossing the River Mole’s 17 stepping stones and climbing the stairs to the summit of famous beauty spot Box Hill, this 7-mile circular hike begins. Despite the crowds that often frequent the hill, the spectacular panoramic views are a must-see before beginning your descent to the quieter Juniper Bottom. The trail then winds through woodland, chalk downland, and hidden valleys, taking you past historic landmarks like Broadwood’s Tower, a listed flint structure built in the early 1800s, and Salomons Memorial Viewpoint, which offers some of the most famous vistas in the area. Rare wildflowers, butterflies, and birds are a common sight along the way, particularly in spring and summer when the lush meadows are in full bloom. Just a short trip from London Victoria, the Box Hill circular is a classic choice for a day out in nature.
Devil’s Dyke, Sussex
Distance: 10 miles
Just an hour by train from London to Hassocks, this trail offers breathtaking scenery, chalk hills, and some of the most stunning views in the southeast from the top of Devil’s Dyke. The folklore surrounding the area claims that the devil himself dug this valley to flood the churches of the weald. The deep, mile-long valley is the longest in the UK, carved by ancient glacial meltwaters, and on a clear day, it is possible to see all the way to the English Channel. With its chalk grasslands and gentle slopes, the Devil’s Dyke trail is home to rare butterflies and wild orchids as well as dozens of grazing sheep. The dramatic ridges that litter the landscape offer sights to see in every direction. For a historical dimension, Iron Age hill forts and ancient farmsteads can also be seen along the way, as can the National Trust-owned Saddlescombe Farm, where caravan café The Wildflour serves afternoon tea and homemade cakes.
South Downs Ridge and Seaford Head
Distance: 14 miles
A lovely alternative to the classic Seven Sisters cliff-top walk, this route largely follows the South Downs Way along a ridge and river valley before curving round Seaford Head. The journey is varied and interesting, taking you over cliff-top trails, through hidden valleys, and past the iconic Coastguard Cottages viewpoint, a favourite among photographers. At certain times of the year, it is even possible to spot peregrine falcons soaring above the cliffs and grey seals basking in the picturesque Cuckmere Haven estuary. Perhaps the biggest highlight of this walk comes at Seaford Head, right at the very end, with its classic postcard-perfect view of the dramatic white Seven Sisters cliffs set against the deep blue of the sea. The final destination, Seaford town, serves a wealth of pubs and cafes to unwind in, including the classic British pub The Wellington, which always has 10 real ales on tap.
Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire
Distance: 16 miles
Starting and ending near Tring Station, which is easily reachable from London Euston, this circular walk around Ashridge is a challenging yet rewarding long-distance trail near London. This extended Hertfordshire hike takes you past a number of famous beauty spots, with perhaps the most breathtaking point en route being Ivinghoe Beacon, a 760-foot-high chalk hill that offers far reaching views over the Chilterns. It is also the starting point of the Ridgeway National Trail, an ancient footpath that was used by traders, herdsmen, soldiers, and invaders. It is one of the oldest paths in Britain. There are other historical sights to see along the way, including the Bridgewater Monument, a 108-foot tower built in honour of the Duke of Bridgewater, as well as remnants of old Iron Age settlements hidden within the hills. The estate is home to age-old oak trees and, particularly in the summer, magnificent blankets of bluebells covering the ground. Catch sight of fallow and muntjac deer as well as woodpeckers and buzzards, as you complete this scenic 16-mile hike around Ashridge.
While London is undoubtedly a busy, urban hub, living or working in the city is certainly not a barrier to exploring the natural world. Just beyond the city’s borders lies a wealth of incredible walking routes. Coastal beauty along the South Downs Ridge, rolling Chiltern hills, and peaceful riverside charm by the Thames are all just a short train ride away from England’s capital. From sheer white cliffs to ancient Ashridge woodlands, there has never been a better reason to escape the city.
