UK’s Best Family Walks Near You

Fancy a good stroll through the park or a family woodland adventure? The UK has plenty of places worth exploring by foot and we’ll help you find the best family walks near you that are also suitable for tiny feet too!
From footpaths in ancient forests to circular walks on historic castle grounds to nice walks in stunning parks. There are plenty of great places to go for a walk near you that you may not have even known existed. Check out our favourite kid-friendly walks for each region below!

Loch Lomond Faerie Trail (Luss, Glasgow and Strathclyde)

How many walks near you guarantee you see fairies along the way? Yep, that’s right, fairies! Loch Lomond Faerie Trail is a wonderfully whimsical walk for families with younger kids. You’ll have to collect clues and solve a mystery all while, discovering hidden fairy and troll houses and villages.

This is a rather short walk – just 1 mile long, so even the tiniest members of the family can do it without getting too tired. It’s not every day that your kids get to pose with magical fairy houses, so make sure you bring your camera.

If you really want to get into the spirit of things, you’re welcome to come in a fairy costume. Oh, and don’t forget your wellies, the trail can get quite muddy if it rains! So, watch out for the muddy puddles!

Brodie Castle (Forres, Moray)

The charming Brodie Castle, historically owned by the Brodie Clan, is a very interesting attraction to visit and the parkland surrounding the estate offers lots of nice walks for kids of all ages. We think your little explorers will enjoy the Pond Walk the most.

It’s fairly short – 1¼ miles (2.1km), and it takes less than an hour to do. You’ll have the chance to spot buzzards, herons and kingfishers by the pond, so get ready for some bird watching!

If you opt in to take the Green Walk, you’ll find yourself walking in the footsteps of the local villagers, who used it in the 50s as a scenic shortcut to Brodie village and station. The trail is ½ mile (0.8km) long but you can extend it by returning via the exit driveway or by following the public road to the pond.

Did you know you can also spot over 400 varieties of daffodils?! Spring is hereee!

Kielder Water and Forest Park (Kielder, Northumberland)

Kielder Water and Forest Park is a great place to go for a walk with your family because no matter how old your kids are, you’ll find the right trail for your group. There are 5 beautiful marked walks for lovers of the great outdoors to explore.

However, if you’re going with younger kids, your little ones will be more interested in the character trails – the Gruffalo Sculpture Trail and the Zog Activity Trail.

The best place to start your family walks is at Kielder Castle Visitor Centre. Also, since you’re there already, on the grounds of Kielder Castle, there’s a lovely mini minotaur maze, which is always a big hit with the younger visitors.

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle (Alnwick, Northumberland)

Speaking of stunning views, we’ve got just the right walk-in mind! If you find yourself close to Craster fishing village, the best family walk near you is north from Craster to the historic Dunstanburgh Castle. Along the 1.3 miles (2km) path you’ll come across farmlands rock pools which your little ones will love exploring, and of course, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle are the perfect place for young knights and princesses to unleash their imaginations, run around and play. Once you get back to Craster, you will have probably worked up an appetite, so make sure you try the famous smoked kipper, it’s a local delicacy!

Plessey Woods Country Park (Bedlington, Northumberland)

An enchanting walk through a 100-acre woodland, filled with wildflowers, a riverside and a network of intricate paths and trails. Perfect for any kind of walker, cyclist, horse rider and of course, those who love picnics!

Whether you take a stroll through the woods or a brisk walk alongside the riverbank. Get your whole family to come along because they’ll all have a great time! Make sure you watch out for the amazing views as you leisurely stroll alongside the riverbank.

Don’t forget to search for flowers! You’ll funny primroses in the spring and honeysuckle in the summer, before a burst of autumn colours and a crunch of frost in the winter.

Also, see if you can spot the drumkit made out of wood!

Riverside Walk, Belton House (Grantham, Lincolnshire)

If your family loves being by the water, then this is the walk for you. From amazing views, the gentle rush of water and a breath of fresh air – it’s a splendid springtime activity.

As you walk alongside River Witham, take in the riverside views and the wetland wildlife. But that’s not the best part, as if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see free-roaming deer and also livestock! So, we request that if you bring your dogs with you, keep them on their leads, please!

An adventurous family walk, as the terrain is a little uneven, but makes for a great day out!

Anglers Country Park (Wakefield, West Yorkshire)

Anglers Country Park has been awarded Green Flag and it has some of the best family walks near you!

The Room on the Broom Adventure Trail is perfect for younger kids. It’s a circular walk, featuring various activities including finding sculptures and looking for animal footprints! You can grab an activity booklet from the Visitor Centre for £2.00, so your kids have a fun little activity to occupy themselves as you explore the park.

If your kids are too old for fairytales, you can choose one of the other family-friendly trails in the park. Including the Woodland walks for walkers and joggers and the 2-mile Lakeside Walk, which takes you by the area known as the “Pol”, which is home to lots of local birds!

Worsbrough Mill Museum and Country Park (Barnsley, South Yorkshire)

As a beautiful large 240-acre nature reserve, Worsbrough Mill Museum and Country Park naturally have some good walks for you to enjoy.

You can pick up a leaflet about the walks for free from the Mill shop and Millers Tea Room and choose your favourite! Try The Owl Walk (5km) in dry weather and The Badger Walk (3.5km) or The Fox Walk (2km) if you’re looking for an easily accessible route – there’s so much to choose!

If you’ve got a whole day on your hands, you can combine your family walk with another activity. Worsbrough Mill Museum and Country Park is a popular place for bird watching and fishing. Lots of wildflowers grow in the meadows around the reservoir, which makes this an interesting place for photography enthusiasts as well.

Dunham Massey Deer Park (Altrincham, Greater Manchester)

Dunham Massey is a National Trust site and is one of the most famous places to go for a walk near Manchester and for a good reason…

Wildlife lovers of all ages will enjoy the organised daily walks around the park, which will introduce you to the history of the estate and the herd of 150 stunning fallow deer who live there!

Fancy exploring on your own? The Ancient Trees Trail is a great family walk featuring a fascinating collection of veteran trees. It’s 2.5 miles (4 km) long but the terrain is easy to cover, so your little ones shouldn’t find it too difficult. The path will take you by a 16th-century watermill and the deer sanctuary. So, there are a mixture of flat walks and rough walks!

Rivington Pike (Bolton, Greater Manchester)

Fancy a family picnic to the backdrop of the most beautiful views in the North West? Then, you should put on your walking shoes and take on the heights of the Rivington Pike in Bolton!

Don’t let the steep ascent put you off this wonderful local walk – simply stop often to take in the surprise view. You’ll barely notice when you’ve reached the top! You can see Winter Hill, Macron Stadium and Lever Park from the highest point.

There are different routes you could take, but the walk from Rivington Hall Barn to the top of Rivington Pike is about 3 miles long. We’d recommend taking the scenic route through the Rivington Terraced Gardens – they’re definitely worth a visit.

Red Squirrel Reserve (Formby, Lancashire)

This will be a walk to remember because you’ll have the amazing opportunity to see the elusive red squirrels!

Why is this special, you may ask? Well, it’s because these beautiful creatures have they’ve seen a huge decline in numbers over the years and there are only 15,000 left in England! Which isn’t a lot compared to the grey squirrels!

So, on your family walks, take in the beautiful woodlands and short steep slopes, and keep an eye out for red squirrels! But wait, there’s more! You can embark on a coastal walk too and take in the superb sea views!

It’ll make for a fun family day out.

Tarn Hows and Coniston (Lake District, Cumbria)

Another National Trust location that is part of the gorgeous Lake District. This family-friendly walk promises majestic views and peaceful walks in the calming countryside!

You may also spot some rare Belted Galloway cattle and Herdwick sheep! This walk is located in the low-level hills so, it’s perfect for walking or cycling!

Croft Castle Estate (Leominster, Herefordshire)

If you’re a Midlander and you love spending time in nature, National Trust’s Croft Castle and Parkland is definitely one of the best places for a walk near you. There are several easy-to-moderate walks you can explore but a favourite is the Ancient Tree Walk.

The stunning views of Herefordshire make this an exceptionally beautiful walk and the 350-year-old Spanish Chestnut avenue is the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll. You can even bring your dog along, I’m sure they’ll love the muddy puddles when it’s raining!

The Ancient Tree Walk is only 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long, so it can be done in about 1 ½ hours. One of the main sights along the way is the 1,000-year-old Quarry Oak, and if you’re lucky, you might spot deer and other local wildlife.

Sandwell Valley Country Park (West Bromwich, West Midlands)

Sandwell Valley Country Park is an award-winning Green Flag park that offers a number of good family walks near West Bromwich.

With 660 acres to walk around and a network of surfaced pathways for an easily accessible trail, you’ve got plenty of options. Grab yourself a nifty trail map to guide you on your walking route and you’ll soon find your way around.

You’ll also find cycling trails and with lots of variety on how you and the family want to explore, the park is your oyster!

Cannock Chase Forest (Staffordshire, West Midlands)

Cannock Chase Forest is a brilliant escape from everyday life and a deep dive into the best nature can give you: fresh air and incredible views.

There are so many different trails you can take, whether it’s walking, running or cycling! In the winter months, you can catch the crisp winter air and the crunch of frost. In the summer, you may smell a whiff of wild garlic and enjoy the sun shining on glorious days! You’ll find lakes and lush grass surrounding you, it’s truly a snapshot taken right from a postcard! It’s no wonder why it’s a favourite family walking destination!

So, there’s a trail for everyone, whether you have little kiddies with you who only want a brisk walk, or teens who can handle a bit of intensive walking. The possibilities are endless.

Kedleston Hall (Derbyshire)

A family walk that promises superb views of the gardens and Kedleston Halls! The walking trail lasts for around 50 minutes but is suitable for all ages and it’s dog friendly! With 800 acres, a sunken wall and an abundance of wildlife to discover, you’ll spend hours here.

So, perfect for the kiddies and your furry babies – what more could you ask for?. With only slight inclines, and beautiful woodland paths it makes for a great family walk. There’s also some rough walking if you’re up to it!

Ashdown Forest (Wych Cross, East Sussex)

If you’ve got book-loving kids in your house, Ashdown Forest should be on the top of your list of the best places to go for a walk. It’s the home of Winnie The Pooh!

As you walk amongst the trees, you can spot Owl’s and Piglet’s homes, and most importantly, you can go to Pooh Bridge and play Poohsticks.

There are two designated family walks, starting from Gills Lap, which take you to locations from the book. There’s a shorter walk, suitable for younger kids, which takes you to The Enchanted Place and the Sandy Pit. If your little ones are happy to walk a bit further, there’s a long walk, which goes down to the North Pole and Eeyore’s Sad and Gloomy Place.

With a varied landscape and fantastic views – it absolutely is one of the best family walks near you!

Ashridge Estate (Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire)

Here comes another beautiful woodland walk we absolutely adore – Ashridge Ancient Trees Walk.

Discover the routes people from Bridgewater used to travel in the past and see some of the oldest trees on the estate! You can also spot bats and other curious wildlife hiding in the deadwood.

Depending on how much walking you want to do, you can take an easy walk for 0.8 miles (1.2 km), or you can choose to continue on and add another 1.2 miles (1.9km) to your route. And you’ll always end up leaving after gazing out at fantastic views.

Whatever you decide, you will leave with fond memories of your family adventure at Ashridge Estate.

Dunwich Heath and Beach (Suffolk)

Dunwich Heath and Beach is a stunning and tranquil sight to witness. With beautiful lavender fields and wildflowers, make for a gorgeous walk, especially at sunset! Can you imagine what incredible views you can witness on your coastal walk?!

It also holds rare and precious habitats to species such as the nightjar, woodlark, ant-lion and the Dartford warbler. A family walk that will blow your minds!

Penzance to Marazion Seafront Walk (Penzance, Cornwall)

If you live in stunning Cornwall, then you’re blessed with having many of the UK’s best family walks near you. The Penzance to Marazion Seafront Walk is one of our favourite coastal walks, due to the superb views across Mounts Bay to St Michaels Mount, the Lizard and Mousehole.

The 2.7-mile (4.3km) seafront stretch is easily-accessible and pushchair-friendly, with plenty of dog-friendly pubs along the way!

Want a tip on keeping the kids entertained the whole time? Make sure you read up on the lore surrounding St Michaels Mount before you go. All those fascinating stories about giants, pilgrims and magical stones will give a whimsical twist to your day.

Studland Beach Sand Dunes Trail (Swanage, Dorset)

What coastal day out would that be if you didn’t get to play in the sand? Take the Studland Beach Sand Dunes Trail and it will lead you right through the golden Studland Beach.

This beautiful beach-side walk is suitable even for the tiniest explorers in your group. Starting from Knoll beach, the trail is only 1 mile (1.6km) long, so it can be covered in just 30 minutes. You’ll see yellow stones along the way, just follow them and you’ll know where to go!

Oh, and make sure you tell your kids the legend of the Old Harry Rocks – the most famous landmark on the South Coast! Dating back to the Ice Age, they’re part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

With a gorgeous landscape, soft sand and a bag full of treasure memories – it will become your favourite family walk.

Dartmoor National Park (Devon)

Visit a national park with wild, open moorlands, and deep river valleys and find rare wildlife!

Take a leisurely stroll, mountain biking, a visit to the castle and plenty more like visiting villages and taking guided walks! Not only that, but you’ll find rocky outcrops and a whole range of outdoor activities to get stuck into!

Whether you have little ones or big teens, it’ll be one of the best family walks for everyone.

Stackpole Estate (Pembroke, Pembrokeshire)

Featuring beautiful walking trails and family-friendly beaches Stackpole Estate is a wonderful place to go for a walk on your next day out.

There’s a 7.4-mile (12km) walk, starting from Stackpole Estate, which boasts breathtaking views of limestones and crystal clear blue waters. If you’re up for a proper hike and you’re a sucker for a stunning seaside landscape, you’ve got to give this coastal walk a go!

Love animals? If your kids are budding wildlife explorers, tell them to stay on the lookout for choughs and Welsh mountain ponies. Spot some and you’ll have some adorable photo opportunities!

Worm’s Head at Rhossili Beach (Swansea, Glamorgan and Cardiff)

Rhossili Beach is consistently ranked amongst the most beautiful beaches in Wales, which on its own is reason enough to go and explore. Also, kids just love the walk to Worm’s Head! And it’s not just because of the catchy name, there’s a genuine old shipwreck on the beach!

So, with a little bit of imagination, you’ll feel like a fearless pirate crew on a mystery adventure. Will you walk the plank, or spare you for some loot?

Plus, you can bring a sense of excitement to your walk when you tell the kids that the area is only available at precise times on either side of low tide. It takes about 2 hours to walk the full distance (3 miles/4.8km), so you’ll have to plan your pirate quest carefully.

We hope we’ve given you a sprinkle of inspiration on where to take the family on your next family walks near you! Whether you trek along rugged slopes and giant hills, or leisurely stroll along riverbanks and through the soft, golden sand. The UK is home to some of the most incredible and breathtaking views, landscapes and wildlife. It’s about time we all check it out!

Looking for more ways to explore? Boy, do we have a collection for you. From dazzling sunflower farms, bluebell woods and canal walks. To Cheddar Gorge walks, hiking trails and even mountain bike trails! Embark on a two-wheeled adventure! Need even more inspo? We’ve got you! Check out Felbrigg Hall & Gardens or Newstead Abbey!