Looking for the best hikes in London? Well, they’re usually just outside of the city. Because let’s be honest, if you’re heading out for a long walk, you probably want to swap the city buzz for open skies, fresh air, and the sound of birds instead of traffic.

Any outdoor lover living in London knows the value of having a few solid day hikes up their sleeve. Sometimes, you just need to escape, to step away from the glass and concrete and find yourself on a quiet trail with nothing but nature around you.

Luckily, that’s easier than you might think. There are plenty of stunning hiking trails just a short train ride from London, offering everything from rolling hills to dramatic coastlines.

So, if you’re craving a break from the city, here are the ten best hikes near London. And the most interesting thing is that all of these trails are reachable in under 90 minutes by train:

• Tring to Princes Risborough (The Ridgeway) – A classic countryside walk along one of Britain’s oldest paths.

• Seaford to Eastbourne (The Seven Sisters Cliff Walk) – Breathtaking coastal views that never get old.

• Ockley to Leith Hill – A woodland walk leading to Surrey’s highest point.

• Rickmansworth to Chesham (The Chess Valley Walk) – A peaceful trail following a chalk stream through the Chilterns.

• Hassocks to Lewes – A scenic South Downs ramble ending in a historic town.

• Lewes via West Firle Circular – Rolling hills, charming villages, and a perfect pub stop.

• The Isle of Grain to Woolwich (England Coast Path) – A wild and underrated riverside route.

• Epping Forest – Ancient woodlands just on London’s doorstep.

• The Kent Downs AONB – A patchwork of hills, valleys, and quintessential English countryside.

• Tilehurst to Sonning Bridge (The Thames Path, West) – A gentle riverside walk with postcard-worthy scenery.
  

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Best Hikes Near London, Based on Season

Best Walks for Spring

Spring means blossoms, fresh greenery, and mild temperatures, perfect for walks with woodlands, wildflowers, and wildlife. Here are the best spring hikes near London:

• Epping Forest (Bluebell Season – May)  – The woodlands burst into life, and the bluebells create a magical carpet.

• Kent Downs AONB  – Spring flowers bloom in the rolling countryside, making this loop through meadows and orchards extra special.

• Chess Valley Walk  – The chalk streams are crystal clear, and wildlife is abundant, making it a beautiful spring walk.

• Tilehurst to Sonning Bridge  – The riverside is full of fresh spring colour, and wildlife along the Thames starts to wake up.

Best Walks for Autumn

Autumn means golden leaves, crisp air, and breathtaking valley views, ideal for forests and scenic countryside trails. Here are the best autumn hikes near London:

• Hassocks to Lewes  – The South Downs in autumn are spectacular, with warm-toned rolling hills and misty mornings.

• Lewes via West Firle Circular  – The Iron Age hill fort and South Downs Way look stunning in autumn light.

• Epping Forest  – Golden foliage covers the woodlands, and cooler weather makes this long hike more comfortable.

• Ockley to Leith Hill  – A steep climb through woodlands, where autumn colours shine through. Plus, great pubs to warm up after the walk!

Best Walks for Summer

Summer is for longer adventures, scenic viewpoints, and coastal breezes, perfect for open trails and countryside hikes. Here are the best summer hikes near London:

• Isle of Grain to Woolwich (England Coast Path)  – A dramatic coastline, marshes full of wildlife, and seaside vibes make this a great summer challenge.

• Hassocks to Lewes  – Rolling chalk hills of the South Downs, sun-drenched meadows, and clear views from the windmills.

• Rickmansworth to Chesham (Chess Valley Walk)  – Shaded riverside trails, refreshing chalk streams, and wildflower-filled meadows make this idyllic in summer.

• Kent Downs AONB  – Golden fields, orchards in bloom, open countryside, a classic summer countryside walk.

Best Walks for Winter

Winter is about crisp air, dramatic landscapes, and scenic routes—perfect for coastal, historic, or well-marked trails. Here are the best winter hikes near London:

• The Isle of Grain to Woolwich (England Coast Path)  – A windswept coastal route with big skies and moody winter light. Layers recommended!

• Ockley to Leith Hill  – A short but rewarding hill walk, beautiful in the frost and cosy pub stops nearby.

• Lewes via West Firle Circular  – A challenging but rewarding winter walk with stunning open landscapes (and you can walk into one of the warm cafes in Lewes afterwards!).

• Epping Forest  – If there’s snow or frost, this ancient woodland turns into a storybook winter wonderland.

Bookmark These Best Hikes Near London

1. Tring to Princes Risborough – A Stunning Slice of The Ridgeway

• Start/Finish: Tring → Princes Risborough

• Distance: 13.3 miles (21.5 km)

• Walking time: Around 6 hours

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Best for: Experiencing a dramatic stretch of The Ridgeway

If you're looking for a long, rewarding day hike that blends history, rolling hills, and breathtaking views, this section of The Ridgeway is a winner. It’s one of Britain’s oldest paths, once used by ancient travellers navigating the chalk escarpments of southern England. This particular stretch takes you through the heart of the Chiltern Hills, one of the most scenic and undulating parts of the route.

Starting in Tring, head south along Hastoe Lane, then turn right onto Gadmore Lane before entering Pavis Wood. You’ll weave through fields and pass through Wendover Woods, eventually reaching Boddington Hill, an Iron Age hill fort offering a glimpse into the past. From there, the trail descends into the charming town of Wendover, a great spot to refuel if you fancy a quick coffee or snack.

From Wendover, follow Ellesborough Road until you spot a sign for The Ridgeway. The path takes you up Bacombe Hill and Coombe Hill, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the Chilterns. A highlight of this route is passing through the Chequers Estate, the Prime Minister’s countryside retreat - don’t be surprised if you spot security cameras keeping an eye on things! After that, the trail leads into a woodland section before winding up Pulpit Hill and skirting around the hamlet of Whiteleaf.

As you near the end, the Ridgeway becomes an open, unsurfaced track, gently leading you down to Princes Risborough, where you can hop on a train back to London, legs pleasantly tired and lungs full of fresh country air.

Getting There:

• Take a direct train from London Euston to Tring (around 44 minutes).

• From Tring Station, catch the 389 bus to Tring town centre (Church Square stop, 6 minutes).

• To return, take a direct train from Princes Risborough to London Marylebone (about 45 minutes).

This is one of those hikes that feels like a true escape—historic trails, open countryside, and just the right amount of challenge. Well worth the journey!

2. Seaford to Eastbourne – The Iconic Seven Sisters Cliff Walk

• Start/Finish: Seaford → Eastbourne

• Distance: 13.6 miles (21.8 km)

• Walking time: Around 6 hours

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Best for: Stunning coastal views and dramatic cliffs

If there’s one coastal hike near London that’s an absolute must, it’s this one. The Seven Sisters Cliff Walk is nothing short of breathtaking, with towering chalk cliffs, endless sea views, and a route that keeps you moving with its constant ups and downs. It’s a challenging walk, but if you’re up for it, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular scenery in southern England.

Starting in Seaford, the trail heads east along the coast, quickly giving you a taste of what’s to come. Along the way, you’ll pass Martello Tower, one of the 19th-century fortresses built to defend against Napoleon, before reaching the first of many undulating cliff sections. The route follows the Seven Sisters, a series of stunning white chalk cliffs formed during the Ice Age, and offers plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the views.

One of the best parts? You’ll be dropping down to beaches between some of the cliffs, making this a fantastic hike for wild swimming, especially at the gorgeous Cuckmere Haven, where the river meets the sea. If you’re tempted to take a dip, just be mindful of the tides and currents.

The trail then climbs Haven Brow, the highest of the Seven Sisters, before continuing past the Belle Tout Lighthouse, a striking landmark that once guided ships along the treacherous coastline. As you approach Eastbourne, the path flattens out, leading you onto the scenic seafront promenade, with the grand Eastbourne Pier marking the finish line. From here, it’s a short stroll to the train station for your journey home.

Getting There:

• Take a train from London Victoria to Seaford, changing at Lewes (around 1 hour 26 minutes).

• Returning, hop on a direct train from Eastbourne to London Victoria.

Note: Check train schedules if you're hiking on a Sunday, as services can be less frequent.

This hike is all about history, rugged landscapes, and those unbeatable coastal panoramas. Just lace up your boots, pack some snacks, and get ready for a truly unforgettable day out.

3. Ockley to Leith Hill – A Short but Scenic Climb

• Start/Finish: Ockley (loop)

• Distance: 7.9 miles (12.7 km)

• Walking time: Around 3 hours 30 minutes

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best for: A hill hike with sweeping views (and great pubs nearby!)

If you’re after a rewarding hike that doesn’t take all day but still delivers on scenery, this one’s for you. Starting in Ockley, this circular route takes you through ancient woodlands, past a quiet lake, and up to the highest point in southeast England, Leith Hill, where, on a clear day, you can see all the way to London (yes, even Big Ben!).

Rather than heading straight up the hill, this route first takes a scenic detour to Vann Lake, a hidden gem surrounded by ancient woodland. The lake is man-made, dating back to the 18th century when a dam was built to power a mill that never materialised. These days, it’s a haven for wildlife—expect to spot kingfishers, woodpeckers, dragonflies, and, if you’re lucky, over 900 species of fungi!

From here, the real climb begins. As you rejoin the Leith Hill trail, be prepared for a steep ascent. Some sections hit a 20% gradient, but don’t worry, and it’s short-lived. The payoff? Incredible views from Leith Hill Tower, where you can soak in the sweeping countryside and even spot London’s skyline in the distance if the weather's right.

For the way back, you can retrace your steps, but for a bit of variety, take the route down through the rhododendron woods, especially if you’re hiking in spring when they’re in full bloom. Either way, you’ll eventually find yourself back in Ockley, where a well-earned drink at a cosy country pub is never a bad idea.

Getting There:

• Regular trains from London Victoria to Ockley take around 1 hour 10 minutes.

A perfect mix of woodland, hills, and history, this is one of those hikes that proves you don’t need to go far from London for a proper countryside escape.

4. Rickmansworth to Chesham – The Chess Valley Walk

• Start/Finish: Rickmansworth → Chesham

• Distance: 10.3 miles (16.5 km)

• Walking time: Around 4 hours 30 minutes

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best for: Tranquil riverside walking and chalk stream landscapes

For a peaceful countryside walk that’s easily accessible from London, the Chess Valley Walk is a fantastic choice. This scenic route winds through the Chiltern Hills, following the crystal-clear River Chess—one of England’s rare chalk streams. Expect a mix of lush meadows, rolling hills, charming villages, and plenty of wildlife along the way.

The trail in Rickmansworth follows the river through open countryside and ancient woodlands. The path is well-marked, making it an easy, stress-free walk - great for those who prefer not to navigate with maps and compasses.

History lovers will enjoy the Roman farm villa at Latimer, dating back to the 1st century AD. Halfway through the walk, you’ll pass Chenies Manor, a grand Tudor house with stunning gardens that are open to the public. Keep an eye out for water voles, kingfishers, orchids, and watercress beds, a nod to the valley’s traditional industry.

The trail eventually leads you into Chesham, a lovely market town where you can hop on the Metropolitan Line back to London. With its mix of history, nature, and riverside tranquillity, this is a refreshing countryside escape, just a tube ride away!

Getting There:

• Start from either Rickmansworth or Chesham Underground stations, both on the Metropolitan Line.

If you’re looking for a gentle but rewarding day hike with beautiful scenery and a touch of history, this one’s a gem.

5. Hassocks to Lewes – A South Downs Escape

• Start/Finish: Hassocks → Lewes

• Distance: 10.4 miles (16.7 km)

• Walking time: Around 4 hours 30 minutes

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best for: A taste of the South Downs Way

This stunning hike from Hassocks to Lewes takes you through the rolling hills of the South Downs, with sweeping countryside views, historic windmills, and a final approach to Lewes Castle on the horizon. It’s a mix of steady climbs, open ridges, and gentle descents—perfect for those who love a good leg stretch without anything too extreme.

Starting in Hassocks, a quiet village in West Sussex, the route starts with a steep climb to the Jack and Jill Windmills, about a mile in. Be ready for a bit of a challenge here because some sections hit 10-20% gradients for half a mile. But trust me, the views from the top are worth it. These iconic 18th-century windmills are Grade II listed and make for a great spot to catch your breath before continuing.

From here, the walk settles into a rolling rhythm, taking you along a stretch of the South Downs Way. You’ll pass Ditchling Beacon, the third-highest point in the South Downs, offering panoramic views across the countryside. Eventually, as you approach Lewes, you’ll see the town’s medieval castle in the distance, your final destination.

If you’re up for more after reaching Lewes, you can extend the adventure by tackling Mount Caburn and finishing in Glynde (where you can catch a train home via Brighton or back to Lewes). But if a well-earned drink sounds like the better plan, you’ll find plenty of cosy pubs in Lewes to wrap up the day.

Getting There:

• Take a train from London Victoria or London Bridge to Hassocks (~50 minutes).

• Return from Lewes to London Victoria (~1 hour).

With breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and classic South Downs charm, this hike is a fantastic escape from the city.

6. Lewes via West Firle Circular – Hills, Valleys & Coastal Views

• Start/Finish: Lewes (circular route)

• Distance: 12.2 miles (19.6 km)

• Walking time: Around 5 hours 30 minutes

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Best for: A mix of historic landmarks, sweeping valleys, and sea views

This Lewes circular is a fantastic choice if you’re after a hike with a bit of everything, from rolling countryside to historic sites, coastal glimpses, and riverside strolls. The route takes you through the best of the South Downs, covering three distinct sections: Lewes to Glynde, Glynde to Southease, and Southease back to Lewes.

The first stretch offers some of the best views of Lewes Castle and the surrounding town before leading you towards Mount Caburn. Sitting just outside Lewes, this Iron Age hill fort dates back to around 400 BC and is one of Britain's most excavated archaeological sites. With over 140 burial pits, it’s believed to have been a mix of a defensive site and a place of religious significance.

After Glynde, you’ll join a section of the South Downs Way, where the landscape really opens up. On clear days, you can see all the way to the sea at Newhaven, making for a stunning contrast between rolling green hills and the distant coastline. The final section takes you back to Lewes, following the River Ouse, offering a gentle finish after the route’s three steep but rewarding ascents.

Getting There:

• Take a direct train from London Victoria to Lewes (~1 hour 7 minutes).

Note: Weekend train services, especially on Sundays, may be less frequent (check schedules in advance).

7. The Isle of Grain to Woolwich – A Wild Trek from Coast to Capital

• Start/Finish: Isle of Grain / Woolwich

• Distance: 47 miles (75 km)

• Walking time: 2-3 days

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Best for: A long-distance hike tracing the Thames from its estuary to London

If you’re up for a multi-day adventure, this stretch of the England Coast Path offers a fascinating journey from Kent’s coastline to the heart of London. It’s one of the newer sections of the trail, connecting to the Thames Path and forming a 231-mile route from source to sea.

Starting at the Isle of Grain, you’ll follow the familiar National Trail acorn waymarkers all the way to Woolwich, passing through a mix of wild marshlands, historic forts, and hidden beaches. Early on, you’ll reach the London Stone, marking the Thames Estuary’s boundary, before winding through nature reserves and RSPB sites filled with birdlife.

As you edge closer to London, the scenery shifts—Victorian engineering, old industrial landmarks, and striking riverside views take centre stage. Before reaching Woolwich and the Royal Arsenal, you’ll pass the Grade-I listed Crossness Pumping Station, designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette in 1865. From here, the path seamlessly transitions into the Thames Path, should you feel like extending your journey along the river.

Getting There:

• Take a train from London Victoria to Chatham, then hop on the 191 bus to Lapwing Road, Isle of Grain (just under 2 hours total).

• If you prefer to tackle this route in sections, you can start at Swanscombe instead—it’s just 48 minutes from London Bridge by train.

This hike offers a rare blend of coastal remoteness, history, and urban transition, making it one of the most intriguing long-distance walks near London. Perfect for those craving an offbeat adventure with ever-changing landscapes.

8. Epping Forest – A Woodland Escape on London's Doorstep

• Start/Finish: Ivy Chimneys (loop)

• Distance: 13.1 miles (21 km)

• Walking time: 6 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (due to distance)

• Best for: A deep dive into one of London’s most historic woodlands

If you’re craving a real escape into nature, Epping Forest is one of the best places to stretch your legs without straying too far from London. A protected forest since 1882, when Queen Victoria declared it a “people’s forest,” this 6,000-acre wilderness is a mix of ancient woodlands, open grasslands, hidden ponds, and a thriving ecosystem of deer, birds, and insects.

With over 175 miles of trails, you could wander Epping Forest for days, but this looped route gives you a comprehensive experience in just one hike. It weaves through serene woodland, open glades, and classic forest ponds, making it especially magical in autumn when the leaves turn golden or in spring when the bluebells are in full bloom.

Halfway through, you’ll hit Butlers Retreat, a historic tea room and café, perfect for a well-earned break if it’s open. The walk also takes you past the picturesque Connaught Water and Strawberry Hill Ponds before winding back through leafy trails to your starting point.

Getting There:

• Take the Central Line to Epping train, and the journey from Oxford Circus will take just 52 minutes.

This moderate yet long trek is perfect for those looking to switch off, breathe in the fresh forest air, and feel truly immersed in nature without ever leaving London’s borders.

9. Exploring the Kent Downs AONB – A Classic Countryside Escape

• Start/Finish: Cobham, Gravesend (circular)

• Distance: 11.4 miles (18.3 km)

• Walking time: 5 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best for: A scenic wander through the Kent Downs AONB

Just 90 minutes from London, this looped hike through the Kent Downs AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) delivers everything you’d want from a countryside escape, rolling hills, lush farmland, charming villages, and historic landmarks.

The walk starts in Cobham (the one in Kent, not Surrey!), taking you through open fields, apple orchards, and ancient woodland. One of the best viewpoints comes early - at Mill Hill (2.8 miles in), where you’ll get sweeping views over the farmland below. Along the way, you’ll also pass through Luddesdown, home to what is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited house in South England.

Later in the walk, you’ll pass the Silverhand Estate, more picturesque orchards, and a mix of peaceful countryside lanes and footpaths before circling back to Cobham, a perfect spot to wrap up with a pub lunch.

Getting There:

• Take the Southeastern train from London Victoria to Meopham (about 33 minutes).

• From Meopham, hop on the 416 bus (9 minutes) to Cobham’s War Memorial.

This walk feels much further from London than it is, a perfect way to reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh country air, and take in the beauty of the Kent Downs.

10. Tilehurst to Sonning Bridge – A Riverside Stroll Along the Thames Path

• Start/Finish: Tilehurst to Sonning Bridge

• Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km) or 10 miles (16 km) to Twyford Station

• Walking time: 3 hours

• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

• Best for: A peaceful riverside escape west of London

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic walk along the Thames, this stretch of the Thames Path west of London is perfect. Tranquil waters, passing narrowboats, and lush greenery make this a lovely way to slow down and soak in the beauty of the river.

Starting from Tilehurst Railway Station, the first short section takes you through Reading before leading to the riverbank, where the city hum fades and nature takes over. Expect to see swans, ducks, geese, and a few locals enjoying a relaxed morning by the water.

As you walk, the wide, leafy riverside path meanders past open fields, Rivermead Park, and the islands of the Thames, including Fry’s Island, home to a private house and the Caversham Boat Service. You’ll pass Caversham Bridge, Christchurch Bridge, and later, Caversham Lock, where the River Kennet meets the Thames.

Near the end, the route winds through Thames Valley Park, an 80-acre nature reserve tucked behind a business district. Finally, you’ll arrive at Sonning Bridge, a picturesque finish to this peaceful riverside wander. If you’re up for it, you can extend your walk by another 3 miles (5 km) to Twyford Station—or simply hop on the 128 bus for a 10-minute ride.

Getting There:

• Take the Elizabeth Line from London Paddington to Reading (45 minutes).

• From Reading, switch to a GWR train (4 minutes) to Tilehurst.

• At the end, return via Twyford Station on the Elizabeth Line or catch the 128 bus from Sonning Bridge.

This is one of those relaxing, easy-going walks where you can simply follow the gentle flow of the river, a perfect escape just outside London.

Embrace the Spirit of Adventure on London's Best Hikes

Hiking around London isn’t just about covering miles or ticking off trails, it’s about immersing yourself in nature, uncovering hidden gems, and enjoying the journey as much as the destination.

You might find yourself wandering through ancient woodlands in Epping Forest, spotting wildlife along the Chess Valley Walk, or taking in the sweeping views from Leith Hill. (Or even wondering how you ended up knee-deep in mud after a sudden downpour!) But what you’ll definitely find yourself doing is discovering a whole new side of the countryside near London.

And, of course, leave room for spontaneity - whether it’s a charming village pub, a surprise sunset over the South Downs, or a detour that leads to an unforgettable view. The best hikes, like the best adventures, often unfold in the most unexpected ways.