Hiking in London: A Local’s Guide to London’s Best Hiking Trails

When you think of trails, your mind probably goes straight to scenic views of the mountains and rural towns deep in the British countryside – but did you know you can go hiking in London? The city is a labyrinth of hiking trails that make the perfect day out. If you’re like me and want to spend less time staring at screens, hiking is a great way to practise mindfulness and reconnect with nature.

Yep, I said it. Nature. While London might be famous for its hustle and bustle, there are still plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors. I’m sharing a local’s guide to London’s best hiking trails, including what to wear to cope with whatever the British weather throws at you. Grab your favourite Protected Species Waterproof Jacket and let’s take a hike!

Why You Should Go Hiking in London

We all need to take a break once in a while. Whether you’re a tourist visiting London or call the city home, walking routes in London are a great way to stay on top of your fitness and explore new areas. London is a walkable city and the extensive public transport options mean there are plenty of hiking in London and hiking near London options both with their individual sights, sounds and experiences attached! There’s something for everyone, whether you want to see popular tourist sites, beautiful architecture, river or forest walks, London is a fantastic city to hike around. 

There are countless benefits of hiking, from supporting your physical and mental health to giving you a free activity to do with friends. Hiking near London or exploring London walking routes can help really clear your mind as there are so many interesting sites, smells and sounds to take in on your travels. Being in nature walking in the extensive parks and green suburbs the city has to offer, often helps to decrease negative thought patterns and going on a hike at least once a month is a good way of getting your daily dose of dopamine.

Research has shown that Spending Time Outdoors can boost your memory, improve logical thinking, and enhance your imagination. Hiking is an easy way to recharge your batteries and reconnect with yourself. The accessibility of hiking means there’s a walking route in London for everyone. These hiking paths are a natural stress reliever and will instantly boost your mood, without feeling like you’ve been working out. 

Places to Hike and Walking Routes in London

There are 32 boroughs across the Greater London area with walking routes and hiking trails in almost all of them. If you’re visiting the city, these walking routes are a great way to get your steps in, while ticking off places on your travel itinerary. 

One of the things that still surprises me about London is how many green spaces exist throughout the city. While you’ll find more traditional hiking routes in the outer region of Greater London, there are still plenty of parks and green spaces you’ll walk through in Central London. 

I’m sharing five of my favourite hiking trails in London with something for everyone. Some of these walking routes feel more like a tour of the city’s landmarks so are a bit of a historical refresh as well as a great workout.

1. Thames Path

Thames Path is one of the most famous walking routes in London – and one of the longest! It clocks in at over a whopping 180 miles. The good news is that you don’t have to walk the whole thing. There are several segments of the route and it’s easy to start and end almost anywhere along the path. 

This London hiking route follows the River Thames, starting at its source in Gloucestershire and following through to the Thames Barrier. What I love about this walking route is its almost entirely flat and easy to navigate. 

This route includes some of the most iconic and historically relevant landmarks in London, including Hampton Court Palace, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. There are plenty of public transport options along this route, making it easy to start anywhere along it.

2. Epping Forest Woodland

In East London, you’ll find Epping Forest, a 6,000-acre woodland with hiking trails that strength over 50 miles. You’ll find plenty of wildlife here, including foxes and deer, giving you a more traditional hiking option. 

You can reach this London hiking route by taking the Central line to Epping, Debden, or Loughton. If you’re a history fan, plan your hiking route to include Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge.

3. Heath Walk – Hamstead Heath

One of the most accessible walking routes in London is found in Hampstead Heath. At just four and a half miles long, Heath Walk is a great option for a weekend hike. You’ll get some of the best views of London’s skyline while walking through open fields and woodland. You can also opt for a longer six and a half mile version of this London walking route.

It’s suitable for most hikers with moderate difficulty. Bring some snacks and plan to stop for a picnic along the way. You can take the Northern line or overground service to Hampstead to start this walking route.

4. Tamsin Trail – Richmond Park

Richmond Park is one of my favourite places to relax in London, whether it’s having brunch or taking a walk. Tamsin Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes for Londoners and is seven miles long.

Take the District line over to Richmond and start your hike early in the day to spend your afternoon enjoying the hospitality and independent bars and restaurants throughout Richmond. You can expect this route to take between two and a half and four hours, depending on your walking speed.

5. The Jubilee Walkway

If you’re visiting London as a tourist, this walking route will show you the most famous areas of the city and popular landmarks. The Jubilee Walkway is an easy 15-mile walking route and includes the London Eye, the British Museum, the Tower of London, the Millennium Bridge, and Trafalgar Square. Look for discs on the footpath along this route as gold discs signify a special historical event. 

What to Wear Hiking in London

The British weather is famously unpredictable. You can go from blue skies to rain storms in the blink of an eye. Wearing the right outfit for hiking is crucial to having an enjoyable experience, from protecting you against the rain to keeping you comfortable as the miles start clocking up. You’ll want a waterproof outer layer, sensible walking shoes, and gloves or a hat, depending on the time of year.
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