10 Best Hikes Near London in 2023 (Day Hikes and Walks)

Although London is a huge metropolis and capital of the UK, there are plenty of excellent hikes near London both inside and outside of the city. From strolling along the South Bank to exploring the huge Royal Parks and nearby hiking trails, there are hikes around London for all levels of experience.

I’ve done plenty of hiking in London including on Hampstead Heath, Primrose Hill, Parliament Hill Fields, and Epping Forest. The city makes a great base for exploring some of the nearby national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty such as the Malvern Hills and Kent Downs.

10 Best Hikes in London

After over 20 years of living and traveling around London, I’ve taken countless hikes in and around the city. I’ve completed many more hikes than this in London, but I’ve narrowed down my favorites to this list of 10 based on accessibility, ease, crowds, views along the way, and overall enjoyment on the trail.

1. Hampstead Heath Circular

Hampstead Heath is one of my favorite places for London hiking. Despite it being just 4 miles (6.4 km) from Trafalgar Square, it covers a whopping 800 acres of beautiful countryside. Here, you’ll find a mixture of landscapes from heathland to ancient forests and rolling meadows.

I’ve been walking and hiking on Hampstead Heath many times as it’s so easy to get to from central London and feels like you’re in the middle of the English countryside, (there’s an excellent pub nearby too). The 4.5-mile Hampstead Heath Circular is a very pleasant amble and takes around two hours.

If you’re looking for easy hikes near London this is an excellent option. It’s perfect for walking and jogging, and dogs are welcome so long as they’re on a lead. The trail is open year-round but can get a little muddy in winter so pack wellies (Wellington boots) if it’s been raining before you plan to go.

Trail Details and Information

Location: Start the trail at the Parliament Hill Cafe (a 2-minute walk from Gospel Oak overground or 10 minutes from Tufnell Park underground). Click here to see the trail on AllTrails.
Getting There: Take the overground to Gospel Oak, or the tube to Tuffnell Park (Northern Line).
Length: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)
Duration: 2 hours
Type of Trail: Circle
Elevation Gain: 653 feet (199 meters)

2. South Bank of the Thames

One of my favorite easy hikes around London is along the South Bank of the Thames and I’ve taken this walk more times than I can remember. This isn’t…