Easy hikes and walks around Great Hallingbury
4.5
(380)
2,193
hikers
354
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Great Hallingbury are found within a rural parish in Essex, England, characterized by its position within the metropolitan Green Belt and designated as an area of special landscape value. The region features notable natural attractions such as Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest with diverse wildlife and a lake, and the scenic River Stort, which forms part of the parish boundary. The terrain generally consists of gentle elevations and well-maintained paths suitable for easy walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Great Hallingbury
- The most popular easy hiking route is Broom's Plantation loop from Bishop's Stortford, a 3.35 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 22 minutes to complete. This loop leads through ancient woodland within Hatfield Forest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood, an easy 3.46 miles (5.6 km) path. This route offers views of Hatfield Forest Lake and passes by the forest cafe.
- Local hikers also love the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from HUB, a 4.21 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through Hatfield Forest's diverse features, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Great Hallingbury is defined by ancient woodlands, picturesque river valleys, and quiet country lanes. The network of easy hiking trails offers options for various ability levels, focusing on accessible and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
- The routes in Great Hallingbury are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Great Hallingbury's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
45
hikers
5.38km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
5.57km
01:26
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
10
hikers
6.82km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful grade II listed building. Here is what the official entry says: "2. Mid C16 double fronted house. Exposed post and panel timber-framing, steep red tile pitched roofs. Two and a half storeys. North elevation to Bridge Street has jettied first floor and jettied second floor twin gables. Ground floor has central door flanked by modern mullion and transom windows in original positions and one old mullioned 2-light window. Two modern mullioned oriels on first floor and band of 5 blocked original mullioned 2-light windows. Cable moulded bressummer and carved angle post. Gables have mullioned 2-light windows and pendants to apexes and wall plates. Early C17 extension to west. Two storeys, one bay. Jettied first floor with C19 horizontal sash window. East elevation to Devoils lane has original mullion windows on ground and first floors. Plastered 2-storey, one bay, jettied extension to south with ground and first floor C18 sash windows. Further extension to south. Early C17, matching west extension of north elevation. Two storeys. Jettied, half-timbered first floor with one old mullioned window and 3 modern casements. Interior. Exposed dragon beam in ground floor, much restoration. (RCHM (1911) 65)." (https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1101601?section=official-list-entry)
2
0
Sign and view on the Filtch Way, next to the entrance into Hatfield Forest.
0
0
Need to pay for car entrance at the National Trust forest. Check opening times as they can stop letting cars in after a certain time.
0
0
Bought a coffee from the National Trust cafe and sat near to the lake in Hatfield Forrest.
0
0
This path follows the beautiful River Stort Navigation canal near South Mill Lock. It’s a lovely flat trail that offers picturesque views, conveniently located just outside Bishop's Stortford.
4
0
Insure the gates are closed after you, watch out for sudden dips and holes if you’re riding cross-country and take your time.
0
0
Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in Great Hallingbury?
Great Hallingbury offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 200 routes available for you to explore. These trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for various ability levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Great Hallingbury?
The terrain on easy hikes in Great Hallingbury primarily features gentle elevations and well-maintained paths. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, picturesque river valleys along the River Stort, and quiet country lanes, making for a pleasant and accessible walking experience.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Great Hallingbury?
Yes, many easy trails in Great Hallingbury are ideal for families. Hatfield Forest, in particular, offers numerous well-maintained paths and a lake, providing a safe and engaging environment for all ages. Routes like the Hatfield Forest Cafe – Hatfield Forest Lake loop from HUB are short and offer scenic views suitable for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on easy hiking trails in Great Hallingbury?
Hatfield Forest, a prominent feature of the area, is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially around wildlife, and check for any specific local regulations or signage regarding dogs on trails.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on easy walks?
Easy walks in Great Hallingbury often lead through significant natural features. You can explore the ancient woodlands of Hatfield Forest, including the beautiful Hatfield Forest Lake. The River Stort also offers scenic waterside views. For a glimpse into history, you might pass by St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, or even the Iron Age hill fort, Wallbury Camp.
Are there any circular easy walks available?
Yes, many easy routes in Great Hallingbury are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Priory Wood, which offers a pleasant loop through the forest.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Great Hallingbury?
Great Hallingbury offers enjoyable easy hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the well-maintained paths of Hatfield Forest are accessible, offering a peaceful, crisp walking environment.
Are there options for parking near the easy trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available, especially around popular areas like Hatfield Forest. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or by checking the National Trust website for Hatfield Forest.
How long do easy hikes in Great Hallingbury typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies, but many popular routes are designed for shorter outings. For example, the Hatfield Forest Cafe – Hatfield Forest Lake loop from The Warren can be completed in under an hour, while others like the Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from HUB might take around 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on your pace.
Are there any cafes or pubs along easy hiking routes?
Yes, particularly within Hatfield Forest, you'll find amenities like the Hatfield Forest Cafe, which is often a feature or starting point for several easy loops. The surrounding villages may also offer pubs for refreshments after your walk.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Great Hallingbury?
The easy trails in Great Hallingbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the natural beauty of Hatfield Forest, making it a favorite for accessible outdoor experiences.
Are there any historical sites to explore on easy walks?
While not directly on every trail, the region is rich in history. You can find historical churches like St Giles Church, dating back to the 11th century, within Great Hallingbury parish. The ancient royal hunting forest of Hatfield Forest itself holds significant historical value as one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally.
What makes Hatfield Forest a good place for easy hiking?
Hatfield Forest is an excellent location for easy hiking due to its status as a well-preserved ancient royal hunting forest. It features diverse wildlife, ancient trees, and a beautiful lake, all accessible via numerous well-maintained, relatively flat paths. Its designation as a National Trust property ensures the trails are kept in good condition for walkers of all abilities.
Most popular routes around Great Hallingbury
Most popular attractions around Great Hallingbury
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
