Easy hikes and walks around Bishop'S Stortford
4.5
(404)
2,399
hikers
90
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Bishop'S Stortford traverse a landscape characterized by the River Stort, ancient woodlands, and country parks. The area features diverse natural habitats, including globally rare chalk streams, which support varied wildlife. Hikers can explore paths alongside the river, through medieval hunting forests, and across open grassy areas with wildflowers. The terrain generally consists of gentle gradients, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Bishop'S Stortford
- The most popular easy hiking route is Broom's Plantation loop from Bishop's Stortford, a 3.3 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 22 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle exploration of the local countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lindsey Road loop from Bishop's Stortford, an easy 1.8 miles (3.0 km) path. This trail features a moderate elevation gain of 140 feet (43 m) through local paths.
- Local hikers also love the Bishop's Stortford Town Centre – Bridge The Gap Café loop from Bishop's Stortford, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail leading through the town centre and along the river, often completed in about 1 hour 21 minutes.
- Hiking around Bishop'S Stortford is defined by the River Stort, ancient woodlands like Hatfield Forest, and various country parks. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Bishop'S Stortford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Bishop'S Stortford'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)
30
hikers
5.75km
01:29
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
2.96km
00:48
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
26
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
Popular around Bishop'S Stortford
Other adventures around Bishop'S Stortford
Tips from the Community
One of the steepest roads in the town, westbound. If you're travelling south on Rye Street and want to get onto Cricketfield Lane, you're better off continuing south on Rye Street, turning right into Barrells Down Road and immediately left onto Elm Road - all of which mostly keeps you on level ground. Don't waste your energy for zero gain.
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
The River Stort passes through Bishops Stortford on its was through Essex and Hertfordshire from the village of Langley to the River Lea. From the town the river has been made navigable, known as the Stort Navigation.
0
0
Waterside Stortford is a 5.6km, flat trail which runs from Bat Willow Hurst Country Park to the north of the town, through the centre here, to just beyond Twyford Mill lock in the south. There are information points throughout the trail providing more information about the features of the trail.
0
0
The history of Waytemore Castle is shrouded in mystery. It is thought that it was a Saxon fortress built in the 10th century against invasion by the Danes but there is no record of it in the Domesday Book of 1086, a thorough survey and record of England commissioned by William the Conqueror after his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Now all you can see of the castle is the mound on which it stood and the stream to the south and west which would have been a much larger moat. The ruins on top are much later than 10th or 11th century. It has never been excavated for archeological research so who knows what secrets it holds.
0
0
Bishop's Stortford is a large commuter town that expanded rapidly from the Second World War onwards. It's home to the motte-and-bailey castle remains of Waytemore Castle, which stand above the River Stort in the centre of the town. Being an important market town, there are many old pubs, including the timber-framed, 16th-century Black Lion.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there around Bishop's Stortford?
There are over 60 easy hiking trails available around Bishop's Stortford, offering a wide variety of landscapes from riverside paths to ancient woodlands and country parks.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Bishop's Stortford?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. For instance, the paths through Hatfield Forest are known for being accessible and offer a mix of woodlands and open areas. The Waterside Stortford trail also offers a gentle exploration along the river, suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Most easy trails around Bishop's Stortford are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands like Birchanger Wood and Southern Country Park. Always ensure your dog is under control, and check for any specific local restrictions, particularly around nature reserves or livestock.
Are there easy circular walks available?
Yes, many easy routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Broom's Plantation loop from Bishop's Stortford, which is 3.3 miles (5.4 km) long and offers a gentle exploration of the local countryside.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I see on these easy hikes?
The easy trails often feature diverse natural and historical points of interest. You can explore the unique chalk stream ecology of the River Stort, ancient trees in Hatfield Forest, or wildflowers in Southern Country Park. Specific highlights include Hatfield Forest Lake, Parndon Mill and Lock, and the historic Barwick Ford and Footbridge.
Are there easy trails accessible by public transport?
Many trails are accessible from Bishop's Stortford town centre, which is well-served by public transport. The Bishop's Stortford Town Centre – Bridge The Gap Café loop is a great example, starting directly from the town and following the river.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes?
Parking is generally available at key access points for many trails, especially at country parks like Hatfield Forest and Southern Country Park. For town-based routes, public car parks in Bishop's Stortford are an option. Always check specific trailheads for parking information.
What is the best time of year for easy walks in Bishop's Stortford?
The area is beautiful year-round. Spring brings English Bluebells and Wood Anemones to Birchanger Wood, while summer sees wildflowers and pollinators in Southern Country Park. The riverside paths are pleasant in all seasons, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Are there any easy walks that pass by cafes or pubs?
Yes, some routes incorporate stops for refreshments. The Bishop's Stortford Town Centre – Bridge The Gap Café loop, for instance, passes through the town centre where you can find various cafes and pubs. Trails along the River Stort may also lead to riverside establishments.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on easy trails?
The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. Along the River Stort, you might spot reed warblers, fish, and damselflies. Woodlands like Hatfield Forest are home to numerous bird species and even wild fallow deer. Southern Country Park's chalk banks attract bees, hoverflies, and butterflies.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Bishop's Stortford?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Bishop's Stortford, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths, the beauty of ancient woodlands, and the accessibility of routes for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are there less crowded easy walks available?
While popular spots like Hatfield Forest can attract visitors, many of the smaller local loops offer a quieter experience. Exploring trails through Birchanger Wood or lesser-known sections of the River Stort paths can provide a more serene walk. The Lindsey Road loop from Bishop's Stortford is a good option for a peaceful local path.
Most popular routes around Bishop'S Stortford
Most popular attractions around Bishop'S Stortford
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
