The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Combwell Wood
4.5
(465)
3,484
hikers
211
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Combwell Wood are set within an ancient woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The terrain features distinctive deep-sided "gills" or valleys, often formed on Tunbridge Wells Sandstone, which create varied microclimates. Public footpaths provide access through this diverse landscape, which is known for its rich biodiversity and historical context of coppicing. The area offers a mix of woodland paths and connections…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
3.0
(2)
4
hikers
4.46km
01:09
40m
40m
Hike an easy 2.8-mile loop through Bedgebury National Pinetum, exploring a world-class collection of conifers and serene lake views.
4.8
(11)
74
hikers
9.80km
02:37
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
35
hikers
7.54km
02:06
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
17
hikers
12.8km
03:27
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
54
hikers
5.76km
01:33
70m
70m
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
Unfortunately, not very interesting to walk through.
0
0
Easy gravel trail through Bedgebury Forest, which makes for an excellent non muddy walk on a winters day
0
0
Louisa Lake is a charming spot nestled within Bedgebury Forest, often encountered on the woodland bike trails. With a peaceful bench nearby, it’s the perfect place to pause and take in the scenery.
1
0
Extensive forest and home to the National Pinetum. Many miles of great trails for family cycling and mountain biking, walking and running.
0
0
Always a lovely place to walk around, can be muddy in some spots depending on the time of the year
0
0
After the Hussey family gave up the house and the last resident of the family died, the house was initially converted into 6 apartments. Margaret Thatcher lived in one of them during her time as Prime Minister. Here she was "easier to protect" than in London. Now everything has been returned to the way it was before the conversion 😉
3
0
This Victorian mansion was built in 1837. Constructed from sandstone quarried from the grounds of the Old Castle, its privileged position offers splendid views of the castle and the estate. As a curiosity, during Margaret Thatcher's time as Prime Minister, she had an apartment in this building. Currently, it is owned by the National Trust, and you can find more information, plan your visit, and check the opening times at: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
0
0
The visitor centre has a shop, café, toilets and information about the forest, You can pick up a leaflet of the waymarked running and walking trails here or see them on the big map. The café is open daily from 8:30. They serve drinks, snacks and light meals with indoor or outdoor seating.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Combwell Wood?
There are over 200 family-friendly hiking routes around Combwell Wood, with more than half of them rated as easy. This offers a wide variety of options for families looking to explore the area.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Combwell Wood?
The terrain around Combwell Wood is quite varied, featuring ancient woodlands, deep-sided 'gills' (valleys), and areas of Tunbridge Wells Sandstone. While some paths are relatively flat, others may involve gentle inclines and descents, especially within the 'gill' valleys. Many trails are well-maintained, but some can be muddy after rain, particularly in wooded sections.
Are there trails suitable for strollers or toddlers?
While many trails are family-friendly, the ancient woodland and 'gill' features mean some paths might be uneven or muddy, making them less suitable for strollers. For easier, flatter options, consider routes like the Bedgebury National Pinetum Loop, which offers well-surfaced paths ideal for younger children and strollers.
What natural features or landmarks can we discover on family hikes?
Combwell Wood is an ancient woodland, so you'll encounter mature trees and a rich ground flora. In spring, areas are known for beautiful bluebell displays. The unique deep-sided 'gills' are also a distinctive feature. Nearby, you can explore the expansive Bewl Water reservoir or the historic grounds of Scotney Castle, both accessible via family-friendly routes.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Combwell Wood?
Spring is particularly beautiful, with the ancient woodlands coming alive with bluebells. Autumn offers stunning foliage colours. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer walks, while winter can be atmospheric, though paths may be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are family-friendly trails around Combwell Wood suitable for dogs?
Many public footpaths in and around Combwell Wood are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife. Remember to clean up after your dog to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Can we find circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes designed for families. For example, the Bedgebury National Pinetum Loop is a popular circular option. Other routes like the Scotney Castle House – Impressive Horse Chestnut Tree loop from Kilndown also offer a circular experience.
Are there options for shorter family walks?
Absolutely. Many of the easy-rated trails are shorter, making them perfect for families with young children or those looking for a quick outing. The Bedgebury National Pinetum Loop, for instance, is just over 4 km and takes around an hour to complete at a leisurely pace.
Is parking available for family hikers, and how accessible is the area by public transport?
Parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails, such as near Bedgebury National Pinetum or Kilndown. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages. While public transport options exist to nearby towns, direct access to all trailheads might be limited, so planning ahead is recommended.
Are there places to eat or refresh near the family hiking trails?
Yes, areas like Bedgebury National Pinetum often have visitor centres with cafes. Additionally, nearby villages such as Kilndown may offer pubs or small shops where you can find refreshments after your hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Combwell Wood?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.47 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil ancient woodlands, the unique geological features of the 'gills', and the variety of well-maintained paths that connect to other beautiful sites like Bewl Water and Scotney Castle.
What should we wear or bring for a family hike in this area?
Given the varied terrain and potential for mud, sturdy waterproof walking shoes or boots are highly recommended. Layers of clothing are advisable to adapt to changing weather. Don't forget water, snacks, a map or GPS (like komoot's app), and sun protection. If hiking with children, extra snacks, drinks, and a small first-aid kit are always a good idea.
Most popular routes around Combwell Wood
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
