The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Southery Wood
4.6
(76)
601
hikers
39
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Southery Wood are primarily located within the Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve in West Lindsey, Lincolnshire. The region is characterized by ancient woodlands, featuring small-leaved lime trees, oak, hazel, and ash, providing a dense forest environment. The terrain is generally low-lying with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. Trails often consist of partially-paved and forest paths, winding through diverse flora and supporting various wildlife.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Southery Wood
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Southrey – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Southrey, a 8.6 miles (13.8 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a journey through the local countryside and past historical points of interest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bardney Village – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Bardney CP, a moderate 8.0 miles (12.9 km) path. This route explores the area around Bardney, featuring gentle gradients and varied scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Bardney Lock – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Bardney CP, a 3.0 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through the flat landscape near Bardney Lock, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Southery Wood is defined by ancient woodlands, low elevation hills, and riverside paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, including easy hikes suitable for families and longer moderate routes.
- The routes in Southery Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Southery Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.4
(5)
28
hikers
13.8km
03:31
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(7)
30
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
21.8km
05:32
60m
60m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
10.1km
02:33
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You can imagine going back in time how this building would of looked..shame
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A good place for a quick stop. Former railway station. A small gravel car park, and a pub close by.
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The field surrounding the abbey is grazed by rare breed longhorn cattle. They seemed unconcerned by our presence but I wouldn't want to take dog in their field.
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Bardney lock is located on the River Witham about 11 miles to the East of Lincoln. The River Witham flows through the peaceful Lincolnshire countryside and is has beautiful views with a remote feeling for much of its length. The flat marshy fenlands stretch out on either side of the river allowing spectacular sunsets to be seen.
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Bardney is a small village that dates back to Roman times. With more than one pubs in the village to have a drink and some lunch it makes a rest stop. Look out for the Grade 1-listed 15th century church which was dedicated to St Lawrence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Southery Wood?
There are nearly 40 family-friendly hiking routes around Southery Wood, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide focuses on routes suitable for families, ensuring a pleasant experience for all ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Southery Wood?
The trails around Southery Wood offer a mix of terrain, often described as "partially-paved, forest" routes. You'll find paths winding through ancient woodlands, with some sections offering scenic views. The elevation changes are generally gentle, making them suitable for families.
Are there any easy, shorter routes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families with young children. For a pleasant, shorter walk, consider the Bardney Lock – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Bardney CP. This easy hike covers about 4.8 kilometers and offers a lovely introduction to the area.
What natural features or wildlife can we expect to see in Southery Wood?
Southery Wood is renowned for its ancient woodlands, featuring small-leaved lime, oak, hazel, and ash trees. In spring, you'll be treated to colorful displays of wildflowers like wood anemones and orchids. The diverse habitats support rich wildlife, so keep an eye out for owls, woodpeckers, bats, various butterflies, and deer.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Southery Wood?
Many trails in and around Southery Wood are dog-friendly, making it a great place to bring your canine companion. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to follow local signage regarding dog access.
What is the best time of year to visit Southery Wood for a family hike?
Spring is particularly beautiful in Southery Wood, when the ancient woodlands burst into life with vibrant wildflowers like wood anemones, lily of the valley, and orchids. The milder weather of spring and autumn also provides comfortable conditions for family hiking. Summer offers lush greenery, while winter can be peaceful, though paths may be muddier.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the trails?
Yes, the area around Southery Wood is rich in history. Many walks in the Lincolnshire Limewoods incorporate visits to medieval abbey ruins, such as those of Tupholme and Bardney Abbey, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor experience. These historical sites offer interesting stops for families to explore.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Southrey – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Southrey is a moderate circular hike that offers a good overview of the local landscape.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Southery Wood?
The komoot community rates the trails around Southery Wood highly, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful ancient woodlands, the diverse flora and fauna, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.
Is there public transport available to reach Southery Wood trails?
While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead might be limited, local bus services operate in the broader Lincolnshire area. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules to nearby villages like Bardney, from where some trails may be accessible. For more detailed information on local walks, you might find resources like Visit Lincolnshire helpful.
Are there longer, more challenging family-friendly hikes for older children?
For families with older children looking for a longer adventure, the Bardney Village – St Lawrence's Church, Bardney loop from Bardney CP is a moderate 12.9-kilometer route that offers a good challenge without being overly strenuous. It provides a rewarding experience through varied landscapes.
Most popular routes around Southery Wood
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