The best city hikes and walks around Royal Borough Of Greenwich

The Royal Borough of Greenwich offers nearly 100 urban hiking trails, catering to various preferences. Most of these, about 73, are rated as easy, making them accessible for many hikers. You'll also find 24 moderate routes and one more challenging option for those seeking a greater adventure.

The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from historic parks to riverside paths, and the excellent views of the London skyline and River Thames.

Yes, many urban walks in Greenwich are perfect for families and leisurely strolls. A popular choice is the Royal Observatory Greenwich & Cutty Sark loop, an easy 3.4 km route that takes you through iconic Greenwich Park and past the historic ship. Greenwich Park itself offers varied terrain suitable for all ages, including wide paths and open green spaces.

For stunning panoramic views, head to Greenwich Park. From the Royal Observatory, you can enjoy expansive vistas of the River Thames, the Isle of Dogs, and the London skyline. The Royal Observatory Greenwich and View of London Skyline highlight is a must-see. Additionally, the Thames Path, which runs for 8.5 miles along Greenwich's river frontage, provides uninterrupted views of the Thames and its landmarks.

Absolutely. The Royal Borough of Greenwich is rich in natural beauty. Consider exploring the Oxleas Wood, part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which offers ancient woodlands with abundant trees and wildlife. The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is another unique spot, a four-acre freshwater habitat teeming with frogs, newts, dragonflies, and birds, with trails through wetlands and meadows.

Many of Greenwich's parks and open spaces are very welcoming to dogs. Bostall Heath & Woods, for example, is a large expanse of grass and woodland popular with dog walkers, offering miles of natural landscape. Greenwich Park also allows dogs, though some areas may require them to be on a lead. Always check local signage for specific rules.

Yes, the Thames Path is a fantastic option for riverside urban hiking. The Jubilee Greenway Trail (Section 6) is an easy 6.5 km route that follows the Thames, offering views of the Thames Barrier and the O2 Arena. Another route, the Royal Iris Abandoned Ferry – Woolwich Foot Tunnel loop, also incorporates a section along the river.

Greenwich is steeped in history. Beyond the Royal Observatory, you can explore the Cutty Sark, a famous clipper ship, or discover the ancient woodlands of Oxleas Woods. For a unique historical perspective, the Shrewsbury Bronze Age Tumulus offers a glimpse into the distant past. The borough also features Lesnes Abbey, with its parkland and woodland of geological interest.

While many routes are easy, there are options for longer urban hikes. For instance, the Liberty Grip by Gary Hume – Cutty Sark loop from Deptford Bridge is a moderate 12.2 km route. Another similar option is the Liberty Grip by Gary Hume – Cutty Sark loop from Greenwich, covering 11 km, offering a good workout while exploring the urban landscape.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is very well-served by public transport, making many urban hikes easily accessible. Greenwich Park, for example, is close to Greenwich and Maze Hill train stations, and the Cutty Sark DLR station. Many routes start near transport hubs, allowing you to begin your adventure without needing a car.

Yes, many of the urban hiking trails in Greenwich are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Royal Observatory Greenwich & Cutty Sark loop and the Royal Iris Abandoned Ferry – Woolwich Foot Tunnel loop. These are convenient for exploring without needing to retrace your steps.

While Greenwich Park can be busy, especially on weekends, areas like Oxleas Woods, Castle Wood, and Jack Wood offer a more peaceful escape with their ancient woodlands. Bostall Heath & Woods also provides extensive open spaces where you can find solitude. The Green Chain Walk, an extensive network of footpaths, connects many quieter parks and open spaces across southeast London, including parts of Greenwich.