The best hikes from bus stations around Swanwick
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Bus station hiking trails around Swanwick offer access to a diverse landscape featuring nature reserves, woodlands, and reservoirs. The region is characterized by a mix of tranquil natural areas and paths that traverse historical industrial sites. Hikers can explore varied terrain, from surfaced paths to woodland trails, often encountering lakes and diverse wildlife.
Best bus station hiking trails around Swanwick
- The most popular bus station hiking route is St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich – Butterley Reservoir loop from Somercotes CP,…
Last updated: October 31, 2026
3.8
(13)
33
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3.0
(2)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2.0
(1)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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(2)
7
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4.90km
01:17
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(6)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
A historic Church of England parish building dating back to the 12th century. Famous for its ancient Norman font and ties to the 1817 Pentrich Revolution. Built around 1150 on the site of a former Saxon settlement, it features a short embattled west tower and 12th-century circular piers.
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the pub is now reopened, garden refurbished, beautiful.
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Alfreton Masonic Temple was originally built as a library in 1938 by an American Philanthropist named Robert Watchorn who was born in Alfreton and emigrated to the USA in his early teens. He made his fortune before returning to England and in the 1930’s he bought up and demolished the row of back to back miner’s houses where he was born. He then built the Watchorn Methodist Church, a substantial number of houses, and the Abraham Lincoln Library as an educational facility for Alfreton.
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Kelly's Directory of 1932 describes St Thomas's Church as erected in 1852, and rebuilt (with the exception of the old chancel) in 1902, and is "an edifice of brick and stone, consisting of chancel and nave". The original building was erected in 1849 as a Wesleyan chapel, but following the division in the Methodist Church, the building was sold to the Riddings Churchwardens for £400, which was raised by donations. A chancel, built of stone, was then added, and a stained east window inserted at the expense of Thomas Haden Oakes esq. J.P. in memory of Mrs Beastall. Further additions were made in 1878, and the whole, as Kelly says, was rebuilt in 1902. [Source: Johnson, Reginald - A History of Alfreton (1868)]
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St. Andrew's Church. In 1856 the Revd John Wood gave land for a church to be built in Swanwick. With the aid of a donation of £3,230 from Francis Wright the building was completed in 1859 with a nave of five bays, north and south aisles, north porch and bell turret over the west gable. The pointed arches on both sides of the nave and in the chancel imply that the architect, Benjamin Wilson, had Early English architecture in mind when he designed the building. The Church celebrated its 150th Anniversary on Sunday 26 September 2010. The Bishop of Derby, the Rt Revd Dr. Alastair Redfern, presided at a celebratory service.
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Perfect place for a stop off, good food, beer and friendly staff!
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The entrance to Cotes Park Woods is marked by a Large yellow Miner's wheel sign, woodland trail for about a mile, several forked paths some leading out to houses, other to a dead end, but possible for dogs to go under fence and probably possibly for people to climb over but I didn't try.
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Reservoir adjacent to the old Butterley Company site, now used for angling. Visit at the right time and you may be lucky enough to see a steam train cross the far embankment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available around Swanwick?
There are over 18 bus-accessible hiking trails around Swanwick, offering a variety of experiences. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these trails?
The trails around Swanwick offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty. You can expect to encounter tranquil woodlands, scenic lakes formed from old clay pits, and diverse wildlife. The Wyver Lane Nature Reserve, for example, is a superb spot for birdwatching and observing wetland species.
Are there any viewpoints or notable landmarks along the bus-accessible routes?
Yes, several routes offer rewarding views and interesting landmarks. For instance, some trails might lead you to areas with views towards the Alport Heights Summit, known for its panoramic vistas. The region also features historical elements, such as remnants of its industrial past within areas like Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes accessible from Swanwick bus stations?
The bus-accessible hikes around Swanwick cater to various fitness levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate trails. Approximately 8 routes are considered easy, while 10 are moderate, ensuring there's something for everyone, from casual walkers to those seeking a bit more challenge.
Are there any shorter, easy walks suitable for a quick outing?
Absolutely. For a shorter, easy outing, consider the Butterley Railway Museum – Butterley Reservoir loop from Swanwick CP. This route is just under 5 km with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed walk. The Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve also offers over a mile of surfaced, marked trails ideal for casual strolls.
Are the bus-accessible trails around Swanwick suitable for families with children?
Many trails are family-friendly, especially those within the Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve, which features varied terrain from flat, surfaced paths to woodland trails. These areas are great for wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see newts, ducks, and various birds, making them engaging for children. Always check individual route details for specific suitability.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Most outdoor areas around Swanwick, including many of the trails accessible by bus, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like Swanwick Lakes, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please check local signage for specific rules.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stations?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often conveniently near a bus stop. An example is the St. Matthew's Church, Pentrich – Butterley Reservoir loop from Somercotes CP, which offers a pleasant circular hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Swanwick?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Swanwick, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the tranquility of its nature reserves, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring accessible. The blend of natural beauty and historical elements is frequently highlighted.
What is the best time of year to hike around Swanwick?
Swanwick offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round, with each season bringing its own charm. Spring is ideal for spotting drumming woodpeckers and new growth, while summer boasts abundant dragonflies. Autumn transforms the woodlands with golden hues, and frosted trees make for picturesque winter walks. The varied terrain means you can find suitable paths regardless of the season, though some woodland paths might be muddy after rain.
Are there any specific bus routes that serve popular hiking areas like Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve?
Yes, Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve is a key destination for hikers and is well-served by local bus routes. For detailed information on bus services and stops, it's advisable to check the local council's transport information or the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust's website for the most up-to-date schedules and access points. You can find more information about the reserve on the Fareham Borough Council website.
Are there places to eat or drink near the bus-accessible trails after a hike?
While specific establishments directly adjacent to bus stops or trailheads can vary, Swanwick village and nearby towns offer a selection of pubs and cafes where you can refresh after your hike. It's a good idea to research options in advance based on your chosen route's starting or ending point.
Most popular attractions around Swanwick
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