The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bishop'S Stortford
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Family friendly hiking trails around Bishop'S Stortford are characterized by a diverse landscape featuring the River Stort, ancient woodlands, and extensive country parks. The region offers a mix of flat riverside paths, wooded trails, and open parkland. Key natural features include the River Stort Navigation, ancient royal hunting forests like Hatfield Forest, and several country parks with lakes and varied terrain. The area's gentle gradients make it suitable for accessible walks.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Bishop'S Stortford
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Broom's Plantation loop from Bishop's Stortford, an easy 3.3 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 22 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle exploration through woodland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lock and Latte Coffee Stop – Tednambury Lock 4 loop from Bishop's Stortford, a moderate 7.2 miles (11.6 km) path. This trail follows the historic River Stort Navigation.
- Local hikers also love the Broom's Plantation – Gravel Pit Coppice loop from Bishop's Stortford, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail leading through ancient woodlands and open countryside, often completed in about 2 hours 16 minutes.
- Hiking around Bishop'S Stortford is defined by river valleys, ancient woodlands, and country parks, with a network that offers options for various ability levels.
- The routes in Bishop'S Stortford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 360 reviews. More than 2,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Bishop'S Stortford's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.0
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
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12
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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31
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.38km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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36
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bishop'S Stortford
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful grade II listed building. Here is what the official entry says: "2. Mid C16 double fronted house. Exposed post and panel timber-framing, steep red tile pitched roofs. Two and a half storeys. North elevation to Bridge Street has jettied first floor and jettied second floor twin gables. Ground floor has central door flanked by modern mullion and transom windows in original positions and one old mullioned 2-light window. Two modern mullioned oriels on first floor and band of 5 blocked original mullioned 2-light windows. Cable moulded bressummer and carved angle post. Gables have mullioned 2-light windows and pendants to apexes and wall plates. Early C17 extension to west. Two storeys, one bay. Jettied first floor with C19 horizontal sash window. East elevation to Devoils lane has original mullion windows on ground and first floors. Plastered 2-storey, one bay, jettied extension to south with ground and first floor C18 sash windows. Further extension to south. Early C17, matching west extension of north elevation. Two storeys. Jettied, half-timbered first floor with one old mullioned window and 3 modern casements. Interior. Exposed dragon beam in ground floor, much restoration. (RCHM (1911) 65)." (https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1101601?section=official-list-entry)
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Nice historic builing now hosting a restaurant/bar with a relaxed terasse on the upper floor. Good place for a break with a view to enjoy good weather.
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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.
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We got to meet a beautiful black-and-white horse that took an interest in us as we passed
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Beautiful spot to stop on the bridge over the pond. Only a small wooden bridge but quaint.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Bishop's Stortford?
Bishop's Stortford offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 80 routes, with more than 50 of these classified as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Bishop's Stortford?
You'll discover a diverse range of landscapes, from picturesque trails alongside the River Stort and its historic navigation to ancient woodlands like Hatfield Forest and Birchanger Woods. Many routes also explore open country parks, offering a mix of scenery for your family adventure.
Are there easy trails suitable for beginners or families with young children?
Yes, Bishop's Stortford is known for its gentle gradients and accessible paths, making it ideal for beginners and families with young children or pushchairs. Many trails are relatively flat, especially those along the River Stort, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.
Can we bring our dog on the family hiking trails?
Absolutely! Many of the trails around Bishop's Stortford are dog-friendly, including popular spots like Birchanger Woods and various country parks. Just remember to keep your dog under control and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.
Are there any circular routes for families?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes designed for families. For example, the 'Parks and Beyond' walks link five open spaces, providing waymarked, traffic-free circular options. You can also explore routes like the Broom's Plantation loop, which offers a gentle exploration through woodland.
What historical sites or landmarks can we see along the trails?
The area is rich in history! You can explore the remains of the 10th-century Saxon fortress at Waytemore Castle Mound, or visit Parndon Mill and Lock, a historic site now an arts hub. Hatfield Forest, a preserved medieval royal hunting forest, also offers a glimpse into the past.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting during our hike?
Definitely! The River Stort is home to globally rare chalk streams, supporting diverse wildlife. Hatfield Forest boasts over 3,500 species of fungi and varied wildlife, while Southern Country Park's chalk banks attract pollinators. Keep an eye out for birds, insects, and other creatures as you explore.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails here?
The trails around Bishop's Stortford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 360 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful woodland sections, and the accessibility of routes for families, highlighting the natural beauty and ease of navigation.
Is there a good short and easy family walk recommendation?
For a pleasant and easy family walk, consider the Broom's Plantation loop. This 5.4 km (3.3 miles) route offers a gentle exploration of the countryside through woodland, perfect for a relaxed outing with children.
Are there any trails that include a coffee stop or pub along the way?
Yes, some routes are designed with convenient stops in mind. The Lock and Latte Coffee Stop – Tednambury Lock 4 loop is a moderate 11.6 km (7.2 miles) trail that follows the historic River Stort Navigation and, as its name suggests, offers a chance to refuel.
What are the parking and public transport options for accessing these trails?
Many trailheads in and around Bishop's Stortford offer convenient parking, especially at country parks and designated starting points. The town itself is well-connected by public transport, and some trails, particularly those along the River Stort, are accessible from the town centre, making it easy to start your adventure.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Bishop's Stortford?
Bishop's Stortford's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and new growth, while autumn offers beautiful foliage in the woodlands. Summer is great for longer days and riverside walks, and even winter can be charming with crisp air and fewer crowds, especially on the well-maintained paths.
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