4.5
(1088)
7,023
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking around Great Amwell offers a diverse landscape characterized by historic waterways, nature reserves, and tranquil woodlands. The region features the New River and River Lea, providing mostly flat riverside trails. Amwell Nature Reserve, a significant natural area, includes lakes, reedbeds, grassland, and woodland, with Great Hardmead Lake as a prominent feature. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(9)
61
hikers
8.38km
02:10
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
87
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
9.40km
02:23
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
14.1km
03:37
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely coffee and a great choice of cakes just over the bridge from the towpath. Nice peaceful spot with nil need to lock up the bikes.
1
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This is a lovely lock located along the River Lea, close to the Amwell Nature Reserve. The area features a lockkeepers cottage and beautiful scenery all around, making it very picturesque. The lock is known to be one of the trickiest to negotiate along the river, so if you're there whilst a boat is passing, you'll be able to watch these savvy boaters navigate their way through.
2
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This beautiful woodland is moments away from the busy towns of Ware and Stanstead Abbotts in Hertfordshire. This is a great place for spotting Red Kite's if you're keen on birdwatching.
1
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Not open Mondays, the rest of the week from 10am, lovely selection of cakes. They also have benches, so you rest and enjoy the lovely views.
0
0
Nice place to observe the birds. The complete path has nice organise bird watchers arias. I believe 7 AM is a good time to be there.
0
0
There are 7 dedicated hiking trails around Great Amwell that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the region's natural beauty without needing a car.
Yes, Great Amwell offers 3 easy hiking routes that are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. An excellent option is the River Lea Navigation at Ware – View of Amwell Nature Reserve loop from Ware, which is 6.5 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it very accessible.
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails in Great Amwell are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often near a bus stop. For example, the Easneye Wood – Stanstead Lock loop from Ware is a moderate 8.4 km circular route.
The bus-accessible trails in Great Amwell showcase a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find tranquil riverside paths along the New River and River Lea, serene woodlands like Easneye Wood, and the rich ecological habitats of Amwell Nature Reserve, which features lakes, reedbeds, and grassland. The terrain is generally gentle, making for pleasant walks.
Yes, several routes pass by interesting landmarks. You can visit the Chadwell Spring and New River Source Monument, which marks the historic origin of the New River. The trails also offer views of the Amwell Nature Reserve, known for its wildlife. Additionally, you might encounter historical traces like an Iron Age hill fort or a large tumulus at Barrowfield.
Many of the trails, especially the easy and moderate ones with gentle terrain, are suitable for families. The flat riverside paths along the New River and River Lea are particularly good for walks with children. The Amwell Nature Reserve also offers engaging opportunities for wildlife spotting, which can be fun for all ages.
Yes, many of the trails in Great Amwell are dog-friendly. However, always keep your dog under control, especially when passing through nature reserves or areas with livestock. Be mindful of local signage regarding dog access, particularly within sensitive wildlife areas like parts of Amwell Nature Reserve.
The bus-accessible trails in Great Amwell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside walks, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Absolutely. The View of Amwell Nature Reserve – Amwell Nature Reserve loop from Great Amwell is an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts. Amwell Nature Reserve is internationally recognized for its wintering wildfowl and breeding birds, including elusive bitterns. It also boasts a dedicated Dragonfly Trail open from May to September, making it a prime spot for spotting dragonflies and damselflies.
Great Amwell's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife, especially at Amwell Nature Reserve. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to woodlands like Easneye Wood. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, with opportunities for spotting wintering birds. The generally gentle terrain means most paths remain accessible in various conditions.
Yes, the region is defined by its historic waterways. Routes like the Ware Lock – View of Amwell Nature Reserve loop from Ware follow sections of the River Lea Navigation, offering picturesque views of the river and its locks. The New River Path also provides long-distance walking opportunities along this 17th-century artificial waterway.
For those seeking a bit more challenge, there are 4 moderate routes available. The Rye House Gatehouse – Easneye Wood loop from Ware is a longer option at 14.1 km, taking you through scenic woodlands and offering a good workout with moderate elevation changes.


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