The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kidlington
4.6
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10,567
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Family friendly hiking trails around Kidlington are set within the Cherwell Valley, characterized by gentle terrain and accessible paths. The region features riverside routes along the River Cherwell and the Oxford Canal, offering views of open fields and wooded areas. Community woodlands and open meadows contribute to the varied scenery, providing diverse natural experiences for hikers.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Kidlington
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – Thrupp Community Forest loop…
Last updated: July 28, 2026
4.9
(19)
75
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
9.11km
02:21
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kidlington
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Tips from the Community
Nicely preserved church. https://ohct.org.uk/church/kidlington-st-mary-the-virgin/
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Great pub , good food Great drinks
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Great ride can be quite busy at week ends
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saw a family of deer in the woodland. got a bit lost at one point but managed to find a path again!
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This church, which is dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin "Santa Croce"), takes its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross goes back in large part to Saint Helena, who was the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who recognized Christianity as a religion after his victory at the "Milvian Bridge" in front of Rome and ended the long period of persecution with the "Edict of Toleration" of Milan in 312). In the early fourth century, she made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel / Palestine) and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross" on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The church celebrates the feast of the discovery, public presentation and veneration of the Holy Cross - called the "Exaltation of the Cross" - on September 14th.
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Young deciduous woodland planted by the Forestry Commission in 1990s along the River Cherwell between Thrupp and Kidlington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Kidlington?
Kidlington offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. There are over 20 routes, with 9 specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.
Are there easy and short hiking trails suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, many trails are well-suited for families with young children. For example, the The Boat Inn – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Kidlington is an easy 4-mile (6.5 km) route that takes just under 1.5 hours, offering gentle terrain through woodland and along the canal.
Can I find circular family-friendly hiking routes in Kidlington?
Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly routes around Kidlington are circular, allowing for a varied experience without retracing your steps. The Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – Thrupp Community Forest loop from Kidlington is a popular circular option, covering about 4.6 miles (7.4 km).
What kind of scenery and points of interest can families expect on these trails?
Families can enjoy diverse scenery including the serene Cherwell Valley, picturesque paths along the Oxford Canal, peaceful community woodlands, and open meadows. Historical features like the Hampton Gay Manor Ruins and the charming hamlet of Thrupp add to the experience. You might also spot wildlife in areas like Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve, a short drive away.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore along the family-friendly trails?
Yes, several trails incorporate historical elements. The Hampton Gay Manor Ruins – The Boat Inn loop from Kidlington takes you past the evocative Hampton Gay Manor Ruins. While not directly on these trails, the 13th-century St. Mary's Church in Kidlington is a local landmark, and the magnificent Blenheim Palace is a short drive away, offering extensive grounds to explore.
Are the family-friendly hiking trails around Kidlington suitable for dogs?
Many of the trails, especially those along the Oxford Canal and through community woodlands, are generally dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to check for any specific local restrictions.
Are any of the family-friendly trails accessible by public transport?
Kidlington is well-connected by local bus services, making it possible to access many trailheads from the village center. Routes starting directly from Kidlington, such as the Thrupp Community Forest – The Boat Inn loop from Kidlington, are easily reachable without a car.
Is parking available near the starting points of these family-friendly hikes?
Yes, parking is typically available in or near Kidlington village, as well as at various points along the trails, particularly in hamlets like Thrupp or at local pubs that serve as popular starting points for walks.
Are there any trails with water features like canals, rivers, or even waterfalls?
The Oxford Canal and River Cherwell are prominent features of the Kidlington landscape, and many trails run alongside them, offering scenic waterside walks. While there are no large waterfalls directly on these specific family trails, the Blenheim Park Lake and The Pump House Waterfall is a notable water feature located a short distance away at Blenheim Palace.
When is the best time of year to enjoy family hikes around Kidlington?
The gentle terrain of Kidlington makes it suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths along the canal and through woodlands can be enjoyed, though some areas might be muddy after rain.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Kidlington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful countryside, the charm of the Oxford Canal, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings. The blend of natural beauty and historical interest is frequently highlighted.
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