The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ashton Keynes
4.5
(685)
4,898
hikers
18
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Ashton Keynes are primarily situated within the Cotswold Water Park, a landscape characterized by over 180 lakes, woodlands, and open meadows. The terrain is largely flat, offering accessible walking experiences along the numerous shimmering gravel-pit lakes and reed-lined lagoons. The area also encompasses the headwaters of the River Thames, providing tranquil riverside sections. This unique environment supports a diverse range of wildlife, particularly around nature reserves like Swillbrook Lakes and Meadows.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Ashton Keynes
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Manhole Cover – Lake at Cotswold Water Park loop from Ashton Keynes, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 32 minutes to complete, exploring the area's lakes and village paths.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ashton Keynes loop from Ashton Keynes, a moderate 5.7 miles (9.2 km) path that follows level tracks through lakes and woodlands.
- Local hikers also love the Lake at Cotswold Water Park – Ashton Keynes loop from Ashton Keynes, a 5.0 miles (8.0 km) trail leading through the distinctive lake-dotted landscape, often completed in about 2 hours 2 minutes.
- Hiking around Ashton Keynes is defined by its extensive network of lakes, tranquil waterways, and varied sections of woodlands and meadows. The network offers options for easy to moderate family friendly routes.
- The routes in Ashton Keynes are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Ashton Keynes's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
5.0
(2)
29
hikers
9.89km
02:30
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.7
(3)
29
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3.3
(3)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Gate is for the lake and is private property so won't open unless you're staying there
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a funky statue just opposite the shop in Ashton Keynes!
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Great to Refuel & Feed the Lamas
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Best To Visit Is In The Spring & Summer
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The top section of this walk is on a main road, you have to walk on the verge. It's a lovely walk though! The dog loved it
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Great flowing surface track with a quality turns through the lakes.
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Normally open 9:00 - 16:00, sometimes until 17:00. Some Tue and Wed closed but depends on season. Call 01285 860048 to check. Alpaca feeding times: 11:00 - 14:30 call ahead to book and you can help feed them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Ashton Keynes?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking routes around Ashton Keynes, with 8 rated as easy and 10 as moderate, making them suitable for various family abilities.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Ashton Keynes?
The terrain around Ashton Keynes is predominantly flat, characterized by paths alongside the numerous lakes of the Cotswold Water Park, ribbon-like streams, and reed-lined lagoons. You'll also find sections through woodlands and open meadows, offering diverse and accessible walking experiences.
Are there any easy, shorter routes suitable for families with young children or pushchairs?
Yes, for an easier, shorter option, consider the Cotswold Water Park Lake loop from South Cerney. This easy 5.2 km trail takes about 1 hour 19 minutes and offers level tracks around the lakes, which can be suitable for pushchairs depending on the specific path conditions.
What interesting natural features or landmarks can we see along the family-friendly trails?
Many trails offer views of the extensive lakes within the Cotswold Water Park. You can also explore the headwaters of the River Thames, with the Source of the River Thames being a notable natural monument. The Swillbrook Lakes and Meadows Nature Reserve is also a highlight for wildlife spotting.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the hiking trails in Ashton Keynes?
Yes, for a convenient stop, you can find Jennie's Kitchen at Wheatley's Barn Farm. The village of Ashton Keynes itself also offers local amenities.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Ashton Keynes?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Ashton Keynes, with an average score of 4.42 out of 5 stars from over 600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil lake-dotted landscapes, the accessible flat terrain, and the opportunities for wildlife observation within the Cotswold Water Park.
Are the family-friendly routes in Ashton Keynes typically circular?
Many of the family-friendly routes around Ashton Keynes are indeed circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For example, the Manhole Cover – Lake at Cotswold Water Park loop from Ashton Keynes is a moderate 10.1 km circular trail.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
The Cotswold Water Park area, including Ashton Keynes, is generally dog-friendly, with many footpaths welcoming well-behaved dogs. However, always keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, nature reserves like Swillbrook Lakes, and to protect ground-nesting birds. Check specific route details for any restrictions.
What is a good moderate-difficulty family hike that explores the village and lakes?
The Ashton Keynes loop from Ashton Keynes is a great moderate option. This 9.2 km route takes about 2 hours 19 minutes, following level tracks around lakes and through woodlands, giving a good feel for the local landscape and village charm.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest nearby that we can combine with a hike?
Yes, you can explore the area's rich history. The Cirencester Amphitheatre and sections of the ancient Fosse Way Roman Road are within reach. The village of Ashton Keynes itself also has historical hints, including the 12th-century Church of the Holy Cross.
What is the best time of year to visit Ashton Keynes for family hiking?
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the lakes and meadows, with abundant wildlife. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the woodlands. Even winter can be enjoyable for crisp walks, though some paths might be muddy. The flat terrain makes it accessible year-round.
Is there a moderate route that focuses on the lake-dotted landscape?
Absolutely. The Lake at Cotswold Water Park – Ashton Keynes loop from Ashton Keynes is an excellent choice. This moderate 8.0 km trail, taking around 2 hours 1 minute, immerses you in the distinctive lake-dotted scenery of the Cotswold Water Park.
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