The best family-friendly hikes and walks around St. Leonards And St. Ives
4.5
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16,758
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37
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around St. Leonards And St. Ives are primarily found within the expansive Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. This area is characterized by diverse landscapes, including forests, tranquil heathlands, and gentle river valleys. The terrain is generally flat, offering accessible trails suitable for various fitness levels and families. Well-maintained forest paths cater to both short, easy walks and more extensive moderate routes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around St. Leonards And St. Ives
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
58
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
43
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
40
hikers
5.11km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
41
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
New way to enter Moors valley country park, just of the Verwood Rd, single track along side nere the lakes.. beware of the pedestrians..
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Lovely woods and hilly views nice coffee shop nearby
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Very busy during the summer months, very muddy during the winter. pick your poison lol
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Nice cycle path through the Valley. Unfortunately can be a lot of loose dogs in the area, making the ride a bit more cautious.
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Enjoy a ride on an authentic steam train around Moors Valley Country Park. Carrying over 100,000 passengers annually, the railway provides a picturesque journey of just over a mile. Travel along the banks of Moors Lake, through tunnels, a forest incline, and a spiral loop around the play areas. The railway is run by an extended family team and many dedicated volunteers. With over 20 locomotives, many built in the railway workshop, it prides itself on providing an authentic steam railway experience. Opening times vary depending on the month. Times are mainly 1045am to latest of 5pm
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Moors Valley Country Park is a great place for a family day out. There is such a range of activities here, from Go Ape, to mountain bike trails, to fishing. The tracks for cycling range from wide open forest tracks to singletrack through the forest. There is also a bike park and pump track where you can test your bike handling skills.
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Children’s activity structure with ladders and slides.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in St. Leonards And St. Ives?
There are nearly 40 family-friendly hiking trails around St. Leonards And St. Ives, with 23 rated as easy and 16 as moderate. This provides a wide range of options suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in this region?
The terrain around St. Leonards And St. Ives is generally flat and features well-maintained paths, especially within Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. You'll find expansive forests, tranquil heathlands, and gentle river valleys, making it suitable for families with children or those seeking easier walks.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Treetop Walkway loop from Moors Valley Country Park, which is an easy 3.5 km walk perfect for a family outing.
What are some popular attractions or points of interest along these family trails?
Many trails pass through or near Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, which offers various attractions like the Treetop Walkway and the Superworm Trail. You might also encounter natural highlights such as Jon Egging Memorial or the Canford Heath Nature Reserve. For younger children, the Moors Valley Country Park — Play Trail is a fantastic highlight.
Are the family-friendly trails suitable for strollers or buggies?
Given the prevalence of well-maintained paths and generally flat terrain, especially within Moors Valley Country Park, many trails are suitable for strollers or buggies. Routes like the Superworm Trail loop from Moors Valley Country Park are often designed with accessibility in mind, making them great for families with young children.
Can we bring our dog on these family hikes?
Yes, the St. Leonards And St. Ives area is generally dog-friendly. Moors Valley Country Park, a central hub for many trails, welcomes dogs, often with specific guidelines to ensure everyone enjoys the natural environment. Always keep your dog under control and check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in St. Leonards And St. Ives?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, accessible paths, the beautiful forest and heathland scenery, and the family-friendly atmosphere, especially within Moors Valley Country Park.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for older children or more active families?
Absolutely. For families looking for a longer adventure, routes like the Treetop Walkway – Superworm Trail loop from St. Leonards and St. Ives offer a moderate 8.4 km experience. Another option is the Moors Valley Cycle Path – Moors Valley Railway loop from St. Leonards and St. Ives, which is a moderate 11.6 km route.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for family hikes?
Yes, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, which serves as a starting point for many family-friendly trails, offers ample parking facilities. It's advisable to check their official website for current parking fees and operating hours before your visit.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in St. Leonards And St. Ives?
The trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant weather for longer days out, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the well-maintained paths make for accessible walks, though some areas might be muddy after rain. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife on these family hikes?
Yes, the diverse landscapes of forests and heathlands, particularly within Moors Valley Country Park and areas like Canford Heath Nature Reserve, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, deer, and other small mammals. It's a great way to engage children with nature.
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