The best walks and hikes around the London Borough Of Hillingdon

The London Borough of Hillingdon offers a wide array of hiking opportunities, with over 220 routes available for exploration. These range from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance paths, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Hillingdon has many easy routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Ruislip Lido – Le Camping de la Plage Café loop from Ruislip is an easy 4 km (2.5 miles) trail. Many sections of the Grand Union Canal towpath also offer flat, accessible walks.

Hillingdon's diverse habitats, including ancient woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, support a variety of wildlife. Hikers might spot various bird species, rare butterflies like the purple hairstreak, and dragonflies, especially in areas like Gutteridge Wood within the Yeading Valley section of the Hillingdon Trail, or around the Colne Valley Regional Park.

Yes, many trails in Hillingdon are circular. A popular option is the Ruislip Woods, Ruislip Lido & Park Woods loop from Ruislip, which is a moderate 9.9 km (6.2 miles) route. Another is the Grand Union Canal Path – View of Stocker's Lake loop from Harefield, offering scenic views along the canal.

Many of Hillingdon's green spaces and trails are dog-friendly, particularly the extensive woodlands of Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve and the towpaths along the Grand Union Canal. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially around wildlife or livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions.

Absolutely. Hillingdon is rich in waterways. You can explore trails around Ruislip Lido, a popular reservoir, or along the River Colne in the Colne Valley Regional Park. The historic Grand Union Canal also offers peaceful waterside walks, such as the Denham Deep Lock – Springwell Reedbed loop from Harefield.

For families, the trails around Ruislip Lido are ideal, offering flat paths and amenities. Shorter sections of the Hillingdon Trail, such as the Cranford Park Section, are also suitable, providing easy walks through historic features and green spaces.

Many of Hillingdon's trails are accessible via public transport. The borough is well-served by London Underground and bus routes. For instance, Ruislip Lido is reachable by bus from Ruislip or West Ruislip stations. The Grand Union Canal towpaths can be accessed from various points near train or tube stations in the borough. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult Transport for London's journey planner.

Yes, Hillingdon offers significant long-distance hiking. The Hillingdon Trail itself is a 20-mile route traversing the borough. Additionally, sections of the London Loop (London Outer Orbital Path) pass through Hillingdon, providing extensive walking opportunities through diverse landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful ancient woodlands, the scenic canal towpaths, and the variety of routes that make Hillingdon feel like a true escape from the city.

Hillingdon's trails often pass by historical points of interest. Along the Cranford Park section of the Hillingdon Trail, you can see the historic Stables Block and St Dunstan's Church. The Grand Union Canal towpaths also offer glimpses into the area's industrial heritage, with features like Bull's Bridge Junction and various locks.

For winter walks, the well-maintained paths through Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve offer sheltered routes, and the towpaths along the Grand Union Canal provide relatively flat and clear walking surfaces, often with picturesque frosty views. Always check local conditions for ice or mud.

Yes, several trails in Hillingdon offer convenient access to pubs and eateries. The Grand Union Canal towpath, for instance, passes by establishments like the Coy Carp Pub. Trails around Ruislip Lido also have facilities and cafes nearby for refreshments.