The best walks and hikes around Caunton
4.5
(257)
2,301
hikers
194
hikes
Hiking around Caunton offers accessible trails through Nottinghamshire's gently undulating countryside. The landscape features a mix of field paths, quiet lanes, and woodlands. Caunton Beck, a small waterway, adds to the scenic appeal, while nearby Mansey Common Nature Reserve provides diverse habitats with grassland, scrub, and ancient oaks. This rural setting provides a network of public rights of way connecting the village to wider open fields and woodlands.
Best hiking trails around Caunton
- The most popular hiking route is Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Kersall CP, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the varied habitats of the nature reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Dukes Wood, an easy 4.3 miles (7.0 km) path. This route offers a gentler exploration of the common's natural beauty.
- Local hikers also love the Shady Lane Stream loop from Southwell CP, a 7.0 miles (11.3 km) trail leading through varied rural landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours.
- Hiking around Caunton is defined by undulating countryside, field paths, and woodlands, with routes often following the Caunton Beck or exploring Mansey Common Nature Reserve. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy village walks to moderate trails through nature reserves.
- The routes in Caunton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 2000 hikers have used komoot to explore Caunton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.7
(3)
29
hikers
8.73km
02:12
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
35
hikers
4.06km
01:02
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
13
hikers
10.3km
02:43
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
6.97km
01:50
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
14
hikers
11.3km
02:59
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Caudwell's Mill stands on the River Greet on the site of Southwell’s mediaeval Burgage mill. When Charles Caudwell, whose family originated from Derbyshire, bought the mill in 1851 he made changes, thus greatly increasing the mill’s capacity. Wheat was transported to the mill by road, rail and water. Local corn arrived by horse and cart, supplies from further afield came from the R.Trent by barge to a wharf at Fiskerton which still stands. The mill suffered serious fires on three occasions in 1867, 1893 and 1917. On each occasion the opportunity was taken to modernise the plant. Local bakers took their supply of flour from the mill, best known was ‘Mosedale’s’ Bakery and Caudwell’s ‘Greet Lily Flour’ won the Nottinghamshire’s Bakers Cup in 1907, 1908, 1909, 1912 and 1914. The mill was taken over by Associated British Foods, who closed it in 1977 and in 1989 the mill was converted into residential apartments.
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These are the residences of the clergy who serve Southwell Minster.
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Great view looking towards Lincolnshire, on a good day you can see Lincs Cathedral.
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This beautiful wood pasture is a reserve managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Its mixture of grassland, scrub and ancient oaks are inhabited by a variety of bird, insect and plant life, making it one of the wildest patches of countryside in the county.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Caunton?
There are over 190 hiking routes around Caunton, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the local countryside. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
What kind of landscape can I expect when hiking around Caunton?
Caunton offers a landscape of gently undulating countryside, characterized by a mix of field paths, quiet lanes, and woodlands. You'll find wide views of the Nottinghamshire rural scenery, with the Caunton Beck adding to the picturesque charm. Nearby, Mansey Common Nature Reserve provides a diverse habitat of grassland, scrub, and ancient oaks.
Are there different difficulty levels for hikes in Caunton?
Yes, the trails around Caunton cater to various fitness levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes. There are approximately 93 easy trails and 97 moderate trails, with a few more challenging options available for experienced hikers.
Are there family-friendly walking routes in Caunton?
Many of the easy trails around Caunton are suitable for families. Routes that explore the village and its immediate surroundings, or gentler loops within areas like Mansey Common Nature Reserve, are often good choices for a family outing.
Are there dog-friendly hiking options around Caunton?
While specific dog-friendly designations are not always provided, the public rights of way and field paths around Caunton are generally accessible for dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock, and follow local signage regarding leads. The varied rural landscape offers plenty of opportunities for walks with your canine companion.
Are there circular walks available in Caunton?
Yes, many of the hiking routes around Caunton are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop from Kersall CP and the Shady Lane Stream loop from Southwell CP.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Caunton?
Many routes around Caunton start from designated car parks (CPs) in or near the villages. For example, the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop starts from Kersall CP, and the Shady Lane Stream loop begins from Southwell CP. Always check the route details for specific parking information.
How long do hikes around Caunton typically take?
Hikes around Caunton vary in length and duration. Shorter, easy routes can take around 1-2 hours, while moderate trails like the Mansey Common Nature Reserve loop (6.4 miles / 10.3 km) typically take about 2 hours 45 minutes. Longer routes can extend to 3 hours or more.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see near Caunton's hiking trails?
Yes, the area around Caunton offers several points of interest. You can explore historical sites like Southwell Minster, Newark Castle Ruins, or Rufford Abbey and Gardens. There's also Caudwell's Mill, a man-made monument, and various lakes such as Rufford Lake and Eakring Flash.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Caunton?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Caunton, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil, undulating countryside, the mix of field paths and woodlands, and the natural beauty of areas like Mansey Common Nature Reserve. The accessibility and variety of routes for different abilities are also frequently highlighted.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trails in Caunton?
Caunton is a rural village, and public transport options may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for services connecting to Caunton or nearby towns like Southwell, which may offer more frequent connections. Many hikers choose to drive to trailheads, utilizing available parking facilities.
Are there any water features or streams to see on hikes in Caunton?
Yes, the village of Caunton is bisected by the Caunton Beck, a small waterway that adds to the picturesque scenery and features in local walks. You can also find other water features like Rufford Lake and Eakring Flash in the wider area, which can be incorporated into longer hiking plans.
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