As the chill of winter melts away, spring emerges, bringing with it the promise of warmer days, blooming landscapes, and the perfect conditions for outdoor adventures near London through 12 exquisite spring walks near London. Whether youโre a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, a family in search of a leisurely day out, or a nature enthusiast eager to capture the beauty of spring flowers, the area surrounding London offers a plethora of walking trails that cater to every interest and fitness level. From the enchanting bluebell woods of Ashridge Estate to the breathtaking vistas along the Seven Sisters cliffs, and from the legendary Devilโs Dyke to the serene escapades through Richmond Park, each walk presents a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, history, and oneself.
At a Glance
In a hurry? Check out the table below summarising the statistics of the Spring walks near London. I go into more detail about each walk in this article. You can also find the free GPS maps below the table.
| Distance | Ascent | Duration | Difficulty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Borde Hill Garden | 4.2 mi (6.6 km) | 135 ft (41 m) | 1 hour 50 min | Easy |
| Richmond to Kew | 8.6 mi (14 km) | 551 ft (168 m) | 3 hours 30 min | Easy/Intermediate |
| Ashridge Estate | 9.1 mi (15 km) | 528 ft (161 m) | 3 hours 50 min | Intermediate |
| Orpington Woods | 14.8 mi (24 km) | 1398 ft (425 m) | 5 hours 10 min | Intermediate |
| Emmettโs Garden | 16.3 mi(26 km) | 2132 ft (650 m) | 7 hours 30 min | Challenging |
| Richmond Park | 7.1 mi (11.4 km) | 259 ft (79 m) | 2 hours 45 min | Easy |
| Box Hill | 7.4 mi (12 km) | 1063 ft (324 m) | 3 hours 30 min | Intermediate |
| Seven Sisters | 12.3 mi (20 km) | 1539 ft (469 m) | 4 hours 30 min | Intermediate |
| Chess Valley | 1.7 mi (18.8 km) | 479 ft (146 m) | 4 hours 10 min | Intermediate |
| Devilโs Dyke | 12.1 mi (20 km) | 1654 ft (504 m) | 5 hours 20 min | Challenging |
| Wendover to Princes Risborough | 7.4 mi (12 km) | 869 ft (265 m) | 3 hours 15 min | Intermediate |
| The Bluebell Railway | 4 mi (6.4 km) | 243 ft (74 m) | 1 hour 40 min | Easy |
Spring Walks Near London Maps
Want to do these walks? Simply download the GPS maps for free by clicking on the button below. For more information on how to upload the map on your navigation app, check my step-by-step guide here.
Spring Walks Near London
So now we covered the basics, letโs deep dive into each walk!
1 โ Borde Hill Garden
Borde Hill Garden offers a picturesque 4.2-mile (6.6 km) circular walk around Hayward Heath. Less well-known than Wakehurst, itโs a hidden gem with a rich array of flowers, trees, sculptures, and fountains. Easily accessible by train or car, the walk is classified as easy, making it suitable for all. Highlights include the Old Rhododendron Garden, Jay Robinโs Rose Garden, Victorian Greenhouses, and the serene Italian Garden. Open from February to November, itโs a perfect day out for families, dog owners, and nature loversโ!
Read the complete guide here: Borde Hill Garden
Distance: 4.2 miles (6.6 km)
Total Ascent: 135 ft (41 m)
Highest Point: 272 ft (83 m)
Lowest Point: 141 ft (43 m)
Walking Estimate: 1 hour and 50 min
Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- Train: Direct train from Blackfriars to Haywards Heath. This train also stops at London Bridge. Then you would need to walk to Borde Hill Garden, and for that, I have a walking guide ready for you below
- Car: You can skip the walk and get to Borde Hill Garden by car. There is a car park available for visitors
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear, trainers are fine
- Backpack with water, money for the entrance of the garden, snacks, packed lunch (if you wish to bring your own, you can picnic in the park) or money to buy a lunch at the gardenโs cafe
Additional Information:
- There are visitor toilets at Borde Hill Garden
- Dogs are welcomed at Borde Hill Garden
- This is a stile-free walk
- There is no pub recommendation on this walk
2 โ Thames Path from Richmond to Kew
The Thames Path from Richmond to Kew is ideal for a spring walk due to its scenic blend of blooming parklands and riverside paths. As temperatures warm, the path offers vibrant natural displays, including the lush greenery of Richmond Park and the diverse flora of Kew Garden. Spring also brings the opportunity to witness wildlife, especially the famous deer of Richmond Park. The journey concludes near the Kew Gardens, where spring flowers and plants are in full bloom, providing a perfect seasonal spectacleโ!
Read the complete guide here: Richmond to Kew Walk
Distance: 8.6 miles (13.84 miles)
Total Ascent: 551 ft (168 m)
Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy/ Intermediate due to the distance
How to get there:
- District Line, Overground or South Western Railway trains to Richmond Station.
- From there you can walk to Richmond Park (20 minutes) or you can take bus 371 to Cambrian Gate ( 10 minutes)
For the Return
- District Line or Overground Train from Kew Station
- Bus 110 towards Richmond (Stop H) or Chiswick (Stop N) at Kew Station
- Bus 65 towards Hammersmith (Stop D)or towards Brentford (Stop R) at Kew Garden/Victoria Gate
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. The terrain is flat and paved on the Thames Path however, Richmond Park can get muddy
- A backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch.
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses or rain gear depending on the weather forecast
Additional Information:
- There are public toilets in Richmond Park by Richmondโs Gate and at the start of the Thames Path in Richmond by the Eileenโs at Buccleuch Gardens Cafe
- There are no other public toilets available during the walk
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to Eat
- The Greyhound, Kew
3 โ Ashridge Estate
The Ashridge Bluebell Walk is a stunning 9.1-mile journey through the enchanting Ashridge Estate, celebrated for its spectacular bluebell woodlands in spring. This walk shines in spring, as the woodlands burst into a vibrant display of blue and purple blooms, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. Highlights include historic landmarks like Ashridge House and the Bridgewater Monument, offering not only natural beauty but also a glimpse into the areaโs rich heritage.
Read the complete guide here: Ashridge Bluebell Walk
Distance: 9.1 miles (14.6 km)
Total Ascent: 528 ft (161 m)
Highest Point: 787 ft (240 m)
Lowest Point: 407 ft (124 m)
Duration: 3 hours and 50 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- Direct train from London Euston to Tring Station. The journey takes 35 to 45 minutes depending on the train you take.
- It is a circular walk so you can book a day return ticket
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Please note that woodland paths can get muddy so make sure you wear waterproof shoes
- Backpack with water and snacks
- Packed lunch if you donโt want to buy from the National Trust Cafe or the Ashridge House Cafe
- Rain cover if the weather is grey
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out even though the path is mainly through woodlands
Where to Eat
- The Greyhound, Aldbury, Hertfordshire
- The Bakehouse, Ashridge House, Hertfordshire
- Monument Cafe, National Trust, Hertfordshire
4 โ Orpington Woods
Embark on the Orpington Bluebell Walk, a mesmerizing 14.8-mile journey near London that leads you through enchanting woods carpeted with bluebells. This trail not only offers a visual feast of purple hues in Lilyโs Wood and Andrewโs Wood during the bluebell season but also a historical exploration through quaint Orpington and Lullingstone Country Park. Ideal for intermediate hikers, it promises an escape into natureโs embrace and a perfect blend of natural beauty and heritage, just a stoneโs throw away from the city.
Read the complete guide here: Orpington Bluebell Walk
Distance: 14.8 miles (23.8 km)
Total Ascent: 1398 feet (425 m)
Highest Point: 787 ft (240 m)
Lowest Point: 407 ft (124 m)
Duration: 5 hours and 10 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate โ Easy terrain but long distance. It can be shortened to make it a beginner-friendly walk
How to get there:
- Direct trains from Charing Cross pass by London Waterloo East and London Bridge stations.
- The journey from Charing Cross can take between 25 to 40 minutes depending if you get the fast or the slow train.
- Orpington is on the TFL network, fare zone 6, so no need to buy train tickets. You can travel with your Oyster or contactless card
- This is a circular walk so the return is the same way you came
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Trainers are acceptable on this walk as long as it has not been raining before as the path in the woods could get muddy.
- Backpack with water (2L recommended), snacks, and a packed lunch.
- Headcover, sunscreen, sunglasses if the sun is out or rain gear if rain is forecasted
Additional Information: There are no public toilets on this walk
Where to Eat
- The Cricketers Knoll, Orpington
5 โ Emmettโs Garden
Dive into the heart of Kentโs verdant landscapes with the Oxted Circular Walk via Chartwell, a 16.26-mile adventure that promises both challenge and charm. Winding through historical sites like Chartwell House, the home of Winston Churchill, and breathtaking natural wonders like Emmetts Garden, this walk offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Itโs a journey that rewards with picturesque views, captivating woodlands, and a peek into Britainโs storied past.
Read the complete guide here: Oxted Via Chartwell Walk
Distance: 16.26 miles (26.16km)
Ascent: 2132 ft (650 m)
Highest Point: 800 ft (244 m)
Lowest Point: 253 ft (77 m)
Walking estimate: 7 hours and a half
Difficulty: Challenging
How to get there:
- Trains from Victoria or London Bridge Station
- The journey takes around 40 minutes
- It is a circular walk so you can book a day-return ticket
What to bring with you:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear, as you will be climbing a few hills
- Snack, packed lunch, water (2 litres recommended)
- Sunscreen and head cover if you are going on a sunny day
- Rain gear if a downpour is forecasted
- Sitting mat as the site for lunch has ants. Alternatively, you can eat at the cafe
- Hiking poles recommended
Additional information:
- Public toilets are available in Emmetts Garden, halfway through the hike
Where to Eat:
- Tea Room, Emmettโs Garden, Sevenoaks, Kent
6 โ Richmond Park
Embark on the Tamsin Trail in Richmond Park, a 7.1-mile loop thatโs perfect for a spring walk near London. Offering stunning views, wildlife encounters, and historical sites like Pembroke Lodge, it caters to walkers of all levels. enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous walk, and savour refreshments at quaint cafes along the way. For an enriching outdoor adventure that combines leisure and exploration, the Tamsin Trail is a must-visit.
Read the complete guide here: Tamsin Trail
Distance: 7.1 miles (11.4 km)
Total Ascent: 259 ft (79 m)
Highest Point: 187 ft (57 m)
Lowest Point: 8 ft (26 m)
Walking Estimate: 2 hours and 45 min to 4 hours (depending on your pace)
Difficulty: Easy/ Intermediate
How to get there:
- This walk is a loop around the park, so it does not matter where you start, however for the purpose of this article, I will be starting and ending the walk at Richmond Gate
- District Line, Overground or Southern Rail to Richmond Station and then bus 371 to American University. Walk to Richmond Gate
- Bus 371 to American University and then walk to Richmond Gate
- By car to Richmond Gate Car Park where we start this walk
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. It is a city walk so a pair of trainers is sufficient
- A small backpack or a shoulder bag with some energy bars and a bottle of water
Additional Information:
- There are public toilets at Richmond Gate, Pembroke Lodge, Kingston Gate, Robin Hood Gate, Roehampton Gate and Sheen Gate
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk, however, dogs must be kept on a lead due to wild deer roaming freely in the park
Where to Eat
- Pembroke Lodge Kiosk
- Colicci Cafe, Roehampton Gate
- Isabella Plantation Cafe
7 โ Box Hill
The Box Hill Walk, a 7.4-mile journey through Surrey, combines moderate challenges with stunning scenery, making it an ideal spring outing near London. Starting from Westhumble village, the route includes picturesque villages, ancient woodlands, and remarkable viewpoints like the Salomons Memorial, leading to the rewarding finale at Denbies Wine Estate. Ideal for those seeking a mix of natural beauty and a taste of local wine culture, this walk offers a memorable experience.
Read the complete guide here: Box Hill Walk
Distance: 7.4 miles (12 km)
Ascent: 1063 ft (324 m)
Highest Point: 587 ft (179 m)
Lowest Point: 112 ft (34 m)
Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate/ Challenging
How to get there:
- Direct trains from London Waterloo to Box Hill & Westhumble Station. The journey takes 90 minutes.
- It is a circular walk so you can book a day return ticket
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. You will be going up and down some steep hills so hiking shoes/ boots are highly recommended
- Backpack
- Packed Lunch & Snacks
- Rain gear if you are going on a rainy day
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a bright day
- Hiking poles are advisable
Additional Information
- There are public toilets at the Box Hill National Trust cafe
- There are visitor toilets at Denbies Wine Estate
- This is a stile-free walk
Where to eat and drink:
- National Trust Box Hill, Surrey
- Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Surrey
- The Stepping Stone, Westhumble, Surrey
8 โ Seven Sisters
The Seven Sisters Walk offers a stunning trek along the picturesque Sussex coast, presenting an intermediate to challenging adventure. Participants will traverse iconic chalk cliffs with breathtaking views of the English Channel, explore charming coastal towns like Seaford and Eastbourne, and discover natural landmarks including the Cuckmere Haven beach. This scenic route, perfect for a sunny day, combines natural beauty and historical interest, promising a rewarding experience for those who take on the journey.
Read the complete guide here: Seven Sisters Walk
Distance: 12.3 miles (19.8 km)
Total Ascent: 1539 feet (469 m)
Highest Point: 531 ft (162 m)
Lowest Point: -9.8 ft (-3 m)
Walking Estimate: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate / Challenging
How to get there:
- Trains from London Victoria to Lewes and change at Lewes for a train to Seaford.
- The total journey takes around 1 hour and a half depending on how long you need to wait when changing trains.
For the return
- Take a direct train from Eastbourne to London Victoria.
- The journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes
- You wonโt be able to book a day return on this walk as the train back from Eastbourne is not on the same line as Seaford. You, therefore, need to book two separate journeys.
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. You will be going up and down some steep hills so hiking shoes/ boots are highly recommended
- Backpack with water, a packed lunch & snacks
- Rain gear if you are going on a rainy day as the terrain is exposed
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a bright day for the same reason as above
- Hiking poles are advisable
Additional Information
- Public toilets are available at Seaford Beach and Birling Gap
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- This is a stile-free walk
Where to eat and drink:
- The Cuckmere Inn, Cuckmere Haven
- Burling Gap Cafe, Eastbourne
- The Beachy Head, Eastbourne
9 โ Chess Valley Walk
The Chess Valley Walk, stretching from Rickmansworth to Chesham, guides walkers through the stunning Chilterns AONB, following the tranquil River Chess. It offers lush landscapes, historic villages, and the chance to spot local wildlife. Accessible via the Metropolitan Line, itโs a favoured escape for Londoners seeking a day in nature. This walk is a delightful choice for an adventurous day out.
Read the complete guide here: Chess Valley Walk
Distance: 1.7 miles (18.8 km)
Ascent: 479 feet (146 m)
Highest Point: 308 ft (94 m)
Lowest Point: 138 ft (42 m)
Walking Estimate: 4 hours and 10 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate due to the distance and some muddy parts as you are walking on wetlands.
How to get there:
- Metropolitan Line or Chiltern Railways trains from Marylebone to Rickmansworth.
- The journey takes 30 minutes by train.
- Rickmansworth is in fare zone 7 so you donโt need to buy train tickets and you can travel with your Oyster card or contactless card
For the return
- Metropolitan Line from Chesham
- Chesham Station is in fare zone 9
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. It is a river walk so you are walking on wetlands.
- Remember to take a pair of waterproof hiking boots and a pair of gaiters with you. We saw people wearing trainers slipping on the muddy terrain and even had to go help one cross a difficult muddy section of the path.
- Bring sunglasses, a headcover and sunscreen or rain gear depending on the weather forecast as the path is exposed
- Bring a backpack with packed lunch, snacks, and water
Additional Information
- There are no public toilets available on this walk
- There are stiles on this walk
Where to eat and drink:
- Queenโs Head, Chesham
- Jasmin Thai Kitchen, Chesham
10 โ Devilโs Dyke
Embark on the Devilโs Dyke Walk this spring, and step into a mesmerizing world where ancient folklore and breathtaking landscapes intertwine seamlessly. This 12.1-mile trail, woven through the heart of the South Downs, bursts into life with the vibrant freshness of the season, guiding you through historic landscapes adorned with panoramas that stretch the bounds of imagination. It is a place where challenging ascents give way to rewarding vistas, and every step taken brings you closer to the mystique of legends long whispered by the winds. Perfect for adventurers who are drawn to the enigmatic allure of the seasonโs awakening and the stories etched into the land itself.
Read the complete guide here: Devilโs Dyke Walk
Distance: 12.1 miles (19.5 km)
Total Ascent: 1654 feet (504 m)
Highest Point: 673 feet (205 m)
Lowest Point: 55.7 ft (17 m)
Duration 5 hours and 20 minutes
Difficulty: Challenging
How to get there:
- Trains from Victoria to Hove and then change at Hove for a train to Fishergate.
- The journey takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.
For the return
- Direct train from Hassocks to London Victoria.
- The journey takes just under 1 hour
- Hassocks and Hove are on the same train line, so you can buy a day return ticket to Hove.
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Hiking boots with ankle support are recommended due to the ascent on this walk
- Backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch if you are not planning on stopping at Saddlescombe Farm for lunch
- Rain gear if you are going on a rainy day. Note that the path is exposed with little to no place to find shelter should it start pouring rain
- Pair of gaiters if it has been raining before because the paths can get muddy
- Headcover as it gets windy on top of the hills
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a bright day as the path is exposed
Additional Information
- There are public toilets at Saddlescombe Farm where we stop for a break
- There are customer toilets at the Jack & Jill Inn
Where to eat and drink:
- Saddlescombe Farm, Brighton, East Sussex
- Jack & Jill Inn, Clayton, West Sussex
11 โ Wendover to Princes Risborough
Journey from Wendover to Princes Risborough along a 7.4-mile path where history whispers among the trees and vistas captivate your soul. This route not only showcases the serene beauty of the Chiltern Hills but also guides you past significant landmarks like the ancient Chequers estate and the solemn beauty of the Boer War Monument. This walk is an idyllic blend of cultural history and scenic vistas, perfect for those who appreciate the outdoors and the stories embedded within the landscape.
Read the complete guide here: The Ridgeway Walk
Distance: 7.4 miles (11.9 km)
Total Ascent: 869 ft (265 m)
Highest Point: 846 ft (248 m)
Lowest Point: 335 ft (102 m)
Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate due to the ascent
How to get there:
- Direct train from London Marylebone Station to Wendover
- The journey takes 50 minutes
For the Return:
- Direct train from Princes Risborough to London Marylebone Station
- The journey takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes depending on the train
Tip: Wendover and Princes Risborough are not on the same line, but you can save money by booking a day return to Aylesbury where the two lines merge instead of 2 separate journeys.
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- You are going through forested areas where the path can get muddy, a pair of gaiters is advisable
- A backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out
- Weather-appropriate gear, including rain protection and wind-resistant accessories for the breezy summit
Additional Information:
- There are toilets available at Wendover Station
- There are toilets available at Princes Risborough Train Station
- There are no public toilets available on this walk however there are customer toilets at the Plough in Cadsden
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to Eat
- The Plough, Casden, Surrey
12 โ The Bluebell Railway
Step aboard the Bluebell Railway for a journey that whisks you back in time, then meander through the lush West Sussex countryside, where bluebells carpet the woodland floor in a sea of blue. This enchanting combo of a historic train ride and a nature walk offers a picturesque spring adventure, perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration. Itโs a delightful way to experience the splendour of spring with family or friends.
Read the complete guide here: Bluebell Railway Walk
Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Total Ascent: 243 ft (74 m)
Highest Point: 200 ft (61 m)
Lowest Point: 62 ft (19 m)
Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- Direct train from London Victoria to East Grinstead. The journey takes 1 hour and 10 minutes
- It is a circular walk so you can book a day return ticket
- At East Grinstead, take the Bluebell Railway to Sheffield Park and back.
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Please note that woodland paths can get muddy so make sure you wear waterproof shoes
- Backpack
- Snacks
- Packed lunch if you donโt want to buy from one of the kiosks or pubs at the stations
- Rain cover if the weather is grey
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out
Additional Information:
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- There are passenger toilets at the stations but not onboard
Where to eat:
- The Bessemer Arms, Sheffield Park Station
- The Kiosk, Sheffield Park Station
- The King George V Buffet, Horsted Keynes Station
- The Well House Kiosk, Kingscote Station
- The Golden Arrow, onboard dining service (booking required)
- Picnic area outside of Sheffield Park Station
Final Thoughts on the Spring Walks
Exploring the outskirts of London in spring is an experience that blends the joy of discovery with the tranquillity of nature. Each of the 12 spring walks near London detailed in this guide offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and heritage of the region, from quiet gardens brimming with the seasonโs first blooms to challenging treks that reward unparalleled views. Whether you choose the easy wander through Borde Hill Garden, the intermediate meander through Ashridge Estate, or the challenging Oxted Circular via Emmettโs Garden hike, youโre sure to find the perfect route to celebrate the season. So lace up your walking shoes, pack your essentials, and set out on a journey to discover the scenic beauty, historic sites, and natural wonders that lie just a short distance from the bustling city of London.
Happy trails!
And you, what is your favourite spring walk near London?
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