London’s urban jungle is exciting, but sometimes you just need to escape to nature. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible hiking trails within easy reach of the city. Lace up your boots, pack a picnic, and get ready to explore these 5 fantastic day hikes:
1. The Seven Sisters (Sussex): This iconic clifftop walk offers breathtaking views of the English Channel. The undulating path takes you past dramatic white cliffs, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns.
Distance: 14 miles (can be shortened)
Getting there: Train to Seaford or Eastbourne
Seven Sisters cliffs
2. Box Hill (Surrey): A classic hike in the Surrey Hills, Box Hill boasts stunning panoramic views and diverse landscapes. Explore woodland trails, chalk downland, and the famous Box Hill viewpoint.
Distance: 6.8 miles
Getting there: Train to Box Hill & Westhumble station
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/box-hill
3. The Ridgeway National Trail (Buckinghamshire): This ancient trail offers a journey through history and stunning scenery. Walk along chalk ridges, through picturesque villages, and past ancient monuments.
Distance: Variable, with many sections accessible for day hikes *
Getting there: Train to Tring or Princes Risborough
https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/the-ridgeway/
4. Epping Forest (Essex): Escape to ancient woodland just a short train ride from London. Epping Forest offers a network of trails through diverse landscapes, perfect for a peaceful day hike. *
Distance: Variable, with many trails to choose from
Getting there: Central Line tube to Theydon Bois or Epping
https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/epping-forest
5. The Chess Valley Walk (Hertfordshire): Follow the River Chess through picturesque countryside, passing charming villages and historic sites. This gentle walk is perfect for a relaxing day out. *
Distance: 9.9 miles
Getting there: Metropolitan Line tube to Rickmansworth or Chesham
https://www.chilterns.org.uk/map_marker/chess-valley-walk/
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