Easy hikes and walks around Mere Sands Wood
4.6
(355)
2,538
hikers
193
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Mere Sands Wood traverse a diverse 105-acre landscape featuring several lakes, mature broadleaved and conifer woodlands, sandy wet meadows, and heaths. The terrain is characterized by layers of sand and peat over boulder clay, offering generally flat and accessible paths. This area provides varied habitats for wildlife observation, making it suitable for short hikes and family outings.
Best easy hiking trails around Mere Sands Wood
- The most popular easy hiking route is Tomato Soup at the Café loop from Rufford, a 1.3 miles (2.1 km) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. This route offers a short, accessible walk ideal for a quick visit.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Rufford Old Hall – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Rufford, an easy 2.3 miles (3.8 km) path. This trail combines historical landmarks with canal-side scenery, typically completed in about 1 hour.
- Local hikers also love the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Rufford Old Hall loop from St Mary's Church, a 4.7 miles (7.6 km) trail leading through canal paths and past historic sites, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Mere Sands Wood is defined by diverse woodlands, tranquil lakes, and accessible paths, with opportunities for wildlife spotting. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many routes suitable for prams and most wheelchair users.
- The routes in Mere Sands Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Mere Sands Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
10
hikers
2.09km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
43
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
hikers
3.77km
00:57
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.06km
01:17
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely nature reserve, with several lakes and hides to sit and watch the birds.
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"Rufford Old Hall is a National Trust property in Rufford, Lancashire, in north-west England. Built in the late fifteenth or early sixteenth centuries for the Hesketh family, only the great hall survives from the original structure. A brick-built wing in the Jacobean style was added in 1661, at right angles to the great hall, and a third wing was added in the 1820s. The hall is designated by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building, and the cottage, coach house and stables in the courtyard at the rear of the hall are designated Grade II." Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufford_Old_Hall You can find out more about opening times, events, attractions and facilities here; https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/liverpool-lancashire/rufford-old-hall
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located in Rufford, a rural part of Lancashire, the marina is on the Rufford branch of the Leeds and Liverpool canal. The views on the marina are lovely, why not go for a walk round the pathways and see all the boats that are moored here and the ducks and swans and if you're very lucky you may glimpse a sight of the kingfishers that they have nesting on site, if you walk across the field at the top you can see the many hills in the distance including Winter Hill. On site there is a wonderful and very popular cafe called the Boathouse Brasserie , here you can sit and relax and enjoy a drink and sample some of their wonderful cakes and some of their home cooked food they offer, made from fresh local produce.
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C.an get muddy but enjoy seeing the swans nesting in May. They are nesting where it's narrow this year 2024 so you can see them easily.
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This bridge takes you over the Leeds - Liverpool canal Rufford Branch. Nice views of the canal and Wildlife
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Route 62, beautiful area for biking.
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Even if you arrive after close (1630, 4:30pm) - the bench on the inlet (in the foreground of the first picture) makes for an excellent rest stop to refuel on your own snacks. Accessible after a short walk over the road bridge and via a gravel path (marked 'Emergency access' or words to that effect) on your left hand side in the car park. Follow the gravel path onto the grass and around a right-hand bend.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Mere Sands Wood?
Mere Sands Wood offers over 100 easy hiking trails. The reserve's diverse landscape, including woodlands, lakes, and meadows, provides numerous options for relaxed walks.
Are the trails in Mere Sands Wood suitable for families with children?
Yes, Mere Sands Wood is an excellent destination for families. The paths are generally easy and accessible, making them suitable for all skill levels and short family outings. Many routes are even accessible for prams.
Are the easy trails accessible for wheelchairs or prams?
The trails at Mere Sands Wood are highly accessible. Approximately 95% of the paths are suitable for most wheelchair users and prams. Electric buggies and wheelchairs can also be borrowed from the visitor center, enhancing accessibility for all.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
While the guide focuses on the natural environment, it's generally advisable to check the specific reserve's rules regarding dogs, as nature reserves often have restrictions to protect wildlife. Please check with the visitor center upon arrival for the most current guidelines.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during an easy hike?
Mere Sands Wood is a haven for wildlife. You can spot over 170 bird species, including kingfishers and the elusive bittern from the hides. Red squirrels, roe deer, and foxes also inhabit the reserve. From May to October, look out for 15 species of dragonflies. The diverse flora includes marsh orchids and various fungi.
Are there circular routes available for easy hikes?
Yes, Mere Sands Wood features several circular routes. For example, the Tomato Soup at the Café loop from Rufford is a short 1.3-mile circular trail, perfect for a quick and easy walk.
What are the notable natural features or landmarks to see along the trails?
The reserve boasts several lakes, mature broadleaved and conifer woodlands, sandy wet meadows, and heaths. You can also visit six accessible hides and a viewing platform for wildlife observation. The geological makeup, with layers of sand and peat, is also a unique feature.
Is parking available at Mere Sands Wood?
Yes, parking facilities are available at Mere Sands Wood, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. The visitor center is located nearby.
What facilities are available at Mere Sands Wood for hikers?
Mere Sands Wood offers a visitor center with a shop, a cafe for refreshments, and helpful volunteers. There are also six accessible wildlife hides and a bird feeding station near the visitor center. Restrooms are also available.
What is the best time of year to visit Mere Sands Wood for easy hikes?
Mere Sands Wood is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer vibrant flora like marsh orchids and active dragonflies. Autumn brings beautiful woodland colors, and winter is excellent for spotting overwintering wildfowl. The accessible paths make it suitable in most weather conditions.
How long do the easy walks typically take in Mere Sands Wood?
The duration of easy walks varies. Shorter routes like the Tomato Soup at the Café loop from Rufford can be completed in about 30 minutes. Longer easy trails, such as the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Rufford Old Hall loop from St Mary's Church, might take closer to 1 hour 55 minutes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Mere Sands Wood?
The trails in Mere Sands Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, tranquil lakes, and the abundance of wildlife. The well-maintained and accessible paths are also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect.
Can I combine my walk with other nearby attractions?
Yes, you can extend your visit by combining walks around Mere Sands Wood with nearby attractions. The trails can be linked with walks along the historic Leeds and Liverpool Canal or past the notable Rufford Old Hall. Consider the Rufford Old Hall – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Rufford for a route that includes both.
Most popular routes around Mere Sands Wood
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