Easy hikes and walks around Risley
4.5
(2604)
17,269
hikers
21
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Risley are characterized by a mix of natural landscapes, including remnants of ancient peat bogs and areas of wet woodland. The region features diverse environments, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife. Designated areas like Risley Moss Nature Reserve highlight the ecological significance of the landscape, which includes bog pools and varied flora.
Best easy hiking trails around Risley
- The most popular easy hiking route is Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas – The Cow Shed Café loop from…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
4.7
(16)
78
hikers
7.09km
01:58
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
58
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
19
hikers
4.25km
01:09
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
22
hikers
6.38km
01:44
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A historic, Grade II* listed Church of England parish church built in 1593. It features an exceptional late 16th-century alabaster font.
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This was a medieval moated manor in the valley at the bottom of the field, situated by the brook. It was demolished in the late 16th century when a new house was built on the hill above where Risley Lodge Farm now stands visible on the hill top.
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The Risley Park Lanx was a famous 4th-century Roman silver serving dish (lanx) reportedly found in Derbyshire in 1729. A local ploughman reportedly discovered the heavily damaged silver dish in a field near Risley. The shattered pieces were distributed amongst finders before being documented by antiquarian William Stukeley in 1736. Shortly after, the original fragments completely vanished. In 1991, the entire dish—soldered together from 26 pieces—magically resurfaced in London. While initially studied as a genuine antiquity, it was later revealed to be an elaborate 20th-century forgery crafted by the notorious Greenhalgh family art-forgery ring.
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Latin House was built by Elizabeth Grey in 1706 as a school. One of its most famous pupils was Robert Lowe, 1st Viscount Sherbrooke, later Chancellor of the Exchequer.the school was remodelled in 1868 as a preparatory school of the first grade for boys intended for Eton, Winchester and the public schools. The building survived as a school until 1914 when it became a private house. By 1966 the property was empty and was badly vandalised in that year. In 1970 a restoration project estimated at £10,000 (equivalent to £195,400 in 2023) was begun.
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This board tells the history of the Risley Lanx, a silver platter excavated at Risley Park that was the subject of many authenticity questions over the years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Risley?
Risley offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 10 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 20 hiking routes to explore in the area.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes around Risley?
Easy hikes around Risley feature a mix of natural landscapes. You'll find remnants of ancient peat bogs, areas of wet woodland, and open farmland. The region is known for its diverse environments, including bog pools, which are particularly prominent in areas like Risley Moss Nature Reserve.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Risley?
Yes, Risley offers several family-friendly options. Risley Moss Nature Reserve, for instance, has a celebrated boardwalk that makes exploring the 'mini-moss' area accessible for families and pushchairs. Many of the easy trails through farmland are also suitable for families.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Risley?
Many of the easy hiking trails around Risley are dog-friendly, especially those through open farmland. However, when visiting nature reserves like Risley Moss, it's important to keep dogs on a lead to protect the sensitive wildlife and habitats. Always check local signage for specific rules.
Are there any circular easy walks in Risley?
Yes, many of the easy routes in Risley are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas – The Cow Shed Café loop from Risley and the View of the Trent Valley – View of the Trent Valley loop from Risley.
What are the main attractions or natural features to see on easy hikes in Risley?
On easy hikes around Risley, you can explore unique natural features like the internationally important lowland raised peat bog at Risley Moss Nature Reserve. You might also encounter the Hemlock Stone, or visit the Chaddesden Wood Local Nature Reserve. The area is rich in wildlife, including various bird species, dragonflies, and protected newts and voles.
Is Risley Moss Nature Reserve suitable for easy hiking?
Absolutely. Risley Moss Nature Reserve is an excellent destination for easy hiking. It features well-maintained trails, including accessible boardwalks, and offers a unique opportunity to explore a rare peat bog ecosystem. There's also a visitor centre and observation points for bird watching.
Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs or prams in Risley?
Yes, Risley Moss Nature Reserve is particularly well-suited for wheelchairs and prams. It features ramped entrances and a celebrated boardwalk that allows access to the sensitive 'mini-moss' area, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.
Where can I park when visiting easy hiking trails in Risley?
Risley Moss Nature Reserve has an onsite car park, making it convenient for visitors. For other trails, parking is often available near trailheads or in nearby villages. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Risley?
Risley's easy trails can be enjoyed year-round. However, for spotting wildlife, especially dragonflies, June to September is ideal. The unique peat bog landscape offers interesting views in all seasons, and the accessible trails make it suitable even in wetter conditions.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Risley?
The easy trails in Risley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible paths, the diverse natural scenery, and the opportunities to observe local wildlife, particularly within Risley Moss Nature Reserve.
Are there any short easy hikes in Risley?
Yes, Risley offers several shorter easy hikes. For example, the Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas loop from Erewash is a 2.6-mile (4.3 km) trail that can be completed in just over an hour, perfect for a quick outing.
Can I reach Risley's easy hiking trails by public transport?
While some trails might be accessible via local bus routes to Risley or nearby villages, direct public transport options to all trailheads can be limited. Risley Moss Nature Reserve is a key destination, and checking local bus services to the reserve or its vicinity is recommended.
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