Easy hikes and walks around Fen Drayton
4.6
(434)
3,467
hikers
22
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Fen Drayton are primarily found within the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, a 108-hectare area of reclaimed sand and gravel quarries now forming extensive wetlands and lakes. The region is characterized by its predominantly flat terrain, typical of Cambridgeshire, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Adjacent to the River Great Ouse, the landscape features open water, traditional riverside meadows, and diverse habitats including grassland, scrub, and woodland. This area offers a network of accessible routes for exploring its natural features.
Best easy hiking trails around Fen Drayton
- The most popular easy hiking route is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve loop, a 4.7 miles (7.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This route offers views across the extensive lakes and wetlands.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve loop, an easy 3.4 miles (5.5 km) path. This trail navigates through varied habitats within the nature reserve, including open water and grassland.
- Local hikers also love the View of the Lake – Sluice Gate Crossing loop from Fen Drayton, a 3.1 miles (5.1 km) trail leading through the Fen Drayton Lakes, often completed in about 1 hour 16 minutes.
- Hiking around Fen Drayton is defined by extensive wetlands, open water, and traditional riverside meadows. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 16 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Fen Drayton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 280 hikers have used komoot to explore Fen Drayton's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.7
(11)
31
hikers
7.52km
01:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
5.47km
01:23
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(7)
92
hikers
5.05km
01:16
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
An idyllic landscape between ponds and small lakes. A place to rest and enjoy.
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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The cycleway passes between a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve. The path is often flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring though.
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Lovely spot by the lake. Seating on picnic benches and an information area.
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The tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, both providing an excellent link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Cycle-parks at each major bus stop.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, Far Fen Lake is recognisable by the island near its eastern shore.
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The busway cycle path provides plenty of spots to stop and take in a view or have some refreshments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Fen Drayton?
Fen Drayton offers 16 easy hiking trails, primarily within the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve. These routes are suitable for various fitness levels due to the region's predominantly flat terrain.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these easy trails?
The easy trails in Fen Drayton showcase extensive wetlands, open water, and traditional riverside meadows, all part of the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve. You'll walk alongside the River Great Ouse and through diverse habitats including grassland, scrub, and woodland. Notable highlights include Far Fen Lake and the larger Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve itself.
Can I spot wildlife while hiking in Fen Drayton?
Yes, Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. It's home to approximately 190 bird species, including gadwall, wigeon, and bitterns. Otters, dragonflies, swans, and geese are also regularly seen. Bird hides are available around the lakes to enhance viewing opportunities.
Are there circular routes available for easy hikes?
Many of the easy trails in Fen Drayton are circular routes, perfect for exploring the area without retracing your steps. Examples include the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve loop and the View of the Lake – Sluice Gate Crossing loop from Fen Drayton.
Are the easy hiking trails in Fen Drayton dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally welcome in the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, it's important to keep them on a lead to protect the abundant wildlife, especially ground-nesting birds and other sensitive species. Always check local signage for specific rules in certain areas.
Are the trails suitable for families with children?
Yes, the predominantly flat terrain and well-maintained paths make many of the easy trails in Fen Drayton very suitable for families with children. The diverse wildlife and natural scenery offer engaging experiences for younger hikers.
Is there parking available for these easy trails?
Yes, free parking is available at locations such as the Elney car park, which provides convenient access to the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve trails. Information boards are often found near parking areas.
How can I access the Fen Drayton trails using public transport?
The Fen Drayton trails are accessible via the Cambridge Guided Busway. There are stops near the nature reserve, and the parallel cycle path (Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path) also offers a traffic-free route to the area, which can be used for walking.
Are there any accessible routes for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Some routes within the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve are designed to be more accessible, catering to visitors using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Information regarding specific accessible paths can often be found on site information boards.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Fen Drayton?
The easy trails in Fen Drayton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained, flat paths that make for enjoyable and accessible walks.
What is the best time of year to hike in Fen Drayton?
Fen Drayton offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring and autumn are excellent for birdwatching as migratory species pass through. Summer provides pleasant conditions for leisurely walks, while winter offers a unique, tranquil beauty, especially with the chance to spot wintering birds.
Are there any other interesting landmarks or attractions nearby?
Beyond the nature reserve, you can explore the Cambridge Guided Busway Cycle Path, which runs through scenic countryside. Other nearby points of interest include Houghton Mill and the historic St Ives Bridge and Chapel.
Most popular attractions around Fen Drayton
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