The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Grafham Water
4.5
(332)
3,073
hikers
174
hikes
Hiking around Grafham Water offers a diverse landscape centered around England's third-largest reservoir. The region features extensive reservoir-side paths, mixed woodlands, wetlands, and open countryside. Its largely flat terrain and low elevation changes make it accessible for various fitness levels, particularly for family friendly hiking trails. The western end includes a nature reserve, designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its ancient woodlands and rich biodiversity.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Grafham Water
- The most popular family…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
4.7
(85)
735
hikers
14.6km
03:45
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
42
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.4
(5)
104
hikers
8.79km
02:15
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
23
hikers
9.19km
02:24
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Good toilets and outside space. Tea coffee and cakes. Every sandwich has cheese so if you have allegies no food as there are no other options. Used to have full kitchen but the powers that be closed it and now there is just one staff member so it can be a very long wait for service. Shame used to be a good stop.
0
0
Excellent track around the resevoir. Some muddy parts when wet and some loose gravel. One area is quite bumpy but don't let that put you off its a good and interesting ride. The cafe at the western end is self serve and the water for tea is not hot enough and my wife did not like the coffee so we avoid it now. However the outside is much improved so will venture back and update.
0
0
Good riding around Graffam Lake but North side can be very bumpy on the bound gravel track (its not loose gravel). Great ride though at about 10 miles around. Highly recomended.
0
0
Rode this route 04/08/24 tough going for kids... long grass etc but a great ride. watch out at Santa Pod raceway if there is an event on.
0
0
From here you can access the cycle/walking path along the top of the dam which gives great views up the length of Grafham Water.
0
0
The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.
0
0
This is a beautiful bay situated on the shores of Grafham Water, not too far from St Neots in Huntingdonshire. The lake is a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and England's third biggest reservoir.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Grafham Water?
Grafham Water offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 100 easy routes available. In total, there are more than 170 hiking options to explore in the area, catering to various preferences and abilities.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes at Grafham Water?
The trails around Grafham Water are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for families. You'll find paths winding through reservoir-side areas, mixed woodlands, and open countryside. The low elevation change across the area ensures most footpaths are easily accessible.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, there are several easy, shorter walks perfect for families with young children. A great option is the Grafham Water Mini Golf – Grafham Water Main Car Park loop, which is about 5.5 km and can be completed in under 1.5 hours. These trails often feature surfaced paths, ideal for pushchairs.
Can we bring our dog on the family hiking trails at Grafham Water?
Grafham Water is generally dog-friendly, with many trails welcoming well-behaved dogs. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially around wildlife habitats and other visitors, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone and protect the local fauna.
What kind of wildlife can we spot while hiking around Grafham Water?
Grafham Water is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a haven for wildlife. You can often spot a variety of bird species, including resident mallards and greylag geese, as well as rarer visitors like ospreys and Slavonian grebes. The nature reserve at the western end features ancient woodlands and reed beds, supporting diverse amphibians and other creatures. Eight bird hides are strategically placed for observation.
Are there circular routes available for family hikes?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes at Grafham Water are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The most popular is the 9-mile (14.6 km) Grafham Water loop, which offers a full circuit of the reservoir. For a shorter option, consider the View of Church Hill Bay loop, which is around 6 km.
Where can we park when visiting Grafham Water for a family hike?
Grafham Water offers ample parking facilities at various points around the reservoir, including the main visitor centre and other access points. These car parks are conveniently located near trailheads and amenities, making it easy to start your family adventure.
Are there any cafes or facilities available along the trails?
Yes, Grafham Water is well-equipped with visitor amenities. You'll find cafes, a visitor centre, picnic areas, and playgrounds, particularly around the main access points. There are also benches strategically placed along the paths for resting and enjoying the views.
What is the best time of year to visit Grafham Water for family hiking?
Grafham Water is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier, and winter offers crisp, quiet walks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails at Grafham Water?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Grafham Water, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, flat paths that are perfect for all ages, the beautiful reservoir views, and the abundance of wildlife spotting opportunities. The comprehensive facilities, including cafes and playgrounds, also receive positive mentions for making it an ideal family day out.
Are there any less crowded family-friendly routes at Grafham Water?
While the main loop can be popular, you can find quieter sections or explore routes that venture slightly away from the busiest areas. Consider trails like the Savages Spinney Nature Reserve loop, which offers a peaceful experience through woodlands and nature, providing a lovely escape from the main reservoir path.
Most popular routes around Grafham Water
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
