The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Horsley Woodhouse
4.5
(3143)
17,285
hikers
8
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse traverse a landscape characterized by rolling countryside, serene woodlands, and open fields. The region features a network of well-maintained footpaths, often incorporating natural features like Gipsy Brook. Hikers can explore areas such as Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve and Brackley Gate Woods, offering varied terrain and scenic beauty. These routes provide diverse perspectives of the rural landscape, with gentle elevations suitable for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 14, 2026
3.3
(3)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
15
hikers
4.88km
01:17
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
7
hikers
14.6km
03:53
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
7
hikers
7.36km
01:57
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It was a Norman motte and bailey castle which was founded by Ralph de Buron. In the 13th century King John built a stone castle, adding a keep, a chapel, a gatehouse and a barbican. In 1514 it was granted by Henry VIII to the Duke of Norfolk as a reward for services against the Scots. Later it came into the possession of the Stanhope family. The castle is ruined today, damaged by extensive quarrying. There are visible remains of the keep although this is now largely overgrown.
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Though the building looks quite modern, reportedly Smalley Baptist Church was built in 1784. To acommodate increasing number, the church was lengthened in 1820 and a gallery was added.
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Smalley's Parish Church of St John the Baptist was built in the late 18th century on the site of a much earlier church, the transepts being added later in 1844. A seventh century Saxon cross forms part of the porch. The bell tower was built in 1911, to the designs of Currey and Thompson, housing five bells donated by the Rev. Charles Kerry. The chime of five bells is said to be the heaviest in England, the largest bell weighing over 2 tons. The parish church hosts occasional street parties for the residents of Smalley.
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Dedicated to Horsley Woodhouse parishioners that died in WWI.
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Didn't see any pigs. That's not to say there weren't any. They might have been hiding at the bottom of the field but either way... 🙈
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The church of St. Susanna, consecrated by the Bishop of Lichfield, May 30, 1882, and built at a cost of nearly £2,000, is an edifice of local stone, in the Early English style.
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Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.
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Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Horsley Woodhouse?
There are 8 family-friendly hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse. These routes are specifically curated to be suitable for families, offering a mix of easy and moderate options.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in this area?
The family-friendly trails around Horsley Woodhouse feature a charming blend of rolling countryside, serene woodlands, and open fields. You'll find well-maintained footpaths, gentle inclines, and varied scenery, including paths alongside Gipsy Brook and through areas like Brackley Gate Woods.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for younger children?
Yes, there are several easy and shorter walks perfect for younger children. A great option is the Smalley Lodge – Smalley Dam Pond loop, which is just under 5 km and has minimal elevation gain, making it very manageable for little legs. Another easy choice is the Peony Gifts & Kitchen – Horsley Lodge Golf Course loop, also around 5 km.
Can we find circular routes for family outings?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails around Horsley Woodhouse are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Orchard of Hope – John's Wood Pond loop is a pleasant circular walk of about 6.8 km.
What natural features or landmarks can we see on these family-friendly trails?
The trails offer a variety of natural beauty and points of interest. You can explore woodlands like Brackley Gate Woods, enjoy views of water bodies such as Mapperley Reservoir, or discover tranquil spots like Smalley Dam Pond. The area is also known for its bluebells in spring within Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Many trails in the Horsley Woodhouse area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock or near roads. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Where can we park when visiting these trails?
Many of the routes, including the St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – St. Clement's Church, Horsley loop and the Smalley Lodge – Smalley Dam Pond loop, start from the Horsley Woodhouse Car Park (CP). For other trails, local parking options are usually available near the starting points, often in village car parks or designated lay-bys.
Is it possible to reach these family-friendly trails using public transport?
While some routes may have public transport access points, many of the family-friendly trails around Horsley Woodhouse are best accessed by car due to the rural nature of the area. We recommend checking local bus routes for specific starting points like Horsley Woodhouse village or Mapperley Reservoir.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly routes in Horsley Woodhouse?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Horsley Woodhouse, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,800 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful countryside, and the varied scenery that makes for enjoyable family outings.
Are there any places to eat or drink near the family-friendly trails?
Yes, Horsley Woodhouse and the surrounding villages offer local pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your hike. These establishments often provide a welcoming atmosphere for families and a chance to enjoy local fare.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Horsley Woodhouse?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Horsley Woodhouse, with warmer weather and the chance to see abundant bluebells in woodlands like Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, regardless of the season.
Are there any moderate family hikes for older children or more active families?
For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, there are moderate options available. The Mapperley Reservoir – Beggars Walk loop is a longer, moderate hike spanning over 14 km, offering a more immersive experience around the reservoir and its adjacent nature reserve.
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