The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Clowne
4.5
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8,294
hikers
5
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Family friendly hiking trails around Clowne are characterized by a landscape that blends reclaimed industrial sites with natural features, offering diverse environments for outdoor exploration. The region features extensive country parks with artificial lakes and well-maintained paths, alongside mature woodlands, open meadows, and wetland valleys. These areas provide accessible routes through varied terrain, including former railway lines and restored natural habitats. The elevation changes are generally gentle, making the area suitable for family outings.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Clowne
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Wollen Meadow – Clowne Branch Line Greenway loop from Clowne, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows a former railway line, offering a level and accessible path.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Clowne Greenway – Poolsbrook Country Park Lake loop from Clowne, a moderate 10.1 miles (16.2 km) path. This route explores greenways and the scenic surroundings of Poolsbrook Country Park, including its lake.
- Local hikers also love the Elmton Parish Church loop from Clowne, a 6.7 miles (10.7 km) trail leading through varied countryside, often completed in about 2 hours 49 minutes.
- Hiking around Clowne is defined by greenways, country parks with lakes, and woodlands, often on reclaimed industrial landscapes transformed into natural spaces. The network offers options for different ability levels, with routes featuring gentle ascents and descents.
- The routes in Clowne are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Clowne's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
22
hikers
10.1km
02:38
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
16.2km
04:16
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
17.5km
04:34
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
16.4km
04:17
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
TP3304 - Gapsick S1792 FB Height 148.297m #968 County of Derbyshire Trig Pillar List.
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The memorial honors the workers of the former Southgate colliery, which was active from 1877.
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The Clowne Greenway is a reclaimed railway, travelling through cuttings (known locally as the canyons) which will excite geologists. The rock faces are home for many species of wild flowers, insects, mammals and birds.
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The parish church in Clowne was built in 1138. Originally dedicated as "All Saints", the church stood adjacent on the ridgeway route between Mansfield and Worksop Priory. The church's dedication was soon changed to John the Baptist and the first rector was John M. Leyaster, who was recorded in 1299. The tower dates back to the 15th century with the bells added at various times with the first being installed in 1591, then 1616 and finally 1812.
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The station was opened without ceremony on 1 November 1888. The line was single track between Seymour Junction and Elmton and Creswell. Accordingly, the station had a single, curving platform and typical Midland Railway country station building very similar to those at Bolsover Castle and Glapwell. Remarkably, the station survived into the 21st Century, being demolished in 2000. On 4 July 1938 the station was renamed "Clown and Barlborough", then renamed again by British Railways on 18 June 1951, this time by adding a "e" to become "Clowne and Barlborough". The trackbed is now a greenway with the platform of Clowne and Barlborough as well as Clowne South Station visible. The station site forms a greenway between Staveley and Creswell via Clowne.
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The station was opened by the Lancashire, Derbyshire and East Coast Railway on its Beighton Branch in March 1897 as "Clown". It was closed to regular timetabled passenger traffic in September 1939 although Summer Weekend excursions continued until 1964. The line was closed completely in 1967. The station was close to the Clowne and Barlborough station of the Midland Railway, which was about 40 yards to the north on a parallel track.
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Fascinating, beautiful spot. You can’t go in the caves without buying a tour
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Clowne?
There are 5 family-friendly hiking trails around Clowne featured in this guide, all rated as moderate difficulty. These routes offer a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the area with your family.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Clowne?
The trails around Clowne often feature a mix of reclaimed industrial landscapes transformed into natural spaces, including greenways, woodlands, and open meadows. You can expect well-maintained paths, some gentle inclines, and varied surfaces suitable for family adventures. For example, the Wollen Meadow – Clowne Branch Line Greenway loop from Clowne offers a pleasant mix of meadow and greenway paths.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, all the family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. This includes trails like the Clowne Greenway – Poolsbrook Country Park Lake loop from Clowne and the Elmton Parish Church loop from Clowne.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see on these family hikes?
The Clowne area is rich in natural beauty and historical intrigue. You can explore significant sites like Creswell Crags: Gorge and Lake, known for its ancient caves, or discover the wildlife haven of Shirebrook Wood. Some routes, such as the Creswell Crags: Gorge and Lake – Church Hole Cave loop from Clowne, directly lead you to these fascinating locations.
Are the family-friendly trails around Clowne suitable for dogs?
Many of the trails in the Clowne area, especially those through woodlands and open country parks, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to check specific park regulations. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
What is the average length and duration of these family hikes?
The family-friendly hikes around Clowne vary in length, generally ranging from around 10 km (6 miles) to 17.5 km (11 miles). Depending on your pace and breaks, these walks can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4.5 hours to complete. For instance, the Wollen Meadow – Clowne Branch Line Greenway loop from Clowne is about 10 km long.
Are there any facilities like cafes or toilets near the trails?
Yes, some areas, particularly larger parks like Rother Valley Country Park, offer visitor centres with amenities such as toilets and cafes. For other routes, it's advisable to check local village facilities in places like Clowne itself or nearby communities for refreshment stops.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Clowne?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.45 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical sites. The transformation of former industrial sites into green spaces is frequently highlighted as a unique and enjoyable aspect.
Are there any trails that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, the region features several water bodies. For example, the Clowne Greenway – Poolsbrook Country Park Lake loop from Clowne takes you past the lake at Poolsbrook Country Park. Additionally, Rother Valley Country Park, a significant attraction nearby, boasts four artificial lakes.
Is there public transport access to the trailheads?
While Clowne itself has bus services, direct public transport access to specific trailheads can vary. It's often best to plan your journey by checking local bus routes to the nearest village or town and then walking to the starting point. Many routes are designed to be accessible from Clowne directly.
What are the parking options for these family hikes?
Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of these trails, especially in larger recreational areas or village centres. For example, if you're exploring routes around Rother Valley Country Park or Creswell Crags, dedicated parking facilities are usually provided. Always check for any parking fees or restrictions beforehand.
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