The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ash
4.5
(1300)
12,119
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Ash are primarily defined by the tranquil waterways of the Basingstoke Canal and its surrounding flat, accessible terrain. The region features gentle paths alongside the canal, offering easy navigation and scenic views of the water and adjacent green spaces. These routes are generally low in elevation gain, making them suitable for families with young children or those seeking leisurely walks. The landscape is characterized by open canal towpaths and occasional wooded sections.
Best family friendlyโฆ
Last updated: May 3, 2026
27
hikers
9.24km
02:21
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
17
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(11)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You have a big climb before so try changing to the big gears prior to reaching the gate
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Frimley Lodge Park is a great place to visit on a family hike. There are two children's playgrounds, a minature railway, two picnic areas and pitch and putt. All surrounded by meadows and woodland on the banks of the Basingstoke Canal. Plus public toilets and a cafe.
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The Basingstoke Canal offers 32 miles of canal tow path. Some say it is the most beautiful in the country. It was built in 1794 and stretches between the River Thames at Weybridge to Basingstoke. After falling into disrepair in the 1950s, it was renovated and reopened for navigation in 1991.
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An ait is an islet, usually called such when found on the River Thames or a tributary of it. This one is next to an army camp on the Basingstoke Canal, which is indeed a tributary of the Thames. I don't know who Roy is, but his islet is an interesting feature to see on a canal.
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As you hike alongside the Basingstoke Canal, it's easy to not realise that you're actually walking over an aqueduct. The canal is suspended above the mainline railway to London here so if you suddenly hear a train rumbling, that's why. Despite this, the canal remains leafy green and in summer especially, it's almost impossible to notice the presence of the railway. Built in 1840, the aqueduct later had gates built at either side so that should a bomb fall on it during the Second World War, the gates would stop the canal from flooding the railway beneath.
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The Basingstoke Canal Centre is the home of the canal authority but also a cafe, visitor centre and facilities. It's a great place to park for a hike along the canal as well as a nice lunch stop if you're passing by. There's also a campsite if you're looking for a canalside overnight stop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Ash?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking trails around Ash, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. Six of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for younger children or those looking for a gentle stroll.
What kind of scenery can we expect on family hikes near Ash?
Many of the family-friendly hikes around Ash follow the beautiful Basingstoke Canal, offering peaceful waterside paths. You'll encounter charming aqueducts, locks like St. Catherine's Lock and Stoke Lock, and often see swans and other wildlife. Some routes also venture into local woodlands and offer gentle inclines with pleasant views, such as the area around Normandy Hill.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, several routes are circular, which is ideal for family outings. For example, the Mytchett Lake Road Bridge โ Basingstoke Canal Towpath loop from Ash is a moderate 8.9 km circular walk, and the View from Normandy Hill โ Swans on the Basingstoke Canal loop from Ash offers a slightly shorter 8.4 km loop with some gentle elevation.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails in Ash?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Ash, with an average score of 4.43 out of 5 stars from over 400 ratings. Hikers often praise the flat, well-maintained canal towpaths, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunities to spot wildlife, making them perfect for a relaxed family day out.
Are there any easy routes suitable for beginners or very young children?
Yes, there are 6 easy routes available. While specific pushchair-friendly routes are not detailed, the generally flat and wide canal towpaths found on many routes, such as sections of the Ash Aqueduct to Basingstoke Canal Centre, are often suitable for pushchairs or balance bikes, though conditions can vary.
Can we bring our dog on these family hikes?
Many of the trails around Ash, especially those along the Basingstoke Canal, are dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near water, wildlife, or other path users, and to carry waste bags. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any lakes or water features to explore near the trails?
Absolutely! The Basingstoke Canal itself is a prominent water feature. Additionally, you can find beautiful lakes nearby, such as Frensham Little Pond and Hawley Lake. Some routes, like the Basingstoke Canal Centre โ Henley Park Lake loop from North Camp, even take you past Henley Park Lake.
What are some interesting places to see along the family-friendly routes?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several points of interest. Along the canal, look out for historic locks and aqueducts. For a cultural stop, the Guildford Castle Grounds are a short distance away, offering a lovely spot for a picnic or a stroll through history.
How long do the family hikes typically take?
The duration varies depending on the route and your family's pace. Most moderate routes, like the 9.2 km Ash Aqueduct to Basingstoke Canal Centre, can take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Shorter, easy routes will naturally take less time, while the more difficult and longer trails, such as the 20.5 km Basingstoke Canal Centre โ Henley Park Lake loop from North Camp, can be a full day's adventure.
Is there parking available near the trailheads?
Yes, many of the popular starting points for these trails, especially those along the Basingstoke Canal, offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information at your chosen trailhead to plan your visit effectively.
What is the best season for family hikes around Ash?
The trails around Ash are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers beautiful foliage along the canal banks. Summer is perfect for longer days out, and even winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days, though paths might be muddy.
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