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East Of England
Central Bedfordshire

Northill

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Northill

4.5

(526)

4,434

hikers

12

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Northill traverse a landscape characterized by gentle rolling hills, open fields, and scattered woodlands. The area features a network of paths connecting rural villages, historic sites, and local amenities. Hikers can expect varied scenery, including agricultural land and sections alongside small rivers or streams, offering accessible outdoor experiences.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Northill

  • The most popular family friendly hiking route is Old Warden Airfield – Ickwell Village Green loop from Ickwell, a…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

4.7

(26)

102

hikers

#1.

Old Warden Airfield – Ickwell Village Green loop from Ickwell

8.12km

02:07

60m

60m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

HurstyHeaven
June 23, 2025, Bridleway Bridge Over Railway

Great way to cross the mainline to Peterborough (very wide ramp system suitable for horses), but the ramp was closed when I last I went to cross (June 25).

0

0

Really cycling-friendly cafe: good food and coffee, drinking water tap, bike racks with plenty of space. Only thing I'd say is that the portions are a little small for the price.

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0

Tomzo
February 23, 2025, The Cowshed Café

It’s good. Coffee is excellent as is the sausage rolls.

1

0

mccalni
January 4, 2025, The Cowshed Café

carrot cake is particularly excellent.

0

0

Jay P
October 26, 2024, Historic Stone Church

Good spot to catch your breath

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0

andyfry
September 26, 2024, The Cowshed Café

Perfect cyclists' (and walkers') cafe. Great coffee. Even better sausage rolls. Good local roads.

1

0

Jay P
September 1, 2024, Beware of the Bull Gate

No bull in sight, but 🚀 just in case..

0

0

Planes landing over your head before the road

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Northill?

There are 10 family-friendly hiking trails around Northill, with options suitable for various ages and abilities. Most of these, 8 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for a relaxed family outing.

What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Northill?

The family-friendly trails around Northill generally feature gentle elevations, with the highest ascent on any given route being around 75 meters. You can expect pleasant paths through rural landscapes, often passing by villages and open countryside, suitable for families with children.

Are there any circular routes suitable for families?

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Northill are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Old Warden Airfield – Ickwell Village Green loop from Ickwell is a moderate circular hike, and the The Cowshed Café loop from Northill offers an easy circular option.

What are some interesting places to see or landmarks along the family trails?

The Northill area offers several points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Shortmead House and Gardens, or enjoy nature at The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve. There are also beautiful lakes such as Priory Lake and River Hiz and Ickleford Lakes, perfect for a scenic break.

Are there any trails that include a cafe or refreshment stop?

Absolutely! The The Cowshed Café loop from Northill is specifically designed to incorporate a visit to a local cafe, making it a great option for families looking for a refreshment stop during their hike. Another route, The Cowshed Café – Medieval Fish Farm loop from Budna, also features this popular spot.

What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Northill?

The family-friendly trails around Northill are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 480 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful countryside, well-maintained paths, and the suitability of the routes for all family members.

What is the typical duration for an easy family hike in Northill?

Easy family hikes in Northill can vary in duration. For instance, the Hiking loop from Biggleswade is about 4 km long and takes approximately 1 hour, while the Shortmead House and Gardens – Bridleway Bridge Over Railway loop from Biggleswade is around 5 km and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. These are great options for shorter outings with children.

Are there any trails that pass by historical or cultural sites?

Yes, some trails offer glimpses into the region's history. The Shortmead House and Gardens – Bridleway Bridge Over Railway loop from Biggleswade passes by the historic Shortmead House and Gardens, providing a cultural element to your family walk.

What kind of wildlife can we expect to see on the trails?

While specific wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the rural setting of Northill's trails, especially near nature reserves like The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve, offers opportunities to spot local birds and other small animals. The diverse landscapes of the region support various species.

Is there parking available for these family-friendly hikes?

Most trailheads for family-friendly hikes around Northill are accessible by car, and parking is generally available in nearby villages or designated areas. It's always a good idea to check specific route details on komoot for precise parking information before you set out.

Are there any trails suitable for toddlers or very young children?

Many of the 'easy' rated trails, such as the Hiking loop from Biggleswade, are relatively short and have minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for toddlers or families with pushchairs, depending on the specific path surface. Always review the route details and photos to ensure it meets your family's needs.

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