The best walks and hikes around Spalford
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Hikes around Spalford explore the Nottinghamshire landscape, which is characterized by generally flat terrain. The region's routes often follow paths along the River Trent and through the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve. This reserve features a sand-blown heath habitat with a mix of grassy and sandy trails.
Best hiking trails around Spalford
- The most popular hiking route is River Trent Riverside Path – Fledborough Viaduct loop from North Clifton, a 5.3 mile (8.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 10 minutes to complete. The route follows a riverside path with views of the Fledborough Viaduct.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is From Fledburgh Viaduct to Torksey Viaduct along the River Trent, a difficult 15.3 mile (24.6 km) path. This long-distance route follows the river between two historic viaducts.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Fledborough Viaduct – River Trent Riverside Path loop from South Clifton, a 2.2 mile (3.6 km) trail leading through the countryside, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Spalford is defined by riverside paths, country lanes, and the sandy trails of the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve. The network of routes provides options for both short, easy walks and longer, more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Spalford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 180 reviews. More than 1,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Spalford's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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24.6km
06:15
70m
70m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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7
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great cycle route along the old railway line, with old station platforms hinting to its past.
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Torksey Viaduct is closed. I was there on Friday 7th March 2025 and I ended up cycling south on A road to Dunham Bridge and back north to rejoin the route (Lincoln Gravel Imp). The viaduct may reopen in the future if a new leaseholder is found. Here is some info I found about the closure railwaypaths.org.uk/category/latest-news
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Torksey Viaduct is closed. I was there on Friday 7th March 2025 and I ended up cycling south on A road to Dunham Bridge and back north to rejoin the route (Lincoln Gravel Imp). The viaduct may reopen in the future if a new leaseholder is found. Here is some info I found about the closure railwaypaths.org.uk/category/latest-news
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The viaduct creates a link between Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. The structure offers fantastic views of the ruined Torksey Castle.
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Torksey Castle was a country house built in 1560 by Sir Robert Jermyn. It was destroyed during the English Civil War in 1645. Today, only the west facade and part of the rear wall remain. Though the Jermyn family retained control of the estate after the Civil War, the property was not restored, but continued to deteriorate. The remains of the buildings were scavenged for usable building supplies by residents of the area. Also, the hall was built quite close to the flood-prone River Trent, which may have stood the family in good stead as a source of transportation and commerce (as the Lords of Torksey had been permitted to levy tolls on the river's travellers), but which also contributed to the damage of the building through flooding. In 1961, the Trent River Board buried part of the ruins when raising the river bank.
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A railway bridge built in 1849 and designed by John Fowler. This is one of the earliest box girder bridges and is a rare survival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like for hiking in Spalford?
The landscape around Spalford is predominantly flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Hikes often follow paths along the River Trent and through the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve, which features a unique sand-blown heath habitat with a mix of flat grassy paths and sandy trails.
Are there any good circular walks starting from the area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For a longer day out, the Fledborough Viaduct loop from Besthorpe offers a substantial 10-mile (16 km) trek. This route gives you a great tour of the local landscape, including views of the historic viaduct.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Spalford?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails. However, it's important to be aware that areas like the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve have grazing cattle and sheep. Please keep your dog on a lead and under close control in these areas. Always clean up after your pet to protect the local wildlife and ensure the paths remain pleasant for all visitors.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks available?
Absolutely. The region's gentle terrain is ideal for family outings. A great choice is the Fledborough Viaduct – River Trent Riverside Path loop from South Clifton. It's a short, easy walk of about 2.2 miles (3.6 km) that can be completed in under an hour.
What kind of wildlife might I see in the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve?
Spalford Warren is a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers can look for species like the green and great spotted woodpeckers, woodcock, and sparrowhawk. The sandy heath is also home to common lizards and various insects, including sand wasps. Keep an eye out for the grazing cattle and sheep that help manage the habitat.
How many hiking trails are there around Spalford?
There are over 80 hiking routes to explore around Spalford. These range from short, easy strolls to more demanding long-distance paths, offering plenty of options for every type of hiker.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Spalford?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 1,900 hikers having explored the area. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths and the unique, sandy trails within the Spalford Warren Nature Reserve.
Are there any long-distance hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the From Fledburgh Viaduct to Torksey Viaduct along the River Trent route is a difficult 15.3-mile (24.6 km) trek. This path follows the river, connecting two historic viaducts and offering a full day of hiking.
Where can I find a good walk with woodland scenery?
For a beautiful woodland experience, the nearby Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve is a top-rated local favorite. It offers a variety of well-maintained paths through ancient woodland steeped in history.
What are some popular places to hike near Spalford?
Besides the main trails, hikers in the area enjoy several specific locations:
- Spalford Warren: A popular nature reserve known for its rare sand-blown heath habitat and diverse wildlife.
- Besthorpe Nature Reserve: A highly-regarded spot for birdwatching with well-placed huts and picnic areas.
- Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve: A famous and much-loved destination offering historic woodland walks.
Are the trails in Spalford Warren well-marked?
The paths within Spalford Warren Nature Reserve are not always clearly signposted. This provides a sense of exploration, but it's highly recommended to use a map or a navigation app like komoot to find your way around the mix of grassy and sandy trails.
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