Westley Waterless (E Cambs)
Westley Waterless (E Cambs)
4.5
(136)
1,393
hikers
112
hikes
Hiking around Westley Waterless (E Cambs) offers routes through the East Cambridgeshire countryside. The region is characterized by a mix of rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and flat fenland. Many trails follow historic features, such as the Anglo-Saxon earthwork of Devil's Dyke, providing a variety of walking routes in East Cambridgeshire.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
5.0
(4)
15
hikers
8.48km
02:09
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
22.0km
05:44
150m
150m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
5.09km
01:18
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3 outdoorsy things of Newmarkets things in one place
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finally the offical Stour Valley Path signs appear as well as this first overview
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"The Devil's Dyke is one of the largest preserved Anglo-Saxon artworks in England. The massive bank and ditch stretch in a near straight line for 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) from Fen edge at reach, across the open chalk landscape near Newmarket, to the wooden slopes as Woodditton. The Dyke is best preserved at Gallows Hill near Burwell where it si 10.5 m (34 feet) high from the ditch bottom to the bank top."
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The Devil's Dyke stretches from Reach to Woodditton through Newmarket. It is an 11km bank with a ditch on the south west side. In parts it is as high as 9m tall. It is thought to be Anglo-Saxon and a defense barrier.
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Basefield Wood is the highest point on the Stour Valley Path long-distance trail, which follows the River Stour from its source near Newmarket to Cattawade on the Stour Estuary. Despite being 377 feet (115 m) above sea level, the flat landscape means that far reaching views are in short supply.
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Devil's Dyke is a linear ditch that runs in a straight line for 7 miles (11 km) between the villages of Reach and Woodditton. It separates the fenland to the north from the hills to the south and is thought to have been created by the Anglo-Saxons. Keep an eye out for unusual plant species, such as purple milk-vetch and bastard toadflax. It features on the Stour Valley Path and is a hugely enjoyable section, boasting views to distant Ely Cathedral on clear days.
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Local landmark on the highest point, marking the southern end of Devil's Dyke.
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Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, so you can easily return to your starting point. A great example is The Carpenters Arms loop from Little Wilbraham, which offers a moderate walk through the local countryside.
The open countryside and numerous footpaths in the region are generally great for walking with dogs. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially when crossing farmland with livestock or walking through nature reserves like Fulbourn Fen to protect wildlife.
For a shorter, easier outing suitable for families, consider exploring the area around Stetchworth. There are gentle paths perfect for little legs. Nearby, Cow Hollow Wood is a popular spot for families, offering a small wood with trails where children can run around and explore.
Definitely. Several routes are planned around the charming local pubs. For a rewarding hike that combines woodland scenery with a potential pub visit, consider the The Three Blackbirds Pub β Basefield Wood loop from Stetchworth.
You'll find a wide variety of options, with over 110 designated hiking routes in the area. These range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day treks, ensuring there's a path for every ability level.
The trails here are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of scenery, from the panoramic views along historic routes like Devil's Dyke to the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands and expansive fenlands.
Yes, the region offers several difficult hikes for those seeking a challenge. The most notable is the long-distance loop along the Devil's Dyke, an ancient earthwork that provides a strenuous walk with rewarding, expansive views of the countryside.
The hiking around Westley Waterless is quite varied. You'll encounter rolling chalk hills, paths through ancient woodlands like Basefield Wood, and flat, open trails across the fens. Many routes follow well-established public footpaths and historic earthworks.
Many walks start from villages like Woodditton, Stetchworth, or Great Wilbraham, where you can usually find on-street parking. For nature reserves like Wicken Fen or Beechwoods, there are often dedicated lay-bys or small car parks, though these can fill up on busy days.
Accessing trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging in this rural area. The larger nearby town of Cambridge has better bus and train connections. From there, you might need a taxi or a local bus service with a limited schedule to reach the smaller villages where most hikes begin.
The area is rich in natural beauty. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve is a major highlight, known for its unique wetland habitat and boardwalks. For woodland walks, the highly-rated Beechwoods Nature Reserve and Hardwick Wood are local favorites, especially beautiful in the autumn.


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