4.2
(27)
253
hikers
36
hikes
Hiking around Pilham explores a landscape of gentle, rolling terrain characterized by woodlands and agricultural fields. The area features several forested sections, such as Laughton Forest, providing a network of accessible paths. With minimal elevation changes, the routes are suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. The region's appeal for hikers stems from its tranquil countryside and proximity to natural areas like the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.0
(2)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
7.32km
01:54
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
3
hikers
11.4km
02:56
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Nice setting for a stopover or rest break for cyclists.
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Located on the water’s edge of the River Trent in Gainsborough. On 10 May 1608, a group of Separatists (mainly women and children) decided to escape from Gainsborough in search of religious freedom. They left via the River Trent on a small barge called ‘The Francis’ which travelled to Stallingborough near Immingham, where they would meet a larger boat that would take them to Amsterdam in Holland. After 12 years of city live, some of them returned to England where they embarked the Mayflower in 1620 for their journey to America for a new life.
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Gainsborough Old Hall in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire is over five hundred years old and one of the best preserved medieval manor houses in England. The hall was built by Sir Thomas Burgh in 1460. The Burghs were rich, flamboyant and powerful. Gainsborough Old Hall was not only their home, but also a demonstration of their wealth and importance. Burgh was a benefactor to Newark Church and also the founder of the Chantry and Alms House at Gainsborough. In 1470, the manor was attacked by Sir Robert Welles over a clash about lands, status, and honour, but it was not severely damaged. In 1484 Thomas entertained King Richard III in his hall. Henry VIII visited Gainsborough twice: once in 1509, and again in 1541 with his fifth wife, Queen Catherine Howard. The Queen was accused of indiscretions both at Gainsborough and Lincoln, and she was later executed.
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A Georgian style church with medieval tower and a magnificent interior, the altar piece is a copy of the Da Vinci painting of the Last Supper. The first reference to a church in Gainsborough was in 1180 when it was given by Roger de Talbot, Lord of the Manor of Gainsborough to the Knights Templar of Willoughton. However, by 1730 this church was considered 'too dark and mean and incommodious' to suit the town's growing population and the decision was made to build a new church. Only the 15th century tower remains from the original medieval church.
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Laughton Forest is a site which was created to meet the demand to restock a depleted timber supply after the First World War. It was planted in the late 1920s, and continues to be managed by the Forestry Commission today. Before this time, the area was mainly open heathland with ponds, small woodlands and shifting sand dunes.The forest still supports a wide range of these habitats, which include many locally and nationally rare plants, animals and birds, including nightjars. The only area where access is permitted is in Tuetoes Wood.
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Gainsborough Old Hall is something of a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered in Gainsborough. Built in 1460, it is one of the largest and best preserved medieval manor houses in the country. Famous guests included Richard III and Henry VIII. An on-site café serves freshly prepared food and you can enjoy a house tour and a stroll around the gardens and grounds.
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Yes, the area is very welcoming for beginners and casual walkers. The landscape consists of gentle, rolling terrain with minimal elevation changes. There are over 15 easy routes to choose from, many of which follow well-defined paths through woodlands and fields. A good option to start with is the Laughton Forest loop from East Ferry, a straightforward walk of about 5 km.
Most trails in the Pilham area are suitable for hiking with a dog, especially the routes through Laughton Forest. However, you will cross agricultural land with potential livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these sections. Always check for local signage regarding canine access.
Definitely. The gentle terrain and network of shorter, easy trails make Pilham a great choice for a family outing. The routes generally avoid steep climbs and busy roads. For a walk that combines easy paths with a point of interest, consider the Gainsborough Old Hall loop from Gainsborough Central, which is a manageable length for most children.
Hiking around Pilham offers a classic English countryside experience. Expect quiet paths through peaceful woodlands like Laughton Forest, trails crossing open agricultural fields, and views across gentle, rolling hills. The area is not known for dramatic peaks but for its tranquil and accessible natural beauty.
You can find over 30 different hiking routes around Pilham on komoot. These are split between easy and moderate difficulties, with no technically difficult alpine-style trails, ensuring there are plenty of options for all fitness levels.
While our routes don't specifically start at a pub, several trails begin or end in towns like Gainsborough where you can find pubs and cafes for refreshments after your hike. The routes starting from Gainsborough Central, for example, finish within easy reach of local amenities.
The routes around Pilham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peacefulness of the woodland sections and the easy-to-follow paths that make for a relaxing day out.
Yes, some routes are accessible via public transport. Several trails start from Gainsborough Central, which is served by a train station, making it a convenient starting point if you are travelling without a car.
Many routes start from villages or towns like Scotton, East Ferry, and Gainsborough, where on-street parking may be available. For routes in Laughton Forest, there are often informal parking areas near the main forest entrances. Always park considerately and check for any local restrictions.
You can enjoy hiking around Pilham year-round. Spring brings blossoming trees and wildflowers, summer offers lush green woodlands, and autumn provides beautiful colours in the forests. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, but be prepared for muddy paths, especially after rain.
Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended as some paths can be uneven or muddy, particularly through fields and forests. Layering your clothing is a good idea as the weather can change. Waterproofs are advisable, especially outside of the summer months.
All the routes listed in this guide are available in the komoot app, which provides turn-by-turn voice navigation and offline maps. You can view the route, elevation profile, and key waypoints directly on your phone, so you don't need a separate printable map.


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