The Ultimate Guide to Family Walks in the UK

Written By Marc Jerrard

Looking for the best family walks across the UK? Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or teens looking for a challenge, this guide is packed with 40 unforgettable trails. I’ve included short and long routes suitable for young kids and/or teenagers.

Family walks aren’t one-size-fits-all—especially when your group includes a toddler who wants to poke every stick and a teen who’s sulking because they don’t have WiFi. Trust me, I’ve been there (and still am). That’s why this post covers walks that work for the whole crew—from buggy-pushers and puddle-jumpers to teens who’d rather be on TikTok than a trail.

40 Family Friendly Walks in the UK

Whether you’re looking for toddler-friendly nature trails or teen-tested ridge walks, this UK-wide guide has your family covered. From castle gardens to clifftop hikes, I’ve curated the most scenic, fun, and accessible trails by region. Many are perfect for pushchairs or dogs, and each is tagged by age group, and with helpful icons:

Icon Legend

🟢 Easy — Suitable for all ages and abilities

🟡 Moderate — Some inclines or uneven terrain

⚠️ Challenging — Steep or rough paths, not pram-friendly

🐾 Dog friendly — Dogs allowed (lead requirements noted)

✅ Accessible — Suitable for buggies, wheelchairs, or pushchairs

🌸 Best in spring — Wildflowers and mild weather

🍂 Best in autumn — Colourful foliage and crisp air

☀️ Best in summer — Warm weather, ideal for picnics and paddling

🌊 Coastal — Stunning sea views and cliff paths

🌳 Woodland — Shaded trails through forest and nature reserves

Google Maps Link

SCOTLAND

1.    Loch Lomond Fairy Trail 🟢🐾✅

2.    Arthur's Seat Summit Walk 🟡🐾⚠️

3.    Falls of Clyde Wildlife Trail 🟢🐾✅  

4.    The Hermitage, Dunkeld 🟢🐾✅      

5.    Glen Nevis to Steall Waterfall 🟡🐾⚠️

6.    RSPB Loch Leven Nature Reserve Trail 🟢🐾✅

NORTHERN IRELAND & IRELAND

7.    Crawfordsburn Waterfall Trail 🟢🐾✅🍂

8.    Giant's Causeway Cliff Path 🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️ 

9.    Tollymore Forest Park Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳   

10.  Glendalough Spinc & Glenealo Valley 🟡🐾⚠️🌸🍂          

11.  Howth Cliff Walk (Green Route) 🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️       

12.  Powerscourt Waterfall & Park Walks 🟢🐾✅🌳 

WALES

13.  Elidir Trail, Pontneddfechan 🟢🐾✅🍂  

14.  Pen Y Fan from Storey Arms 🟡🐾✅

15.  Coed y Brenin Fairy Trail 🟢🐾✅       

16.  Stackpole Lily Ponds & Beach 🟢🐾✅☀️         

17.  Waterfall Country - Sgwd yr Eira Walk 🟢🐾✅          

18.  Fairy Glen, Llanrwst  🟢🐾✅🌸

19.  Llyn Brenig Circular 🟢🐾✅

SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

20.  Ashdown Forest Pooh Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳  

21.  Seven Sisters Coastal Path 🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️

22.  Box Hill Natural Play Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

23.  Wendover Woods Zog Activity Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

EAST of ENGLAND

24.  Flatford & Constable Country Loop 🟢🐾✅🌸☀️

25.  Thetford Forest Family Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

26.  Houghton Mill Riverside Loop 🟢🐾✅🌸☀️

27.  Wicken Fen Nature Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

28.  Stourhead Lake Walk 🟢🐾✅🌳

29.  Lulworth Cove & Fossil Forest 🟢🐾🌊☀️

30.  Cheddar Gorge Rim Trail 🟡🐾🌸🍂

31.  Wye Valley from Symonds Yat 🟡🐾🌳

32.  Cardinham Woods Gruffalo Woods Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

NORTH WEST ENGLAND   

33.  Tarn Howes Circular 🟢🐾✅🌳

34.  Delamere Forest Gruffalo Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

35.  Tegg's Nose Country Park 🟡🐾🌳

YORKSHIRE & THE HUMBER

36.  Goathland Railway & Mallyan Spout Waterfall 🟡🐾🌳

37.  Brimham Rocks Explorer 🟡🐾🌳

38.  Dalby Forest Family Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

MIDLANDS   

39.  Cannock Chase Stick Man Trail 🟢🐾✅🌳

40.  Bradgate Park Deer Trail 🟢🐾✅

Scotland

1. Loch Lomond Fairy Trail

Photo credit: Loch Lomond Faerie Trail

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 1 mile loop | Time: 1–2 hrs
Terrain: Mostly level woodland, some short buggy-friendly stairs and bridges—ideal for prams with off-road wheels .
Highlights: Fairy houses, sculptures, river crossings, streams, greenery—and the south car park caravan start point .
Tips:

2. Arthur’s Seat Summit Walk

Photo credit: Summer School

🟡🐾⚠️

Distance: 2.2 mi (3.6 km) loop | Ascent: 265 m | Time: 1–2 hrs .
Terrain: Steep, rocky in parts; the easier route follows grassy slope from Dunsapie Loch .
Highlights: Panoramic views over Edinburgh, Firth of Forth & Salisbury Crags sculpture .
Tips:

3. Falls of Clyde Wildlife Trail

Photo credit: Scottish Wildlife Trust

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) circular
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Well-maintained woodland paths and boardwalks, mostly flat and buggy-friendly with some gentle slopes.
Highlights: Stunning waterfalls (Corra Linn, Dundaff Linn), diverse wildlife including otters and birds, visitor centre with educational displays.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with toilets and refreshments.

  • Great for wildlife spotting and easy pace walking.
    GPX link: 👉 Falls of Clyde Trail GPX
    Parking: Available at New Lanark World Heritage Site car park.

4. The Hermitage, Dunkeld

Photo credit: Visit Scotland

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) circular
Time: 1–2 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat forest trails with some minor uneven sections; paths are wide and suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Ancient Douglas fir trees, the spectacular Black Linn waterfall, Ossian’s Hall viewpoint.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Very welcome on leads.

  • Facilities: Nearby Dunkeld village has cafes and shops.

  • Great year-round for gentle woodland exploration.
    GPX link: 👉 The Hermitage Walk GPX
    Parking: Free car park at The Hermitage entrance.

5. Glen Nevis to Steall Waterfall

Photo credit: European Waterfalls

🟡🐾⚠️

Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km) one way (return along same route)
Time: 2–3 hours
Terrain: Forest tracks and mountain paths; some rocky and uneven sections, a wire suspension bridge crossing. Not pram-friendly.
Highlights: Dramatic Steall Waterfall (one of Scotland’s highest), stunning mountain scenery in the shadow of Ben Nevis.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Great trail but keep on leads near cliffs.

  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes recommended.

  • Best in dry weather; can be slippery after rain.
    GPX link: 👉 Glen Nevis to Steall Waterfall GPX
    Parking: Glen Nevis Visitor Centre parking available (charge applies).

6. RSPB Loch Leven Nature Reserve Trail

Photo credit: Visit Scotland

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
Terrain: Flat, well-surfaced trails with boardwalk sections, perfect for buggies and wheelchairs.
Highlights: Bird hides for spotting ospreys, geese, and other wildlife; beautiful lakeside views and picnic areas.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed but must be on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with exhibits, café, and toilets.

  • Ideal for families interested in wildlife and gentle walks.
    GPX link: 👉 Loch Leven Nature Reserve Trail GPX
    Parking: Ample parking at the reserve entrance.

🇮🇪 Northern Ireland & Ireland

7. Crawfordsburn Waterfall Trail

Photo credit: Discover Northern Ireland

🟢🐾✅🍂

Distance: 1.2 miles (2 km) loop
Time: 45 mins–1 hr
Terrain: Level woodland paths with some wooden boardwalks; suitable for buggies with off-road wheels.
Highlights: Pretty waterfall, river views, colourful autumn foliage, and peaceful forest atmosphere.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On lead please.

  • Facilities: Nearby café in Crawfordsburn Country Park.

  • Best visited in autumn for vibrant colours.
    GPX link: 👉 Crawfordsburn Waterfall Trail GPX
    Parking: Free car park at Crawfordsburn Country Park.

8. Giant’s Causeway Cliff Path

Photo Credit: Belfast sightseeing tour

🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2.5 hrs
Terrain: Mixed coastal cliffs and paved paths, some slopes and steps. Not pram-friendly.
Highlights: Stunning basalt columns, dramatic sea cliffs, and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Must be kept on a lead due to cliffs and nesting birds.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with exhibitions and café.

  • Best visited in spring and summer for wildflowers and good weather.
    GPX link: 👉 Giant’s Causeway Cliff Path GPX
    Parking: Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre car park (paid).

9. Tollymore Forest Park Trail

Photo credit: Visit Mourne Mountains

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: Various trails, main family loop 2 miles (3.2 km)
Time: 1–2 hrs
Terrain: Wide, well-kept forest paths, gentle inclines, and some boardwalks—good for buggies.
Highlights: Beautiful wooded glens, bridges, and river views; Game of Thrones filming locations.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome off-lead in much of the park but check restrictions near wildlife zones.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with toilets and picnic areas.

  • Year-round walking with lovely autumn colours.
    GPX link: 👉 Tollymore Forest Park Family Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car park near entrance.

10. Glendalough Spinc & Glenealo Valley

Photo credit: Visit Wicklow

🟡🐾⚠️🌸🍂

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) loop
Time: 2.5–3.5 hrs
Terrain: Steep inclines and rocky paths on the Spinc ridge; the valley section is gentler but uneven. Not pram-friendly.
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Wicklow Lakes, Glendalough monastic site, and serene valleys.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Keep on lead, especially near cliffs.

  • Footwear: Hiking boots recommended.

  • Best visited in spring for blooms and autumn for foliage.
    GPX link: 👉 Glendalough Spinc & Glenealo GPX
    Parking: Pay car park at Glendalough Visitor Centre.

11. Howth Cliff Walk (Green Route)

Photo credit: A Rambling Unicorn

🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️

Distance: 3 miles (5 km)
Time: 1.5–2 hrs
Terrain: Well-maintained cliff paths with gentle slopes and some steps; not pram-friendly but stroller possible with care.
Highlights: Views of Dublin Bay, rocky coastline, wildflowers in spring, and local birdlife.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On leads recommended due to cliffs.

  • Facilities: Cafés and pubs in Howth village at start/end.

  • Best visited in spring and summer for the flowers and sea views.
    GPX link: 👉 Howth Cliff Walk Green Route GPX
    Parking: Pay car park in Howth village or take DART train.

12. Powerscourt Waterfall & Park Walks

Photo credit: Powerscourt Hotel

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: Various circular routes up to 2 miles (3.2 km)
Time: 1–2 hrs
Terrain: Well-maintained gravel paths and parkland lawns; pram and wheelchair friendly.
Highlights: Ireland’s tallest waterfall, landscaped gardens, woodland walks, and playground.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, café, toilets, and picnic areas.

  • Suitable for all seasons.
    GPX link: 👉 Powerscourt Waterfall Trail GPX
    Parking: Large car park on site (paid).

Wales

13. Elidir Trail, Pontneddfechan

Photo credit: Explore South Wales

🟢🐾✅🍂

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) circular
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat forest and riverside paths, suitable for buggies with off-road wheels.
Highlights: Beautiful waterfalls, lush woodland, and autumn colours in “Waterfall Country.”
Tips:

  • Dogs: On lead in sensitive areas.

  • Facilities: Nearby village with cafes.

  • Best visited in autumn for spectacular foliage.
    GPX link: 👉 Elidir Trail GPX
    Parking: Free parking near Pontneddfechan village.

14. Pen Y Fan from Storey Arms

Photo credit: Sling Adventures

🟡🐾✅

Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km) return
Time: 2–3 hours
Terrain: Well-marked, wide gravel paths with steady climb; suitable for older children and fit families.
Highlights: Highest peak in South Wales with panoramic views over Brecon Beacons.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Excellent for dogs, but keep on lead near edges.

  • Footwear: Hiking boots advised; weather can change fast.

  • Avoid icy days for safety.
    GPX link: 👉 Pen Y Fan Storey Arms GPX
    Parking: Pay parking at Storey Arms car park.

15. Coed y Brenin Fairy Trail

Photo credit: Walk North Wales

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 1.3 miles (2.1 km) loop
Time: 45 mins–1 hr
Terrain: Well-maintained, flat forest trails with wide paths suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Fairy tale sculptures, woodland, and gentle river views.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, café, and toilets.

  • Perfect for young kids and short outings.
    GPX link: 👉 Coed y Brenin Fairy Trail GPX
    Parking: Free parking at Coed y Brenin car park.

16. Stackpole Lily Ponds & Beach

Photo credit: Kris Gates

🟢🐾✅☀️

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) circular
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Flat boardwalks over lily ponds and level paths to the beach; pram-friendly.
Highlights: Tranquil lily ponds, sandy beaches (Barafundle Bay nearby), and coastal views.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on lead on the beach.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre and café nearby.

  • Best for summer picnics and paddling.
    GPX link: 👉 Stackpole Lily Ponds & Beach GPX
    Parking: Pay parking at Stackpole Estate car park.

17. Waterfall Country - Sgwd yr Eira

Photo credit: Waterfall Country Wales

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 1.7 miles (2.8 km) circular
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Well-defined forest paths with some boardwalks; buggy friendly.
Highlights: Walk behind the waterfall (Sgwd yr Eira), lush woodland, and plenty of photo spots.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On leads due to sensitive habitats.

  • Facilities: Limited onsite; nearby village amenities.

  • Popular in spring and summer.
    GPX link: 👉 Sgwd yr Eira Walk GPX
    Parking: Free parking at Pontneddfechan village.

18. Fairy Glen, Llanrwst

Photo credit: Adam T, Tripadvisor

🟢🐾✅🌸

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Time: 30–45 minutes
Terrain: Mostly flat woodland paths with some gentle slopes; buggy friendly with care.
Highlights: Enchanting gorge with mossy cliffs, stream, and fairy tale atmosphere.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Parking but limited amenities nearby.

  • Best in spring for blooming wildflowers.
    GPX link: 👉 Fairy Glen Llanrwst GPX
    Parking: Small car park at Fairy Glen entrance.

19. Llyn Brenig Circular

Photo credit: Visit Conwy

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Flat, wide forest and lakeside paths; fully buggy and wheelchair accessible.
Highlights: Lakeside views, birdwatching hides, and picnic spots.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed off-lead in most areas.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with café and toilets.

  • Great all year round.
    GPX link: 👉 Llyn Brenig Circular GPX
    Parking: Large free car park at Llyn Brenig visitor area.

South East England

20. Ashdown Forest Pooh Trail

Photo credit: Chris and Suze Go Walkies

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) loop
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat dirt and gravel tracks, wide enough for buggies with chunky wheels.
Highlights: Explore the home of Winnie the Pooh with themed sculptures, Poohsticks Bridge, and open heathland.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome, usually off-lead but keep under control.

  • Facilities: Café and shop at visitor centre.

  • Great in any season; summer for wildflowers, autumn for bracken.
    GPX link: 👉 Ashdown Forest Pooh Trail GPX
    Parking: Multiple car parks in Ashdown Forest (paid parking).

21. Seven Sisters Coastal Path

🟡🐾🌊🌸☀️

Distance: Various sections; family-friendly section 4 miles (6.4 km) return
Time: 2–3 hours
Terrain: Chalk cliffs with some steep ascents and descents; well-marked paths but not pram-friendly.
Highlights: Iconic white cliffs, beach access at Birling Gap, and stunning sea views.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads due to nesting birds and steep drops.

  • Facilities: Café and toilets at Birling Gap.

  • Best visited spring–summer for clear skies and flowers.
    GPX link: 👉 Seven Sisters Coastal Path GPX (Birling Gap section)
    Parking: Pay & display car park at Birling Gap.

22. Box Hill Natural Play Trail

Photo credit: Wild Murals

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) loop
Time: 45 mins–1 hr
Terrain: Well-surfaced paths with natural play installations, suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
Highlights: Forest play equipment, balance beams, stepping stones, and beautiful woodland scenery.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On lead near play areas.

  • Facilities: Café, toilets, and visitor centre nearby.

  • Perfect for energetic kids and family picnics.
    GPX link: 👉 Box Hill Natural Play Trail GPX
    Parking: National Trust car park (paid).

For more awesome Box Hill hikes, check out my blog

23. Wendover Woods Zog Activity Trail

Photo credit: Forestry England

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) loop
Time: 30–45 minutes
Terrain: Forest paths with activity stations and play features; good for buggies and small children.
Highlights: Interactive ‘Zog’ story trail, forest wildlife, picnic spots.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Café and toilets at Wendover Woods.

  • Ideal for young families and short energetic walks.
    GPX link: 👉 Wendover Woods Zog Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car park.

East of England

24. Flatford & Constable Country Loop

Photo credit: National Trust (NT)

🟢🐾✅🌸☀️

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat, well-maintained gravel and riverside paths; pram-friendly.
Highlights: Iconic Constable paintings landscapes, peaceful rivers, and historic Flatford Mill.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome on leads.

  • Facilities: Tearoom and toilets at Flatford Mill.

  • Best visited in spring and summer for flowers and birdlife.
    GPX link: 👉 Flatford & Constable Country GPX
    Parking: Pay car park near Flatford Mill.

25. Thetford Forest Family Trail

Photo credit: Mummy Constant

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) loop
Time: 45 mins–1 hr
Terrain: Wide, surfaced forest trails with gentle gradients; perfect for buggies and wheelchairs.
Highlights: Gruffalo sculptures, forest wildlife, picnic areas, and play zones.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with café and toilets.

  • Great all year for forest walks.
    GPX link: 👉 Thetford Forest Family Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car park.

26. Houghton Mill Riverside Loop

Photo credit: Andrews Walks

🟢🐾✅🌸☀️

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) circular
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Flat riverside paths and gravel trails, pram- and wheelchair-friendly.
Highlights: Historic mill, water meadows, birdwatching spots.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Café nearby in Houghton village.

  • Best visited spring and summer for wildflowers.
    GPX link: 👉 Houghton Mill Loop GPX
    Parking: Free car park at Houghton Mill.

27. Wicken Fen Nature Trail

Photo credit: National Trust (NT)

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) circular
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Flat, surfaced trails and boardwalks through wetlands; pram- and wheelchair-accessible.
Highlights: Rare fenland wildlife, bird hides, educational displays.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On lead due to sensitive habitats.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, café, and toilets.

  • Lovely all year, especially spring and summer.
    GPX link: 👉 Wicken Fen Trail GPX
    Parking: Ample parking at the nature reserve.

South West England

28. Stourhead Lake Walk

Photo credit: National Trust (NT)

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) circular
Time: 2 hours
Terrain: Well-maintained gravel paths around landscaped gardens and lakes, suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
Highlights: Classical temples, waterfalls, and scenic lake views.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, café, toilets, and playground.

  • Lovely walk in any season.
    GPX link: 👉 Stourhead Lake Walk GPX
    Parking: Paid parking at Stourhead Estate.

29. Lulworth Cove & Fossil Forest

🟢🐾🌊☀️

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) circular
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat paved coastal paths with some short inclines; pram-friendly.
Highlights: Stunning cove views, fossil-rich cliffs, and beach access.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, cafés, and toilets.

  • Best in summer for beach activities.
    GPX link: 👉 Lulworth Cove & Fossil Forest GPX
    Parking: Paid parking near Lulworth Cove.

30. Cheddar Gorge Rim Trail

🟡🐾🌸🍂

Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km) circular
Time: 2–3 hours
Terrain: Uneven rocky trails with steep sections; not suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Dramatic gorge views, wildlife, and limestone cliffs.
Tips:

  • Dogs: On leads recommended.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre and café at Cheddar.

  • Best spring or autumn to avoid summer crowds and heat.
    GPX link: 👉 Cheddar Gorge Rim Trail GPX
    Parking: Paid parking at Cheddar Gorge visitor centre.

31. Wye Valley from Symonds Yat

Photo credit: Third Eye Traveller

🟡🐾🌳

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Riverside trails with some gentle hills and forest paths; mixed surfaces, not pram-friendly.
Highlights: River views, wildlife spotting (otters, birds), and café at Symonds Yat.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome but keep on leads near cliffs.

  • Facilities: Café, toilets, and picnic areas.

  • Suitable year-round; spring and autumn offer best wildlife viewing.
    GPX link: 👉 Wye Valley Symonds Yat GPX
    Parking: Pay parking at Symonds Yat car park.

32. Cardinham Woods Gruffalo Woods Trail

Photo credit: Mini Travellers

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) loop
Time: 45 mins–1 hr
Terrain: Well-maintained forest paths, suitable for buggies and young kids.
Highlights: Gruffalo sculptures, picnic spots, and peaceful woodland.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Car park and toilets at the site.

  • Great all year round for families.
    GPX link: 👉 Cardinham Woods Gruffalo Trail GPX
    Parking: Free parking on site.

North West England

33. Tarn Howes Circular

Photo credit: National Trust (NT)

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) loop
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Mostly flat, well-maintained woodland and lakeside paths; suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Peaceful tarn views, wildflowers in spring, and birdwatching opportunities.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome on leads.

  • Facilities: Limited facilities nearby, so bring refreshments.

  • Lovely walk in any season.
    GPX link: 👉 Tarn Howes Circular GPX
    Parking: Small free car park near Tarn Howes.

34. Delamere Forest Gruffalo Trail

Photo credit: North West for Kids

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 2.75 miles (4.5 km) loop
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Wide, well-kept forest paths with natural play features; buggy-friendly.
Highlights: Gruffalo sculptures, play areas, and peaceful woodland.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with café and toilets.

  • Great all year round for families.
    GPX link: 👉 Delamere Forest Gruffalo Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car park.

35. Tegg’s Nose Country Park

Photo credit: Chris Warham Photography

🟡🐾🌳

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Mixed forest and open hill trails; some inclines, mostly well maintained but not buggy friendly.
Highlights: Panoramic views, varied wildlife, and quiet woodland paths.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Welcome on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre, café, and toilets.

  • Suitable all year; muddy in wet weather.
    GPX link: 👉 Tegg’s Nose Country Park GPX
    Parking: Pay car park on site.

Yorkshire & The Humber

36. Goathland Railway & Mallyan Spout Waterfall

Photo credit: The Yorkshireman

🟡🐾🌳

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Terrain: Mixed woodland trails and some steep paths; uneven ground, not pram-friendly.
Highlights: Historic steam railway views, Mallyan Spout waterfall, and charming village scenes.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Café and toilets in Goathland village.

  • Best in dry weather due to steep sections.
    GPX link: 👉 Goathland & Mallyan Spout GPX
    Parking: Village car park (paid).

37. Brimham Rocks Explorer

Photo credit: Go Everywhere, Do Everything

🟡🐾🌳

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) loop
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Well-marked trails with rocky terrain and some uneven surfaces; not suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Unique rock formations, panoramic views, and picnic areas.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: National Trust café and toilets.

  • Suitable for all seasons.
    GPX link: 👉 Brimham Rocks GPX
    Parking: Paid parking at site.

38. Dalby Forest Family Trail

Photo credit: Scarborough Mumbler

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) loop
Time: 1.5 hours
Terrain: Wide, level forest paths with some gentle slopes; buggy and wheelchair accessible.
Highlights: Woodland wildlife, Gruffalo sculptures, and play areas.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with café and toilets.

  • Great for families any time of year.
    GPX link: 👉 Dalby Forest Family Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car park.

Midlands

39. Cannock Chase Forest Family Trail

Photo credit: Forestry England

🟢🐾✅🌳

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) loop
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Terrain: Well-maintained, flat forest paths with some gentle slopes; suitable for buggies.
Highlights: Ancient woodland, wildlife spotting, and peaceful picnic areas.
Tips:

  • Dogs: Allowed on leads throughout the forest.

  • Facilities: Visitor centre with café and toilets.

  • Ideal for all seasons, especially spring and autumn.
    GPX link: 👉 Cannock Chase Family Trail GPX
    Parking: Pay & display car parks at various forest entrances.

40. Bradgate Park Deer Trail

Photo credit: Ady Wheelz Huthwaite

🟢🐾✅

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) loop
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes (on lead near deer and livestock)
Accessibility: Yes — paved path options for wheelchairs and buggies
Terrain: Mixture of smooth paths, gravel tracks, and grassy sections with gentle inclines
Highlights: Wild deer, Historic ruins of Bradgate House and Tudor-era buildings, wide, surfaced paths — great for prams, scooters, and wheelchairs, on-site café, ice cream kiosk, and toilets, Picnic spots and woodland play areas

Tips:

  • Arrive early at weekends — car parks can fill up quickly

  • Keep dogs on leads in areas where deer are close

  • Accessible toilets and café located at Newtown Linford entrance

  • Combine with a visit to Swithland Wood nearby for a longer adventure

GPX File: 👉 Bradgate Park Deer Trail GPX Route
Parking: Newtown Linford car park (main entrance, paid)

SUMMARY

Ready to Lace Up and Explore?

Whether you’re wandering through ancient woodlands, spotting deer in the hills, or padding along a coastal path with your dog by your side, these family-friendly walks offer something for everyone — whatever the season. With a wide range of accessible trails and plenty of natural wonder, they prove that adventure doesn’t have to be extreme to be memorable.

So grab your walking shoes, pack a flask (and some treats for the dog), and start ticking off your next great UK family walk.

Don’t forget to download the UK Google Map, save your GPX routes, and share your adventures with me— I’d love to see where your boots take you!

Happy Hiking!

Marc

Marc Jerrard
Next

Annapurna Circuit Trek