The best walks and hikes around St. Leonards And St. Ives
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Hikes around St. Leonards and St. Ives explore a landscape of expansive forests, heathlands, and gentle river valleys in Dorset. The area is characterized by relatively flat terrain, with many walking trails centered around Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. The network of paths provides accessible routes through woodlands and open country, suitable for a variety of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around St. Leonards And St. Ives
- The most popular hiking route is Treetop Walkway loop from Moors Valley…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
58
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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43
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
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37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.11km
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20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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41
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
New way to enter Moors valley country park, just of the Verwood Rd, single track along side nere the lakes.. beware of the pedestrians..
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Lovely woods and hilly views nice coffee shop nearby
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Very busy during the summer months, very muddy during the winter. pick your poison lol
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Nice cycle path through the Valley. Unfortunately can be a lot of loose dogs in the area, making the ride a bit more cautious.
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Enjoy a ride on an authentic steam train around Moors Valley Country Park. Carrying over 100,000 passengers annually, the railway provides a picturesque journey of just over a mile. Travel along the banks of Moors Lake, through tunnels, a forest incline, and a spiral loop around the play areas. The railway is run by an extended family team and many dedicated volunteers. With over 20 locomotives, many built in the railway workshop, it prides itself on providing an authentic steam railway experience. Opening times vary depending on the month. Times are mainly 1045am to latest of 5pm
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Moors Valley Country Park is a great place for a family day out. There is such a range of activities here, from Go Ape, to mountain bike trails, to fishing. The tracks for cycling range from wide open forest tracks to singletrack through the forest. There is also a bike park and pump track where you can test your bike handling skills.
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Children’s activity structure with ladders and slides.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this guide for St. Ives in Cornwall or Dorset?
This guide focuses on the parish of St. Leonards and St. Ives in Dorset. It's a region known for its beautiful forests and heathlands, not the coastal town of St. Ives in Cornwall.
Are there many walking trails in the St. Leonards and St. Ives area?
Yes, there are over 35 designated hiking routes to explore. The landscape is primarily made up of gentle forest paths and heathland trails, with a good mix of easy and moderate options available.
What are the best places for a family-friendly walk?
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is an excellent choice for families. It offers numerous facilities, including a play trail and treetop walkway. The Moors Valley Play Area loop from Ringwood is a great moderate route that explores the park. For a different option, Avon Heath Country Park is also highly regarded and has walking trails and playgrounds.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the area are dog-friendly. Avon Heath Country Park and St. Catherine's Hill are popular spots for dog walkers. Always check local signage, especially in areas with sensitive wildlife or during bird nesting season, and keep dogs under control.
Are there any circular walks available?
Most of the popular trails in this area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For a shorter, easy loop, the Hiking loop from Ashley Heath is a great option that takes you through parts of Moors Valley.
Where can I find a challenging hike?
The terrain around St. Leonards and St. Ives is generally flat, so you won't find difficult mountain climbs. For a more challenging distance, consider the Hiking loop from St Ives, which is a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route exploring local woodlands and fields.
What do other hikers think of the trails around St. Leonards and St. Ives?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths through the forests, the peaceful atmosphere of the heathlands, and the excellent facilities at Moors Valley Country Park.
Where is the best place to park for a hike?
For walks within Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, there is a large, well-maintained pay-and-display car park with direct access to the trails. Avon Heath Country Park also offers dedicated parking. For other routes, on-street parking may be available, but be sure to check for any local restrictions.
Are there any pubs or cafes on the walking routes?
The main country parks are your best bet for refreshments. Moors Valley Country Park & Forest has a cafe with facilities, making it a convenient stop before or after your walk. For traditional pubs, you will typically need to venture into the nearby villages of St. Leonards, St. Ives, or Ringwood after your hike.
What is the best time of year to hike here?
Hiking is possible year-round. The woodlands provide shelter in both hot and wet weather. Autumn is particularly beautiful when the forest colours are at their peak, while spring and summer are ideal for seeing the heathlands in bloom.
Are the trails accessible by public transport?
Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging in this rural area. The larger hubs like Moors Valley Country Park may have seasonal or limited bus services from nearby towns like Ringwood. It is generally easiest to explore the region by car.
Are there any long-distance paths in the area?
Yes, the Castleman Trailway runs through the region. This 15-mile trail follows the path of an old railway line, offering a relatively flat and accessible route for a longer day of walking that connects several local parks and villages.
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