The best walks and hikes around Brent Reservoir
4.5
(590)
8,841
hikers
523
hikes
Hikes around Brent Reservoir explore a large body of water and its surrounding parkland in North West London. The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, characterized by a mix of woodland, meadows, and wetland habitats. The walking trails follow a network of paths around the reservoir and through adjacent green spaces like Fryent Country Park, offering generally flat terrain with minimal elevation change.
Best hiking trails around Brent Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is Small Pond…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
8.23km
02:08
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
15.9km
04:11
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
11.2km
02:57
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Theatre built in 2024 with all the latest technology, it’s an amazing experience. Must watch.
0
0
Brent Reservoir is a good place to escape the urban nature of London, especially on the Welsh Harp Open Space, or north side of the water. There are trails that go through the woods, and the reservoir is often busy with canoeists and small sailboats. There are plenty of ducks and swans to look at too, as well as lots of benches to rest on. The north shore is also part of the Capital Ring, a circular walking trail of around 78 miles (125 km) in length that circles London.
3
0
This is a wall of a climb when heading eastbound up Dollis Road but great fun too. A little busy at times. You get a nice break at the top with the Finchley shops with a place to pull over and pant for a while.
1
0
Not worth the trip. To get there from the south via Edgeware rd, which exceedingly busy, slightly dangerous and very polluted. Then you have cross the north circular! The reservoir itself is ok, but the path isn't beside the water and is broken into small segements which means you have to go onto the road to get to the next part.
0
0
Was moved here from Oxford Circus in 1931. Very nice church.
1
0
well maintained path, big reservoir with nice different views of North west london
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good circular walks around Brent Reservoir?
Yes, many of the trails are loops. A great option that combines the reservoir with nearby parkland is the Small Pond loop from Hendon. It's a moderate 5.1-mile (8.3 km) walk that gives you a good feel for the area's diverse scenery.
Are the trails around Brent Reservoir suitable for families with children?
Definitely. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for most ages. For a shorter, manageable walk, consider the Hiking loop from West Hendon. At just 2.2 miles (3.6 km), it's a great way to enjoy the waterside scenery without tiring out little legs.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Brent Reservoir?
Yes, dogs are a common sight on the trails. The open spaces are perfect for them to explore. A popular choice for dog walkers is Fryent Country Park – St Andrew's Church, Kingsbury loop from West Hendon, which offers plenty of open fields and woodland paths. Just be mindful of wildlife, especially in the nature reserve areas.
Where is the best place to park for a walk at Brent Reservoir?
Parking is available near the Welsh Harp Sailing Club on the north side of the reservoir. This provides good access to the paths around the main body of water. Arrive early on sunny weekends as it can get busy.
How can I get to the Brent Reservoir trails using public transport?
The area is well-served by public transport. Hendon station (Thameslink) and Hendon Central (Northern Line) are good starting points for walks on the eastern side. For the western side and Fryent Country Park, Wembley Park station (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines) is a convenient option.
Is Brent Reservoir a good place for bird watching?
Absolutely. The reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) largely due to its significant wetland bird population. You can spot species like great crested grebes and willow warblers. There are bird hides available for better observation.
What are the trail conditions like?
The paths are a mix of paved sections and natural trails. While many are well-maintained, some areas, particularly through woodlands and meadows, can become quite muddy after heavy rain or during the winter months. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended.
What kind of trails can I find in Fryent Country Park?
Fryent Country Park is a large, popular nature reserve nearby, known for its open fields, ancient woods, and rolling hills. It offers a more rural feel compared to the reservoir's waterside paths, with plenty of trails for walking and opportunities for spotting wildlife.
How many hiking trails are there around Brent Reservoir?
There are over 500 hiking routes to explore in the Brent Reservoir area on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls along the water to longer excursions that connect with adjacent green spaces like Fryent Country Park.
What do other hikers like about the Brent Reservoir area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the feeling of escaping the city and the surprising amount of wildlife so close to central London. The mix of waterside paths, woodland, and open meadows is frequently mentioned as a key highlight.
Are there any longer hikes for a full day out?
Yes, if you're looking for a more substantial walk, the Dollis Brook Viaduct – Panoramic Park Drainage Ponds loop from Hendon is a great choice. It's a nearly 10-mile (16 km) route that connects several green corridors, offering a proper day's hike.
Is it possible to walk all the way around the reservoir?
A complete, uninterrupted circuit directly on the shoreline isn't possible without detouring onto local roads. However, a network of paths allows you to explore large sections of the reservoir's perimeter and connect through adjacent parks to create satisfying loop walks.
Most popular routes around Brent Reservoir
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
