Easton Hornstocks NNR
Easton Hornstocks NNR
The best walks and hikes around Easton Hornstocks NNR
4.6
(477)
3,527
hikers
217
hikes
Hiking around Easton Hornstocks NNR offers exploration through ancient woodlands and limestone grasslands, remnants of the historic Rockingham Forest. The region features varied terrain, including semi-natural woodland and former quarry sites, with generally gentle topography. These landscapes provide a dynamic environment for hikers of various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Easton Hornstocks NNR
- The most popular hiking route is Wartime buildings loop from Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve, an easy 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete, offering a gentle walk through historical landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Fineshade Woods β Blatherwycke Lake loop from King's Cliffe, a moderate 6.6 miles (10.7 km) path. This route guides hikers through Fineshade Woods and past Blatherwycke Lake, providing diverse natural scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Woodland Walk With Pub Stop β Wakerley Great Wood Trails loop from King's Cliffe, a 12.7 miles (20.5 km) trail leading through extensive woodlands, often completed in about 5 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Easton Hornstocks NNR is defined by ancient woodlands, limestone grasslands, and former quarry sites. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Easton Hornstocks NNR are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 3500 hikers have used komoot to explore Easton Hornstocks NNR's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(26)
107
hikers
10.7km
02:49
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.7
(3)
86
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
33
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
24
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Blatherwycke Lake is part of the estate and not easily accessed. There is a footpath which passes at this point, but the landowners don't like people enjoying the area.
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A gorgeous village of stone houses and charming lanes surrounded by pleasant pastures and meadows, there's lots to like about Duddington. Its church and manor house are Grade II-listed, while its 15th-century bridge is also worth seeing. The village's pub, the Royal Oak, serves excellent food and has several en suite rooms too. The Jurassic Way long-distance trail passes through the village.
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Nestled in the Welland Valley, Barrowden is an idyllic Rutland village. There is fantastic walking to the north around Rutland Water, while Wakerley Great Wood and Fineshade Wood both boast a network of trails to the southeast. Two long-distance trails pass through the village: the Jurassic Way and the Rutland Round. Walkers can find fuel and refreshment at the Exeter Arms.
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There's much for outdoor lovers to enjoy in Fineshade Wood, with walking trails, family bike trails, running routes and kids' adventure trails. There's a visitor centre where you can find out more about the woodland. It's part of what was once Rockingham Forest, a vast royal hunting ground.
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A historic ancient woodland, Wakerley Great Wood boasts an extensive network of unmarked trails to explore, picnic areas and information boards. Dogs are permitted on the trails but it is important to follow the principles of the countryside code. The Jurassic Way long-distance trail passes through the woodland.
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Great place a family to hire bikes to ride around the numerous cycle paths through the forest
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Lovely courtyard to eat some delicious ice cream.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to hike in Easton Hornstocks NNR?
Yes, access to Easton Hornstocks National Nature Reserve is by permit only. For information on how to obtain a permit, you may consult the official government guidance on National Nature Reserves: Northamptonshire's National Nature Reserves.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Easton Hornstocks NNR?
Generally, dogs are not permitted within Easton Hornstocks National Nature Reserve, with the exception of registered guide dogs. This policy helps protect the reserve's sensitive wildlife and habitats.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking around Easton Hornstocks NNR?
The terrain around Easton Hornstocks NNR is varied, featuring ancient woodlands, limestone grasslands, and former quarry sites. The topography is generally gentle, making it accessible for various fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy routes in the wider area. An excellent option for a gentle walk is the Wartime buildings loop from Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve, which is an easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete.
What is the best time of year to visit Easton Hornstocks NNR for hiking?
Spring is particularly rewarding for hikers in Easton Hornstocks NNR, as the woodlands come alive with outstanding displays of wildflowers such as bluebells, primroses, wood anemones, and wild garlic. The gentle topography makes it enjoyable throughout the warmer months.
Are there any circular walks available?
Many of the routes in the area are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Fineshade Woods β Blatherwycke Lake loop from King's Cliffe is a moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) circular path that guides hikers through diverse natural scenery.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
Easton Hornstocks NNR is rich in biodiversity. You might spot resident birds like lesser and greater spotted woodpeckers and treecreepers. Red kites and buzzards are regularly seen hunting overhead, and slow-worms can often be observed basking on the edges of glades and rides.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the vicinity?
For those seeking a longer challenge, consider the Woodland Walk With Pub Stop β Wakerley Great Wood Trails loop from King's Cliffe. This difficult 12.7-mile (20.5 km) trail leads through extensive woodlands and typically takes over five hours to complete.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Easton Hornstocks NNR?
The trails around Easton Hornstocks NNR are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 465 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, varied terrain, and the opportunity to explore historical landscapes.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the hiking routes?
Yes, some routes incorporate facilities. For instance, the Cycle Centre and Grounds Cafe β Bike Hire and CafΓ© loop from Collyweston offers a moderate 5-mile (8.1 km) hike with access to a cafe, providing a convenient stop for refreshments.
How many hiking trails are available in the Easton Hornstocks NNR area?
There are over 200 hiking routes available in the wider Easton Hornstocks NNR area, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. This includes 98 easy, 110 moderate, and 11 difficult trails.
Is there any historical significance to the area?
Yes, the area holds archaeological significance. A large Roman site was uncovered in Collyweston Wood in 1953, revealing a complex of buildings and artifacts, adding a historical dimension to your exploration of the woodlands.
Most popular routes around Easton Hornstocks NNR
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