The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Easington

There are currently over 15 family-friendly hiking routes around Easington listed on komoot, with 9 of them rated as easy. These trails are designed to be enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.

Easington offers a diverse range of landscapes for family hikes. Depending on the specific area, you can explore the dramatic cliff-top views of the Durham Heritage Coast, tranquil wooded valleys like Hawthorn Dene, or the serene reservoir-side paths around Stocks Reservoir in the Forest of Bowland. Many routes also feature rewilded former colliery lands, now thriving nature reserves.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for young children and toddlers. For example, the Stocks Hide (Stocks Reservoir) loop from Easington is an easy option, offering manageable distances and gentle paths. Look for trails marked as 'easy' for the most suitable options.

The family-friendly trails in Easington are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, scenic views, and the variety of landscapes that make these routes enjoyable for families.

While the immediate family-friendly routes may not directly pass waterfalls, the wider Easington area is close to several beautiful waterfalls. You can explore highlights like Stainforth Force waterfall or Scaleber Force Waterfall, which are popular attractions in the region and can be combined with a family outing.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly hikes around Easington are circular, making them convenient for families. The Stocks Reservoir loop – Forest of Bowland is a popular circular route, offering beautiful views and a good distance for an active family day out.

Yes, the trails offer a mix of natural beauty and historical interest. In County Durham, you might encounter the Easington Miners' Pit Cage monument along coastal walks, connecting to the area's mining heritage. In North Yorkshire, the trails around Stocks Reservoir offer stunning views of the water and the surrounding Forest of Bowland. Hawthorn Dene is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with varied habitats.

Yes, Gisburn Forest, the largest woodland in Lancashire, is a fantastic option for family forest walks near Easington. Routes like The 8 Trail, Gisburn Forest offer a chance to immerse yourselves in nature with well-marked paths through the trees.

Accessibility by public transport varies depending on the specific trailhead. While some routes might be reachable via local bus services, particularly in more populated areas, many trailheads, especially those deeper in the Forest of Bowland or along more remote coastal sections, are best accessed by car. We recommend checking local bus schedules for your chosen starting point.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and trails around Easington. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature reserves to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your dog.

Spring and summer are particularly pleasant for family hikes, with milder weather, blooming wildflowers, and longer daylight hours. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially in wooded areas like Gisburn Forest. While winter walks can be crisp and scenic, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy conditions.

Yes, depending on your chosen route, you can often find pubs or cafes in nearby villages or towns. For example, after a hike around Stocks Reservoir, you might find options in the surrounding hamlets. It's a good idea to check in advance for establishments near your specific trailhead.