The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Aversley Wood
4.3
(77)
314
hikers
23
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Aversley Wood are primarily located within an ancient woodland, a 62-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest in Cambridgeshire. The terrain features a prominent flat-topped ridge and remnants of medieval ridge and furrow landscapes, offering varied ground underfoot. Paths wind through ash and maple trees, providing a mix of easy and moderate routes suitable for different ability levels. The area is characterized by its diverse flora and fauna, making it a destination for nature observation.
Best…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
8.27km
02:10
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
22
hikers
10.1km
02:36
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(6)
10
hikers
5.69km
01:29
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
7
hikers
5.60km
01:27
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(3)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Be careful when starting route 2 as the start can be easily missed going through the gate.
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They may look like out of place lampposts but Holme Posts are part of history. The posts were buried in 1848 to measure how much the land sunk after Whittlesey Mere, once on this site, was drained. The peat lake floor had been soaked in water but after drainage, the peat shrank, as did the height of the land. The top of the posts, once level with the ground, are now around 4m above it. The posts are generally accepted to mark the lowest land point in Great Britain at 2.75m below sea level.
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They may look like strange green lampposts but Holme Posts are part of history. The posts were buried in 1848 to measure how much the land sunk after Whittlesey Mere, once on this site, was drained. The peat lake floor had been soaked in water but after drainage, the peat shrank, as did the height of the land. The top of the posts, once level with the ground, are now around 4m above it. The posts are generally accepted to mark the lowest land point in Great Britain at 2.75m below sea level.
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Burnhams Mere was created when the area was cut for peat, resulting in this wildlife haven.
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Congratulations, you are at the lowest point in the UK, 3m below sea level. The top of the iron posts marks ground level when the fen was first drained in 1850. Since then they have been progressively exposed by the shrinking peat until the tops now stand 4m above modern ground level.
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Stunningly beautiful nature reserve. Great for birdwatchers and for taking a break from cycling to get lost in nature.
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A historically important building, sadly only the walls remain and the graveyard is a wilderness. stopped being used in 1928, burials continued into the mid 20thC. Dates from 12thC, rebuilt in 17thC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Aversley Wood?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking routes around Aversley Wood, with 15 of them being easy and 8 moderate. These trails offer a wonderful way for families to explore the ancient woodland and its surroundings.
What makes Aversley Wood a good destination for family hikes?
Aversley Wood is ideal for families due to its tranquil atmosphere, well-maintained grassy footpaths, and clear looped trails. The terrain is generally gentle, making it accessible for various fitness levels, and the diverse natural features provide plenty to discover for all ages.
Are there any easy, shorter routes suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, for a shorter, easy option, consider the Holme Fen Forest Trail – Holme Posts loop from Holme Fen National Nature Reserve. This route is approximately 2.8 km long and offers a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit Aversley Wood for a family hike?
Aversley Wood offers seasonal beauty throughout the year. Spring is particularly stunning with its breathtaking bluebell displays, making it a popular time for families. Autumn also brings rich colors from fallen leaves, creating a vibrant backdrop for walks. However, some paths can become muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended, especially during wetter seasons.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on the trails?
Families can explore ancient woodland with diverse flora, including ash and maple trees. Keep an eye out for the unique medieval "ridge and furrow" landscape in the southern section, remnants of ancient ploughing. The wood also boasts a variety of wildflowers and indicator plants like enchanter's nightshade and wood anemone.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Many of the trails around Aversley Wood are circular, perfect for family outings. An easy circular option is the Washingley Hall Farm loop from Morborne, which covers about 5.7 km and allows you to return to your starting point without retracing steps.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Aversley Wood?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Aversley Wood, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, especially during the bluebell season.
Are there any longer, moderate family-friendly hikes available?
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, the Old School Hall – Through the Farm Fields loop from Sawtry is a moderate option, spanning approximately 8.3 km. It offers a good balance of distance and exploration for active families.
What kind of wildlife might we encounter during a family hike?
The diverse woodland habitat of Aversley Wood supports various bird species, insects, and small mammals. It's an excellent location for wildlife observation throughout the year, offering families a chance to connect with nature and spot local creatures.
Is there another easy circular route for families to consider?
Yes, another great easy circular option is the Washingley Hall Farm loop from Folksworth and Washingley. This trail is approximately 5.6 km long and provides a pleasant walk through the local landscape, suitable for families.
Can we find historical features along the family trails?
Absolutely! A significant historical feature is the medieval "ridge and furrow" landscape, particularly visible in the southern part of the wood. These wavy patterns are remnants of ancient ploughing methods from around 1350, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's agricultural past.
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