4.5
(1351)
10,743
hikers
33
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Farnsfield are set within Nottinghamshire's rolling countryside, characterized by ancient pathways and woodlands. The area features diverse landscapes, from sheltered, tree-covered sections to open views across fields and farmland. Notable natural features include the Southwell Trail, a multi-use path built on a former railway line, and Robin Hood's Hill, offering panoramic views. The region's terrain provides varied options for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(9)
40
hikers
9.74km
02:35
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
34
hikers
5.99km
01:33
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
20
hikers
17.8km
04:40
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
36
hikers
19.0km
04:55
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(8)
18
hikers
5.65km
01:31
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The first mention of Farnsfield emerges in 956AD in a document in which King Edwy of Northumbria gave the Danish Archbishop of York, Oscytel, the manor of Southwell, which included the farmstead of Farnsfield. Farnsfield was a small community of farmsteads scraping a living from agriculture in a clearing at the edge of Sherwood Forest. By 1520 Farnsfield was the responsibility of Southwell Minster under the Archbishop of York, Cardinal Wolsey. Most people were farmers and poor land, bad weather, disease and starvation were constant hazards. By the 1600s more specialised trades were developing in Farnsfield including bakers, tailors and shoemakers. By the late 1700s sheep rearing was the main source of income from outside.
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The church dates from the 15th century but was rebuilt between 1859 and 1860 by Thomas Chambers Hine and Robert Evans following a fire. Only a fragment of the tower from the 15th-century building survives.
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Great, easy going trail for all abilities. Well maintained.
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The trail is 7.5 miles and built on the former railway line of the Midland Railway. It stretches from Southwell to Bilsthorpe and passes the villages of Farnsfield, Kirklington and Maythorne. You can walk, cycle or horse ride along the trail and there are a number of free car parks to allow access.
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The former Palace of the Archbishop of York stands next door to the Minster, adjoining the present official residence of the Bishop of Southwell. The Palace as we see it today dates from the 14th Century and was wrecked during the Civil War. The ruined part can be admired up-close from the Palace Gardens. The surviving built part of the Palace – the Great Hall – was restored in the Edwardian era. The Hall retains its original proportions and the beams of the magnificent vaulted ceiling of the State Chamber are mostly medieval originals.
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The earliest church on the site is believed to have been founded in 627 by Paulinus, the first Archbishop of York, when he visited the area while baptising believers in the River Trent. The legend is commemorated in the Minster's baptistry window. In 956 King Eadwig gave land in Southwell to Oskytel, Archbishop of York, on which a minster church was established. The Domesday Book of 1086 recorded the Southwell manor in great detail. The Norman reconstruction of the church began in 1108, probably as a rebuilding of the Anglo-Saxon church, starting at the east end so that the high altar could be used as soon as possible and the Saxon building was dismantled as work progressed. Many stones from this earlier Anglo-Saxon church were reused in the construction. The church was originally attached to the Archbishop of York's Palace which stood next door and is now ruined.
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There are over 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Farnsfield, with 18 of them being easy and suitable for most families. These routes offer a wonderful way to explore the local countryside with children.
Yes, Farnsfield offers several easy circular walks perfect for families. For a gentle introduction, consider the Deer at Hexgreave Park – Woodberry Café loop from Farnsfield, which is just under 6 km. Another great option is The Veg Stop loop from Farnsfield, also around 5.6 km, offering pleasant local scenery.
For families with pushchairs or very young children, the **Southwell Trail** is an excellent choice. This multi-use path, built on a former railway line, offers well-maintained, flat surfaces. While specific pushchair-friendly routes are not detailed in the guide, sections of the Southwell Trail are generally accessible. Look for routes that incorporate this trail for easier going.
Many of the trails around Farnsfield are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. However, always keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in areas with wildlife. Remember to clean up after your dog to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Absolutely! The area around Farnsfield is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore parts of Sherwood Forest, including the famous Major Oak, or visit Newstead Abbey with its magnificent grounds. Other notable spots include Thieves Wood and Harlow Wood, offering diverse landscapes for exploration.
For panoramic views, consider a walk that includes **Robin Hood's Hill**. The Robin Hood's Hill – Woodberry Café loop from Farnsfield offers several ascents leading to impressive 360-degree vistas of the Nottinghamshire landscape from the hilltop. It's a rewarding experience for families looking for scenic rewards.
Farnsfield offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and new life, while summer provides lush greenery and longer daylight hours. Autumn transforms the woodlands with vibrant colours, and winter offers crisp, quiet walks, especially along the sheltered sections of the Southwell Trail. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, the diverse landscape around Farnsfield, including the Southwell Trail, is a recognized wildlife corridor. Families can often spot birds of prey like sparrowhawks and kestrels. The woodlands and fields also provide habitats for various other birds and small mammals, making for an engaging experience for children interested in nature.
Yes, several routes, such as the Deer at Hexgreave Park – Woodberry Café loop from Farnsfield and the Robin Hood's Hill – Woodberry Café loop from Farnsfield, specifically mention the Woodberry Café, providing a convenient stop for refreshments. Farnsfield village itself also has local amenities where families can grab a bite to eat.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails around Farnsfield, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the area's diverse landscapes, from sheltered woodlands to open fields, and the well-maintained paths that make it accessible for all ages. The opportunities for wildlife spotting and the scenic viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Southwell Minster – Southwell Trail loop from Farnsfield offers a moderate 17.7 km journey. Another option is the Southwell Trail loop from Kirklington Road, which is around 19 km. These routes provide a greater challenge while still being manageable for active families.


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