The best walks and hikes around Chigwell
4.5
(1006)
8,218
hikers
568
hikes
Hikes around Chigwell explore the green spaces on the border of Essex and Greater London. The landscape is characterized by ancient woodlands like Epping Forest and Hainault Forest Country Park, alongside the river valley of the Roding. The terrain consists of gentle hills and well-established footpaths through forests and meadows, offering accessible nature escapes from the city.
Best hiking trails around Chigwell
- The most popular hiking route is Hainault Country Park and Chigwell Row Wood loop, a 4.1 mile (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This easy route combines paths through the expansive country park and adjacent woodland.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Strawberry Hill Pond β Little Stream in Epping Forest loop from Loughton, a moderate 7.7 mile (12.4 km) path. The trail navigates through the ancient Epping Forest, passing ponds and streams.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the View of the London Skyline β Redwood Grove Path loop from Lambourne, a 7.2 mile (11.6 km) trail leading through varied woodland, often completed in about 3 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Chigwell is defined by ancient woodlands, river valleys, and expansive country parks. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short family-friendly walks to longer, more involved hikes.
- The routes in Chigwell are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 7,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Chigwell's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
6.64km
01:47
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(23)
75
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(11)
41
hikers
8.86km
02:22
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.4
(7)
30
hikers
11.5km
03:05
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
16
hikers
12.3km
03:18
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a beautiful ride along a gravel track through a tree-lined avenue dotted with pine trees.
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Gravel trails leading from Havering Country Park in the east, towards Hainault Forest in the west. This track follows the local authority boundary and skirts to the north of the golf course.
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One of the many trails through Epping Forest. Great Monk Wood owes its name to Waltham Abbey and Stratford Langthorne Abbey. The Monks used to fell trees here.
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Great view from the edge of the woods across heathland to the London skyline.
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Beautiful indeed =) Nice highlight of the hike.
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High Beach is a favourite viewpoint of the London outdoor community. Popular at weekends and on summer evenings with hikers, bikers and runners, there are some fantastic trails through the forest leading to High Beach. Very accessible by public transport from Loughton (Central Line trail) or Chingford (Overground). There is a pub and two cafe options nearby for refueling. Hiking in Epping Forest makes for a great day out from London.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Chigwell?
Yes, there is a wide variety of options. You can explore over 500 hiking routes in the Chigwell area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks through ancient woodlands and along river valleys.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Chigwell?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the easy access to expansive green spaces like Epping Forest and Hainault Forest, and the mix of well-marked paths through peaceful woodlands and open meadows.
Are there any good circular walks starting near Chigwell?
Absolutely. Circular routes are very common in the area. For a moderately challenging loop through Hainault Forest, consider the Hainault Forest loop from Chigwell Row. It offers a great way to experience the park's diverse scenery without needing to retrace your steps.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Chigwell?
Yes, the Chigwell area is very dog-friendly. The extensive networks of paths in Epping Forest and Hainault Forest Country Park are popular with dog walkers. Just be mindful of local signage, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, such as Roding Valley Meadows.
What are some good family-friendly walks in the area?
Hainault Forest Country Park is an excellent choice for a family day out. It features walking trails, an adventure play area, and a small zoo with a cafe. The paths are generally gentle and suitable for all ages. Chigwell Row Wood is another local favorite for an enchanting family walk.
How can I get to the trails using public transport?
Many trails are accessible via public transport. Chigwell station, on the Central line, provides good access to the Roding Valley Meadows. For Epping Forest, nearby stations like Loughton or Debden are convenient starting points for many walks.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails that pass through the Chigwell area?
Yes, sections of major long-distance paths are accessible from Chigwell. Both the London Loop and the Three Forests Way wind through parts of Epping Forest nearby. For a more demanding trek, you could tackle a challenging section like the Epping Forest β Strawberry Hill Pond loop from Debden, which covers a significant portion of the forest.
What kind of scenery can I expect in Roding Valley Meadows?
Roding Valley Meadows Nature Reserve offers a peaceful landscape distinct from the surrounding forests. You can expect to find wildflower meadows, a beautiful Silver Birch wood, and tranquil paths that follow the River Roding. It's a great spot for a gentle walk and wildlife spotting.
Where are the main places to go hiking near Chigwell?
The hiking is centered around two major green spaces:
Epping Forest: A vast, ancient woodland to the west, known for its mix of woods, ponds, and grassy plains. It's a highly-rated favorite for its extensive trail network.
Hainault Forest Country Park: A large park to the east offering a mix of woodland, open fields, and a lake. It's particularly popular with families.
You can also explore the quieter trails within Roding Valley Meadows and Chigwell Row Wood.
Is there a specific walk focused on the local countryside?
Yes, the Chigwell Country Walk is a well-known local route of about 3 miles. It's a great introduction to the countryside immediately surrounding the town, though sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain.
Are there any trails with views of the London skyline?
Yes, some routes in the area offer surprising views. The View of the London Skyline β Redwood Grove Path loop from Lambourne is specifically known for providing a distant panorama of the city from its higher points.
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