The best walks and hikes around Barrow

Yes, the area is very well-suited for beginners and family outings. The landscape is characterized by gentle countryside and parklands with low elevation changes. For an easy, shorter walk, consider the Car-Free Forest Path to Exton loop from Exton, which is just over 2 miles (3.6 km) and takes about an hour.

You can expect a mix of public footpaths, scenic country roads, and dedicated parkland trails. Many routes, especially within Exton Park, follow paths around lakes and through quiet woodlands. The ground is generally firm, but can be muddy in places after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Yes, most of the popular routes in the area are circular, or 'loop' trails. This makes planning your hike straightforward as you'll end up back where you started. A great example of a moderate circular route is the Scenic Country Road – Fort Henry Lake in Exton Park loop from Exton.

Many of the public footpaths and parkland trails are suitable for walking with dogs. However, you will be passing through countryside with wildlife and potentially livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog under control and on a lead where required. The Rootings woodland is often mentioned by locals as a good spot for a dog walk.

The trails around Barrow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the parklands, the beautiful lakeside scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for relaxing walks.

While the region is known for gentle walks, there are options for a longer day out. For a more substantial hike, you could try the Fort Henry Lake in Exton Park – The Great Tower by Alexander loop from Greetham. It's a moderate trail covering nearly 11 miles (17.5 km) and offers a more extensive exploration of the area.

There is a wide variety of options, with over 130 hiking routes to explore around Barrow. These range from short, easy strolls to longer, moderate hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and time commitment.

No, the hikes around Barrow are located inland and are characterized by countryside, parklands, and lakes. For coastal scenery, you would need to travel to a different region. The beauty of this area lies in its tranquil rural and woodland landscapes.

Comfortable walking shoes or boots are essential, as some paths can be uneven or muddy. It's always wise to dress in layers, as the weather can be changeable. A waterproof jacket is a good idea to carry, even on a day that starts out sunny.

The entire area offers good opportunities, but dedicated nature reserves are your best bet. The Public Path to Exton Manor – Fort Henry Lake in Exton Park loop from Greetham takes you through varied habitats. For a dedicated nature experience, locals highly regard the South Walney Nature Reserve, which is popular for birding and wildflowers.

Accessing the start of the trails via public transport can be challenging as it's a rural area. Some villages like Greetham and Exton may have limited bus services. Most visitors find it more convenient to travel by car to get closer to the trailheads.

Parking is generally available in the villages that serve as starting points for the hikes, such as Exton and Greetham. This is often on-street parking, so please park considerately. For some specific nature reserves or parks, there may be designated car parks.