The best walks and hikes around Sunningdale
4.5
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12,545
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574
hikes
Hikes around Sunningdale explore the varied landscapes of Berkshire, from historic Royal Parks to open heathland. The region is characterized by its proximity to Windsor Great Park, which offers a network of well-maintained paths through ancient woodlands and around lakes. Outside the park, the terrain includes gentle hills and unique heathland ecosystems, providing a mix of walking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Sunningdale
- The most popular hiking route is Virginia Water Ruins – Wick Pond loop from Sunningdale, a 5.9 mile (9.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 27 minutes to complete. This route features paths around Virginia Water and passes by the Leptis Magna Roman ruins.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is View of Windsor Castle – Deer Park, Windsor Great Park loop from Blacknest, a difficult 13.5 mile (21.7 km) path. This longer hike traverses the expansive Deer Park within Windsor Great Park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Wick Pond – Virginia Water Lake Pavilion loop from Sunningdale, a 8.5 mile (13.6 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 3 hours 33 minutes.
- Hiking around Sunningdale is defined by expansive parklands, lakeside paths, and open heathland. The network of walking trails near Sunningdale offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy loops to longer, more demanding routes.
- The routes in Sunningdale are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. More than 8,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Sunningdale's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.8
(19)
141
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
158
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(8)
37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
29
hikers
11.5km
03:02
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
hikers
3.78km
00:58
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The first 50% was a lovely walk but after we turned of the Royal Mile, it was spoiled by road noise all the way to the car park
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If you would like to compare this historic monument with a much more recent one for Queen Elizabeth II (1926 to 2022), just follow the link to the corresponding hiking highlight in the komoot system =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/3388562
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It should come as no surprise that a statue of the long-time regent Elizabeth II (1926 to 2022) is located in the vicinity of royal Windsor Castle. With the exception of the coat of arms, the brick base of the monument erected in her honor is comparatively simple. It depicts the Queen of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who is also known for her love of horses, in a riding pose. It is an extremely familiar image, as she has often been seen in this manner, for example at her official birthday celebrations, the "Trooping the Colour," sitting on a horse and receiving the parade. A very familiar image, as she was often seen in the same way, for example at her official birthday celebration, the "Trooping the Color".
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more stuff plundered by the British Empire... Originally from Libya! 🤣
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interesting, but you have to walk a little bit
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great area, good for walking, taking a breath
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Lovely 2 mile walk between statue and castle and greenery either side
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good circular walks starting from Sunningdale?
Yes, Sunningdale is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. Many trails loop through Windsor Great Park and the surrounding countryside, allowing you to finish back where you started. A great example is the Wick Pond – Virginia Water Lake Pavilion loop from Sunningdale, which offers a substantial walk through beautiful parkland.
Can I take my dog on hikes around Sunningdale?
Many trails in the Sunningdale area, particularly in Windsor Great Park and on Chobham Common, are dog-friendly. However, be aware of seasonal restrictions, especially during ground-nesting bird season on the heathlands or in the deer park. Always keep your dog under control and check local signage for specific lead requirements.
Are there any family-friendly or easy walks suitable for children?
Absolutely. The area offers several gentle walks perfect for a family outing. The paths around Virginia Water Lake are mostly flat and engaging for all ages. For a shorter, simpler option, consider the Five Arch Bridge loop from Blacknest, which is an easy and pleasant stroll through the local landscape.
Where can I find a hike with a waterfall?
The most notable waterfall in the area is the Cascade at Virginia Water Lake. You can see it on the popular Virginia Water Ruins – Wick Pond loop from Sunningdale. This dramatic, man-made waterfall is a highlight of walks within Windsor Great Park.
Are there any good pub walks in the area?
Yes, combining a walk with a pub visit is a popular local activity. Many trails pass near traditional country pubs. For instance, after exploring the trails on the highly-regarded Chobham Common, you could visit one of the nearby pubs in Chobham village for refreshments.
What are the hiking options if I arrive by train?
Sunningdale train station is well-positioned for accessing local walking routes. You can easily walk from the station into Windsor Great Park. Several trails are designed to start and end in the village, making it convenient to explore the area without a car.
What is the heathland landscape near Sunningdale like for hiking?
The heathlands, such as those found at the popular Chobham Common, offer a unique walking experience. These areas feature open, wild-seeming landscapes with low-growing heather and gorse. The paths are often sandy and provide a sense of peaceful solitude away from the more manicured parklands.
Are there any long-distance or challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous challenge, the region offers longer treks. The View of Windsor Castle – Deer Park, Windsor Great Park loop from Blacknest is a difficult, 13.5-mile hike that takes you through the vast expanse of the park, offering a rewarding day of walking.
Are any of the trails suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs?
The main path around Virginia Water Lake is generally wide, flat, and well-surfaced, making it one of the best options for pushchairs and more robust wheelchairs. The Royal Landscape is known for its accessible paths. However, many other trails, especially on the heathlands, can be uneven and are not suitable.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Sunningdale area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning scenery around Virginia Water Lake, the well-maintained paths throughout Windsor Great Park, and the peaceful, open spaces of the local heathlands.
Besides Windsor Great Park, where else can I hike near Sunningdale?
Chobham Common is a fantastic alternative. It's a large, protected National Nature Reserve known for its rare lowland heath and woodland walks. It's a popular favorite for dog-walking, jogging, and enjoying the scenery on its network of rough paths.
How many hiking trails are there around Sunningdale?
You can explore over a dozen curated hiking routes around Sunningdale on komoot. These range from short, easy loops perfect for a quick outing to more demanding all-day treks, covering the diverse landscapes of the region.
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