Highlight • Cafe
Hamsterley Forest Café
Hiking
5.0
(27)
Mountain biking
4.8
(20)
Gravel riding
5.0
(3)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Tips
January 8, 2025
Hiking
February 5, 2026
Hiking
December 17, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hamsterley Forest Café
4.6
(34)
374
hikers
8.01km
02:17
190m
190m
The Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 5.0 miles (8.0 km) with 624 feet (190 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this varied route in about 2 hours and 17 minutes. As you hike, you will wind through beautiful mixed woodlands of pines, larches, beech, and oak, following the vigorous, peat-stained Bedburn Beck. Keep an eye out for the unique Green Man sculpture along the forest drive, depicting the faces of this mythical forest dweller.
While generally accessible, some sections of the trail are narrow, rougher, and feature steeper ascents and descents, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The terrain includes gravel paths, natural surfaces, and stony forest paths with knotty conifer roots, which can become mucky depending on the weather. The route is well-waymarked with white arrows on an orange background, but some hikers recommend carrying a map from the visitor center due to occasional inconsistent signage. Autumn is a particularly stunning time to visit, as the beech and birch trees display golden and yellow hues.
This trail is considered the longest and most rewarding of the Bedburn Walks within Hamsterley Forest, a vast 2,000-hectare woodland. You will pass the ruins of Metcalf's House, an old coaching inn with stables, situated on a historic drover's road. The forest is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as roe deer, adders, and salmon, and observe wood ant nests. The route also crosses two roads with vehicular access, adding to its varied character.
4.7
(6)
107
hikers
3.30km
00:53
40m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Riverside Walk, a gentle route through Hamsterley Forest. You'll follow the river, enjoying its pleasant views and the soothing sounds of flowing water as you go. Keep an eye out for the charming Gruffalo sculptures, like the Gruffalo's Child and Snake, hidden along the path. This 2.1-mile (3.3 km) trail features a modest 130 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 53 minutes to complete, making it a perfect short adventure.
The Riverside Walk is situated within Hamsterley Forest, where you'll find ample parking available. After your hike, the Hamsterley Forest Café offers a convenient spot for refreshments. While the trail is generally open all year, it's always wise to check local conditions before you head out, especially if you plan to visit during winter or periods of heavy rain.
What makes this route special is the playful addition of Gruffalo sculptures scattered along the path, adding a touch of magic to your outdoor experience. This family-friendly trail is an ideal way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hamsterley Forest, offering a relaxed stroll for all ages.
4.9
(7)
241
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 150 m
Weather
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Saturday 9 May
11°C
1°C
23 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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