Trails
Step out on a new adventure today.
The path network that weaves through Hainault Forest means you can step out on a new adventure every time you visit.
We’ve highlighted some of our favourite routes via a series of waymarked trails. All the information you need is here, and there are easy-to-spot posts on the ground too, so exploring the forest couldn’t be easier.
Which one will you choose?
Lockwood Trail
About this trail:
Follow in the steps of Amelius Lockwood, the first and last Baron of Lambourne. Pass through ancient woodland, grazed wood pasture and vibrant natural regeneration; this trail is a real mix of habitats.
Terrain details:
- Often narrow, muddy terrain with gentle, long slopes.
- Variable surfaces including grass and earth tracks.
- Includes two kissing gates, and a narrow gate and bridge.
Buxton Trail
About this trail:
Walk under the canopy of the woodland Buxton created after saving the forest. A gradual ascent and descent takes you through some lovely acid grassland; look out for blooming wildflowers and buzzing insects during spring and summer.
Terrain details:
- Undulating path with short moderate slopes of 20m.
- Wide earthy but firm path with one narrow, often muddy, stretch.
- Uneven in places with two narrow gates.
Buxton Trail - Extended
About this trail:
Extend the Buxton walk and venture through the ancient woodland he managed to save from destruction. Walk amongst the veterans of the forest and across the common.
Terrain details:
- Wide, firm paths.
- Includes two kissing gates and a narrow bridge with sloping access.
- Sections of grass path that can get muddy after rain.
Woodland Trail
About this trail:
This trail takes in the lake and winds through the former tree nursery of London. Lots of the city’s street trees were grown here; look out for the straight rows of trunks.
Terrain details:
- Wide, mostly flat path.
- Firm gravel surface with a single wide gate.
Forest Walk
About this trail:
This stretch of path leads you up into the ancient woodland; listen for birdsong as you stroll. Linking in with the Buxton and Lockwood trails you’ve got lots of options to extend your wander.
Terrain details:
- Firm, wide earthy path.
- Continued gentle slope with long moderate sections.
Collier’s Walk
About this trail:
Skirting the boundary between open grassland and ancient woodland, this route has the best of both. Stop and take in the views across to inner London, and join the Buxton/Woodland trails to get back to the Forest Centre.
Terrain details:
- Gentle slope with moderate short stretch on firm but uneven gravel path.
- Wide throughout.
Roe’s Well Walk
About this trail:
Named after the pond along the route, it’s thought this pond was named after the Roe family of the 1300s rather than the deer. Look out for wooden carvings along the way; great fun for the family.
Terrain details:
- Flat walk with both grassy and hard surfaces.
- Firm but narrow with two ramped bridges.
Lake Walk
About this trail:
The most accessible of all the trails, this route loops round the lake, which was dug with labour provided by an unemployment programme in the early 1900s. Now it’s home to all kinds of waterbirds – how many can you spot?
Terrain details:
- Flat, wide path with smooth purpose-built surface.
