What’s not to love about a bank holiday? And, importantly, what’s not to love about a bank holiday immersed in nature? Travelling during Easter season sounds appealing but it does comes at a cost, with inflated flight tickets and hotel stays. So, upon the disappointing scroll through Skyscanner, many of us are forced to look at alternatives.

While travelling abroad may be off the table, you don’t need to forgo a well-deserved break. For those looking to disconnect while enjoying some much needed fresh air and a solid workout, a day of hiking near London could be the perfect solution.

Though the idea of hiking in nature within London may raise some eyebrows, the city and its surroundings offer a wealth of scenic trails that cater to various ability levels. Here are some excellent options for a refreshing day out this Easter or during one of the eagerly awaited bank holiday weekends in May.

1. Epping Forest, London

Epping Forest is one of the most popular green spaces in London, spanning around 2,400 hectares of protected woodland, grassland, and lakes. It is located in Northeast London, stretching from Manor Park to the south of Epping, and easily accessible via the Central line.

Due to its varied terrain, it can be the ideal place for a picnic in the nature, just as much as a demanding workout (be it a long hike, a day of cycling, or even horse riding). As a bonus, if you do end up hiking here, you may see some deer, birds and foxes along the journey. When it comes to hiking routes, there are various waymarked trails to consider.

2. Box Hill, Surrey

While not exactly in London, it only takes you 47 minutes to get to Box Hill from London Waterloo or London Victoria Station (you’ll need to take the Southern Rail to Box Hill and Westhumble).

This hike trail spans 12.8 kilometres (8 miles) and is known as the Stepping Stones Walk. Though it is well-marked, it includes some steep climbs, so make sure to bring your most comfortable running shoes. The hike offers plenty of scenic views, including panoramic views from Salomons Memorial viewpoint (an ideal spot for a quick stop or a picnic).

3. The Seven Sisters Cliff Walk, East Sussex

Perhaps one of the most popular hiking trails among Londoners (and everyone else in the UK), the Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk goes from Seaford to Eastbourne (or vice-versa, up to preference), and spans 21.88 kilometres along the south coast. Yes, that’s almost a half-marathon done in one day.

Though packed with stunning views, it is a challenging hike, particularly if you decide to do it in the heat of summer months. It can also get quite crowded, which means you won’t get as much calmness and peace as you would like from a day in the nature. Early Spring is the best time to come.

4. The South Downs Way (Devil’s Dyke), West Sussex

The South Downs Way hike covers 16 kilometres (10 miles) of scenic views over the South Downs through a mix of open countryside and hilly terrain. The nearest station is Hassocks and you can get to it via Southern Rail (Waterloo or Victoria Station) in just below one hour. It also features the Devil’s Dyke, the longest, deepest and widest ‘dry valley’ in the UK. If you want to explore longer or shorter trails in this area, there are a few options here.

5. Ivinghoe Beacon (Ridgeway Trail), Chiltern Hills

Part of the Ridgeway National Trail, Ivinghoe Beacon is one of the oldest walking routes in Britain. It spans 16 kilometres (10 miles) of steep chalk hills, open meadows, and stunning views. Ideal for a countryside hike, this 16 loop is one train and one bus away (slightly more complicated to get to than the other hikes). You can take a train from London Euston to Tring, then a short bus or taxi.

When to go hiking in London

Unless you’re planning a hike in the depths of winter, chances are you’ll have a safe and enjoyable day exploring London’s trails. Ideally, you’ll want clear skies and mild temperatures—perfect for both scenic views and comfortable trekking.

Spring, particularly April and May, is one of the best times to hike, offering lush greenery, blooming flowers, and pleasant temperatures without the sweltering heat of August. Avoid the peak of summer if you’re not a fan of intense sun and humidity, and keep an eye on autumn forecasts, as rain can make some trails muddy and slippery.