The best spring walks just a train ride away

Looking for the best walking trails along our Grand Central route now that the days are longer and brighter? Whether you’re getting ready to hike, cycle, trail run, or explore other outdoor pursuits, we have a spring walk option you are guaranteed to love.

Get away from the hustle and bustle and walk along tree-lined paths with the whole family by your side (not forgetting your furry friends).

Halifax Spring Walk At The Secret Waterfall & Priestley Green Circular 

This 5.1-km circular walk is considered a beginner-friendly walk near Halifax that takes an average of 1 hour 29 minutes to complete.

Due to its gorgeous landscapes, this route is a popular spot for hiking, running, and walking, especially from January through September. Dogs are also welcome on this route, but they must be on a lead for specific sections due to the presence of sheep, cattle, and horses.

Some noteworthy highlights of this farmland trail include Stone Chair, Norwood Green, Priestley Green, and Coley, which have a detour to the secret waterfall.

You can bring your furry friend on a Grand Central Train. For more information, read our train travel guide with your pet.

Wakefield Spring Walk: Nostell Priory Parkland

Head out on a 4.3-km circular walk full of culture in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. It is perfect for beginners and takes just 1 hour and  8 minutes to complete. Little paws can also walk here if they are on a lead.  

This trail is open all year round, covered in blooms in Spring and a blanket of frost in winter.

Nostell Priory is set within a 121-hectare parkland that the National Trust manages. The prominent landmark is a Georgian House that bursts with culture. It sits atop the site of a medieval monastery and houses an extensive collection of Thomas Chippendale’s furniture.

Below is parkland dotted with various wildflower meadows, woodlands, menagerie gardens, and luscious lakes, which can be accessed through many paths.

The Parkland Walk follows purple waymarkers past the Georgian house. You can meander through the Lower Lake and proceed to be restored by Obelisk Lodge.

Get started on this walk by packing your walking shoes and booking a Grand Central train to Wakefield Kirkgate.

Doncaster Spring Walk: River Don & Sproborough Falls

Explore a 5.5-km trail near Doncaster, South Yorkshire. For those a bit more advanced, this is a moderately challenging route that takes an average of 1 hour 49 minutes to complete. It is well-known to those interested in birding, fishing and hiking. It is also dog-friendly, with sections where your dog needs to be on a lead.

Sprotborough Falls is located on the River Don, one of Doncaster’s most iconic landmarks.

Starting just off Nursery Lane, this trail follows a towpath along the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation before leading onto a riverside path along the River Don. Eventually, you will reach the Conisbrough Viaduct before returning the same way.

If you wish to continue past this, you could visit Cusworth Motte Castle, a reminder of British history.

Another breathtaking landmark along the way is Don Gorge, full of stunning limestone landscapes, locks, weirs, and wooded pathways. Here, you can see a plethora of natural beauty.

Walking boots are recommended, as some sections can get muddy.

Explore other activities to enjoy in and around Doncaster by clicking here. 

Peterborough Spring Walk: Castor & Water Newton Circular

Discover this 5.1-km circular trail near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire. Another easy walk to add to the list, taking an average of 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. Dogs are welcome but may occasionally need to be put on the lead.

Along the way, you will find those interested in birding, hiking and mountain biking. The trail is open all year round, and it is excellent in spring due to the many shades of majestic woodlands and open fields.

It is particularly recommended for those who love photography.

As mentioned, mountain biking is highly popular here; if you want to challenge yourself, discover how to plan a cycling break by train.

London Spring Walk: Hampstead Heath Circular Walk

7.2 km and located near Islington, London, this circular trail is considered a moderately challenging route for those who like to push themselves; it takes an average of 1 hour and 59 minutes to complete. Dogs can also roam to their hearts' desires on this walk.

It is a popular area for birding, running, and walking all year round. The main highlight of this walk is the variety of things to see, including ancient woodlands, spectacular views of the city, open spaces, swimming ponds, gardens, and a pergola.

Another focal point is Parliament Hill, which is popular for kite flying and offers excellent views of the London skyline.

Find some other beautiful places in London to relax by reading this.

Sunderland Spring Walk: South Hylton River Walk

Experience this 8.2-km out-and-back trail near Sunderland, Tyne and Wear. It takes 2 hours and 3 minutes and is classed as moderately challenging.

If you’re a big fan of water sports, this walk could be perfect for you, as paddle sports occur here. Dogs on leads are welcome.

On this peaceful riverside walk, you can spot wildlife among the trees and on the river bank. If you prefer, you can also make it into a circular route by crossing the bridge and following paths and roads on the northern side of the river.

Be mindful; this walk can become muddy even in spring/summer. 

York Spring Walk: York City Walls Circular

Try this 4.8-km circular trail near York, North Yorkshire. It is ideal for the whole family and takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete.

Open all year round, locals and those visiting York find this walk great for both running and walking, particularly in sunnier months.

It is a great walk and offers picturesque views and many historic stops and sights. Highlights include St Leonard’s Hospital, Yorkshire Museum, and views of the River Ouse from Skeldergate Bridge.

The York City Walls, built in the 13th century on top of predating earth banks, are England's most complete city walls.

The walls were built in the 13th century on top of predating earth banks. They are the most complete city walls remaining in England today. Therefore, please be wary of uneven footing.

To help you make the most of your time on the York City Walls, here is our sightseeing from York City Walls article.

Longer, Sunnier Days Call For A Spring Walk

By exploring these different spring walk routes, make the most of the longer days and sunnier weather.

Get there on a Grand Central train by buying your tickets today.