The best walks and hikes around Stainforth
4.5
(114)
790
hikers
112
hikes
Hiking around Stainforth reveals a landscape characterized by flat terrain, often following canal towpaths and greenways. The region features low elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. This area provides a network of paths through agricultural land and along waterways.
Best hiking trails around Stainforth
- The most popular hiking route is Isle of Axholme Greenway: Thorne Loop, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 10 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows a designated greenway. …
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3.2
(6)
14
hikers
11.5km
02:54
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
12
hikers
8.67km
02:12
20m
20m
Hike the 5.4-mile Thorne Lock loop from Moorends, a moderate trail exploring historic canals and the unique peatlands of Yorkshire.
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3.0
(1)
4
hikers
5.12km
01:18
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike on the Thorne loop from Thorne, featuring canals and a historic church, taking just over an hour.
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.30km
01:35
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
Top Lane Lift Bridge is a minor waterways place on the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation (New Junction Canal) between Sykehouse Lift Bridge (Sykehouse village is about a mile to the east.) (3 miles and 2¼ furlongs and 1 lock to the northeast) and Bramwith Junction (Junction of Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation main line with New Junction Canal) (1 mile and 1¾ furlongs to the southeast). https://canalplan.uk/place/qpdl
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Kirkhouse Green Lift Bridge is a minor waterways place on the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation (New Junction Canal) between Sykehouse Lift Bridge (Sykehouse village is about a mile to the east.) (2 miles and 4¾ furlongs and 1 lock to the northeast) and Bramwith Junction (Junction of Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation main line with New Junction Canal) (1 mile and 7½ furlongs to the southwest). https://canalplan.uk/place/5kba
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Sykehouse Lock is a minor waterways place on the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation (New Junction Canal) between Sykehouse Lift Bridge (Sykehouse village is about a mile to the east.) (6¾ furlongs to the northeast) and Bramwith Junction (Junction of Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation main line with New Junction Canal) (3 miles and 5½ furlongs to the southwest). https://canalplan.uk/place/jr5b
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A pretty section of canal towpath that's easy hiking on a well-compacted gravel surface. Give a wave to the barges as they coast by!
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One of the few bridges that goes over the river Don. The tranquility of the river is quite beguiling but be careful as there is no footpath going over the bridge.
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The Stainforth and Keadby Canal links the river Don near Bramwith to the River Trent at Keadby. It was authorised by an Act of Parliament in 1793 and eventually opened in 1802. There are only three locks on the canal, one at each end and this one at Thorne.
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St Nicholas Church is a beautiful historic church and is a Grade I Listed building dating back to the 12th Century. The Nave of the church was built in the 12th Century, the South Aisle in the 14th Century and the South Porch in the 15th Century. A beautiful example of a post Norman medieval church.
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The fine church is Grade I listed and dates mainly from the 12th and 13th centuries with earlier and later additions. It is cruciform in shape and has two side aisles. There are traces of Norman windows and pillars. It is likely that the original church at Thorne was Saxon built or at least preconquest. The lighting has recently been reordered which shows off the interior to good effect. There are many things to see in this beautiful church including a medieval clerestory and font and a 17th century Royal Coat of Arms. See also the spectacular stained glass (including a window by Sir Henry Holiday) and the splendid rood screen (1948). The chancel has traces of Norman windows. The south porch is an ornate piece of 15th century work and a rare stone coffin can be seen nearby. It was discovered in the 18th century and is thought to date to preconquest times.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Stainforth?
Stainforth offers a wide selection of routes, with over 110 hiking trails available. These range in difficulty from easy to moderate, with a few more challenging options.
Are there easy hiking options in Stainforth?
Yes, Stainforth is well-suited for easy hikes, featuring predominantly flat terrain along canal towpaths and greenways. There are over 70 easy routes, such as the St Nicholas Church – Thorne Peel Hill loop from Thorne South, which is 3.9 miles (6.3 km) long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Stainforth?
Hiking around Stainforth is characterized by flat terrain, often following canal towpaths and greenways. The region features very low elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks through agricultural land and along waterways.
Are there any circular walks in the Stainforth area?
Many of the routes in Stainforth are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Kirkhouse Green Lift Bridge – New Junction Canal Towpath loop from Kirk Bramwith, which is 5.1 miles (8.2 km) long.
Are the hiking trails around Stainforth suitable for families?
Absolutely. The flat terrain and low elevation changes make many of Stainforth's trails ideal for families. Paths along canal towpaths and greenways are generally safe and easy to navigate for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Stainforth?
Yes, many of the trails around Stainforth, particularly those along canal towpaths and greenways, are suitable for dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially when passing through agricultural land or near livestock, and check for any local signage regarding leash requirements.
What are some interesting places to see along the hiking trails near Stainforth?
The area around Stainforth offers several points of interest. You can explore the Stainforth and Keadby Canal Towpath itself, or visit nearby lakes like Doncaster Lakeside or Highfields Lake. Historic sites such as Godnow Bridge also add character to the routes.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Stainforth?
Parking is generally available at various points along the trails, especially near popular starting locations in towns like Thorne or Kirk Bramwith, which serve as access points for many of the canal and greenway routes. Look for designated parking areas or roadside parking where permitted.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Stainforth?
The flat nature of Stainforth's trails makes them enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and lush scenery, while autumn provides beautiful colors. Even in winter, the low elevation means trails are less prone to severe conditions, though appropriate footwear is always recommended.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Stainforth?
The trails in Stainforth are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful canal-side walks, the ease of navigation, and the opportunity to enjoy nature in a relaxed setting.
Are there any long-distance routes or multi-day hikes in Stainforth?
While Stainforth is known for its shorter, accessible walks, the extensive network of canal towpaths and greenways allows for longer combinations. For example, the Thorne Lock loop from Thorne North is a moderate 7.1 miles (11.5 km) path, and you can often extend these by connecting to other sections of the network.
Are there any specific routes that follow the canal in Stainforth?
Many routes in Stainforth utilize the region's canal network. A prime example is the Isle of Axholme Greenway: Thorne Loop, which is a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail that follows a designated greenway, often running parallel to waterways.
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