London Loop ranked among UK’s best hikes for 2026

Residents of Barnet and the rest of Greater London have one of the country’s top walking routes on their doorstep. Time Out has placed the London Outer Orbital Path, commonly called the Loop, seventh in its 2026 ranking of the UK’s best hikes. The list was published on 8 January 2026.

The Loop is a 150-mile circuit that follows the outer boundary of London. It is designed to be walked in 24 separate sections, ranging from four to ten miles each. Every section starts and ends near a public transport link, so walkers can complete a stretch without needing a car.

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Where the Loop goes and what walkers see

The trail begins in Erith, in the east of the capital. From there it moves clockwise around the edge of London, passing through green spaces, historic sites and residential neighbourhoods. In Barnet, walkers encounter the northernmost section, which includes the Dollis Valley Greenwalk and Totteridge Fields.

Time Out highlights several landmarks along the route. Coulsdon’s Farthing Downs offers sweeping views across the North Downs. Bushy Park, in Richmond, is home to herds of red and fallow deer. The Grand Union Canal provides a waterway stretch near Hayes. Other points of interest include Old Bexley’s medieval St Mary’s Church and numerous pubs along the way.

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The route also passes through wartime airfields and forests with long histories. Walkers can see country houses and city skylines from vantage points along the trail. Time Out describes the Loop as a way to experience London’s varied landscapes without leaving the capital.

How residents can use the trail

The Loop is intended for leisurely use. Walkers are not expected to complete the full 150 miles in one go. Instead, the 24 sections allow residents to explore different parts of London’s outskirts over multiple outings. Each section can be reached by train, bus or tram, making it possible to plan a day’s walk without relying on private transport.

Time Out’s report includes a first-hand account from a writer who walked the Loop. The writer recommends the trail for Londoners who want a long-distance walk without travelling far from home. The article suggests that completing even a single section can provide a sense of achievement and a break from urban life.

No formal events or council-led initiatives are linked to the Time Out ranking. The Loop remains a permanent walking route maintained by local authorities and volunteer groups. Residents can find maps and guides on the official London Loop website, which is updated by Transport for London.