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Best wildlife hikes in Barnsley
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Best wildlife hikes in Barnsley

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Barnsley.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Winscar Reservoir, Harden Reservoir and Snailsden Reservoir Loop

Barnsley, England · star 4.4 (10) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 37 min

2

Easy

Langsett Reservoir and Midhope Moors Loop

Barnsley, England · star 5.0 (2) · 11.9 km · Est. 3 hrs

3

Easy

Stainborough Park and The Old Park Wood Knot

Barnsley, England · star 4.5 (2) · 9.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

4

Easy

Elsecar Park and Elsecar Reservoir Loop

Barnsley, England · star 5.0 (2) · 10.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 11 min

5

Easy

Underbank Reservoir Walk

Barnsley, England · star 4.0 (2) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 35 min

6

Easy

Cannon Hall Country Park Circular

Barnsley, England · star 4.5 (4) · 2.1 km · Est. 30 min

7

Easy

Huthwaite Common and Tin Mill Rocher Loop

Barnsley, England · star 5.0 (1) · 8.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 1 min

8

Easy

Wombwell Wood and King's Wood Loop

Barnsley, England · star 4.0 (1) · 13.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 5 min

9

Easy

Broom Royd Wood and Worsbrough Reservoir Loop

Barnsley, England · star 5.0 (1) · 16.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 51 min

10

Easy

The Height and Wharncliffe Woods Loop

Barnsley, England · star 5.0 (2) · 8.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 58 min

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in Barnsley

Kris Lambert avatar

Winscar Reservoir, Harden Reservoir and Snailsden Reservoir Loop

DirtyHarry07 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

boggy in some areas, especially tram lines which can be deep water.

Scotty Durgan avatar

Langsett Reservoir and Midhope Moors Loop

GorgeWayfinder62 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Angeline Gottlieb avatar

Stainborough Park and The Old Park Wood Knot

StriderRunner18 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Elsecar Park and Elsecar Reservoir Loop

HikerFootstep72 · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

Good circular route with the village shop in Wentworth a bonus!

Dr. Justina Yost avatar

Underbank Reservoir Walk

BirchRockclimber66 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Barnsley

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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