The Commongate Hotel

Green Link Walk (Section 1)

Follows mostly flat, paved paths through Hackney connecting green spaces, perfect for buggies and wheelchairs. This accessible TfL-managed route links parks and canal towpaths with gentle gradients throughout, making it ideal for families with young children and pushchairs. Dogs welcome on leads. Worth doing for an easy urban escape through surprisingly leafy corners of East London, with plenty of spots to pause at playgrounds or cafés along the way.

Lea Valley Walk

Follows the River Lea through 26 miles of surprisingly green waterways from East London to Hertfordshire, mixing urban stretches with nature reserves and canal paths. Mostly flat and paved, excellent for families, buggies and dogs on leads. Expect cyclists sharing the towpath. You can tackle short sections easily—Walthamstow Wetlands and Hackney Marshes are highlights—or camp further north near quieter meadows. Perfect for spotting wildlife and escaping the city without actually leaving it.

Capital Ring (Section 13)

Winds through Hackney Marshes alongside the River Lea, mostly flat towpath and tarmac paths ideal for buggies and young children. Dogs welcome on leads near wildlife areas. Expect wide open marshland views, narrowboats, and plenty of green space surprisingly close to inner London. Perfect for an easy family stroll with opportunities to spot herons and other waterbirds, plus convenient café stops at Springfield Park.

Lea Valley Walk (link to Clapton Station)

Capital Ring link to Clapton Station