The best walks and hikes around Shepshed

Yes, Shepshed is an excellent base for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These routes explore the surrounding Charnwood Forest, local reservoirs, and historical sites.

For a family outing, consider the View of Whitwick Monastery – Mount St Bernard Abbey loop from Whitwick. It's a relatively short and easy walk at 4.2 miles (6.8 km). Another great option is Beacon Hill Country Park, which is highly regarded for its well-maintained paths and features rustic play equipment and unique chainsaw-carved sculptures that are popular with children.

Most countryside paths around Shepshed are suitable for dogs, but they should be kept under control, especially near farmland with livestock. Jubilee Walk is a popular local spot for dog walking, with waste bins provided. When visiting nature reserves like Charnwood Lodge or parks like Bradgate Park, be sure to check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs.

Definitely. The area offers numerous gentle walks. A great choice is the View of Whitwick Monastery – Mount St Bernard Abbey loop from Agar Nook, which is just 2.2 miles (3.6 km) and can be completed in about an hour. It's a pleasant introduction to the local scenery without any strenuous climbs.

For some of the best panoramic views in Leicestershire, head to Beacon Hill Country Park. As the second-highest point in the county, the summit offers expansive vistas across Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. The paths to the top are well-maintained, making the rewarding view accessible.

Hiking in Charnwood Forest is defined by its unique and varied terrain. The area features some of Britain's oldest rocks, creating a landscape of rugged hills and ancient woodlands. Trails wind through a mix of deciduous and coniferous forests, past rocky outcrops, and alongside serene reservoirs, offering a diverse experience for all levels of hikers.

Yes, the Blackbrook Reservoir is a key feature in many local hikes. For a comprehensive route that includes it, the Mount St Bernard Abbey – Blackbrook Reservoir loop from Shepshed is a moderate 7.9-mile (12.8 km) trail offering peaceful waterside scenery combined with views of the historic abbey.

There are over 590 hiking routes to explore around Shepshed. The network of trails ranges from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate treks, ensuring plenty of options for every ability and interest.

The trails around Shepshed are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery of Charnwood Forest, the well-marked paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands and reservoirs.

While many routes are easy or moderate, you can find more demanding options. The Garendon Trail, part of National Cycle Route 6, offers a longer, traffic-free path connecting Shepshed to Loughborough for those looking to cover more distance. You can also combine several shorter loops in Charnwood Forest to create a full day of challenging hiking.

For a classic woodland experience, Outwoods is a popular local choice, known for its ancient woods and beautiful bluebells in the spring. Burleigh Wood Nature Reserve is another highly-regarded spot for a peaceful walk among ancient trees. Both offer a great escape into nature.

Many trails incorporate the region's rich history. Mount St Bernard Abbey, a working Trappist monastery, is a focal point of several popular hikes. You can also find routes that pass near the ruins of Grace Dieu Priory. A short drive away, Bradgate Park contains the ruins of Bradgate House, the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey.