4.4
(243)
1,951
hikers
207
hikes
Hiking around Burton Overy offers routes through the gently rolling countryside of Leicestershire. The landscape is characterized by open farmland, quiet village paths, and sections alongside waterways. Elevation changes are generally modest, making many trails accessible for various fitness levels. The area provides a typical English rural walking experience.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.0
(3)
20
hikers
11.3km
02:58
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
hikers
8.76km
02:18
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
8
hikers
7.67km
02:01
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
6.81km
01:48
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Saddington Tunnel, Leicestershire This is the north-west portal of Saddington Tunnel (Fleckney Tunnel) on the Grand Union Canal (Leicester Section). The tunnel is not quite straight, because miscalculations during its construction required some "adjustment". The tunnel is just over half a mile long (about 807 metres). Standard seven foot beam narrowboats can pass in the tunnel, with care. There are bats in this tunnel, and a narrowboat is in it navigating towards Leicester. There is no towpath in the tunnel, so horses were led across the top of the tunnel along the path which can be seen above the tunnel entrance. source: https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/3655795
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This slightly crooked Leicester Canal tunnel was constructed in 1797 and is 808 metres long and available for two way working for boats of 3.96 metres or less beam and maximum of 2.13 metres high. The tunnel does not have an internal towpath - if walking or cycling along the Leicester Canal's towpath then follow the marked route which goes up and over the hillside directly following the tunnel's subterranean route. Saddington Feeder Arm connects the Leicester Canal with Saddington Reservoir - fed by water from Saddington and Laughton Brooks, the reservoir was constructed in the 1790s as a water source for the canal. source: http://www.grandunioncanal.co.uk/Saddington-Tunnel.html
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From this viewpoint you can see ( just) the far end of the tunnel near to the village of Fleckney.
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This recreated mile marker on the Grand Union Canal was donated by the Old Union Canals Society.
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You cannot get from the Canal towpath to the footpath on the bridge and vice-versa, as the fences are very much intact and laced with barbed wire.
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There are over 200 hiking routes available around Burton Overy, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored nearly 2,000 of these trails.
Yes, Burton Overy offers a good selection of easy trails. There are 87 routes classified as easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a family outing. An example is the Hiking loop from Leicester Airport, which is 4.2 miles (6.8 km) long and generally takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to complete.
Many of the trails around Burton Overy are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Hiking loop from Burton Overy, which is 5.4 miles (8.7 km) long and takes about 2 hours 17 minutes, exploring the local countryside.
The landscape around Burton Overy is characterized by gently rolling countryside, open farmland, and quiet village paths. You'll also find sections alongside waterways, such as the Grand Union Canal. Elevation changes are generally modest, providing a typical English rural walking experience.
Yes, the area boasts several interesting points. You might encounter the historic Foxton Locks, a flight of ten canal locks, or the tranquil Saddington Reservoir. For a scenic view, consider routes that pass by Sludge Hall Hill.
Many trails in the Leicestershire countryside are suitable for dogs, especially those on public footpaths and bridleways. However, always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock, and be mindful of local signage. It's advisable to check specific route details for any restrictions.
Parking is often available in or near the villages that serve as trailheads, such as Burton Overy itself or nearby Great Glen and Kibworth. Look for designated car parks or consider parking responsibly on village streets where permitted. Some routes, like the Binleys Bridge loop from Kibworth Cricket Club, might have parking options associated with their starting points.
The spring and summer months (April to September) offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter hikes can be crisp and quiet, though paths may be muddy. Always check weather forecasts before heading out.
The trails in Burton Overy are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural setting, well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes that showcase the charming Leicestershire countryside.
Yes, you can often find welcoming pubs and cafes in the villages dotted around the hiking routes. For example, the Wistow Rural Café – Wistow Church loop from Great Glen passes by local amenities, including the Café Ventoux, offering a perfect stop for refreshments.
While many routes are easy to moderate, there are a few options for those seeking a greater challenge. The area features 7 routes classified as difficult, offering more extensive distances or slightly more varied terrain. An example of a moderate route with a good distance is the Saddington Tunnel loop from Fleckney, which is 4.8 miles (7.7 km) long.


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