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United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Leicestershire
Harborough

Thurnby And Bushby

The best walks and hikes around Thurnby And Bushby

4.4

(166)

2,119

hikers

190

hikes

Hikes around Thurnby and Bushby explore the rolling countryside on the western slopes of the East Leicestershire uplands. The region is characterized by a network of footpaths crossing broad ridges, secluded valleys, and fields marked by historic ridge-and-furrow earthworks. The landscape consists of a mix of pasture and arable land, with routes often following local streams like Bushby Brook.

Best hiking trails around Thurnby and Bushby

  • The most popular hiking route is Grand Union Canal Lock loop from Oadby and Wigston, a 7.7 mile (12.4 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 15 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows sections of the canal towpath.
  • Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Monks Grave – Ingarsby Brook Viaduct loop from Keyham, a moderate 5.0 mile (8.0 km) path. The route passes the Ingarsby Brook Viaduct and through the surrounding agricultural landscape.
  • Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Wooden Bridge in Knighton Park loop from Oadby, a 5.4 mile (8.7 km) trail leading through parkland and suburban green spaces, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
  • Hiking around Thurnby and Bushby is defined by rolling hills, quiet brooks, and historic ridge-and-furrow fields. The network of local footpaths provides options for both shorter, easier walks and more moderate hikes.
  • The routes in Thurnby and Bushby are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Thurnby and Bushby's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 16, 2026

2.0

(1)

12

hikers

#1.

Grand Union Canal Lock – Canal Path loop from Oadby and Wigston

12.3km

03:11

70m

70m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Thurnby And Bushby

Road Cycling Routes around Thurnby And Bushby

Cycling around Thurnby And Bushby

MTB Trails around Thurnby And Bushby

Running Trails around Thurnby And Bushby

Tips from the Community

David Kerbel
May 24, 2024, St. Peter's Church, Kings Norton

Bench for a rest with a view

0

0

Qacamata
November 14, 2021, Bumpy Rutted Trail

Muddier in mid-November, where a gravel bike with 40mm tyres struggled for traction. Prepare for a deep clean! :)

0

0

Qacamata
September 25, 2021, Scenic Path

Thorns are abundantly scattered along the path, probably due to trimming. Punctured both tyres, and met a family who had suffered the same fate on all their bikes.

0

0

https://leicesterchronicle.co.uk/ingarsby-viaduct

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0

bumby hard trail, solid dry ground after a few dry days, ridden in March on 30c tyres

1

0

Chris✶
November 22, 2020, Victoria Park

A beautiful park that is close to the city centre with big open fields, it is one of the busiest parks in Leicester as it is on a key commute route for students and workers alike.

1

0

A popular local park in the southern part of Leicester

1

0

Daniel Roberts
September 18, 2020, Canal Path

still fun on a hard tail but definitely better suited to full suspension bikes. Make sure you have plenty of water, rough 7th gear on a 21 speed Carrera Kraken.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are there around Thurnby and Bushby?

You can explore over 200 hiking routes in the region. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, with the majority being easy or moderate, making the area accessible for various fitness levels.

Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Many of the local footpaths are relatively flat and manageable for shorter legs. For a straightforward and pleasant walk, consider the Hiking loop from Leicester Airport, which is an easy route with minimal elevation gain.

Can I take my dog on the trails?

Dog walkers will find plenty of suitable paths around Thurnby and Bushby. The network of public footpaths through open fields and along quiet brooks offers great variety. However, be aware that you will likely cross fields with livestock, so keeping your dog on a lead is essential in these areas.

What is the terrain like? Should I expect muddy paths?

The landscape is classic 'High Leicestershire,' featuring rolling hills, broad ridges, and secluded valleys. Trails often cross pasture and arable land, and follow local streams like Bushby Brook. After rainfall, paths, especially those in fields and along brooks, can become very muddy, so waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended.

Are there good circular walks that start and end in the villages?

Absolutely. The area is known for its excellent circular walks that begin and end within Thurnby and Bushby, often starting near local landmarks like St. Luke's Church or the Rose and Crown pub. For a slightly longer but rewarding circular route nearby, the Hiking loop from Gaulby offers a great experience of the surrounding countryside.

Where is the best place to park for walks in Thurnby and Bushby?

There is no central car park for the trails, so most walkers use on-street parking within the villages of Thurnby and Bushby. Please park considerately, respecting residents' access. Some routes may start near a pub, which could offer parking for patrons.

What historical features can I see while hiking?

The area is rich in history. A distinctive feature you'll see on many walks is the 'ridge-and-furrow' topography in the fields—these are remnants of a medieval farming system. You can also spot historic farmhouses, the 14th-century tower of St. Luke's Church, and explore the Thurnby and Bushby Conservation Area.

Can I access any long-distance footpaths from here?

Yes, Thurnby and Bushby are conveniently located along the Leicestershire Round, a 100-mile long-distance footpath. You can join sections of this trail for longer, more extensive treks that connect to nearby villages and explore some of the county's most scenic landscapes.

What do other hikers say about the routes here?

The routes around Thurnby and Bushby are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the tranquil rural charm, the well-marked footpaths, and the extensive views from the higher ground of the rolling 'High Leicestershire' landscape.

Are there any nearby parks or nature reserves worth visiting for a walk?

Yes, several popular parks are a short drive away. Watermead Country Park is a well-regarded option known for its nature reserves and surfaced paths. For fantastic views and a sense of history, Burrough Hill Country Park, with its Iron Age hillfort, is another excellent choice for a day out.

Is it possible to reach the hiking trails using public transport?

Thurnby and Bushby are served by bus routes from Leicester city centre, making it feasible to access the start of many local walks without a car. It's best to check the latest bus timetables and routes to plan your journey effectively.

Most popular routes around Thurnby And Bushby

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