Barton-Under-Needwood
Barton-Under-Needwood
The best walks and hikes around Barton-Under-Needwood
4.4
(374)
3,997
hikers
30
hikes
Hiking around Barton-Under-Needwood offers diverse trails through a landscape characterized by rolling green fields, ancient woodlands, and the serene River Trent. The area is situated within the National Forest, providing extensive opportunities for exploring natural features. Paths along the Trent and Mersey Canal offer tranquil routes, while the surrounding countryside features varied terrain suitable for different hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Barton-Under-Needwood
- The most popular hiking route is National Memorial Arboretum – Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Barton-under-Needwood, a 7.8 miles (12.6 km) moderate trail that takes 3 hours 11 minutes to complete. This route combines historical significance with peaceful canal-side walking.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sunset View at Barton Marina loop from Barton-under-Needwood, an easy 2.1 miles (3.4 km) path. This trail offers accessible walking around a popular local marina.
- Local hikers also love the View of Dunstall Church loop from Barton-under-Needwood, a 4.6 miles (7.3 km) trail leading through local countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 57 minutes.
- Hiking around Barton-Under-Needwood is defined by ancient woodlands, the River Trent, and the Trent and Mersey Canal. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Barton-Under-Needwood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Barton-Under-Needwood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.4
(7)
55
hikers
12.9km
03:23
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(6)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(2)
72
hikers
3.36km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
36
hikers
3.11km
00:47
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great little Cafe with friendly staff. Although on the main road, cyclists can take their bikes round the back of the cafe. Enter by the side of the barbers next door.
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Visitors can enjoy discovering over 400 memorials nestled amongst some 25,000 trees, experience riverside walks and participate in a wide variety of daily activities: guided walks, land train tours, memorial talks, exhibitions and buggy tours.
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A bronze sculpture depicting a handshake between a British soldier and a German soldier encased within an open-meshed steel football.
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Over 16,000 names are recorded on the memorial including those who have been killed whilst on duty, died in operational theatre or were targeted by terrorists. A gap has been left in the two southern walls of the Memorial. On Armistice Day a shaft of sunlight falls through this gap onto the bronze wreath in the centre of the Memorial.
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The Trent and Mersey Canal is a 93+1⁄2-mile (150 km) canal in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire in north-central England. It is a "narrow canal" for the vast majority of its length. The Trent and Mersey Canal was completed in 1777 and plays an integral part of Alrewas' history. Once used to ship goods and materials it is now an important leisure facility; the canal is lined with dozens of ornately decorated narrowboats.
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The stream was created from water diverted from the Trent in order to power a mill. Initially a corn mill in medieval times, it later became a cotton mill. Alrewas was also famous for its eel fishery. The miller extracted eels from the stream and supplied them locally. The eel trade survived in the area until 1990.
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A church has stood on the current site since at least 822AD. The current Grade I listed building was mainly built during the 13th, 14th, 16th and 19th centuries. The Normans replaced the simple wooden church with one of local stone which probably occupied the space in the present nave between the two arcades. The tower doorway, the north aisle door and the heavy rough hewn pieces of masonry in the north wall are the oldest remaining parts of the church dating from the original Norman building.
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Enjoy a nice easy canal ride from Alrewas to Fradley Junction and then onto the village of Fradley. The route first follows the Trent and Mersey Canal to Fradley junction before turning south along the Coventry Canal to take you into Fradley. Great on a quiet evening.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Barton-Under-Needwood?
There are over 30 hiking routes around Barton-Under-Needwood, offering a variety of experiences. These include 17 easy routes, 13 moderate trails, and 2 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see on hikes in Barton-Under-Needwood?
Hiking in Barton-Under-Needwood takes you through diverse landscapes, including rolling green fields, ancient woodlands, and along the serene River Trent and Trent and Mersey Canal. The area is also part of the National Forest, providing extensive opportunities to explore natural beauty.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks suitable for all ages?
Yes, Barton-Under-Needwood offers several easy, family-friendly walks. A popular choice is the Sunset View at Barton Marina loop from Barton-under-Needwood, an easy 3.4 km path perfect for a leisurely stroll around the marina. Another accessible option is the Path Section loop from Walton-on-Trent, which is just over 3 km.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Many of the hiking routes around Barton-Under-Needwood are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the National Memorial Arboretum – Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Barton-under-Needwood is a moderate 12.6 km circular trail combining historical sites with canal-side walking.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I can see while hiking?
While hiking, you can encounter several notable attractions. The National Memorial Arboretum is a significant site along some routes. Other points of interest nearby include Minster Pool and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland. For a historical landmark, Lichfield Cathedral is also within reach.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking options in Barton-Under-Needwood?
Many of the trails in Barton-Under-Needwood are suitable for walking with dogs, especially those through the ancient woodlands and along the canal towpaths. Always ensure your dog is under control, and check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly around nature reserves or livestock.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Barton-Under-Needwood?
The routes in Barton-Under-Needwood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful canal-side paths, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained trails that offer a pleasant outdoor experience.
Are there any routes that offer views of local churches or historical buildings?
Yes, you can find routes that provide views of local landmarks. The View of Dunstall Church loop from Barton-under-Needwood is a 7.3 km trail that leads through the countryside, offering glimpses of the historic Dunstall Church.
What is the best way to access the trailheads, especially regarding parking?
Many trailheads in Barton-Under-Needwood are accessible by car, with parking often available near popular starting points like Barton Marina or village centers. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for information on designated parking areas.
Can I combine hiking with other activities like visiting a marina?
Absolutely. The area around Barton-Under-Needwood is perfect for combining hiking with other leisure activities. The Sunset View at Barton Marina loop from Barton-under-Needwood allows you to enjoy a walk around the popular Barton Marina, which offers opportunities for leisurely strolls and is a local point of interest.
Are there any trails that follow waterways like rivers or canals?
Yes, the tranquil River Trent flows nearby, and the Trent and Mersey Canal offers excellent paths for leisurely strolls. The National Memorial Arboretum – Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath loop from Barton-under-Needwood is a prime example of a route that incorporates peaceful canal-side walking.
Most popular routes around Barton-Under-Needwood
Most popular attractions around Barton-Under-Needwood
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