The best walks and hikes in North West Leicestershire

North West Leicestershire offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 490 routes available. These trails cater to all abilities, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs.

The region boasts diverse terrain. You'll find the craggy hills and ancient woodlands of Charnwood Forest, including peaks like Bardon Hill and Beacon Hill. A significant portion of the area also lies within The National Forest, offering newly planted woodlands, ancient forests, and wildflower meadows. Additionally, many routes follow tranquil waterscapes along reservoirs, rivers, and canals.

Yes, North West Leicestershire has over 310 easy hiking trails. A great option for families or beginners is the Sence Valley Country Park to Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve loop. This easy 4.2-mile (6.7 km) path explores Sence Valley Forest Park, an area transformed from former opencast mining land into woodlands and lakes, connecting to the rich habitat of Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve.

For those seeking more challenging routes, the craggy hills of Charnwood Forest offer more significant elevation. While there are 9 difficult routes, a popular moderate option that provides panoramic views is the Bardon Hill loop. This 5.5-mile (8.9 km) trail ascends Bardon Hill, the highest point in Leicestershire, offering expansive vistas across the countryside.

Hiking in North West Leicestershire offers a range of scenic views and historical landmarks. You can enjoy panoramic views from Bardon Hill, or explore the transformed landscapes of Sence Valley Forest Park, which features Horseshoe Lake. Other notable points of interest include the historic Moira Furnace and Canal, and the serene Mount St Bernard Abbey.

Many of the trails in North West Leicestershire are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Whitwick Monastery – Mount St Bernard Abbey loop from Whitwick is an 8.0-mile (12.9 km) trail through the Charnwood Forest area, offering a rewarding circular experience.

Generally, North West Leicestershire is a welcoming region for dog walkers, with many public footpaths and open spaces. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and to check specific park or nature reserve rules before visiting. The varied landscapes, from woodlands to canal paths, provide plenty of opportunities for walks with your canine companion.

The hiking routes in North West Leicestershire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the rugged beauty of Charnwood Forest to the peaceful rewilded areas of The National Forest, and the well-maintained paths along canals and reservoirs.

Yes, the region features numerous reservoirs, rivers, and canals that offer scenic walking routes. You can explore trails around Staunton Harold Reservoir or along the Trent & Mersey Canal. An example is the Staunton Harold Hall Lake – Dimminsdale Nature Reserve loop from Staunton Harold, an easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route that takes you past beautiful water features.

North West Leicestershire has a rich industrial past, and some trails highlight this heritage. The National Forest initiative has transformed former industrial land into vibrant green spaces. The Ashby Wolds Heritage Trail – Moira Furnace and Canal loop from Overseal is an easy 4.0-mile (6.4 km) route that allows you to explore the historic Moira Furnace and walk alongside the canal, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.

North West Leicestershire offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings vibrant bluebell displays in ancient woodlands like Swithland Wood. Summer is ideal for longer walks across open landscapes and along waterways. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, particularly in the National Forest. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible, offering crisp, clear views, especially from higher points like Bardon Hill.

Yes, for those looking for a longer adventure, the National Forest Way is a 75-mile long-distance walking trail that extends through North West Leicestershire. This trail connects the National Memorial Arboretum to Beacon Hill Country Park, showcasing the region's diverse landscapes, from rocky outcrops and rolling hills to sites of industrial heritage.