4.4
(392)
2,756
hikers
27
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Foxton are primarily centered around the historic Foxton Locks, a notable canal system in Leicestershire, UK. The landscape is characterized by gentle gradients along canal towpaths, open countryside, and the engineering marvel of the lock flight. These routes offer accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels, often featuring views of the canal, boats, and surrounding rural areas. The terrain is generally flat or gently undulating, making it ideal for leisurely walks.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.8
(9)
64
hikers
4.39km
01:10
40m
40m
The Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop is an easy 2.7-mile hike exploring the historic Foxton Locks and scenic canal-side paths.
13
hikers
2.48km
00:39
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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11
hikers
2.88km
00:46
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
3.12km
00:49
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.93km
01:20
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Foxton
Great and spacious carpark to start many cycle rides. Costs £3 a day (pay on exit with coins or download the app to pay with a card).
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Foxton locks is the longest staircase flight of canal locks in Britain. The feet of engineering was completed in 1814 and allows canal boats to climb the 75-foot (23m) hill. There is a museum here and you can take a boat trip up the locks (summer only).
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Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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Great little coffee shop at the top of Foxton Locks.
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There are 12 easy hiking trails around Foxton Locks, offering accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels. In total, the area features 27 routes, with a focus on easy and moderate options.
Easy hikes around Foxton Locks primarily follow canal towpaths and open countryside. The terrain is generally flat or gently undulating, making it ideal for leisurely walks with views of the canal, boats, and surrounding rural areas.
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular. For example, the Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop is a popular 4.4 km circular route, and the Foxton Locks Basin – Foxton Locks loop from Foxton offers a slightly longer 5.1 km option.
The main attraction is the historic Foxton Locks canal system itself, an engineering marvel. You'll also pass by the Foxton Locks Basin and historic structures like Bridge 61. The trails offer scenic views of the canal, boats, and the peaceful Leicestershire countryside.
Yes, the generally flat and well-maintained canal towpaths make the easy trails around Foxton Locks very suitable for families. The unique lock system and passing boats often provide entertainment for children.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 90 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique experience of walking alongside the historic Foxton Locks, the gentle gradients, and the picturesque rural scenery.
Absolutely. The Foxton Locks and Bridge 61 – Foxton Locks Basin loop from Foxton is a great choice, leading you directly through the canal network and past historic Bridge 61. The Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop also offers excellent views of the lock flight.
Easy hikes around Foxton Locks vary in length. For instance, the Foxton Locks and Bridge 61 – Foxton Locks Basin loop from Foxton can be completed in about 45 minutes, while the Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop typically takes around 1 hour 10 minutes.
The primary historical landmark is the Foxton Locks themselves, a significant feat of 19th-century canal engineering. You can also find other points of interest like St Andrew's Church, Arthingworth, and the Great Oxendon Tunnel nearby, which are part of the wider historical landscape.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the main Foxton Locks visitor area, which serves as a convenient starting point for many of the easy trails. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages.
Yes, the area is also known for cycling. The National Cycle Route 6: Northampton to Market Harborough passes through the vicinity, offering opportunities to extend your outdoor experience beyond just hiking.


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