Easy hikes and walks around The Outwoods
4.6
(978)
8,863
hikers
458
hikes
Easy hiking trails around The Outwoods navigate an ancient woodland in Leicestershire, characterized by its unique geological features and diverse natural beauty. The area features Precambrian rocky outcrops, some of Britain's oldest exposed rocks, and supports a rich variety of flora and fauna within its 110 acres. Hikers can experience a landscape of wet alder, dry oak, and birch woodlands, with some trails offering views over Loughborough and the Soar Valley.
Best easy hiking trails around The Outwoods
- The most…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.8
(8)
204
hikers
3.90km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
192
hikers
4.75km
01:19
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
15
hikers
5.37km
01:31
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
58
hikers
3.60km
01:03
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
50
hikers
5.93km
01:39
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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This route heads uphill towards Buck Hill. You’ll reach a small ridge with fantastic views - an ideal spot to take a quick break.
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Beacon Hill Country Park, close to Woodhouse Eaves, is owned and managed by Leicestershire County Council. Rising to a height of 245m, Beacon Hill is one of the highest points in Leicestershire and boasts spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Covering 128ha, the Country Park consists of mixed woodland, grassland, open heathland, wetlands and rocky outcrops. It has a range of interesting features that await any visitor. The Country Park supports an important range of plants and animals, and is part of the 'Beacon Hill, Hangingstone and Outwoods' Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The management of the park aims to balance public access with the need to maintain and enhance the habitats for which the site is important. As a result, Beacon Hill Country Park was the recipient of the 1996 English Nature Award for Management.
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Great walks around beacon hill there's a cafe great cakes ice-cream van, park, labyrinth, at the top awesome views looking Loughborough , parking top and bottom
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Beacon Hill takes its name from its history as a signalling point. Many times over the centuries a beacon has been lit near the summit to give warning or commemorate an important national event.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in The Outwoods?
There are over 270 easy hiking trails in The Outwoods, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the ancient woodland and its unique geological features.
Are the easy trails in The Outwoods suitable for families with children?
Yes, The Outwoods is very family-friendly. Many easy trails are suitable for children, and the area features a natural play area. The trails are designed to be accessible for various fitness levels.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in The Outwoods?
Yes, The Outwoods is a popular destination for dog walking. Most easy trails are suitable for dogs, but please ensure they are kept under control, especially given the diverse wildlife in the ancient woodland.
Are there any circular easy walks in The Outwoods?
Yes, many of the easy routes in The Outwoods are circular. For example, The Outwoods loop from Woodhouse is a popular circular trail that allows you to explore the ancient woodland without retracing your steps.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on an easy hike in The Outwoods?
On an easy hike, you'll encounter ancient woodland with diverse trees like oak, birch, and alder. The area is also famous for its Precambrian rocky outcrops, some of Britain's oldest exposed rocks. In spring, you might see carpets of bluebells and wood anemones.
Are there any viewpoints or overlooks on the easy trails?
Some easy trails offer elevated views. For instance, The Outwoods – View from Buck Hill loop from Woodhouse provides scenic overlooks of Loughborough and the Soar Valley.
What is the best time of year to go for an easy hike in The Outwoods?
The Outwoods is beautiful year-round. Spring is particularly vibrant with bluebells and wood anemones. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and the ancient woodland provides shelter and charm even in winter. Summer is ideal for enjoying the full canopy.
Is there parking available at The Outwoods for easy trail access?
Yes, there is a 24-hour car park available at The Outwoods. Parking charges apply. The car park provides convenient access to the various trails and visitor facilities.
Are there any facilities like toilets or cafes near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, The Outwoods is well-equipped with visitor facilities. You'll find toilets, a children's natural play area, and a café (Olivia's Coffee and Bakery) on-site, making it convenient for hikers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in The Outwoods?
The easy trails in The Outwoods are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful ancient woodland, the well-maintained paths, and the unique geological formations.
Can I reach The Outwoods by public transport for an easy hike?
While specific bus routes vary, The Outwoods is accessible by public transport, with bus stops in nearby Woodhouse Eaves and along Outwoods Road. Check local bus schedules for the most direct routes to the entrance.
Are there any other easy routes that start from different points around The Outwoods?
Yes, you can find easy routes starting from various points. For example, The Outwoods loop from Nanpantan offers a pleasant walk through varied woodland scenery from a different starting location.
What is the typical elevation gain on easy hikes in The Outwoods?
Easy hikes in The Outwoods generally feature gentle elevation changes. For instance, a route like The Outwoods loop from Loughborough University has an elevation gain of around 115 meters over its distance, making it manageable for most.
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