4.6
(1175)
8,256
hikers
382
hikes
Hiking around Etwall offers a diverse landscape characterized by gentle agricultural land, picturesque canal towpaths, and converted disused railway lines. The area provides a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels, with many routes following the Trent and Mersey Canal. Hikers can explore small woodlands and local nature reserves, adding variety to the scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Paths along rivers, such as the River Trent, also offer pleasant walking experiences.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(19)
81
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
39
hikers
4.68km
01:11
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(4)
66
hikers
4.57km
01:09
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
hikers
4.24km
01:04
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
7.01km
01:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Etwall
Surface is gravel and at times quite rocky so only suitable for gravel or MTB.
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Binoculars would be useful to see the varieties of birds.
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Nearly halfway point, good for toilet stop , and view for canal.
1
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Cafe that is very friendly to cyclists located on a narrow boat. The Cafe has inside seating as well as picnic tables outside. The boat isn't signposted from the marina so can be hard to find. Best approach is to pass the marina entrance travelling eastwards (Findern Lane) and then take the immediate next left onto a path that leads to a nature walk. The boat can be seen on the corner of the marina. Good helpings, good prices and very friendly to cyclists. Shortish menu but includes breakfasts and cakes as well as nice coffee.
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Small cafe with a large outside area next to the canal. Excellent place to stop particularly when the weather is good and you can use the outside area. Bikes can be locked up close to the windows of the cafe so should be secure. Breakfast items available only until 12 noon and then sandwiches, paninis, baked potatoes, etc.
3
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There are over 200 easy hiking trails around Etwall. The area offers a wide variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels, with many focusing on gentle terrain.
Easy hikes around Etwall feature a diverse landscape, including gentle agricultural land, picturesque canal towpaths, and converted disused railway lines. You'll also find small woodlands, local nature reserves, and pleasant riverside sections, such as along the River Trent.
Yes, the Etwall area is known for its well-maintained network of public footpaths, many of which are circular. For example, the Dumbles Wood – Stenson Canal Views and Café loop from Willington is a popular circular route that takes you through woodland and offers canal views.
Many of the easy trails in Etwall are ideal for families with children due to their gentle terrain and relatively short distances. Routes that utilize disused railway lines or canal towpaths are particularly flat and accessible. The View of the Wetlands loop from Willington is a shorter, easy option that families might enjoy.
Yes, many of the trails around Etwall are dog-friendly. However, as routes often pass through agricultural land, it's important to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock. Always follow the Countryside Code and ensure your dog is under control.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages. For example, routes starting from Willington, such as the Stenson Canal Walk and Café – Stenson Canal Views and Café loop, often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.
The Etwall area is enjoyable for hiking year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is great for longer days, while winter walks can be picturesque, especially along the canal towpaths. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Easy walks around Etwall often feature scenic canal views along the Trent and Mersey Canal, peaceful woodlands like Dumbles Wood, and open agricultural fields. You might also encounter riverside sections along the River Trent. Notable nearby attractions include Swarkestone Lock and Staunton Harold Reservoir.
Yes, some easy routes, particularly those near villages or popular spots like the canal, offer opportunities for refreshments. The Dumbles Wood – Stenson Canal Views and Café loop, for instance, passes by a café, and the Stenson Canal Walk and Café also highlights nearby amenities.
The easy trails in Etwall are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil canal towpaths, the accessibility of the disused railway lines, and the pleasant rural scenery, making them perfect for relaxed outings.
The region's disused railway lines, such as sections of the Etwall to Mickleover Greenway, have been converted into multi-user trails that are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Canal towpaths also offer relatively flat surfaces for easy access.
Yes, the View of the Wetlands loop from Willington is an easy 2.6-mile trail that specifically leads through open fields and wetlands, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the unique ecosystem.
No, you do not generally need permits for hiking on the public footpaths and trails around Etwall. The area is well-served by a network of public rights of way that are freely accessible.


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