The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Thurmaston
4.5
(580)
6,711
hikers
8
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Thurmaston are primarily found within the flat, accessible landscapes of Leicestershire, centered around its waterways and reclaimed green spaces. The region is characterized by a network of lakes, wetlands, and river paths, particularly within Watermead Country Park. Terrain is generally flat, making it suitable for leisurely walks and accessible routes for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Thurmaston
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Badobean Coffee Truck loop from Thurmaston, a…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.9
(18)
117
hikers
8.23km
02:05
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
35
hikers
4.49km
01:08
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
62
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The life-sized Woolly Mammoth sculpture in Watermead Country Park, Leicester, sits atop a small hill overlooking "Mammoth Lake". Built to commemorate Ice Age remains found during quarrying, it is a popular, accessible landmark for walkers and cyclists along the River Soar, with a 1-mile, pushchair-friendly circuit.
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Don't miss out on the knicker boker glory 🙌
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The footbridge crossing the River Soar weir is on the "Purple route" around Watermead Country Park, a beautiful loop of hard surfaced path, with a network of lakes on one side and the Grand Union Canal on the other.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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The footbridge crossing the River Soar weir is on the "Purple route" around Watermead Country Park, a beautiful loop of hard surfaced path, with a network of lakes on one side and the Grand Union Canal on the other.
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One of a number of sculptures inspired by the discovery of mammoth, bison and deer bones discovered in the gravel workings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Thurmaston?
Thurmaston offers eight dedicated family-friendly hiking trails, all rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and abilities. These routes primarily explore the flat, accessible landscapes of Watermead Country Park.
Are the family-friendly trails in Thurmaston suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Yes, many of the routes within Watermead Country Park, such as those forming the "Red Route" around John Merrick's Lake, feature hard-surfaced paths. This makes them highly accessible for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and those seeking a smooth, easy walk.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails in Thurmaston?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Thurmaston, especially within Watermead Country Park. However, please ensure your dog is kept under control, particularly around wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after them.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Thurmaston?
The family-friendly hikes in Thurmaston are characterized by generally flat terrain, making them ideal for leisurely walks. You'll primarily explore the beautiful Watermead Country Park, which features a network of lakes like King Lear's Lake and Mammoth Lake, wetlands, and paths along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Thurmaston?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in Thurmaston are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Watermead Country Park loop from Thurmaston is a popular circular option, taking you around the park's scenic features.
What are some interesting natural features or attractions to look out for on these trails?
While hiking in Thurmaston, you can enjoy several natural highlights. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife in Watermead Country Park and Birstall Nature Reserve. You might also spot John Merrick's Lake, or explore nearby natural areas like Swithland Wood and Memorial Wood.
Are there any cafes or amenities along the family-friendly routes?
Yes, some routes incorporate convenient stops. For instance, the Badobean Coffee Truck loop from Thurmaston is designed to pass by a coffee truck, offering a pleasant break during your walk. Watermead Country Park also has facilities available for visitors.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Thurmaston?
Thurmaston's trails are enjoyable year-round due to their generally flat and accessible nature. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the hard-surfaced paths make for pleasant walks, though appropriate clothing is always recommended.
How long do the family-friendly hikes typically take?
The family-friendly hikes around Thurmaston vary in length and duration. Shorter loops, like the Badobean Coffee Truck – John Merrick's Lake loop from Syston, can be completed in under an hour, while longer options such as the Badobean Coffee Truck loop from Thurmaston might take around 1 hour 55 minutes, depending on your pace and stops.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Thurmaston?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Thurmaston, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful lakeside scenery, and the suitability of the routes for all ages, making them perfect for a family day out.
Is there public transport access to the hiking areas in Thurmaston?
Thurmaston is well-connected, and local bus services can provide access to areas near Watermead Country Park, which is the primary location for these family-friendly trails. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient access points.
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