The best walks and hikes around Somersal Herbert
4.4
(243)
1,358
hikers
114
hikes
Hikes near Somersal Herbert explore the rolling hills of the Derbyshire Dales. The landscape is defined by agricultural fields, small woodlands, and public footpaths that often follow the course of the River Dove. The terrain is generally gentle, with low elevation changes, making it suitable for a variety of walking routes.
Best hiking trails around Somersal Herbert
- The most popular hiking route is the JCB Lake Sculpture loop from Rocester, a 2.0 mile (3.2 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.19km
00:49
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(25)
17
hikers
8.35km
02:10
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(4)
10
hikers
8.70km
02:18
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
9
hikers
8.11km
02:05
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
12.2km
03:17
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Outside JCB’s headquarters in Rocester, near Uttoxeter, sits an eye-catching mechanical sculpture which looks as if it might have escaped from the set of a sci-fi horror flick. Titled The Fosser, which loosely translates from the Latin word for ‘digger’, the metal structure has become a landmark of the Staffordshire countryside. The Fosser was commissioned by JCB chairman Anthony Bamford, and was designed and built in 1979 by the Polish-born metalwork sculptor Walenty Pytel. It is constructed entirely of JCB parts welded together, and stands 45ft high and weighs 36 tonnes. At the time of its creation, it was the largest steel structure in Europe.
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The Fosser which means digger sculpture stands proud in the park opposite the JCB headquarters. It's the largest of the sculptures commissioned to adorn the landscaped grounds of the factory. Fosser stands 45 ft (14 m) high and weighs 36 tonnes. It was created by Polish sculptor Walenty Pytel.
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Startled Horse by Mark Delf. One of the statues on the sculpture trail around the JCB lake.
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Sumo by Allen Jones. One of the statues on the sculpture trail around the JCB lake.
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Opus Statue by Mark Delf. One of the statues on the sculpture trail around the JCB lake.
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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.
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Uttoxeter is a market town in east Staffordshire. The town's name has been spelt at least 79 ways since it first appeared in the Doomsday book of 1086.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the Somersal Herbert area?
Yes, the region's gentle, rolling hills make it very suitable for families. A great option is the Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Café – Opus Statue by Mark Delf loop from Rocester. It's a relatively short and flat walk that also offers the convenience of a nearby farm shop and café.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Somersal Herbert?
Most public footpaths in the area are dog-friendly, but you'll be walking through agricultural land. Always keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock. Be mindful of stiles that may be difficult for larger dogs to cross.
What are the trails typically like around Somersal Herbert?
The hiking network consists mainly of public footpaths crossing through farmland, quiet rural lanes, and paths alongside the River Dove. The terrain is generally gentle with low elevation changes, making for pleasant and accessible walking.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For a longer, more challenging circular hike, consider the Uttoxeter Town Centre loop from Uttoxeter. This moderate trail covers nearly 14 km through the surrounding countryside.
What do other hikers think of the routes in this area?
The trails around Somersal Herbert are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Over 1,500 hikers have explored the region, often praising the peaceful countryside and the well-defined riverside paths.
Where can I park to start a hike?
Parking is often available in the villages where routes begin, such as Doveridge, Rocester, or Uttoxeter. For popular attractions like Ilam Park or Thor's Cave, there are dedicated pay-and-display car parks, though they can fill up quickly on weekends.
Are there any walks that include a pub or café?
Many walks start or finish in villages with local pubs. For a guaranteed stop, the walk starting near Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Café is an excellent choice. Additionally, the highly-regarded National Trust site at Ilam Park has a popular tea-room you can visit before or after a walk in the area.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from near Somersal Herbert?
There are over 100 hiking routes to explore in the immediate vicinity. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few kilometres to more demanding moderate hikes, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What are some notable natural landmarks to see while hiking?
The area is close to several stunning natural sites. The River Dove is a central feature of many local walks. For more dramatic scenery, a short drive will take you to the famous limestone valley of Dovedale, the impressive Thor's Cave in the Manifold Valley, or the picturesque Padley Gorge.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging in this rural area. Your best option is to take a bus or train to a larger nearby town like Ashbourne or Uttoxeter and start your hike from there, as they serve as hubs for several walking routes.
Are there any particularly scenic riverside walks?
Yes, the River Dove provides a beautiful backdrop for many hikes. The Pheasant Crossing – River Dove Near Rocester loop from Doveridge is a wonderful moderate route that follows the river through open countryside, offering classic Derbyshire Dales scenery.
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