4.6
(769)
8,377
hikers
27
hikes
Hiking around Mountsorrel offers diverse landscapes, including extensive woodlands, riverside paths along the River Soar, and open spaces. The terrain features a mix of gentle gradients and varied natural environments, with several lakes, notably Swithland Reservoir, enhancing the scenic beauty. The area is also part of the Soar Valley floodplain system, featuring wet grasslands and managed habitats. These varied features provide a range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.6
(9)
40
hikers
10.6km
02:46
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
33
hikers
10.2km
02:38
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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33
hikers
7.58km
01:55
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.54km
01:11
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.09km
01:19
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The stretch of road in Kinchley Lane going past Swithland Reservoir is a super nice biking stretch, mainly tree-lined, but you will still get some good reservoir views here and there.
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Swithland Reservoir is a stunning reservoir and is one of the biggest ones in Leicestershire. They say it has over 200 bird species and is a proper little hotspot for birdwatchers.
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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A heritage centre entre stands on the site of the abandoned Nunckley granite quarry. A branch railway line was constructed in 1897 and conveyed over 100,000 tons of ballast from the quarry for the construction of the Great Central Railway. The quarry was closed in 1924 and the branch line in 1964. Work to restore the line started in 2007 and the site, including a heritage centre, coffee shop and railway station was opened to the public in 2016.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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A good place to take a breather and watch the boats. Cotes Road and South Street provide a nice, quiet north - south run avoiding the A6 on the other side of the river.
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Traffic lights both sides. Nasty little climb up towards the village that will take the wind out of your sails!
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Mountsorrel offers a good selection of hiking opportunities, with over 25 trails available. These range from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, catering to various fitness levels.
Yes, Mountsorrel has several options suitable for families. The Mountsorrel Castle – Nunckley Hill Station loop from Mountsorrel is an easy 3.2-mile trail that leads through historic sites and woodlands. Additionally, the Nunckley Trail at the Mountsorrel and Rothley Community Heritage Centre is specifically designed to be accessible and highlights areas of ecological and historical interest.
Many of Mountsorrel's trails are suitable for dogs, especially those winding through woodlands and open spaces. The area's diverse landscapes, including forest paths and riverside trails along the River Soar, offer plenty of opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock.
Yes, the Nunckley Trail, located at the Mountsorrel and Rothley Community Heritage Centre, is designed with accessibility in mind. It's a circular half-mile route through woodland, suitable for wheelchair users with assistance and features for partially sighted individuals. You can find more details about this trail on the Heritage Centre's website.
Mountsorrel is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the significant Swithland Reservoir, part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or wander through Swithland Wood. Other notable spots include the Bradgate Park Deer Park and the Beacon Hill Summit, offering expansive views. The Mountsorrel and Rothley Marshes also provide opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in a managed wetland habitat.
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Mountsorrel are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Barrow Bridge loop from Charnwood is an easy 4.7-mile circular path that offers varied scenery. The Heritage Centre also serves as a starting point for several local circular walks.
Parking is generally available in and around Mountsorrel, especially near popular starting points for trails. The Mountsorrel and Rothley Community Heritage Centre, for instance, has a car park and provides access to several local walks, including the Nunckley Trail and Spinney Trail.
Mountsorrel is served by local bus routes, which can provide access to the village and various trailheads. While specific route details vary, checking local bus schedules for services to Mountsorrel and nearby villages like Rothley or Barrow-upon-Soar will help you plan your journey to the starting points of many walks.
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Mountsorrel, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the area's diverse landscapes, including the extensive woodlands, peaceful riverside paths along the River Soar, and the scenic views around Swithland Reservoir. The variety of trails, from easy strolls to moderate hikes, is also frequently highlighted.
For a quieter experience, consider exploring the Mountsorrel and Rothley Marshes nature reserve. While popular with birdwatchers, its network of trails can offer a more tranquil setting away from the busiest routes. Combining these paths with visits to nearby reserves like Cossington Meadows can also provide a peaceful escape.
Mountsorrel's hiking trails offer a diverse range of terrain. You can expect to encounter extensive woodlands, gentle riverside paths along the River Soar, and open spaces. The area also features scrubland and wet grasslands, particularly in the Soar Valley floodplain system, providing varied natural environments and generally gentle gradients.


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