4.3
(90)
11,823
runners
484
runs
Jogging around Wanlip offers routes primarily along riverbanks and through country parks, characterized by flat terrain and open green spaces. The region is situated near the River Soar, providing scenic waterside paths suitable for various running abilities. These routes often feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, passing by lakes and natural reserves. The landscape is generally low-lying, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for casual runs and longer distances.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
20
runners
4.81km
00:30
10m
10m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
436
runners
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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139
runners
8.35km
00:52
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
77
runners
10.4km
01:04
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
58
runners
8.44km
00:54
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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Leicester Windsurfing & SUP club show how to make a storage container look beautiful! Located at King's Lear lake.
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The running routes in Wanlip are predominantly easy to moderate. Out of nearly 500 available routes, 53 are classified as easy and 376 as moderate, making the area accessible for a wide range of runners. The terrain is generally low-lying with minimal elevation changes, particularly along the riverbanks and through country parks.
Yes, Wanlip offers many easy running routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Watermead Country Park trail is an easy 4.8 km route exploring lakes and open fields. Another great option is the John Merrick's Lake – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Syston, a pleasant 3.7 km path with views of the lake and river.
While many routes are easy to moderate, there are longer options available. For instance, the King Lear's Lake – Watermead Country Park loop from Birstall is a moderate 10.38 km route. You can also combine shorter loops or explore the extensive network of paths along the River Soar to create longer distances.
Running routes in Wanlip are characterized by scenic riverbanks, open country parks, and tranquil lake circuits. You'll often find yourself alongside the River Soar, passing by various lakes and natural reserves. The landscape is generally green and open, offering pleasant views throughout your run.
Many of the running trails in Wanlip, particularly those through country parks and along river paths, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check local signage for specific restrictions. Watermead Country Park is a popular spot where dogs are often seen.
Yes, the flat and accessible nature of many routes makes them suitable for families. Trails like the Watermead Country Park are ideal for families, offering easy terrain and open spaces for children to enjoy. The mix of paved and unpaved surfaces also provides variety.
The running routes in Wanlip are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 70 reviews. Runners frequently praise the tranquil riverside paths, the open green spaces of the country parks, and the generally flat terrain which makes for enjoyable and accessible runs.
Yes, many of the running routes in Wanlip are designed as circular loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the John Merrick's Lake – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Syston and The Blue Bell Inn loop from Rothley, allowing you to explore without retracing your steps.
While running, you'll enjoy views of the River Soar, various lakes, and open parklands. For points of interest nearby, you could explore Beacon Hill Summit, the historic Old John Tower and Ruins of Bradgate House in Bradgate Park, or the serene Swithland Reservoir.
Yes, the running routes in Wanlip often feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll find well-maintained paved sections, particularly within country parks and along some river paths, which are ideal for a smooth run, alongside natural trails.
Wanlip's running routes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is great for longer daylight hours, while winter runs can be invigorating, especially on the well-maintained paths. Always check local conditions, as some unpaved sections might be muddy after heavy rain.
Wanlip is accessible by local bus services from Leicester city centre, with stops often located near the entrances to country parks or villages adjacent to the running routes. For specific route planning, it's best to check local bus timetables and routes to find the most convenient stop for your chosen running trail.
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular running areas. For instance, Watermead Country Park has designated car parks. Many villages surrounding Wanlip, such as Syston or Birstall, also offer parking facilities, often near trailheads or local amenities.


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