Leicestershire offers a variety of walking opportunities, ranging from countryside strolls to historical trails. The county is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites, with walking routes to suit all levels.

Before setting out, we recommend:

• Check the weather forecast before your walk and dress accordingly.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Carry water and snacks, especially for longer walks.
• Follow any local guidelines or trail rules.
• Consider bringing a map or using a navigation app.
• If you plan to explore historical sites, check the opening hours of any visitor centers.
• Remember to tailor the walk to your preferences and fitness level. Leicestershire's countryside and historical sites offer a rich tapestry for walkers to explore.

Easy routes: These are walks for anyone who does not have a mobility difficulty, a specific health problem or is seriously unfit. Suitable for pushchairs if they can be lifted over occasional obstructions. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn.

Bradgate Park

Home to the ruins of Bradgate House and a herd of red and fallow deer, there are various walking trails catering to different fitness levels. Trails take you through woodlands, along streams, and past historical landmarks, so provide all types of routes for any avid walker. Old John Tower is an iconic landmark within the park. It is a folly built in 1784 and offers an excellent vantage point. Climbing to the top rewards you with breathtaking views.

Beacon Hill Country Park

​​Beacon Hill is the second-highest point in Leicestershire, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On clear days, you can see as far as the city of Leicester and beyond. The park offers a network of well-marked walking trails suitable for various fitness levels. Trails take you through woodlands, heathlands, and open spaces. It is also home to diverse plant and animal life, rich with flora, and you may encounter various bird species, butterflies, and more during your walk.​​​​​​​

Leisurely routes: Walks for reasonably fit people with at least a little country walking experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended.

Watermead Country Park

Located in the north of Leicester, Watermead Country Park is a great place for a relaxing walk surrounded by nature. The park is characterized by a series of lakes and waterways, providing a tranquil setting for visitors. These water features attract a variety of wildlife too, including ducks and swans. The park offers a network of walking trails, taking you around the lakes and through picturesque landscapes.

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre

​​​​​At the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, there are several walks and trails available for visitors to explore the historic battlefield site and its surroundings. These walks provide an opportunity to learn about the Battle of Bosworth and the events that unfolded on this significant site.

Moderate routes: Walks for people with country walking experience and a good level of fitness. May include hills and rough country. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.

Charnwood Forest

Charnwood Forest offers diverse landscapes, including rocky outcrops and ancient woodlands. The forest has a variety of trails, each showcasing the area's unique geological features, woodlands, and panoramic views. From 2-mile circular walks to longer reservoir routes, we suggest wearing sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to combat the uneven terrain.

National Forest

Leicestershire is part of the National Forest project, which aims to create a sustainable forest across parts of the Midlands. Explore the various trails and landscapes within this area. With routes through woodlands, lakes and wetlands, it is a great place to explore with the whole family.

Strenuous routes: Walks for experienced country walkers with an above average fitness level. May include hills and rough country. Walking boots and warm waterproof clothing are essential.

Sign up for a free Ramblers website account to view full details of our short (under 3 miles) routes, or get access to the entire online library, including all of our longer routes, by becoming a Ramblers member.

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