Walking, Cycling and Riding in Leicestershire

Leicestershire is a fantastic spot for getting outdoors, offering a mix of flat canal paths and surprisingly hilly forest trails. It’s a great county for a day trip or a weekend away, especially if you like a mix of history and nature.

The National Forest & Hicks Lodge

Located near Ashby-de-la-Zouch, this is the go-to spot for cyclists. It’s a former coal mining site turned into a lush woodland.

• The Experience: You’ve got everything from easy, flat gravel paths to more technical single-track mountain bike trails.
• Routes: There’s a 2km easy loop for the little ones and a long-distance shell path that connects to the wider forest.
• Family Factor: It’s geared heavily toward families and cyclists. The playground is decent, but the real draw is the freedom to ride safely off-road.
• Logistics: You’ll likely spend 2 to 3 hours here. There is a solid cafe on-site for a post-ride toastie, and parking is paid.

Bradgate Park & Swithland Wood

Situated in Newtown Linford, this is easily the most popular “walking” spot in the county.

• The Experience: It’s a massive deer park with rugged hills and rocky outcrops. You’ll see wild herds of Red and Fallow deer wandering around.
• Routes: A main linear tarmac path runs through the middle (roughly 2.5km), which is perfect for buggies or wheelchairs. For more “proper” walking, head up to Old John Tower—a landmark on the hill—for views across the county.
• Points of Interest: The ruins of Bradgate House (childhood home of Lady Jane Grey) sit right in the middle.
• Family Factor: Kids love scrambling over the rocks and seeing the deer. It’s safe enough for them to run ahead, but keep an eye out near the water.
• Logistics: You can easily spend half a day here. There are two tea rooms in Newtown Linford village right at the entrance. Parking is paid and can get very busy.

Watermead Country Park

Located on the edge of Leicester, this is a sprawling series of lakes and paths.

• The Experience: Very flat, very easy walking and cycling. The paths are mostly all-weather surfaces.
• Routes: You can do several circular loops around the lakes, with routes ranging from 1km to 8km.
• Points of Interest: Look out for the massive Mammoth statue!
• Family Factor: This is “parents get a break” territory. There are multiple play areas and plenty of space for a picnic. It’s a “hands-off” environment where kids can roam.
• Logistics: Spend about 2 hours here. It’s a great spot to combine with a visit to the nearby Space Centre or the city centre.

The Grand Union Canal (Market Harborough to Foxton Locks)

A classic linear route in the south of the county.

• The Experience: Peaceful, flat, and entirely off-road. Excellent for a long, slow cycle or a steady walk.
• Routes: The stretch from Market Harborough to Foxton is about 8km one way. The surface is mostly a compacted towpath.
• Points of Interest: Foxton Locks is the star here—a massive staircase of canal locks. Watching the boats navigate the gates is strangely hypnotic for both adults and kids.
• Family Factor: Great for older kids who can handle the distance. Toddlers need close supervision because of the water.
• Logistics: There are pubs and a cafe at the locks, plus plenty of spots in Market Harborough. You could easily make this a 4 to 5-hour round trip if you stop for lunch.

Beacon Hill Country Park

Near Woodhouse Eaves, this is for those who want a bit more of a workout.

• The Experience: It’s one of the highest points in Leicestershire. The terrain is hilly and the paths are a mix of grass and gravel.
• Routes: There is a multi-use circular trail around the base (about 3km) and steeper tracks heading to the summit.
• Points of Interest: The summit has a “Native Tree Fountain” and weird rock formations that are millions of years old.
• Family Factor: Genuinely for the whole family. There’s a fantastic natural play area with wooden structures and sculptures.
• Logistics: Give it 2 to 3 hours. There is a small cafe and a BBQ area.

The Great Central Way

A linear route running through the heart of Leicester city.

• The Experience: This is a “rails to trails” path, meaning it’s an old railway line turned into a green corridor. It’s flat, wide, and tarmacked.
• Routes: It runs for several miles. It’s more of a functional route to get from A to B without seeing a car, but it’s a pleasant, leafy ride.
• Family Factor: Excellent for teaching kids to ride a bike without the fear of traffic.

Quick Tips:

• Parking: Most of these spots use “pay and display” or ANPR cameras.
• Discounts: Look into a Leics County Council seasonal car park pass if you plan on visiting several of these spots (like Beacon Hill and Watermead) over a year; it can save a lot of money.
• Blue Light: Some cafes at these sites offer discounts for cardholders, so it’s always worth asking.