The best walks and hikes around Smisby

Yes, many trails in The National Forest are dog-friendly. Areas like Sence Valley Forest Park are particularly welcoming for dogs, offering numerous paths and open spaces. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially in nature reserves like Dimminsdale or near livestock in the parklands of Calke Abbey, where leads may be required.

Certainly. The region offers several gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the Sharpe's Bottom – Limehouse Dams loop from Hartshorne, which is a short and easy 4 km trail. Additionally, the lower tarmac path at Staunton Harold Reservoir is suitable for all abilities, including pushchairs.

Parking is available at several key locations. The main reservoirs, Foremark and Staunton Harold, have dedicated car parks, as does the Calke Abbey estate (charges may apply for non-National Trust members). For other trailheads, on-street parking in villages like Ticknall or Hartshorne is possible, but please park considerately.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of visitors leaving positive reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful mix of woodland, serene reservoir paths, and the unique landscapes of former quarries reclaimed by nature. The well-maintained paths and clear signposting are also frequently mentioned.

While most trails are through natural landscapes, many routes start or finish near villages with excellent pubs, such as the Smisby Arms. For a mid-hike break, Calke Abbey has a cafe, and you can often find coffee vans at popular spots like Sence Valley Forest Park, especially on weekends.

Each season offers a unique experience. Late winter and early spring are famous for the spectacular carpets of snowdrops and wild garlic in Dimminsdale Nature Reserve. Spring also brings bluebells to the woodlands around Foremark Reservoir. Summer is perfect for enjoying the wildflower meadows at Staunton Harold, while autumn provides stunning colours throughout The National Forest.

Yes, the area is crossed by Stage 7 of the National Forest Way, which runs between Hartshorne and Moira. For a challenging day hike, you could try a route like the Carvers Rocks Nature Reserve – View of Hartshorne loop from Hartshorne, a moderate walk of nearly 13 km that offers a great taste of the local terrain.

There is a vast network of trails to explore, with over 600 routes mapped on komoot around Smisby. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, covering woodlands, reservoirs, and historic parklands.

The area is rich in natural and historical sites. Key highlights include the dramatic cliffs and pools of Dimminsdale Nature Reserve, the impressive sandstone outcrops at Carvers Rocks, and the historic Ticknall Tramway Tunnel. You can also enjoy views of the grand Calke Abbey and the serene waters of both Foremark and Staunton Harold reservoirs.

Yes, for a gentle walk with minimal incline, the paths around the reservoirs are ideal. The circular walk around Staunton Harold Reservoir is particularly pleasant and features a lower tarmac path along the bank that is very flat. Sence Valley Forest Park also offers tranquil, level paths around its lakes.

Accessing the trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. Bus services connect nearby towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Swadlincote, from which you may need to walk or take a taxi to reach the start of a route. It's best to check local bus timetables in advance to plan your journey.