The best walks and hikes around The Outwoods
4.6
(998)
8,883
hikers
457
hikes
Hiking around The Outwoods offers a network of trails through ancient woodland and rolling hills in Leicestershire. This area is characterized by its mature trees, diverse flora, and gentle elevation changes, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor activities. The landscape features well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels, making it a popular destination for local hikers.
Best hiking trails around The Outwoods
- The most popular hiking route is Beacon Hill Summit – Ruins of Bradgate House loop from Nanpantan, a 13.1 miles (21.1 km) trail that takes 5 hours 55 minutes to complete. This challenging route combines woodland paths with open hill sections and historical landmarks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Outwoods loop from Woodhouse, an easy 2.4 miles (3.9 km) path. This circular trail winds through the heart of the forest, offering a peaceful woodland experience.
- Local hikers also love the The Outwoods loop from Nanpantan, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through dense woodland, often completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes.
- Hiking around The Outwoods is defined by ancient woodlands, gentle hills, and well-marked forest paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy hikes to longer, more challenging routes.
- The routes in The Outwoods are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore The Outwoods's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.8
(33)
215
hikers
20.9km
05:51
420m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
204
hikers
3.90km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(6)
192
hikers
4.75km
01:19
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
17.8km
04:58
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
15
hikers
5.37km
01:31
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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This route heads uphill towards Buck Hill. You’ll reach a small ridge with fantastic views - an ideal spot to take a quick break.
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Beacon Hill Country Park, close to Woodhouse Eaves, is owned and managed by Leicestershire County Council. Rising to a height of 245m, Beacon Hill is one of the highest points in Leicestershire and boasts spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Covering 128ha, the Country Park consists of mixed woodland, grassland, open heathland, wetlands and rocky outcrops. It has a range of interesting features that await any visitor. The Country Park supports an important range of plants and animals, and is part of the 'Beacon Hill, Hangingstone and Outwoods' Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The management of the park aims to balance public access with the need to maintain and enhance the habitats for which the site is important. As a result, Beacon Hill Country Park was the recipient of the 1996 English Nature Award for Management.
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Broombriggs Farm is a mosaic of small fields enclosed by dry stone walls, hedgerows, fences and woodlands. They are managed to provide permanent pasture for grazing livestock and to grow various arable crops. The Farm was donated to Leicestershire County Council in 1970 by the Frear family. Their desire was to preserve its natural beauty as a typical Charnwood Forest farm. Today, the farm is still managed in traditional ways which help to retain its varied landscapes and fine views over the surrounding countryside.
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Surely a "Private - keep out" sign would have sufficed. 🤗
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in The Outwoods?
The Outwoods offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 460 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks through the ancient woodland and rolling hills.
Are there easy hikes suitable for beginners or families in The Outwoods?
Yes, The Outwoods is very welcoming for beginners and families. Over 270 of the available routes are rated as easy. For a gentle introduction, consider The Outwoods loop from Woodhouse, an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) path that winds through the heart of the forest.
What is the typical length of hiking trails in The Outwoods?
Trail lengths vary significantly. You can find short, easy loops like The Outwoods loop from Nanpantan, which is about 2.9 miles (4.7 km), or longer, more challenging routes such as the Beacon Hill Summit – Ruins of Bradgate House loop from Nanpantan, spanning over 13 miles (21 km).
Are there any circular walks in The Outwoods?
Yes, many of the trails in The Outwoods are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Popular circular options include The Outwoods loop from Woodhouse and The Outwoods loop from Nanpantan, both providing a full woodland experience.
Is The Outwoods dog-friendly?
Yes, The Outwoods is a popular destination for dog walkers. The ancient woodlands and well-maintained paths provide an excellent environment for dogs to explore. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in The Outwoods?
The Outwoods offers a pleasant hiking experience year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer provides lush green canopy, autumn showcases stunning foliage, and winter offers crisp, quiet walks. The well-marked paths are generally accessible in most conditions, though some areas might be muddy after rain.
Are there facilities like cafes or pubs near the hiking trails?
While there are no facilities directly within The Outwoods, the surrounding villages and towns, such as Woodhouse Eaves and Nanpantan, offer various options for refreshments, including cafes and traditional pubs, perfect for a post-hike meal or drink.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in The Outwoods?
The Outwoods is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, squirrels, and deer. The ancient woodland environment provides a rich habitat, making it a great spot for nature observation, especially during quieter times of the day.
What do other hikers enjoy most about The Outwoods?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the well-marked and varied paths, and the opportunity to connect with nature close to urban areas.
Is there parking available for hikers at The Outwoods?
Yes, there are designated parking areas available for visitors to The Outwoods. These are typically well-signposted and provide convenient access to the trailheads.
Can I reach The Outwoods using public transport?
While direct public transport links might be limited right to the heart of the woods, local bus services operate to nearby villages such as Woodhouse Eaves and Nanpantan. From these points, you can often access the Outwoods trails with a short walk.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous hike, The Outwoods and its surroundings offer challenging options. The Beacon Hill Summit – Ruins of Bradgate House loop from Nanpantan is a difficult 13.1-mile (21.1 km) trail with significant elevation changes, combining woodland paths with open hill sections and historical landmarks.
Most popular routes around The Outwoods
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