The best walks and hikes around Desford
4.6
(845)
8,749
hikers
418
hikes
Hikes around Desford explore the Leicestershire countryside, a landscape of tranquil reservoirs, reclaimed woodlands, and historic railway lines. The terrain is generally gentle, featuring well-surfaced paths and field trails that connect rural villages. This network of routes offers a mix of accessible circular walks and sections of longer-distance paths.
Best hiking trails around Desford
- The most popular hiking route is Thornton Reservoir loop from Thornton, a 3.8 mile (6.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 37 minutes to complete. This is an easy route on a well-surfaced path around the water.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Bagworth Heath Woods – Thornton Reservoir loop from Bagworth & Thornton, a moderate 5.1 mile (8.2 km) path. The route combines the reclaimed colliery landscape of Bagworth Heath with views of the reservoir.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Groby Pool loop from Ratby, a 4.5 mile (7.3 km) trail leading through woodland and around the edge of Groby Pool, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Desford is defined by walks around reservoirs, paths through developing woodlands, and trails along former railway lines. The network of public footpaths provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy loops to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Desford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Desford's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.6
(18)
72
hikers
13.0km
03:25
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
4.36km
01:08
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
7.25km
01:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
22.1km
05:52
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sand martins return annually to an artificial nesting wall at Bagworth Heath Wood Country Park in Leicestershire, usually arriving in March to nest through the summer. The site, featuring a specialized "Sandmartin Pool," is maintained by rangers and volunteers who refresh the sandy bank annually, with hundreds of chicks raised there.
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The church of St Philip and St James, built in the lancet style by George Harry Grey, the seventh Earl of Stamford, dates from 1840 and stands on the site of Groby Castle. The architect was William Railton. Few remains are left of the castle, other than a slight rise in ground to the east of the main church building, and the manor house (Groby Old Hall), the stone-built parts of which are thought to have been part of the castle’s outer buildings.
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No bluebells at this time of year but still pretty meadows and woodland paths.
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Reservoir Road runs alongside Thornton Reservoir offering wide open views of the water and surrounding countryside. The reservoir, built in the 19th century, is a vital water supply for the region and is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
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Nice little parking spot..plenty of places even at mid day
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The cafe at the garden centre is perfect for a mid ride cob
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The building across the water, Pool House, is a Grade II listed building.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult are the hiking trails around Desford?
The trails are generally gentle, making the area accessible for most fitness levels. Out of more than 400 routes, the majority are rated as easy or moderate. You'll find a mix of well-surfaced paths, particularly around the reservoirs, and typical countryside field paths which can be muddy after rain.
Are the walking routes near Desford suitable for dogs?
Yes, many trails in the Desford area are great for walking with dogs. Bagworth Heath Woods is a popular choice with its network of paths. As always, be mindful of local signage, especially concerning livestock in fields and wildlife around nature reserves like Groby Pool. Keep dogs on a lead where required.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks?
Definitely. The path around Thornton Reservoir is a top choice for families as it's mostly flat, well-surfaced, and offers lovely water views. For a shorter, easy walk through woodland, consider the Roman Way – Groby & Ratby loop from Ratby, which is under 3 miles.
Where is the best place to park for hikes near Desford?
Parking availability varies by location. Thornton Reservoir has a dedicated pay-and-display car park. Bagworth Heath Woods also offers on-site parking, making it a convenient starting point. For walks around Groby Pool, you may need to find on-street parking in nearby villages like Ratby or Newtown Linford, so please park considerately.
Can I find a good circular walk that's around 4-5 miles long?
Yes, the area is excellent for medium-length circular walks. A great option is the Groby Pool loop from Ratby, which is about 4.5 miles and takes you through woodland and past the largest natural lake in Leicestershire.
Are there any pubs or cafes on the walking routes?
While the trails themselves are primarily through countryside, many routes start or finish in villages like Desford, Thornton, or Ratby where you can find traditional pubs. The area around Thornton Reservoir also has facilities, including a cafe, making it a good spot to start or end a walk.
What is the landscape like around Desford?
The landscape is a pleasant mix of classic Leicestershire countryside. Expect to walk through developing woodlands, across open fields, and along tranquil reservoir shores. A unique feature is the presence of paths along historic, disused railway lines, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.
What do other hikers think of the routes in this area?
The hikes around Desford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths around the reservoirs and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands.
Can I access the trails using public transport?
Yes, the village of Desford and surrounding towns like Ratby are served by local bus routes from Leicester and nearby areas. This makes it possible to plan a hike without relying on a car, though you may need to walk a short distance from a bus stop to a trailhead.
Do any long-distance trails pass near Desford?
Yes, the Leicestershire Round, a 100-mile circular walk around the county, passes nearby. You can easily hike sections of this trail from access points near Bagworth Heath Woods. The National Forest Way also has a connecting route from Thornton Reservoir towards Bradgate Park for those seeking a longer trek.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The area is rich in wildlife. Thornton Reservoir and Groby Pool are fantastic for birdwatching, with many species of water birds. In Bagworth Heath Woods, you might spot goldfinches, green woodpeckers, and various butterflies and dragonflies in the varied habitats of woodland, grassland, and ponds.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While most trails are easy to moderate, you can create a more challenging day out by linking different routes. For a longer hike, consider the Thornton Reservoir loop — Leicester, which is a moderate 8-mile (13 km) route offering a more extensive exploration of the area.
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