The best walks and hikes around Breedon On The Hill

There is on-street parking available within the village of Breedon on the Hill, but please be considerate of local residents. Some trailheads and nearby attractions, such as Calke Abbey, may offer dedicated car parks, though a fee might apply. It's always best to arrive early to find a suitable spot, especially on weekends.

Yes, many of the trails through open fields and woodlands are great for walking with dogs. However, you will likely encounter livestock in the fields, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead. Also, be mindful of restrictions in protected areas like the Breedon Cloud Wood SSSI to protect wildlife.

The area offers many easier options, with over a dozen easy-rated hikes available. For a gentle, traffic-free walk that's great for families, consider the Cloud Trail. It follows a former railway line, offering a flat and accessible path through the countryside.

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. A great option that showcases the local scenery is the The Round House (Lock-Up) – View of Breedon Hill Church loop from Breedon on the Hill. This easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) walk takes you through rolling countryside with lovely views of the iconic church on the hill.

The landscape is defined by the prominent limestone hill rising from the Leicestershire plains. Expect a mix of open fields, quiet country lanes, and ancient woodlands. Most routes involve gentle ascents and descents, with the reward of expansive views over the surrounding patchwork of farmland.

The most significant historical site is the Priory Church of St Mary and St Hardulph, which sits atop Breedon Hill. Its origins trace back to a 7th-century monastery and it houses remarkable Anglo-Saxon sculptures. Some routes also pass by The Round House in Melbourne, a former village lock-up.

Yes, you can explore the ancient semi-natural woodland of Breedon Cloud Wood, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It's managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and is known for its diverse flora, including carpets of bluebells in the spring.

The trails cater to a range of abilities. Out of more than 20 hikes in the area, the majority are rated as easy, with the remainder being moderate. There are no technically difficult or expert-level mountain trails, making it an accessible destination for most walkers.

The trails around Breedon on the Hill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 750 reviews. Hikers often praise the panoramic views from the top of the hill and the peaceful walks through the surrounding countryside.

Breedon on the Hill is a rural village, and public transport options can be limited. Several bus services connect to nearby towns like Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Derby, but they may not be frequent. It is recommended to check local bus timetables in advance when planning your journey.

While the routes themselves are primarily through countryside, the village of Breedon on the Hill and the nearby town of Melbourne have several pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments before or after your hike. It's a good idea to check their opening times beforehand.