The best walks and hikes around Snarestone

Yes, many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs. Sence Valley Forest Park is a particularly popular, dog-friendly natural area with numerous trails. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially when crossing agricultural land where livestock may be present, and keep dogs on a lead where required.

Absolutely. The region offers many gentle walks perfect for families. The towpath along the Ashby Canal is flat and provides a safe, scenic route for all ages. For a short and accessible countryside walk, the Hiking loop from Arlick Farm is a great option, covering just over 3 miles.

The area is excellent for circular hikes. A highly regarded route is the Shackerstone Motte loop from Snarestone, which combines a peaceful stretch of the Ashby Canal with footpaths leading to a historic site. It offers a varied experience over approximately 6.5 miles.

Parking is available at several key starting points for hikes. Sence Valley Forest Park has its own car park, making it a convenient base for exploring its network of trails. For other routes, on-street parking may be available in villages like Snarestone, but please park considerately. Some trailheads, like at Outwoods, may have a small parking fee.

Yes, several routes can easily incorporate a stop at a local pub. The circular walk from Snarestone towards Shackerstone, for example, passes through villages with traditional pubs. It's always a good idea to check the pub's opening times in advance, especially if you plan to end your hike with a meal or a drink.

The Ashby Canal offers miles of level, lock-free towpath, making it ideal for gentle and peaceful walks. The path provides a great opportunity for wildlife spotting, with herons and kingfishers often seen along the water. The section near Snarestone is particularly scenic and forms part of several popular circular routes in the region.

Sence Valley Forest Park, a former open-cast mine, now features a network of well-maintained trails suitable for all abilities. The paths wind around a series of lakes and through newly planted woodlands. You can enjoy a comprehensive tour of the area on the Sence Valley Forest Park loop from Swepstone, which is a moderate 7.2-mile hike.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging day out, the Moira Furnace and Canal – Ashby Wolds Heritage Trail loop from Measham is a substantial 15-mile route. It explores the area's industrial heritage, including the historic furnace, and its transformation into a green landscape within The National Forest.

The terrain is generally gentle, characterized by rolling countryside rather than steep climbs. Most routes have minimal elevation gain, such as the paths along the Ashby Canal or through Sence Valley Forest Park. While some trails like the Willesley Lake – Oakthorpe Colliery loop from Measham involve some small hills, the area is very accessible for hikers of most fitness levels.

The trails around Snarestone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful waterside walks along the Ashby Canal and the successful regeneration of nature in areas like Sence Valley Forest Park. The variety of landscapes, from woodland to open parkland, is a frequently mentioned highlight.

Besides the immediate trails, several well-regarded spots in the wider area are popular with hikers:

• Sence Valley Forest Park: A local favorite known for its tranquil lakes and numerous dog-friendly trails.
• Beacon Hill Country Park: A must-visit park with well-maintained trails, stunning scenery, and unique chainsaw-carved sculptures.
• Outwoods, Leicestershire: A great walking area with good paths and views towards Loughborough.
• Martinshaw Wood: A decent-sized woodland offering a peaceful walking experience for about an hour and a half.

There is a wide selection of routes to explore, with over 300 hiking trails mapped around Snarestone on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to more demanding all-day treks, ensuring there's a walk for every ability and interest.