The best walks and hikes around Lubenham
4.4
(382)
2,734
hikers
279
hikes
Hikes around Lubenham explore the rolling countryside of South Leicestershire. The landscape is characterized by open green spaces, agricultural fields, and paths along the Grand Union Canal. Many routes follow the gentle contours of the Welland Valley, offering a mix of waterside sections and views from low hills.
Best hiking trails around Lubenham
- The most popular hiking route is the Grand Union Canal Bridge Walk via Foxton Junction, a 5.7 mile (9.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route features sections along the canal towpath and passes near the Foxton Locks.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Foxton Locks loop — Grand Union Canal, an easy 2.7 mile (4.4 km) path. This shorter Lubenham circular walk provides a direct way to experience the canal and its historic lock system.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Binleys Bridge (Bridge 67) – Bridge 68, Grand Union Canal loop from Gumley, a 7.3 mile (11.7 km) trail leading through open countryside, often completed in about 3 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Lubenham is defined by canal towpaths, rolling hills, and footpaths through open fields. The network of trails provides options for various ability levels, from short, easy walks to more moderate countryside hikes.
- The routes in Lubenham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Lubenham's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.8
(20)
82
hikers
9.11km
02:23
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
64
hikers
4.39km
01:10
40m
40m
The Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop is an easy 2.7-mile hike exploring the historic Foxton Locks and scenic canal-side paths.
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4.4
(9)
46
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
53
hikers
15.0km
03:50
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
28
hikers
7.61km
02:02
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Foxton locks is the longest staircase flight of canal locks in Britain. The feet of engineering was completed in 1814 and allows canal boats to climb the 75-foot (23m) hill. There is a museum here and you can take a boat trip up the locks (summer only).
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Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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JG Pears is one of the UK's leading processors of animal by-products and food waste. Pioneering environmentally-aware practices since we started out in 1972, we play a vital role in the agricultural and food industries. Collecting from across the UK, we take material that would otherwise require incineration or go into landfill and turn it into sustainable high-quality products. Our processing plants are modern, hygienic, and use cutting-edge techniques to ensure that all material is processed via a bio-secure environment into finished products that are fully utilised around the world. Across the Group, we operate under a net zero carbon footprint. source: https://jgpears.com/
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Gumley is a quaint village featuring the historic Saint Helen's Church, a Grade II listed building. The village is also notable for Gumley Hall, a historic estate with a tall clock tower, adding character to this rural village.
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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An easy country walk along footpaths and a gated road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking routes around Lubenham suitable for families with children?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The area around Foxton Locks is particularly good for a shorter, engaging walk. For an easy outing, consider the Foxton Locks loop — Grand Union Canal. It's a relatively short and flat trail that allows kids to see the historic canal boats and locks.
Can I take my dog on the trails near Lubenham?
Most countryside paths around Lubenham are great for walking with a dog. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. The paths along the Grand Union Canal are also popular with dog walkers.
What is the typical terrain like on the Lubenham hikes?
The terrain is generally gentle, featuring a mix of canal towpaths, footpaths across open fields, and tracks through rolling countryside. Some routes, like those exploring the Welland Valley, involve mild ascents to viewpoints, but most paths are well-maintained and not overly strenuous.
Are there any circular walks that start and end in Lubenham village?
Yes, Lubenham is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. The village has three waymarked circular routes beginning from the village green. These trails vary in length and guide you through the surrounding countryside, with one popular option leading towards Foxton Locks and back.
Where are the best places for scenic views on the trails?
For expansive views across the Leicestershire countryside, seek out the trails that take you up Mill Hill. From this vantage point, it's said you can see the spires of up to nine different churches on a clear day. Many routes also offer lovely views across the Welland Valley.
Are there any walks that feature the Grand Union Canal?
Absolutely. The Grand Union Canal is a central feature of many hikes in the area. For a moderate walk that combines countryside paths with long stretches of the canal towpath, the Grand Union Canal Bridge Walk via Foxton Junction is a great choice.
How many hiking trails are available around Lubenham?
There is a wide variety of options to explore, with over 280 hiking routes mapped around Lubenham on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging all-day hikes, covering the diverse landscape of the region.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Lubenham?
The hiking routes around Lubenham are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery of the English countryside, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful sections along the canal. The combination of natural beauty and industrial heritage at Foxton Locks is a frequently mentioned highlight.
Can I get to Market Harborough from Lubenham on foot?
Yes, there is a safe, off-road footpath known as Adam's Mile that connects Lubenham with Market Harborough. It follows the route of a disused railway line, making for a pleasant and scenic walk or cycle between the village and the town.
Are there any particularly long or challenging hikes in the area?
While most trails are moderate, there are longer options for those seeking a challenge. The Foxton Locks and Bridge 61 – Foxton Road Swing Bridge loop from Gumley is a 15 km route that offers a more extensive exploration of the canal system and surrounding fields.
What are some popular places for hiking near Lubenham?
Besides the immediate village trails, hikers often visit nearby spots. Beacon Hill Country Park is a highly-rated favorite, known for its well-maintained trails, gorgeous scenery, and unique wood sculptures. For a different experience, Hick's Lodge offers pleasant gravel paths around a lake and through woodlands.
Where can I find more information on the local village trails?
The Lubenham Heritage Group provides excellent resources on the local paths. You can find details about the village's history and a map of the main circular walks on their website. A downloadable PDF of the trail map is available here: Lubenham Village Walks.
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