Easy hikes and walks around Normanton Le Heath
4.6
(1163)
8,286
hikers
430
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Normanton Le Heath traverse a landscape shaped by former opencast mining, now transformed into diverse natural areas. The region features significant woodland, including Sence Valley Forest Park and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood, offering varied tree populations and wildlife habitats. The terrain is generally lower-lying countryside, providing scenic views and well-maintained paths suitable for accessible walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Normanton Le Heath
- The most popular easy hiking route is Sence Valley Country…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.7
(9)
31
hikers
6.74km
01:45
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
36
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
35
hikers
3.48km
00:55
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
hikers
2.86km
00:45
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Following the planting of 300,000 native broadleaf trees from 2012-2015, QEDJW is now flourishing into a beautiful young woodland made up of oak, field maple, silver birch, beech and hornbeam, to name just a few. Bluebell and wood anemone light up the forest floor in the ancient woodland areas in springtime, and at the lake you’ll find vegetation including bull rush and yellow iris.
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Planted in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012... The site is brimming with birdlife. Brush up on your bird-spotting skills at the bird hide or wander down to the open areas where ground-nesting birds, such as skylarks, can be found. The east of the site is home to mute swans, little grebes, tufted ducks, terns and mallards. At night, look out for the tawny and barn owls as they search the ground for prey.
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Planted in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012... The site is brimming with birdlife. Brush up on your bird-spotting skills at the bird hide or wander down to the open areas where ground-nesting birds, such as skylarks, can be found. The east of the site is home to mute swans, little grebes, tufted ducks, terns and mallards. At night, look out for the tawny and barn owls as they search the ground for prey.
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A plantation of 26000 trees, funded by Sainsbury's to commemorate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Normanton Le Heath?
Normanton Le Heath offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 260 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features more than 440 hiking options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Normanton Le Heath?
The easy hiking trails around Normanton Le Heath generally traverse lower-lying countryside with well-maintained paths. You'll find diverse landscapes, including significant woodland areas like Sence Valley Forest Park and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood, offering gentle ascents and descents.
Are there any family-friendly easy walks in the area?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The paths through areas like Sence Valley Forest Park are accessible and offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. A good option is the Sence Valley Forest Park loop from Ravenstone with Snibstone, which is 5.3 km long and takes about 1 hour 24 minutes.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Normanton Le Heath is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. Areas like Sence Valley Forest Park and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood provide open spaces and woodland paths. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock.
What are some scenic highlights or landmarks I can see on an easy hike?
You can explore diverse natural features and historical landmarks. The Sence Valley Country Park to Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve loop takes you through reclaimed land rich in flora and fauna, including the Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve. The 14th-century Church of Holy Trinity in Normanton Le Heath also serves as a visible landmark offering views.
Are there any circular easy walks available?
Yes, many easy routes in the area are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Hiking loop from Normanton le Heath (3.5 km) and the Sainsbury's Wood loop from Normanton le Heath (5.05 km).
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Normanton Le Heath?
The area is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings bluebells and wood anemones to ancient woodland areas, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer provides pleasant conditions for exploring the open countryside and woodlands, and winter walks can be serene, especially in the extensive tree plantations.
Are there any short easy trails for a quick walk?
Absolutely. For a shorter walk, consider the Hiking loop from Normanton le Heath, which is 3.5 km and typically completed in about 55 minutes. Another option is the Blower's Brook loop from Ibstock, a 3.3 km trail.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Normanton Le Heath?
The trails around Normanton Le Heath are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful woodland environments, and the opportunities for wildlife observation.
Are there any lakes or water features to see on the easy hikes?
Yes, the region features several water bodies. The Sence Valley Country Park to Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve loop includes the Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve. Within Sence Valley Forest Park, you can also find Horseshoe Lake, which supports various bird species.
Where can I find parking for easy trails?
Many of the popular trailheads, especially those within Sence Valley Forest Park and near the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching on these easy trails?
Absolutely. Both Sence Valley Forest Park and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood are havens for birds. You might spot skylarks, mute swans, little grebes, tufted ducks, and even tawny or barn owls. Sence Valley Forest Park also has a dedicated bird hide for observation.
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