Easy hikes and walks around Blackbrook Reservoir

There are over 200 easy hiking trails around Blackbrook Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences. In total, the area features more than 370 routes for hiking.

Easy hikes around Blackbrook Reservoir feature a diverse landscape. You'll find paths winding through oak-birch woodlands, across heathland, and through rolling fields. The area is also characterized by Charnwood Forest's distinctive craggy terrain, offering panoramic views. Most easy routes have moderate elevation changes, suitable for beginners.

Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The varied terrain with woodlands and reservoir views provides an engaging experience for all ages. Routes like the Mount St Bernard Abbey – Blackbrook Reservoir loop from Mount Saint Bernard Abbey, at 4.4 km, are popular choices for a pleasant family outing.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths around Blackbrook Reservoir. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock, wildlife, or in areas designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to unique plant communities. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help preserve the natural environment.

The area is rich in both natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the 19th-century Mount St Bernard Abbey, a living monastic community, or admire the striking blue brick One Barrow Viaduct crossing the reservoir. Ancient history can be found at Swannymote Rock, believed to be a former forest court.

Yes, the Blackbrook Reservoir area is well-known for its numerous looped trails. Many easy routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mount St Bernard Abbey – View of Whitwick Monastery loop from Mount Saint Bernard Abbey and the Blackbrook Reservoir – Mount St Bernard Abbey loop from Shepshed.

Parking is often available near popular starting points for trails, such as around Mount St Bernard Abbey. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for designated parking areas or nearby public car parks to ensure convenient access to your chosen easy hike.

While the area is primarily accessed by car, some routes may be reachable via local bus services to nearby towns like Shepshed or Whitwick, from which you can connect to the trailheads. Planning your journey in advance with local transport providers is recommended.

Blackbrook Reservoir offers enjoyable easy hikes year-round. Spring brings blooming flora and active wildlife, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter walks can be beautiful, especially after a fresh snowfall, though paths might be muddy or icy. Always check weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear.

The easy trails around Blackbrook Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the serene reservoir views, the peaceful woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.

While the immediate reservoir area is quite natural, you can often find cafes or pubs in the nearby villages and towns such as Shepshed or Whitwick. Mount St Bernard Abbey also has facilities that may offer refreshments. It's a good idea to pack water and snacks, especially for longer walks, and check local opening times if you plan to visit a specific establishment.

Blackbrook Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), making it a great spot for wildlife. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, and if you're lucky, you might even spot native white-clawed crayfish in the lake. The surrounding woodlands and heathlands also support various small mammals and insects.