4.5
(468)
4,410
hikers
293
hikes
Easy hiking trails Ratcliffe on the Wreake traverse the undulating Leicestershire countryside, characterized by rolling hills and the River Wreake valley. The region offers accessible paths through a lowland landscape, often crossing well-maintained footpaths in crop or pasture fields. These routes provide views of the surrounding natural features, including meadows and local green spaces. The area's network of trails is suitable for various abilities, focusing on easy excursions.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.3
(3)
34
hikers
7.87km
02:00
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
6.27km
01:35
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
11
hikers
6.99km
01:48
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
7.60km
01:58
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
hikers
3.45km
00:52
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Constructed mainly of granite rubble and brick, the bridge features six clearly visible arches and a seventh arch that is partially hidden by the bank, with a low parapet and 3 rounded cutwaters on the east side. Formerly a crucial crossing for packhorses, it is now primarily a pedestrian feature adjacent to a ford, often used by walkers on the Leicestershire Round.
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Cossington Meadow, overseen by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, was once a gravel quarry during the 1980s and 90s. As part of the Leicestershire Round development, the pits were filled with inert waste, some areas were covered with soil and seeded with grass, and deep holes were intentionally left to create lakes. Interpretation boards across the site provide information about the diverse plant and animal life that has established itself in the reserve.
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Constructed in 1714, this seven-arched packhorse bridge stands as a historical landmark. Only five arches are visible now. According to village records, it was built by by six men in nine days.
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Don't miss out on the knicker boker glory 🙌
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The footbridge crossing the River Soar weir is on the "Purple route" around Watermead Country Park, a beautiful loop of hard surfaced path, with a network of lakes on one side and the Grand Union Canal on the other.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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There are over 150 easy hiking trails around Ratcliffe On The Wreake, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the Leicestershire countryside.
Yes, many easy routes in the area are circular. For example, the Badobean Coffee Truck loop from Syston is a short, easy circular walk. Another option is the Lovely Spinney loop from Syston, which offers a slightly longer circular experience.
Easy hikes in Ratcliffe On The Wreake often follow the River Wreake and River Soar valleys, offering picturesque views of meadows and local green spaces. You'll experience the undulating Leicestershire countryside, characterized by rolling hills and well-maintained footpaths through crop or pasture fields. The area also features mature trees, tree lines, and hedgerows contributing to its biodiversity.
Yes, the easy trails are generally suitable for families. Many paths are accessible and have minimal elevation gain, making them ideal for all ages. St Luke's Field, near Melbourne Lane, is a quiet oasis popular with families, featuring wild grass, flowers, and seating.
Many of the public footpaths and green spaces in the Ratcliffe On The Wreake area are dog-friendly. St Luke's Field is specifically mentioned as popular with dog walkers. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially when passing through fields with livestock.
Parking availability varies by starting point. For routes originating in villages like Syston or Rearsby, you can often find local parking options. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking suggestions near the trailhead.
While hiking, you might encounter scenic views of the River Wreake valley and the village panorama of Thrussington. Nearby attractions include Bradgate Park Deer Park, Swithland Reservoir, and John Merrick's Lake, which can be incorporated into longer walks or visited separately.
The area is pleasant for hiking throughout the year. Spring offers beautiful spring blooms, particularly around Thrussington Village. The rolling countryside provides fine views in all seasons, with well-maintained footpaths generally accessible.
Yes, some easy routes pass by or start near local amenities. For instance, the Beardsley's Café – Rearsby Seven Arched Bridge loop from Rearsby is named after a local cafe. The Badobean Coffee Truck loop from Syston also offers a stop near local amenities. Villages in the area often have pubs or cafes for refreshments.
The easy trails in Ratcliffe On The Wreake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 440 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible paths, the scenic river valleys, and the peaceful, rolling Leicestershire countryside.
While some villages like Syston and Rearsby may have limited public transport links, direct access to all trailheads via public transport can be challenging. It's recommended to check local bus routes or consider driving to a suitable starting point.
Yes, the John Merrick's Lake – Bridge Over the River Soar loop from Syston is an easy path that follows the River Soar, providing pleasant riverside scenery.


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