4.5
(2156)
13,938
hikers
503
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Sawley are characterized by their accessible, largely flat terrain, following the extensive network of rivers and canals. The region features the River Trent and the Erewash Canal, offering numerous waterside paths and green spaces. Hikers can explore modest woodlands, open countryside, and historical sites such as Sawley Abbey and Harrington Bridge. The landscape provides a blend of rural and urban scenery, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
8.37km
02:07
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.48km
01:08
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
hikers
5.62km
01:25
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
9.68km
02:27
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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I love this bridge. It's worth to stop after when you are back from Elvaston Castle.
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Sawley Cut and the Locks were built around 1796, to bypass difficult and shallow sections of the Trent Navigation, also in response to the Trent Navigation Company losing out to the Trent and Mersey Canal, Derby Canal, Erewash Canal, and Nottingham Canal.
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Harrington Bridge crosses the River Trent near Sawley in Derbyshire carrying the Tamworth Road (B6540) into Leicestershire. The stonework of the bridge dates from 1790, but the central section was replaced in 1905 after it was damaged by flood water. The central section is the only part of the bridge that is not a listed building.
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The church dates from the 11th century but the existing structure is mainly thirteenth century and contains Saxon and Norman work. The church was restored in 1838 and the chancel was restored in 1865 at the expense of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners.
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Sawley Baptist Church, was built on Wilne Lane in 1800.
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The building was commissioned by a local gentleman farmer, John Howitt: the site he selected had been open pasture and the building became known as Long Eaton Hall. It was designed by Joseph Pickford in the Palladian style, built in red brick with sandstone dressings and was completed in 1778.
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The church dates from the 12th century. It was largely rebuilt between 1868 and 1869 by the architect George Edmund Street.
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I liked cycled long side of the canal. It was quiet and was lovely to see the swans.
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There are over 500 hiking trails around Sawley that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes cater to various preferences, from short, leisurely strolls to longer, more challenging excursions.
Sawley offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest, all within easy reach of public transport. The area is characterized by its scenic waterways, including the River Trent and the Erewash Canal, alongside green spaces and historical sites like the Sawley Cut and Locks. Many routes start directly from bus stops, making it convenient to explore without a car.
Yes, Sawley has many easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the All Saints Church, Sawley loop from Sawley, which is an easy 4.5 km (2.8 miles) walk. These trails often feature gentle gradients and pleasant scenery, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Absolutely. Many of the trails around Sawley are designed as circular routes, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For example, the Sawley Cut and Locks – River Trent near Shardlow loop from Sawley is an easy 5.6 km (3.5 miles) circular hike that showcases the area's waterways and historical features.
The bus-accessible hikes in Sawley offer diverse landscapes. You'll encounter tranquil riverside paths along the River Trent, peaceful stretches of the Erewash Canal, and verdant green spaces. The Sawley Cut and Locks are notable features along the canal, and some routes provide pleasant views across the open countryside.
Yes, the region is rich in history. The Sawley Cut and Locks, built around 1796, are prominent historical features you'll encounter on many walks. While not directly on every bus-accessible route, the historic Sawley Abbey is a significant local landmark. You can also find other points of interest like Attenborough Nature Reserve, which is a short distance away and offers beautiful lake views.
The hiking trails around Sawley are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the accessible paths, the variety of landscapes, and the overall pleasant experience of exploring the area's rivers, canals, and green spaces.
While many routes are easy, there are moderate options for those seeking a longer walk. The Long Eaton Town Hall loop from Sawley is a moderate 8.3 km (5.2 miles) hike, offering a good balance of distance and exploration. For even longer excursions, the All Saints Church, Sawley – Long Eaton Town Hall loop from Sawley covers 9.7 km (6 miles) with minimal elevation change.
Sawley's diverse landscape makes it suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and vibrant flora, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Winter provides crisp, quiet walks, often with clear views. The paths along the waterways and through green spaces are generally well-maintained, allowing for enjoyable hiking in most conditions.
Yes, while hiking from Sawley's bus stations, you can find routes that lead to or pass near several natural attractions. The Attenborough Nature Reserve is a notable highlight in the vicinity, offering beautiful lake scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Other nearby lakes include Melbourne Pool and Highfields Lake, University Park.
Many of the trails around Sawley, particularly those along the canals and rivers and through open countryside, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserve areas, and to be mindful of local signage regarding dog access.


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