The best walks and hikes around Kilburn
4.5
(3020)
16,797
hikers
17
hikes
Walks around Kilburn explore the countryside of Amber Valley in Derbyshire. The landscape is characterized by a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and gentle hills. Many routes follow the path of the Bottle Brook, a small waterway that runs through the region.
Best hiking trails around Kilburn
- The most popular hiking route is St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – Brackley Gate Woods loop from Kilburn, a 6.3 mile (10.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate hike features an elevation gain of over 170 meters.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is The Dead Poet's Inn – The Spotted Cow loop from Kilburn CP, a moderate 4.9 mile (7.9 km) path. The route combines sections through fields with quiet country lanes.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the St. Clement's Church, Horsley – Kilburn War Memorial loop from Kilburn CP, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) trail leading through the local countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Kilburn is defined by gentle hills, open fields, and quiet woodlands. The network of paths offers a selection of easy and moderate routes suitable for different ability levels.
- The routes in Kilburn are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,300 reviews. More than 14,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kilburn's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
6
hikers
10.1km
02:49
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
4.15km
01:06
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
5
hikers
7.90km
02:07
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
9.02km
02:29
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.
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Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.
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The church dates from the 14th century. It was restored between 1858 and 1860 by the contractor Kerry and Allen of Smalley. It re-opened on 11 September 1860.
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A fantastic spot for dog walking and exploring, though it can get a bit busy with mountain bikers on weekends. The woods border Breadsall Priory golf course, with a footpath leading out to the road.
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The granite obelisk and plinth stands on a sandstone base originally erected in memory of two men who lost their lives in the South African Campaign. Additional granite plaques have been added around the obelisk to commemorate subsequent conflicts. There is also a cast metal plaque on wooden backboard, with raised lettering, to commemorate the work of Mrs Winifred Wassell. The memorial is in a conservation area and was listed at Grade II in 2000 following an application by War Memorials Trust at the request of the Parish Council.
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The Spotted Calf cafe has now closed (late 2023) but the Spotted Cow pub remains open.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good circular walks starting from Kilburn?
Yes, most of the popular routes in the area are circular, meaning you can start and end your walk in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Hiking loop from Kilburn CP, which offers a pleasant tour of the local countryside.
What is the landscape like on hikes around Kilburn?
The walks around Kilburn take you through the classic Derbyshire countryside of the Amber Valley. You can expect a mix of open fields, quiet wooded areas, and gentle rolling hills. Many routes also follow the path of the Bottle Brook, a small local waterway.
Are the trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Definitely. There's a good selection of easier trails perfect for a relaxed day out. Over half of the routes in the area are rated as easy, typically featuring gentle gradients and clear paths. For a shorter, accessible option, consider the St. Clement's Church, Horsley – Kilburn War Memorial loop from Kilburn CP.
Can I take my dog on the trails near Kilburn?
Yes, the area is generally suitable for dog walking. The trails through open fields and woodlands offer great exercise. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas and to respect the Countryside Code.
Are there any pub walks in the area?
Yes, combining a good walk with a pub stop is a popular activity here. One route that incorporates local inns is The Spotted Cow – Holly Bush Inn loop from Amber Valley. It's a great way to experience the local hospitality after exploring the countryside.
What do other hikers enjoy about the walks around Kilburn?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of ratings. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the mix of field and woodland paths, and the beautiful views across the Amber Valley. The well-maintained trails and variety of route lengths are also frequently mentioned.
How many hiking trails are there around Kilburn?
You can explore around 19 marked hiking routes in the Kilburn area. The collection includes a mix of easy and moderate trails, ensuring there are good options whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging half-day hike.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
Yes, if you're looking for a longer walk, there are several moderate routes. These trails involve more distance and some gentle climbs. A popular choice for a more substantial hike is the St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – Brackley Gate Woods loop from Kilburn, which is over 10 km and includes over 170 meters of elevation gain.
What kind of elevation gain should I expect on these hikes?
The terrain is characterized by gentle, rolling hills rather than steep mountains. Most easy walks have minimal elevation gain, often under 100 meters. Moderate routes, like The Dead Poet's Inn – The Spotted Cow loop from Kilburn CP, involve some gentle climbs that reward you with lovely views of the surrounding valley.
Are the trails around Kilburn suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the shorter, easier loops are great for a family outing. The paths are generally clear and the terrain isn't too strenuous for younger walkers. Look for routes under 5 km with minimal climbing for the best experience with kids.
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