The best walks and hikes around Sileby
4.5
(883)
9,059
hikers
435
hikes
Hikes around Sileby explore the gentle countryside of Leicestershire, characterized by riverside paths along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal. The terrain is a mix of meadows, woodlands, and nature reserves like Watermead Country Park and Cossington Meadows. Nearby, the ancient, rocky hills of Charnwood Forest provide more varied elevations for walking routes.
Best hiking trails around Sileby
- The most popular hiking route is Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Charnwood, a 6.6 mile (10.6 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route combines waterside and woodland scenery.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Barrow Bridge loop from Charnwood, an easy 4.7 mile (7.5 km) path. The trail follows relatively flat terrain along the River Soar, making it suitable for a shorter outing.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Barrow-upon-Soar Bridge – Barrow Bridge loop from Charnwood, a 6.1 mile (9.9 km) trail leading through the Soar Valley, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Sileby is defined by tranquil canal towpaths, reservoir circuits, and the rugged outcrops of Charnwood Forest. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from easy family walks to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Sileby are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 690 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Sileby's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
4.4
(9)
44
hikers
10.6km
02:46
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(4)
33
hikers
10.2km
02:38
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.5
(4)
36
hikers
7.87km
02:00
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
32
hikers
7.58km
01:55
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3.6
(5)
25
hikers
10.5km
02:45
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
The stretch of road in Kinchley Lane going past Swithland Reservoir is a super nice biking stretch, mainly tree-lined, but you will still get some good reservoir views here and there.
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Swithland Reservoir is a stunning reservoir and is one of the biggest ones in Leicestershire. They say it has over 200 bird species and is a proper little hotspot for birdwatchers.
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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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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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A heritage centre entre stands on the site of the abandoned Nunckley granite quarry. A branch railway line was constructed in 1897 and conveyed over 100,000 tons of ballast from the quarry for the construction of the Great Central Railway. The quarry was closed in 1924 and the branch line in 1964. Work to restore the line started in 2007 and the site, including a heritage centre, coffee shop and railway station was opened to the public in 2016.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Sileby?
There are over 400 hiking routes to explore around Sileby. These range from easy riverside strolls along the River Soar to more challenging treks in the nearby Charnwood Forest, offering plenty of options for all abilities.
Are there any good circular walks starting from Sileby?
Yes, Sileby is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. The village itself is the hub for several marked circular paths that guide you through the local countryside and back. For a shorter, easy option, consider the Hiking loop from Rothley, which is great for a quick outing.
What are the best family-friendly walks near Sileby?
For a family day out, Watermead Country Park is a fantastic choice. It has a network of surfaced, flat paths around several lakes, making it suitable for pushchairs and little legs. The park was created from former gravel pits and now offers plenty of wildlife to spot. You can find more information on the official visitor guide.
Are the walking trails around Sileby suitable for dogs?
Many trails around Sileby are great for walking with dogs. The paths along the River Soar and through Cossington Meadows are popular choices. Cossington Meadows is particularly well-regarded by dog owners for its quiet and tranquil environment. As always, please keep dogs under control, especially near livestock and wildlife.
Where can I find walks with good views?
For some of the best panoramic views in Leicestershire, head to the nearby Charnwood Forest. A hike up Beacon Hill in the highly-rated Beacon Hill Country Park will reward you with stunning vistas across the landscape. The park's trails are well-maintained and offer a more rugged hiking experience compared to the flatter riverside paths.
What are the best walks for seeing wildlife near Sileby?
The area is rich in wildlife. LRWT Cossington Meadows is a fabulous, quiet place known for its birdlife and tranquil atmosphere. Watermead Country Park, with its varied habitats of lakes, reedbeds, and meadows, is also excellent for bird watching. For a woodland experience, the ancient Outwoods offers a chance to see local flora and fauna, including beautiful bluebells in spring.
Are there any easy riverside walks?
Yes, the paths along the River Soar and the Grand Union Canal offer miles of flat, easy walking. These towpaths provide a peaceful route through the countryside, connecting Sileby with nearby villages. A great example is the Rothley War Memorial loop from Mountsorrel, which follows the river for part of its course.
Where can I park for a walk near Sileby?
Parking availability depends on your chosen route. For walks in Charnwood Forest, both Beacon Hill Country Park and Outwoods have dedicated pay-and-display car parks. For walks starting in Sileby village or along the river, you will typically need to find on-street parking, so please park considerately.
Can I get to the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, Sileby has a train station with connections to Leicester and Loughborough, making it accessible without a car. Additionally, the Great Central Railway, a heritage line, has a station in the village, offering a unique way to combine a walk with a nostalgic train journey through the Soar Valley.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Sileby?
The hiking routes around Sileby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from almost 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the tranquil paths along the River Soar to the rugged, ancient landscapes of Charnwood Forest.
Are there any long-distance footpaths that pass near Sileby?
Yes, the Leicestershire Round, a 100-mile circular route around the county, passes through the scenic countryside near Sileby. You can join the path for a day's hike to explore a segment of this well-known long-distance trail.
What is the terrain like on the Sileby hikes?
The terrain is quite varied. Hikes in the immediate vicinity of Sileby, particularly along the River Soar and Grand Union Canal, are predominantly flat and gentle. In contrast, routes that venture into Charnwood Forest feature more challenging, hilly terrain with rocky outcrops and ancient woodlands.
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