Walks from Loughborough

Canal, footpaths and roadside footpath.

Time: 4h30–8h30

3 lunch spots: the Anchor Inn (1h30–3h30 in), the Blacksmith's Arms (2h30–5h30 in), or the Moorings (3h–5h30 in)

1 end-of-walk reward: the Boat Inn

Warnings: Last section on busy road.

Adapted from: the Leicester Ramblers.

A cross-country walk that starts along the Loughborough canal, then crosses fields and briefly woodland in the Soar valley, with narrow paths and bridges to negotiate. It can be quite muddy towards the end and is prone to flooding in wet weather and with a number of steps and stiles. Barrow upon Soar makes a good stop roughly halfway.

Time: 2h30–5h30

Lunch: Quite a few nice pubs along the way, with Barrow upon Soar a good half-way stop for a drink.

Warnings: The Soar valley floods quite frequently and the route can become impassable after heavy rain, with stiles surrounded by water and lanes underwater; a couple of big roads to cross, and a herd of cows and a farm with a 'dogs loose' sign en route. Can be muddy.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Some pleasant parts and fine views. A long, challenging walk on well-maintained but largely unsurfaced field paths with many stiles, climbing away from the River Wreake valley with fine views. Includes some road walking and parts with poor or no verge. Crosses the Roman Fosse Way at Six Hills; uses the Leicestershire Round in places. Can be broken at intermediate points.

Time: 7h–14h30

Lunch: Pubs in most villages but no shops.

Warnings: Several stretches of road have narrow or no verge with fast, constant traffic, including the final approach to Loughborough where a brick wall leaves no room. Numerous stiles, grazing cattle, and unassisted level crossings.

Walk details: Slow Ways.