The best walks and hikes around Ashby-De-La-Zouch
4.2
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991
hikers
72
hikes
Hikes around Ashby-De-La-Zouch explore the regenerated landscape of The National Forest. The region is characterized by extensive woodlands, gentle paths, and former industrial sites that have been transformed into nature reserves with lakes and brooks. The terrain consists mainly of rolling countryside and woodland trails with minimal elevation change, reflecting its location in the East Midlands.
Best hiking trails around Ashby-De-La-Zouch
- The most popular hiking route is the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre – Shell Brook Trail loop from Ashby Woulds, a 5.3 mile (8.5 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route follows paths around the lakes and through the woods of the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Willesley Wood – Willesley Wood loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, a moderate 5.4 mile (8.6 km) path. The trail leads through the established woodland of Willesley Wood on well-maintained paths.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Oakthorpe Colliery – Hicks Lodge Café loop from Willesley, a 2.0 mile (3.3 km) trail leading through a former colliery site, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Ashby-De-La-Zouch is defined by woodland walks, paths through reclaimed forest parks, and trails around reservoirs and lakes. The network of National Forest walks offers routes suitable for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Ashby-De-La-Zouch are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 980 hikers have used komoot to explore Ashby-De-La-Zouch's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
4.3
(11)
124
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
132
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.2
(5)
17
hikers
6.15km
01:38
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
31
hikers
2.84km
00:44
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(3)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely cycling through tree lined paths. Has some good routes for different levels too. Worth a short visit or plan a ride outside of the area as part of a longer ride. Cafe gets very busy and has play areas for kids.
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There was a church in the town in the 11th century, but the core of the present building mainly dates from work started in 1474, when the church was rebuilt by the 1st Baron Hastings at the same time that he converted his neighbouring manor house into a castle. The church was refurbished in about 1670 to create more space, but the large & increasing size of the congregation led to further work in 1829, and a major rebuild in 1878–80. Domesday recorded that a priest was resident in Ashby, and that the church dedicated to St Helen consisted only of a nave. In about 1144, Philip Beaumains, lord of the Manor of Ashby, granted the church, its lands and revenues to the Augustinian community of Lilleshall Abbey, which retained possession until 1538. Parts of the current nave & chancel date from the C14, but the church was rebuilt and enlarged by William Hastings in 1474, at the same time that he erected the tower at the castle.
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The memorial is to Edith, Lady Maud Hastings, Countess of Loudoun, a member of the ancient Hastings family who had been important in this area for centuries. As a sort of "lady of the manor" she was much loved by the townspeople, and died at Ventnor on the Isle of Wight in 1874. It was one of the last designs by the eminent architect Gilbert Scott, and completed in 1879, the year after his death. The design is based on the Eleanor Crosses, set up by Edward I as memorials to his Queen, Eleanor of Castile, at places where her body rested on its way to London. Only three of these remain - at Geddington and Hardingstone in Northamptonshire and at Waltham Cross in Hertfordshire, just outside the Essex town of Waltham Abbey. The inscription on the memorial is by Benjamin Disraeli. The Loudoun Memorial stands on the site of Gawbey's Hole, a water pump where much gossiping was wont to take place.
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Hicks Lodge trail ride blue flat and the walks around the lake flat with cafe and park bike hire
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Start of the bike blue trail. They are skills and pump track
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Hicks Lodge great walks around the lake and trail Bike trail blue Cafe, park, bike hire
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks near Ashby-de-la-Zouch?
Yes, the area is excellent for circular walks. Many trails are designed as loops through the woodlands and reclaimed landscapes of The National Forest. A good example is the Blackfordby Countryside Path loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, which takes you on a pleasant circuit through the countryside.
What are some good family-friendly or easy walks in the area?
There are many options for families and beginners, with over 40 easy trails to choose from. A popular choice is Hicks Lodge Café loop from Norris Hill. The trails at Hicks Lodge Trail Centre are well-maintained and often feature family-oriented activities like the Stickman Trail.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Ashby-de-la-Zouch?
Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly. Sence Valley Forest Park is a particularly good option, known for being a tranquil, dog-friendly natural area with numerous paths. Calke Abbey's parkland is also a local favourite for dog walking. Always check local signage for specific on-lead requirements.
Are there any walks with a café stop?
Yes, several routes incorporate a café. Hicks Lodge Trail Centre has a highly-regarded café, making it a perfect start or end point for a walk. You can enjoy a short walk like the Oakthorpe Colliery – Hicks Lodge Café loop from Willesley and finish with a refreshment.
Where can I find good woodland walks?
The region is part of The National Forest, so you're surrounded by excellent woodland walks. For a classic woodland experience, the Willesley Wood – Willesley Wood loop from Ashby-de-la-Zouch is a great choice, taking you through established forest on well-maintained paths. The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood also offers extensive trails through newly planted native woodland.
What is the terrain like for hiking around Ashby-de-la-Zouch?
The terrain is generally gentle, consisting of rolling countryside, woodland trails, and paths around former industrial sites that are now parks. Most routes have minimal elevation change, making the area accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. Paths are typically well-maintained, often gravel or dirt tracks through the forests.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through the area?
Yes, Ashby-de-la-Zouch is on the route of The National Forest Way, a 75-mile long-distance path. You can hike sections of it, such as Stage 4 to Ashby or Stage 5 from Ashby towards Ticknall. The Ivanhoe Way, a circular 35-mile trail, also passes close to the town, exploring landscapes connected to Sir Walter Scott's novel.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The trails around Ashby-de-la-Zouch are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the regenerated woodlands and the easy navigation on well-marked paths. The transformation of former industrial land like Sence Valley Forest Park into beautiful nature reserves is also a frequently mentioned highlight.
Where can I find information on parking for the trails?
Most of the main trailheads and forest parks have dedicated parking. Popular spots like Hicks Lodge, Sence Valley Forest Park, and Calke Abbey all have their own car parks, though some may charge a fee. For walks starting in villages or the town itself, you may need to use public car parks or find on-street parking.
Are there any trails with interesting historical features?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can walk through Calke Park, which surrounds Calke Abbey, a National Trust property known as the 'un-stately home'. The park itself is a National Nature Reserve with ancient trees. Dimminsdale Nature Reserve also offers a unique landscape shaped by former limestone quarries.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. In the lakes and wetlands of Sence Valley Forest Park, you can spot swans, coots, and ducks, with occasional sightings of otters. The woodlands are home to numerous bird species, and the ancient deer park at Calke Abbey offers the chance to see its resident herd.
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