The best city hikes and walks around Thornton Reservoir

There are 5 urban hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Thornton Reservoir area. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, perfect for exploring the local urban landscapes and green spaces.

Yes, the area offers several easy urban walks. For a gentle introduction, consider the Billa Barra Hill loop from Bardon, which is just over 2 km. Another accessible option is the Coalville Clock Tower – Coalville Park loop from Coalville, providing a pleasant 5.4 km stroll through urban green spaces.

The urban hikes in this guide primarily feature relatively flat terrain, often utilizing compacted gravel paths, paved sections, and well-maintained park trails. While the reservoir itself has a level, compacted gravel circular path, the urban routes extend into nearby towns and parks, offering varied surfaces suitable for most walkers.

For those looking for a longer urban adventure, the Snibston Heritage Trail – Coalville Clock Tower loop from Coalville is a moderate 9.4 km route. Another moderate option is the Duck Ponds – Hugglescote Playgroup loop from Coalville, covering approximately 9 km.

Thornton Reservoir and its surrounding urban areas are pleasant for hiking year-round. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for enjoying the outdoor facilities. Even in winter, the compacted paths around the reservoir and in urban parks remain accessible for a refreshing walk.

Many of the paths around Thornton Reservoir and in the nearby urban parks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Always ensure to check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserve areas or private land sections.

Thornton Reservoir offers excellent facilities for visitors, including free car parking, outdoor picnic areas, and public toilets. There's also a food kiosk, Bean and Boat, for refreshments, an information room, and a fishing lodge, making it a convenient base for your urban hiking adventures.

While the guide focuses on routes accessible from towns like Coalville, which has public transport links, direct public transport to Thornton Reservoir itself might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to the nearest towns or villages, such as Thornton, and plan your hike from there.

Beyond the reservoir's natural beauty, the area offers unique urban attractions. The Snibston Heritage Trail, for example, explores the industrial heritage of Coalville. The reservoir itself also features a fascinating sculpture trail reflecting local bird life, with paths designed for accessibility.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful environment, the well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities, and the opportunity to combine natural beauty with accessible urban exploration.

Yes, free car parking is available directly at Thornton Reservoir, which serves as a great starting point for exploring the immediate area. For routes starting in nearby towns like Coalville, public car parks are generally available, though charges may apply depending on the location.