4.6
(937)
9,159
hikers
316
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Barrow Upon Soar offer access to the scenic Soar Valley, characterized by the meandering River Soar and its surrounding floodplains. The landscape features gentle elevations, including hills like Beacon Hill, and diverse natural areas such as Swithland Wood and Groby Pool. The region's geology includes historical limestone and gypsum deposits, contributing to varied habitats. Trails often follow riverside paths, canal towpaths, and traditional pedestrian footpaths.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
13
hikers
5.73km
01:30
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
16.1km
04:11
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
5.10km
01:19
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.24km
00:51
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Good food and coffee. Lovely garden to sit in. Safe for your bikes
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A good place to take a breather and watch the boats. Cotes Road and South Street provide a nice, quiet north - south run avoiding the A6 on the other side of the river.
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Traffic lights both sides. Nasty little climb up towards the village that will take the wind out of your sails!
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Great spot on the river coming into Barrow via Broadway Meadow
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The bridge crosses the River Soar navigation. Located only a stone's throw from the bridge is the Soar Bridge Inn, a traditional pub popular with boaters and walkers attracted by the picturesque scene.
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Great place to stop. Good food but can be busy
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Cosy spot situated on a scenic road; a great place to stop on a bike ride. Staffed by friendly people who provide quick service.
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The cafe is welcome, the farnyard is great for kids amd the motor museum is worth s visit too. The farm ahop has great local food. There’s a bed and breakfast there too. Fanily run
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There are over 300 hiking routes accessible from bus stations around Barrow Upon Soar. These include a wide variety of trails, with approximately 150 easy and 150 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
Hikes accessible by bus in Barrow Upon Soar offer diverse landscapes. You'll find tranquil riverside paths along the River Soar, picturesque views of the Soar Valley, and opportunities to explore woodlands like Swithland Wood. Many routes also feature open countryside and views of historic features like the Great Central Railway.
Yes, there are several easy, circular routes. For a pleasant short walk, consider the Barrow Bridge loop from Barrow upon Soar, which is just over 5 km. Another option is the Barrow Bridge loop from Charnwood, offering a similar distance and ease.
For a moderate, longer hike, try The Navigation Inn – Barrow Bridge loop from Barrow upon Soar. This route spans over 16 km and offers a good challenge while showcasing the local scenery.
Many of the easy, shorter routes are suitable for families. The riverside paths and areas like the Millennium Park offer gentle terrain. Look for routes that are clearly marked as 'easy' and have shorter distances, such as the The Navigation Inn – Barrow Bridge loop from Charnwood, which is just over 3 km.
Yes, many trails in the Barrow Upon Soar area are dog-friendly, especially those along the River Soar and through woodlands. Always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or wildlife, and check for any specific local restrictions or lead requirements, especially in nature reserves.
You can encounter several natural attractions. The River Soar and Soar Valley are central features, rich in wildlife. You might also find routes that pass near Swithland Reservoir or through Swithland Wood, known for its native flora and fauna. The Bradgate Park Deer Park and Cropston Reservoir are also notable natural features in the wider area.
While Barrow Upon Soar itself is relatively flat, some routes may offer glimpses of the wider Leicestershire countryside. For more expansive views, trails leading towards areas like Beacon Hill Summit (the second-highest point in Leicestershire) offer tremendous panoramas, though these might require a slightly longer walk from the nearest bus stop.
The bus station accessible trails around Barrow Upon Soar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 850 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside walks, the variety of landscapes, and the convenience of accessing trails directly from public transport.
Yes, many routes, especially those along the River Soar, pass by traditional pubs like the Soar Bridge Inn, offering a perfect stop for refreshments. The village of Barrow Upon Soar itself also has various amenities, including cafes and pubs, easily reachable from bus stops.
The trails around Barrow Upon Soar are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers pleasant conditions for longer walks. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be charming, though some riverside paths may be muddy, so appropriate footwear is always recommended.


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