Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Derbyshire
Amber Valley

Horsley Woodhouse

The best hikes from bus stations around Horsley Woodhouse

4.5

(3143)

17,285

hikers

9

hikes

Bus station hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse traverse a landscape of gentle rolling hills and tranquil woodlands in Derbyshire's Amber Valley. The region features an extensive network of footpaths crossing open fields and pastures, often incorporating natural features such as Gipsy Brook. Hikers can explore areas like Mapperley Reservoir, Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve, and Brackley Gate Woods, which contribute to the varied terrain. The routes offer a mix of easily accessible paths and more moderate options.

Best bus station hiking…

Last updated: July 14, 2026

3.3

(3)

11

hikers

#1.

St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – St. Clement's Church, Horsley loop from Horsley Woodhouse

8.78km

02:24

140m

140m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
Sign up for free to see 5 more hikes around Horsley Woodhouse.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Walk The Walk 🌳
February 17, 2026, Horsley Castle

It was a Norman motte and bailey castle which was founded by Ralph de Buron. In the 13th century King John built a stone castle, adding a keep, a chapel, a gatehouse and a barbican. In 1514 it was granted by Henry VIII to the Duke of Norfolk as a reward for services against the Scots. Later it came into the possession of the Stanhope family. The castle is ruined today, damaged by extensive quarrying. There are visible remains of the keep although this is now largely overgrown.

0

0

Though the building looks quite modern, reportedly Smalley Baptist Church was built in 1784. To acommodate increasing number, the church was lengthened in 1820 and a gallery was added.

0

0

Smalley's Parish Church of St John the Baptist was built in the late 18th century on the site of a much earlier church, the transepts being added later in 1844. A seventh century Saxon cross forms part of the porch. The bell tower was built in 1911, to the designs of Currey and Thompson, housing five bells donated by the Rev. Charles Kerry. The chime of five bells is said to be the heaviest in England, the largest bell weighing over 2 tons. The parish church hosts occasional street parties for the residents of Smalley.

0

0

Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.

0

0

Horsley has three main focal points: the village green at the West side of the village, the crossroads of The Dovecote, French Lane and Church Street, and the junction of Church Street, Lady Lea Road and Smalley Mill Road (known locally as "the triangle"). Each of these points boasts a fountain, donated to the village in 1864 by Reverend Sitwell. The fountains were named Sophia, Rosamund and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters. The Sitwells of Horsley, Derbyshire, were related to the Sitwell family of Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire, where they had inherited the lordship of the manor on marrying a Wheler family heiress.

0

0

Horsley Lodge is a Par 72 course spanning 164 acres. Its 6544 yards wind beautifully through the Derbyshire countryside. Originally meadowland, it has transformed into a parkland course over the last 30 years, with trees providing each hole with distinctive definition.

0

0

The church dates from the 14th century. It was restored between 1858 and 1860 by the contractor Kerry and Allen of Smalley. It re-opened on 11 September 1860.

0

0

St Anthony's Well at Coxbench.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many bus station hiking trails are available around Horsley Woodhouse?

There are 9 distinct hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Horsley Woodhouse. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate excursions through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside.

What kind of landscapes can I expect on these bus-accessible hikes?

The trails around Horsley Woodhouse accessible by bus feature gentle rolling hills, tranquil woodlands, and open fields. You'll encounter natural features like Gipsy Brook and can explore areas near Brackley Gate Woods and Mapperley Reservoir, offering a mix of serene countryside and local charm.

Are there any easy, family-friendly walks starting from a bus stop?

Yes, several easy routes are perfect for families. The Smalley Lodge – Smalley Dam Pond loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP is an easy 4.8 km walk, ideal for a relaxed outing. Another great option is the Kilburn War Memorial loop from Denby CP, which is just over 3 km and also rated easy.

What are the most popular features or attractions hikers enjoy on these trails?

Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain and tranquil environment of the Horsley Woodhouse area. Many enjoy discovering historic churches like St. Matthew's Church in Morley or St. Clement's Church in Horsley. Points of interest such as Allestree Park and Wyver Lane Nature Reserve are also popular highlights along the routes.

Are there any moderate circular routes I can take from a bus station?

Absolutely. For a moderate circular route, consider the St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – St. Clement's Church, Horsley loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP. This trail is nearly 9 km long and offers a good balance of distance and elevation, taking you past historical sites and through scenic landscapes.

What historical sites or landmarks can I explore on these hikes?

The region is rich in history. Some routes offer views of historic churches, and you can find points of interest like St. Anthony's Well in Coxbench. Further afield, but accessible by bus connections, you might explore the remains of Dale Abbey, the unique Hermitage cave, or the Ockbrook Moravian Settlement, which offer insights into local heritage.

What do other hikers say about the trails around Horsley Woodhouse?

The komoot community highly rates the hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,800 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere, and the diverse scenery that makes for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Are there any longer, more challenging routes accessible by bus?

While there are no routes classified as 'difficult' directly from bus stations, the Mapperley Reservoir – Beggars Walk loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP is a moderate, longer option at over 14.5 km. It provides a substantial walk with varied terrain, including the scenic Mapperley Reservoir and surrounding woods.

Can I find routes that pass by water features or reservoirs?

Yes, the Mapperley Reservoir – Beggars Walk loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP specifically takes you around the beautiful Mapperley Reservoir. Additionally, the Smalley Lodge – Smalley Dam Pond loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP includes a visit to Smalley Dam Pond, offering pleasant waterside views.

What is the best time of year to hike around Horsley Woodhouse?

Horsley Woodhouse offers enjoyable hiking throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant greenery and bluebells in certain woodlands, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. The rolling countryside and woodlands provide pleasant conditions in summer, and even winter walks can be charming, though appropriate gear is recommended for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

Are there any routes that explore local woodlands?

Many routes incorporate woodland sections. For example, the Orchard of Hope – John's Wood Pond loop from Horsley Woodhouse CP is an easy 6.8 km walk that guides you through local wooded areas, offering a peaceful forest experience. You'll also find sections through Brackley Gate Woods on some local trails.

Most popular routes around Horsley Woodhouse

MTB Trails around Horsley Woodhouse

Most popular attractions around Horsley Woodhouse

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

RipleyDethick, Lea And HollowayCrichBelperDuffieldHeanor and Loscoe CPSouth WingfieldAlfretonSwanwickCodnorQuarndonHolbrookAldercar and Langley Mill CPSmalleySomercotesDenbyKilburnHorsleyShipleyPentrichIronville CP CPMapperleyAlderwasley

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Denby

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy