The best walks and hikes around Horsley Woodhouse
4.5
(3143)
17,285
hikers
1,155
hikes
Hikes around Horsley Woodhouse explore the rural landscape of Derbyshire's Amber Valley. The region is characterized by gentle rolling hills, pockets of woodland, and a network of footpaths that cross open fields and pastures. The Gipsy Brook adds to the area's natural features, with routes offering a mix of quiet countryside and paths near local roads.
Best hiking trails around Horsley Woodhouse
- The most popular hiking route is Brackley Gate Woods – St Matthew's Church, Morley loop from Morley, a 5.1 mile (8.3 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. The route features sections through Brackley Gate Woods and views of the historic St. Matthew's Church.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve loop from Denby CP, a moderate 10.1 mile (16.3 km) path. This longer hike takes in the scenery around Mapperley Reservoir and the adjacent nature reserve.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – Brackley Gate Woods loop from Coxbench, a 3.3 mile (5.3 km) trail leading through woodland, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Horsley Woodhouse is defined by rolling countryside, quiet woodlands, and paths through open fields. The network of trails provides a range of easy walking routes and more moderate options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Horsley Woodhouse are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,500 reviews. More than 16,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Horsley Woodhouse's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.5
(6)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
20
hikers
8.31km
02:14
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
13
hikers
7.48km
02:00
80m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(3)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Designed in 1991 by Donald Steel, featuring excellent views of the local countryside The Moorland Course offers a heath-land style layout. A Par 70 course and measuring just over 6,000 yards off the white tees offers a very playable course where distance isn’t demanded from the golfer.
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'Private land' signage all around but there are paths all over and nobody taking much notice of the warnings - least of all the BMX riders pelting down the hillside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks near Horsley Woodhouse?
Yes, the region is ideal for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops that start and end at the same point, often combining woodlands, open fields, and views of local landmarks. A great example is the View of Denby – Drury Lowe Millennium Green loop from Denby CP, which offers a pleasant circuit through the countryside.
What are the footpaths like in the area?
You'll find a mix of trail types around Horsley Woodhouse. Expect well-trodden paths through woodlands like Brackley Gate Woods, routes across open fields which can be muddy after rain, and quiet country lanes. For a flatter, all-weather surface, the Great Northern Greenway is an excellent option as it follows a former railway line.
Are the hiking trails suitable for families with children?
Definitely. The gentle rolling hills and numerous shorter routes make this a great area for family outings. The Smalley Baptist Church – Smalley Lodge loop from Smalley is an easier walk under 5 km that is well-suited for a family adventure.
Can I take my dog on the trails?
Yes, the area is generally very dog-friendly, with plenty of open space and woodland paths. Please be aware that you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always follow the countryside code to protect wildlife and farm animals.
Are there any easy walks for beginners?
The region has many options for those looking for a less strenuous hike. The terrain is mostly gentle, and there are numerous shorter loops. The St. Anthony's Well, Coxbench – Brackley Gate Woods loop from Coxbench is a popular choice, offering a pleasant walk of about 5 km through woodland.
Where can I find a good pub for a post-hike meal?
Many of the villages in the Amber Valley have traditional pubs that are perfect for relaxing after a walk. The villages of Coxbench, Morley, and Horsley itself are good places to look for a welcoming pub. Planning a route that starts or ends near a village will give you the best options.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
Yes, while the area is known for shorter loops, you can easily connect trails for a longer day of hiking. For a more substantial trek, consider the Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve loop from Denby CP, which is over 16 km and explores a wider area.
What historical sites can I see while hiking?
The area is rich in history. Many walks offer views of historic churches like St. Matthew's in Morley. You can also find trails that pass near fascinating sites like the Hermitage Cave in Hermit's Wood or follow parts of the story of the Pentrich Revolution of 1817.
Where is the best place to park for a walk?
Parking is typically found in the villages and at designated car parks for specific attractions or nature reserves. For example, some routes start from Denby or Morley, where you can find on-street parking. Always park considerately and check for any local restrictions, especially on weekends.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Horsley Woodhouse?
The routes around Horsley Woodhouse are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodlands, the quintessentially English countryside scenery, and the well-connected network of paths that make it easy to explore.
How many hiking trails are available around Horsley Woodhouse?
There is a vast network of trails to explore. On komoot, you can discover over 1,100 hiking routes in the region, ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging all-day treks, ensuring there's a walk for every ability level.
Most popular routes around Horsley Woodhouse
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