The best walks and hikes around Etwall

Yes, there's a wide variety. You can find nearly 400 hiking routes in the Etwall area, with the majority being easy or moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The landscape is mostly gentle, featuring farmland, canal paths, and old railway lines.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, especially along the canals and former railway lines, and the peaceful countryside scenery connecting the small local villages.

Many of the trails are loops. For a moderate circular route that explores the area's characteristic disused railway paths, consider the Vicarage Road Park – Badgers Bridge loop from Etwall CP. It's a great example of the trails that follow the old Great Northern Railway line.

Yes, several routes are accessible via public transport. The villages of Etwall, Willington, and Hilton have bus services connecting them to Derby and Burton-on-Trent. Willington also has a train station, which is a convenient starting point for walks along the River Trent and the Trent and Mersey Canal.

For a day out with the family, Calke Explore is a highly-regarded option. It offers a nature-based play area within a woodland setting that encourages interaction with the natural surroundings. There are numerous easy paths suitable for all ages in and around the park.

The region is very accommodating for walks with dogs. The wide, flat paths of the Great Northern Greenway are perfect for a relaxed walk. For a route with more varied scenery, the View of the Wetlands loop from Willington is an easy trail that offers open spaces and waterside views.

The Etwall to Mickleover Greenway, also known as the Great Northern Greenway, is a popular traffic-free path for walkers and cyclists. It follows the route of a former railway line, offering a gentle and scenic journey through the countryside between the two villages.

Yes, many routes pass through villages with pubs and cafes. The villages of Willington, Etwall, and Hilton all have traditional pubs that are popular with walkers. Some routes are even designed with a stop in mind, allowing you to combine your hike with a relaxing break.

The Hilton Gravel Pits Local Nature Reserve is a great choice. It features a pleasant circular walk around the pits and is a good spot for birdwatching. Another option is the Jinny Nature Trail in Rolleston-on-Dove, which follows a former railway line and has been developed into a local nature area.

While the area is known for its gentle terrain, there are a few more demanding options. You can find a small number of difficult-rated hikes, which typically involve longer distances over 12 miles (20 km) rather than significant elevation gain. These routes often link multiple footpaths to create extensive cross-country loops.

The canal towpaths offer flat, easy-to-follow walking routes with distinctive scenery. You'll see colourful narrowboats, historic locks, and waterside wildlife. The section near Willington is particularly popular, providing a peaceful escape and connecting to a wider network of footpaths.