The best walks and hikes around Sutton Bonington
4.5
(1217)
9,927
hikers
21
hikes
Hikes around Sutton Bonington explore the rural landscape of the Soar Valley. The terrain is predominantly flat, characterized by riverside paths along the River Soar and Kingston Brook, agricultural fields, and small sections of woodland. This geography makes the area suitable for gentle walks through the East Midlands countryside.
Best hiking trails around Sutton Bonington
- The most popular hiking route is the Diamond Wood Active Trail – Cows by the Countryside Path loop from West Leake, a 8.3 mile…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.8
(8)
33
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
50
hikers
8.90km
02:14
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(6)
27
hikers
5.77km
01:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
27
hikers
5.87km
01:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
17
hikers
6.01km
01:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sutton Bonington is an unusual village in that it has two medieval churches, St Michael's and St Anne's, a legacy from the days when Sutton and Bonington were two separate villages. St Anne's is a 12th-century Grade II* listed building.
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Sutton Bonington is an unusual village in that it has two medieval churches, St Michael's and St Anne's, a legacy from the days when Sutton and Bonington were two separate villages. St Michael's is a 13th-century Grade II* Listed building.
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The Star at West Leake has been serving excellent food and welcoming walkers for decades. There's a choice between the bar menu or the Pit House restaurant menu, depending on your inclination. There's also bed and breakfast on offer, with beautiful en suite rooms.
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Put yr bike to one-side whilst they check you in at the door. Covid precautions on point! Cycle is wheeled through pub’s one way system. Big garden space with chilled atmosphere + great service. Best chip butty in while. Fireplace too!
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Put yr bike to one-side whilst they check you in at the door. Covid precautions on point! Cycle is wheeled through pub’s one way system. Big garden space with chilled atmosphere + great service. Best chip butty in while. Fireplace too!
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Star inn is a lovely old english pub and restaurant, offering good food, coffee and ales plus much more. The oeners are really friendly and welcoming, its dog friendly, has a large garden at the rear with seating aswell as comfortable area inside and in the winster they have 2 fires burning to keep you warm
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Lovely little gift shop and tearoom. Plenty of outdoor seating with a limited amount of cozy indoor seating next to the toasty fire. Delightful home cooked menu featuring freshly baked cakes, cream teas, soups and a selection of sandwiches. They also do lovely lunch boxes for children. There is secure bike parking in the courtyard, the only downside is the gravel that you have to tiptoe across if wearing cleats. However, the courtyard also features a fully functional model railway. If you are nice (and look young enough) you may get the chance to control the trains but if not they are very entertaining to watch. Also, students don't forget you can get a 10% discount!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Sutton Bonington?
There are over 20 hiking routes to explore around Sutton Bonington, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate challenges. The majority of these are easy walks, making the area very accessible.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Sutton Bonington?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, flat paths along the River Soar and the classic English countryside scenery of open farmland and quiet village lanes.
Are there any good circular walks starting from the village?
Yes, there are several circular routes. For a shorter, accessible option, the Hiking loop from Sutton Bonington is a great choice that takes you through the fields surrounding the village. It's perfect for a gentle afternoon walk.
Can I take my dog on the walking trails?
Most trails around Sutton Bonington are well-suited for dogs, especially the open countryside and riverside paths. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always follow local signage.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks available?
Definitely. The area is ideal for families. A pleasant, easy route is the Burnside Island – Normanton on Soar Weir loop from Hathern. Its flat terrain and riverside setting make it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
What is the terrain like on the hikes around Sutton Bonington?
The landscape is predominantly flat, defined by the Soar Valley. Expect well-trodden riverside paths, trails across open agricultural fields, and quiet country lanes. There are very few steep climbs in the immediate vicinity.
Are there any more challenging hikes nearby for experienced walkers?
While most local trails are gentle, you can find more demanding terrain a short drive away in Charnwood Forest. This area features ancient, rocky hills like Beacon Hill, offering steeper inclines and panoramic views for those seeking a greater challenge.
How can I get to Sutton Bonington using public transport?
Sutton Bonington is well-connected by bus services from nearby cities like Nottingham, Loughborough, and Derby. This makes it easy to access the trailheads without a car. Check local bus timetables for the most current routes and schedules.
Are there any good pubs for a post-hike meal or drink?
Yes, the village of Sutton Bonington and neighbouring villages like Kegworth have several traditional pubs. They are perfect for relaxing with a drink or a meal after a walk along the River Soar.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The wetland habitats along the River Soar are rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including grey herons and kingfishers. The surrounding fields and woodlands also support a variety of typical English countryside fauna.
Are the paths around Sutton Bonington suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Many of the riverside paths are flat, but they can be unpaved, grassy, or muddy, which may pose a challenge for wheelchairs. Some routes, like the self-guided tours on the University of Nottingham's Sutton Bonington campus, may offer more accessible paved sections.
Where can I find a longer, more moderate hike?
For a longer walk, consider the Hiking loop from Normanton on Soar. This moderate route offers a substantial tour of the local riverside and field paths, giving you a great feel for the Soar Valley landscape.
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