Walks around the Line
Walks from the Line of the Great Central Railway
The Great Central Railway line nestles in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside between Charnwood Forest and the Wolds. Walks from the line are gentle and can be completed in a couple of hours, give or take the odd pub break! There are some gentle climbs but for the most part a pair of walking boots or sturdy shoes should get you through. The GCR publishes a detailed guide of the walks listed below to assist you and is available from the Shop at Loughborough Central.
Make sure you have the railway timetable with you if you want to catch a train to complete your day out.
Please keep to the footpaths and follow the Country Code. Enjoy exploring the countryside, the views and the history of this part of leicestershire.
Loughborough Central station to Quorn & Woodhouse station - 4 miles
This walk follows the Grand Union Canal and explores some of the older parts of Quorn village.
Quorn & Woodhouse station to Rothley station - 4.5 miles
This walk follows an attractive stream, passes a spot popular with railway photographers and visits Swithland village.
Rothley station to Quorn & Woodhouse station - 7.5 miles
This walk goes through Thurcaston, Swithland Wood and the attractive village of Woodhouse Eves.
Quorn & Woodhouse station to Loughborough Central station - 7 miles
This walk passes Woodhouse Church and Pest Cottage, the home of the founder of a local school. With views back over Loughborough, the return is via an ancient track-way. If you have time you can enjoy the attractions of Queens Park.
Loughborough Central station circular - 3.5 miles
After an unpromising start, this walk is through fields and past lakes. Discover the link between Loughborough, St Pancras station and Heathrow airport.
Quorn & Woodhouse station South Circular - 4.5 miles
This walk follows an attractive stream and passes a spot popular with railway phtographers. The return offers good views across the Great Central Railway.
Quorn & Woodhouse station East Circular - 8 miles
This walk follws an attractive stream and gives views across Swithland reservoir. From Castle Hill in Moutsorrel there are extensive views over the Soar valley. The return is via the Grand Union Canal through Barrow on Soar.
Rothley station North East Circular - 3.5 miles
This walk passes under the Great Central Railway, crosses a golf course and goes through the older parts of Rothley village.
Rothley station South East Circular - 7.5 miles
This is an attractive walk with views over Cropston reservoir and an opportunity to explore Bradgate Park.
Leicester North station Circular - 3.5 or 6 miles
This walk is through the older parts of Birstall village and explores Watermead Country Park, an area very popular with birdwatchers. The return is via the Grand Union Canal.