Best walks and trails near me: 5 scenic Derby walks to enjoy this August Bank Holiday
As the latest bank holiday approaches, here are five scenic trails to enjoy in and around Derby
This weekend will be the perfect time to grab your walking boots and stride out for a bit of fresh air.
Exercise and outdoor activities are vital when it comes to improving your mental health. There are plenty of Country Parks within an hour of Derby, with wildlife, historical sites and scenery to take your breath away.
We have put together a list of five great walking routes, all within an hour of Derby for you to enjoy.
1. Calke Abbey Walk
Check out this 6.4-km circular trail near Derby, Derbyshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 51 min to complete so it’s challenging but won’t leave you breathless. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
The first part of the walk is along the National Trust park service but if you explore a little further you will see historic fallen trees, deer herds, sheep and shimmering ponds and views all around. Be warned as dogs need to be kept on a lead so as not to disturb the wildlife and animals.
The car park is big so you won’t have issues parking and there are toilets accessible which is vital before you start your expedition.
Visit the Calke Abbey website to find out more about this location.
2. Elvaston Castle Country Park
Try this 5.6-km circular trail near Derby, Derbyshire. It is an enjoyable casual stroll as it takes an average of 1 h 34 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Sadly no pups allowed but there are plenty of areas to entertain children, a cafe serving and adequate toilet facilities.
One visitor commented: “A nice pleasant walk in a country park with beautiful settings. I was lucky enough to go on a sunny day.”
Visit the Elvaston Castle Country Park to find out more information.
3. Allestree and Duffield Circular
If you are looking for something a bit more challenging then this is the route for you. Get to know this 12.7-km circular trail near Derby, Derbyshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 24 min to complete so make sure you have bottles of water to keep you hydrated. This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and running, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
A keen walker posted online: “Great walk to take in all the local countryside. Nice stop off half way in Duffield for a drink and food. Our greyhound needed a bit of help on the stiles but survived!”
Visit the Allestree and Duffield Circular website to find out more information.
4. Oakwood and Stanley Common
Fancy a pleasant stroll that still burns off last night’s fish and chips? Then opt for this countryside trail taking you along Lime Lane and into the farmlands around Morley. Enjoy the views over the fields where you can also keep an eye out for wildlife and appreciate the wildflowers in season in the woodland pockets.
This 8.0-km circular trail near Derby, Derbyshire, is generally considered an easy route, but it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete.
Previous walkers have stepped in to offer advice:
One said: “Great walk with some excellent views, put your Wellies on, you’ll need them as it is very muddy in places”
Another posted: “We had a wonderful walk in April when the blue bells were in flower in the woods. Also there is a Hen Harrier in the valley after the church which was great to see!”
Visit the Oakwood and Stanley Common website for more information.
5. Staunton Harold Reservoir North Trail
There is nothing more pleasant than planning a ramble with a country pub waiting for you after all that hard work.
Enjoy this 4.0-km out-and-back trail near Derby, Derbyshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 3 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and running but you will still have time to take a break and look at the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.
Covering just over two miles, the reservoir has picnic benches, refreshments, a children’s play area, wheelchair access, angling, sailing, parking and of course, walking trails!
Visit the Staunton Harold Reservoir North Trail website for more information.