4.4
(357)
2,570
hikers
256
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Laughton traverse the gentle, rolling countryside of Leicestershire, characterized by open fields, quiet lanes, and the historic canal network. The landscape features a mix of agricultural land and waterways, offering accessible paths for various outdoor activities. Hikers can expect routes that follow canal towpaths, cross farmland, and occasionally ascend small hills, providing views of the surrounding rural scenery. The area is well-suited for those seeking tranquil walks without significant elevation changes.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.8
(12)
68
hikers
4.39km
01:10
40m
40m
The Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop is an easy 2.7-mile hike exploring the historic Foxton Locks and scenic canal-side paths.
4.8
(8)
25
hikers
6.13km
01:37
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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24
hikers
4.36km
01:08
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
7.31km
02:00
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
5.54km
01:28
50m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Foxton locks is the longest staircase flight of canal locks in Britain. The feet of engineering was completed in 1814 and allows canal boats to climb the 75-foot (23m) hill. There is a museum here and you can take a boat trip up the locks (summer only).
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Foxton can get busy so this is a great detour, but only when dry.
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Gumley is a quaint village featuring the historic Saint Helen's Church, a Grade II listed building. The village is also notable for Gumley Hall, a historic estate with a tall clock tower, adding character to this rural village.
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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An easy country walk along footpaths and a gated road.
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Great little coffee shop at the top of Foxton Locks.
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There are over 110 easy hiking trails around Laughton, offering a wide range of options for exploring the local countryside. In total, komoot lists over 260 hiking routes in the area.
Easy hikes around Laughton traverse gentle, rolling countryside characterized by open fields, quiet lanes, and the historic canal network. You'll find a mix of agricultural land and waterways, with paths following canal towpaths, crossing farmland, and occasionally ascending small hills for views of the surrounding rural scenery.
Yes, many of the easy trails in Laughton are suitable for families. Routes like the Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop are particularly popular, offering accessible paths and interesting sights like the historic Foxton Locks that children often enjoy.
Many of the easy trails around Laughton are dog-friendly, especially those along canal towpaths and through open fields. However, always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or on agricultural land, and check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Yes, Laughton offers several easy circular routes. For example, the Smeeton Hill loop from Saddington is a 4.5-mile circular trail that takes you through open countryside, providing a pleasant round trip.
Many easy trails in Laughton feature interesting attractions. The historic Foxton Locks, a notable feature of the Grand Union Canal, is a popular highlight. You can also explore the Foxton Locks Basin and pass by the Great Oxendon Tunnel on some routes.
Easy walks around Laughton vary in length and duration. For instance, the Leicestershire Round: Foxton Locks Loop is about 2.7 miles (4.4 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, while the Debdale Wharf and Bridge 65 – Foxton Locks Basin loop from Gumley is 3.8 miles (6.1 km) and typically takes around 1 hour 35 minutes.
While Laughton itself is a rural area, some trailheads may be accessible via local bus services from nearby towns. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for routes connecting to villages like Gumley or Saddington, which are starting points for several easy hikes.
Yes, many popular trailheads, especially around key attractions like Foxton Locks, offer dedicated parking facilities. For other routes starting from villages, roadside parking may be available, but always park considerately and check for any restrictions.
The gentle terrain and well-maintained paths make Laughton suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather, while autumn provides beautiful colors. Even in winter, the easy trails are generally accessible, though conditions can be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Yes, the Laughton area, particularly around popular spots like Foxton Locks, has pubs and cafes where you can refresh after your hike. Some villages that serve as trail starting points may also have local establishments. For example, the Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is a local spot that offers refreshments.
The easy trails in Laughton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 330 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil countryside, the well-maintained canal towpaths, and the accessible nature of the routes, making them enjoyable for all skill levels.
The easy hiking trails around Laughton are ideal for beginners due to their gentle terrain, minimal elevation changes, and well-defined paths. Many routes follow flat canal towpaths or traverse open fields, providing a relaxed and accessible introduction to hiking without significant physical demands.


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