4.6
(876)
9,402
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Ratby offers a diverse landscape characterized by ancient woodlands, rolling farmland, and gentle river valleys. The area features extensive ancient woodlands like Martinshaw Wood and Ratby Burroughs, providing tranquil settings for walks. Groby Pool, Leicestershire's largest natural lake, is a significant natural feature, along with the Rothley Brook wildlife corridor. The terrain includes easily accessible paths suitable for various skill levels.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
4.36km
01:08
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
7.25km
01:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2.0
(2)
17
hikers
6.77km
01:43
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
3.91km
01:00
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
4.02km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The church of St Philip and St James, built in the lancet style by George Harry Grey, the seventh Earl of Stamford, dates from 1840 and stands on the site of Groby Castle. The architect was William Railton. Few remains are left of the castle, other than a slight rise in ground to the east of the main church building, and the manor house (Groby Old Hall), the stone-built parts of which are thought to have been part of the castle’s outer buildings.
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The building across the water, Pool House, is a Grade II listed building.
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The first recorded reference to Groby Pool was in 1295, and there is evidence of a mill associated with Groby Pool from that time until the 1900s. The last was a saw mill in Sheet Hedges Wood.
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alley lined with Rhodedendrons with bluebells in the woods behind
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Groby Pool is believed to be the largest natural expanse of open water in Leicestershire, covering 38 acres. The unusual combination of habitats includes woodland, wet and dry grassland, marsh, reed swamp and open water, supporting a wide range of water fowl and animals.
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A picturesque house just to the south of Martinshaw Wood, between Ratby and Groby
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There are 12 easy hiking trails around Ratby, offering a variety of landscapes from ancient woodlands to reservoir paths. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
Yes, many easy trails around Ratby are suitable for families. For instance, the Roman Way – Groby & Ratby loop from Ratby is a gentle 2.7-mile path through fields and woodland, perfect for a family outing. The Groby Pool loop from Ratby is also a popular choice for its accessible path around Leicestershire's largest natural lake.
Yes, most easy trails around Ratby are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves like Groby Pool, which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The The Ivanhoe Trail loop from Ratby, which leads through the National Forest, is another great option for walks with your canine companion.
Yes, Ratby offers several easy circular walks. Popular options include the Groby Pool loop from Ratby, a 4.5-mile route around the lake, and the Roman Way – Groby & Ratby loop from Ratby, a shorter 2.7-mile path through local fields and woodland.
Easy hikes near Ratby showcase a diverse landscape. You'll encounter ancient woodlands like Martinshaw Wood and Ratby Burroughs, which are part of Leicestershire's largest continuous woodland cover. Many routes also feature the tranquil Groby Pool, Leicestershire's largest natural lake, and the Rothley Brook wildlife corridor.
Yes, the area around Ratby is rich in history. You can explore Bury Camp, an Iron Age encampment, or visit Ratby Church, which dates back to the 13th century. While not directly on an easy trail from Ratby, the nearby Bradgate Park offers the ruins of Bradgate House and the landmark Old John Tower, accessible via a short drive to Newtown Linford.
Ratby offers pleasant easy walks year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers to the woodlands, while summer provides lush greenery. Autumn is particularly scenic with vibrant foliage, and even winter offers crisp, quiet walks, especially through the ancient woodlands. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many trails. For example, routes around Groby Pool often have designated parking areas, and village parking in Ratby can provide access to trails like the Roman Way – Groby & Ratby loop.
Ratby is a village west of Leicester, and local bus services connect it to Leicester city centre and surrounding areas. These services can provide access to the village, from which many easy trails originate. It's advisable to check current bus schedules for specific routes and stops.
Yes, Ratby village itself has local amenities, including pubs that often serve food, perfect for a refreshment stop before or after your walk. You'll find options within easy reach of many of the starting points for the easy trails.
The easy trails around Ratby are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil settings of the ancient woodlands, the picturesque views around Groby Pool, and the well-maintained, accessible paths that make for enjoyable and relaxing outings.
Yes, the area around Ratby includes reservoir paths. The Groby Pool loop from Ratby offers an easy walk around Leicestershire's largest natural lake, providing scenic views of the water and surrounding nature.


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