The best walks and hikes around Broxtowe

Yes, many trails in Broxtowe are circular. For a longer, more challenging day out, the Ilkeston to Bramcote Hills Nature Reserve loop is a 13-mile (21 km) route that follows parts of the Erewash Valley Trail and the Nottingham Canal. If you're looking for something shorter, the Oldmoor Wood & Shaw's Plantation loop offers a pleasant 5.3-mile (8.6 km) walk through local woodlands.

Broxtowe is very accommodating for walkers with dogs. Broxtowe Country Park is a local favorite, offering 46 hectares of woodland and open fields where dogs can explore. Colliers Wood Nature Reserve is another excellent option, with trails around a pond that are frequently enjoyed by dog walkers.

Absolutely. For a fun and educational walk, the Nottingham Canal Nature Reserve & the Hemlock Stone loop is a great choice. It's an easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) trail starting from the popular Bramcote Hills Park, which also has a play area, and leads to the impressive Hemlock Stone geological formation.

Yes, several key areas are accessible by public transport. Attenborough Nature Reserve is served by Attenborough railway station, making it easy to reach from Nottingham and surrounding areas. Many bus routes also serve towns and villages like Bramcote and Moorgreen, providing access to trailheads for Bramcote Hills Park and Colliers Wood.

Many routes pass near traditional pubs. The area around Strelley and Oldmoor Wood is known for having classic village pubs perfect for a post-hike refreshment. A walk like the Nottingham Canal & Strelley loop will take you through this charming area.

Broxtowe has several beautiful woodlands to explore. Stapleford Hill Woodland, adjacent to Bramcote Hills Park, offers lovely trails through the trees. For a walk that combines woodland with industrial heritage, consider exploring the trails around Brinsley Headstocks, the site of a former colliery that has been reclaimed by nature.

Yes, the area is rich in history. A must-see is the Bennerley Viaduct, a magnificent Grade II* listed wrought-iron structure now open as a walking path with great views over the Erewash Valley. Another unique feature is the Hemlock Stone on Stapleford Hill, a 28-foot sandstone pillar steeped in local folklore.

Attenborough Nature Reserve is the premier location for wildlife spotting. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest created from former gravel pits and is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 species recorded. It's considered one of the best places in the UK to see kingfishers. The Attenborough Nature Reserve loop from the visitor centre is a great way to explore the lakes and wetlands.

There is a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 300 routes mapped on komoot around Broxtowe. These range from short, easy strolls under an hour to challenging full-day hikes, covering everything from canal towpaths to woodland trails and nature reserves.

The trails around Broxtowe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of tranquil nature reserves, well-maintained waterside paths along canals, and the unique industrial heritage found on many routes.

Yes, Broxtowe is home to two main long-distance paths: the Broxtowe Country Trail and the Erewash Valley Trail. Together they cover about 40 miles. You can tackle them in sections, such as the Erewash Valley Trail northern loop, which offers a substantial 11.8-mile (19 km) walk.

Most of the main parks have dedicated parking. Bramcote Hills Park has a large, popular car park. Attenborough Nature Reserve also has parking near its visitor centre. For the most current information on availability and any potential charges, it's always a good idea to check the local council website.