The best walks and hikes around Ockbrook And Borrowash
4.5
(1629)
10,265
hikers
48
hikes
Hiking around Ockbrook And Borrowash offers a blend of rural landscapes and accessible natural features. The area features modest woodlands, green spaces, and waterways like the Ock Brook and River Derwent, which enhance the scenery. Gentle undulations in the terrain provide varied perspectives, with hills offering views over the surrounding countryside. This region provides diverse routes for various skill levels.
Best hiking trails around Ockbrook And Borrowash
- The most popular hiking route is Dale Abbey Arch – Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash, a 6.0 miles (9.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores historical ruins and local farmland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is River Derwent Weir – Elvaston Castle loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash, a moderate 6.6 miles (10.7 km) path. This trail follows the River Derwent and leads towards the historic Elvaston Castle.
- Local hikers also love the Locko Park Lake – View of Locko Hall loop from Erewash, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through picturesque lake scenery, often completed in about 1 hour 29 minutes.
- Hiking around Ockbrook And Borrowash is defined by shaded woodlands, tranquil waterways, and gentle hills. The network of footpaths and bridleways offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Ockbrook And Borrowash are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 1,400 reviews. More than 9,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Ockbrook And Borrowash's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.7
(98)
279
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(25)
113
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(12)
44
hikers
7.32km
01:59
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(16)
35
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(14)
92
hikers
5.64km
01:29
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
One of England’s smallest and most unique parish churches, measuring just 25 by 26 feet. Dating back to the mid-12th century, it is literally semi-detached, sharing a roof and a wall with a private, historic farmhouse. Originally functioning as the infirmary chapel for the neighboring, now-ruined medieval abbey, the adjoining house was later used as a pub called the "Blue Bell Inn". Legend has it the vicar used to change in the pub's bar and nip through a gallery door to preach. Despite its size, the interior houses well-preserved, late 13th-century wall paintings depicting the Annunciation, Visitation, and Nativity. The chapel is packed with historic character, including a prominent 1634 pulpit placed behind the altar, tiered gallery seating, and 17th-century box pews. The surrounding village and abbey ruins are famously known in folklore as the site where Allan-a-Dale married his sweetheart in the Robin Hood legend.
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This was a medieval moated manor in the valley at the bottom of the field, situated by the brook. It was demolished in the late 16th century when a new house was built on the hill above where Risley Lodge Farm now stands visible on the hill top.
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The Risley Park Lanx was a famous 4th-century Roman silver serving dish (lanx) reportedly found in Derbyshire in 1729. A local ploughman reportedly discovered the heavily damaged silver dish in a field near Risley. The shattered pieces were distributed amongst finders before being documented by antiquarian William Stukeley in 1736. Shortly after, the original fragments completely vanished. In 1991, the entire dish—soldered together from 26 pieces—magically resurfaced in London. While initially studied as a genuine antiquity, it was later revealed to be an elaborate 20th-century forgery crafted by the notorious Greenhalgh family art-forgery ring.
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The church dates back to the early 14th century and was significantly rebuilt or restored around 1320 in the decorated Gothic style. Its tower was added around 1475. A former rector, Rev. William Fox, achieved local notoriety as "the sledging rector" for traveling between his parishes in the winter using a horse-drawn Russian sledge.
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A scenic, peaceful, and popular, privately-owned, man-made lake situated within the historic Locko Park estate. It is surrounded by lush green parkland, making it ideal for quiet walks, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
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Ownership of the estate and surrounding area is recorded back as early as the Doomsday book of 1086, when the land is recorded as belonging to a Saxon called Stori. Following the Norman Conquest, the Manor of Spondon was one of 210 manors awarded to Baron Henri de Ferriers, a Norman companion of William the Conqueror, for his bravery and support during the Battle of Hastings. In 1180, descendant William de Ferriers gave the land to the Burton Lazars of Leicestershire, an order of St. Lazarus monks dedicated to the care and nursing of lepers. The monks founded a leper hospital on the Locko Estate to the rear of the existing Locko Hall building. Indeed, the name Locko derives from the hospital, coming from the old French word 'loques', meaning rags.
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The nature reserve has a large reed bed area, wild flower meadows, wet woodlands, a lake and islands. It supports a large population of grass snakes. So keep your eyes peeled for snakes basking in the warmer weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
There are over 45 hiking routes in Ockbrook And Borrowash, offering a diverse range of experiences for all skill levels. The area features a mix of easy strolls and moderate hikes through woodlands, green spaces, and along waterways.
What is the overall difficulty level of hiking in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
The hiking trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash are predominantly easy to moderate. Approximately half of the routes are classified as easy, while the other half are moderate, making the area accessible for most hikers. There is also a small number of more challenging routes for those seeking a greater adventure.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
The hiking routes in Ockbrook And Borrowash are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the blend of rural landscapes, accessible paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and natural features like the Ock Brook and River Derwent.
Are there many circular hiking routes in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Yes, many of the hiking opportunities in Ockbrook And Borrowash are circular routes. For example, the Dale Abbey Arch – Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas loop is a popular moderate circular trail that explores historical ruins and local farmland. Another option is the Locko Park Lake – View of Locko Hall loop, an easy circular hike around a picturesque lake.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Yes, Ockbrook And Borrowash offers several family-friendly options, particularly among the easy-rated trails. These routes often feature gentle terrain and can incorporate interesting sights like the historic Moravian Settlement in Ockbrook or the picturesque Mapperley Reservoir, which has bluebell woodlands and opportunities for birdwatching.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Most hiking trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and along rural footpaths. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in nature reserve areas, and to clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What historical sites or natural landmarks can I see while hiking in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
The area is rich in historical and natural landmarks. You can explore the ruins of Dale Abbey, including its magnificent arch, and the intriguing Hermitage Cave in Hermit's Wood. The River Derwent Weir – Elvaston Castle loop leads towards the historic Elvaston Castle. Additionally, the Ockbrook Moravian Settlement offers distinctive architecture and heritage. For natural beauty, Mapperley Reservoir is a notable spot for birdwatching.
Are there hiking trails that feature lakes or rivers in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by its waterways. You can enjoy peaceful strolls along the tranquil Ock Brook and the River Derwent. The River Derwent Weir – Elvaston Castle loop follows the River Derwent. For lake scenery, the Locko Park Lake – View of Locko Hall loop offers picturesque views. The Mapperley Reservoir is another significant natural attraction with surrounding woodlands.
Are there any viewpoints or hills with good views in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Yes, the gentle undulations of the landscape provide subtle changes in elevation. Hills flanking Ockbrook to the east and west, accessible via numerous footpaths, offer expansive views over the village and the wider countryside. On clear days, you can even see towards the borders of Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire.
Is parking available near the hiking trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Parking is generally available in and around Ockbrook and Borrowash, particularly in village centers or designated car parks near popular trailheads. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot or local signage.
Can I access hiking trails in Ockbrook And Borrowash using public transport?
Ockbrook and Borrowash are situated between Derby and Nottingham and are generally accessible by public transport, primarily local bus services. Some trailheads may be within walking distance of bus stops, allowing for car-free access to certain routes. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes for specific starting points.
What is the best time of year to hike in Ockbrook And Borrowash?
Ockbrook And Borrowash offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming bluebells in woodlands like those around Mapperley Reservoir, while summer provides lush green landscapes. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter offers crisp, quiet walks, especially through the modest woodlands. The gentle terrain makes it suitable for most seasons.
Most popular routes around Ockbrook And Borrowash
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