The best walks and hikes around Shardlow And Great Wilne
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Hikes around Shardlow and Great Wilne explore a landscape shaped by its waterways. The region is situated at the confluence of the River Trent and River Derwent, alongside the Trent and Mersey Canal, creating a water-based environment for exploration. The terrain is generally flat, characterized by riverside paths, open fields, and historic canal towpaths, making it suitable for most ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Shardlow And Great Wilne
- The most popular hiking route is the Shardlow Wharf β Chapelβ¦
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Shardlow And Great Wilne
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Tips from the Community
When visiting the Red-Brick Warehouse on the Canal, take a moment to appreciate its unique architectural feature: the internal canal arm that allowed boats to be loaded or unloaded within the building. This design, common in historic canal warehouses, facilitated efficient transshipment of goods directly from the waterway to storage. Such features are exemplified in structures like Telford's Warehouse in Chester, where boats could enter the building for loading and unloading. [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telford%27s_Warehouse
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The Kiosk is closed at the moment but you can still enjoy good views of the river and if lucky see a narrow boat passing the lock.
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This is a beautiful walk, a lot of which is along the canal. We will definitely do this one again.
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St Chadβs water was created in the 1970βs during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for Β£1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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Its isolated location next to St. Chad's Water lends the whole area a tranquil atmosphere. The long-vanished village of Wilne was subject to flooding by the nearby river Derwent. Consequently, the people relocated to nearby Draycott, on higher ground, leaving St. Chad's Church with only a couple of houses nearby.
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In the 17th century the village played a key role in the distribution of cheese and Derbyshire coal by boat on the River Trent. But it was when James Brindley's Trent and Mersey canal though Shardlow was completed in 1777 that it became one of the UK's most important river ports.
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Sawley Cut and the Locks were built around 1796, to bypass difficult and shallow sections of the Trent Navigation, also in response to the Trent Navigation Company losing out to the Trent and Mersey Canal, Derby Canal, Erewash Canal, and Nottingham Canal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking routes around Shardlow and Great Wilne dog-friendly?
Yes, the area is generally very welcoming to dogs. The wide-open fields and towpaths provide great walking opportunities. Many local pubs also allow dogs. A popular spot is St Chad's Water Nature Reserve, which is known to be dog-friendly, but remember to keep your dog under control as it is a nature reserve with abundant wildlife and anglers.
What are the best options for an easy, family-friendly walk?
The terrain around Shardlow is mostly flat, making it ideal for families. For a very easy walk, consider the Shardlow Wharf β Chapel Farm Marina loop from Shardlow and Great Wilne. It's a short, 4.4 km walk along the historic canal wharf. For a dedicated family outing, the nearby Calke Explore is a highly-regarded nature play area set in woodlands.
Are there many circular walks available?
Yes, circular walks are a key feature of hiking in this area. Most trails are designed as loops that start and end in Shardlow, allowing you to explore the canals, rivers, and surrounding countryside without retracing your steps. A great example is the Chapel Farm Marina β River Trent near Shardlow loop, which offers a pleasant waterside circuit.
Where can I find walks that feature the Trent and Mersey Canal?
The Trent and Mersey Canal is central to most hikes in Shardlow. You can experience it on the Shardlow Wharf β Chapel Farm Marina loop from Shardlow, a nearly 10 km route that extensively follows the historic towpaths, passing working marinas and old warehouses.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The landscape is a unique mix of industrial heritage and natural beauty. Expect to see historic canal architecture like Shardlow Wharf, scenic towpaths with narrowboats, and the confluence of the River Trent and River Derwent. The routes also pass through open meadows and past nature reserves, offering opportunities for bird-watching.
Are there any walks that include a nature reserve?
Yes, you can easily incorporate a visit to a nature reserve. The Shardlow Wharf β St Chad's Lake loop from Shardlow is a popular 8.6 km moderate hike that takes you right past the well-regarded St Chad's Water Nature Reserve, known for its birdlife.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the area?
The komoot community rates the area highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the combination of peaceful waterside paths along the canals and rivers, the flat and accessible terrain, and the fascinating industrial history of Shardlow as Britain's most complete canal village.
Where is a good place to park for a walk in Shardlow?
While there isn't one central car park for all trails, you can often find on-street parking within the village of Shardlow. Many walkers start near the historic Shardlow Wharf. Some local pubs may also offer parking for patrons. For a guaranteed spot, nearby attractions like Orchid Wood are noted for having good parking facilities.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While the area is mostly flat, you can find longer routes for a more challenging day out. The River Derwent β Chapel Farm Marina loop from Shardlow is a good option, covering over 14 km and combining sections of the River Derwent path with the canal towpath for a substantial walk.
What is the terrain like and do I need special footwear?
The terrain is generally flat, consisting of canal towpaths, riverside footpaths, and tracks across open fields. While mostly easy-going, paths can become muddy, especially after rain and in the meadows of the River Trent flood plain. Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes are recommended.
Are there any pubs or cafes along the walking routes?
Shardlow's history as a canal port means it has several historic pubs, many located directly on the waterside, such as the famous Clock Warehouse. These are perfect for a stop during or after your walk. It's best to check their opening times in advance.
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