The best walks and hikes around Ashby St. Ledgers
4.5
(384)
3,584
hikers
274
hikes
Hiking around Ashby St. Ledgers features a landscape characterized by gentle rolling countryside, navigable canals, and agricultural fields. The region's terrain is generally low in elevation, offering accessible paths suitable for various activity levels. Many routes follow the tranquil waterways, providing flat and scenic walking opportunities.
Best hiking trails around Ashby St. Ledgers
- The most popular hiking route is The Stop House, Braunston – St Martin's Church, Welton loop from Welton, an 8.0 miles (12.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 26 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects canal-side paths with village exploration.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Stop House, Braunston – The Boathouse, Braunston loop from Braunston, an easy 3.9 miles (6.3 km) path. This route offers views of the canal and marina, suitable for a shorter walk.
- Local hikers also love the Café and Visitor Centre – Braunston Tunnel loop from Drayton Fields Industrial Estate, a 5.6 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through canal-side scenery and past the Braunston Tunnel, often completed in about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Ashby St. Ledgers is defined by canal towpaths, open countryside, and charming village connections. The network offers options for easy hikes near Ashby St. Ledgers as well as more moderate routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Ashby St. Ledgers are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 380 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore Ashby St. Ledgers's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.7
(9)
43
hikers
13.1km
03:28
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
35
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
10
hikers
11.4km
03:01
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
12
hikers
10.3km
02:41
70m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Good to see so many canal boats together
1
0
Have a bike rack, so you can enjoy the view and treat
0
0
Great view but you will need to carry your bike over this bridge!
1
0
It's perhaps not the most scenic place you will ever walk but Watford Gap has a certain charm for transport enthusiasts. Here pass the historic Roman Watling Street, the A5, the Birmingham to London railway line, the Grand Union Canal and the M1 motorway. The reason all these major transport arteries pass through here is because Watford Gap is a low-lying region between hills on the limestone escarpment that crosses the heart of England. It's a crucial link between the Midlands and the South East, with many citing it as the dividing line between Northern and Southern England.
0
0
Between 1375 and 1611, Ashby Manor House was home to the Catesby family. It was here that Robert Catesby and his fellow rebels, including Guy Fawkes, conspired to blow up the Houses of Parliament in an act of treason that became known as the Gunpowder Plot. Today, the impressive manor is home to beautiful gardens and grounds and is available for private hire.
0
0
The Braunston Tunnel is 2,042 yards in length on the Grand Union Canal about 830 yds east of Braunston, Northamptonshire, If you take a small ride up the service road and look out for some nice tech trails back down to the towpath, great fun 👍
0
0
This plaque is dedicated to the Whitlocks one of the three Braunston boatmen families who worked the canals to their end. In 1940 Rose and an all female crew of mother, sister, and niece Laura aged eleven, set the record for Samuel Barlow Coal Co. by loading coal twice in one week at Coventry, after unloading the first in London. When the trade ceased in 1970 the Whitlocks tied up here and lived the next six years on Butty Lucy afloat in the old way, until Rose's arthritis forced them to move onto the bank. Rose Whitlock (born Ward) 1917 1999 Bill Whitlock 1915 2001 Laura Carter 1929 20
1
0
THIS PLAQUE IS DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF THE BRAYS ONE OF THE THREE BRAUNSTON BOAT MEN FAMILIES WHO WORKED THE CANALS TO THE END. FINALLY THEY CARRIED COAL ON THE JAM OLE RUN FROM THE MIDLANDS TO LONDON UNTIL THE TRADE CEASED IN OCTOBER 1970 AND WITH IT THE BOAT MEN'S WAY OF LIFE. HERE THE BRAYS THEN TIED UP AND LIVED THE REMAINDER OF THEIR LIVES AFLOAT IN THE OLD WAY. ARTHUR BRAY (CAPTAIN) 1905 1998 ROSE BRAY/ KENDALL /(BORN WARD) 1898 1971 ERNIE KENDALL 1927 1996
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ashby St. Ledgers?
There are over 290 hiking routes in the Ashby St. Ledgers area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes more than 150 easy routes and 130 moderate trails.
Are there easy walks suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, the region is known for its accessible paths. An excellent easy option is The Stop House, Braunston – The Boathouse, Braunston loop from Braunston, which is 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and offers pleasant canal and marina views, perfect for a relaxed outing.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
Hiking around Ashby St. Ledgers primarily features gentle rolling countryside, tranquil canal towpaths, and agricultural fields. Many routes follow the waterways, providing flat and scenic walking opportunities through charming villages.
Are there any circular walking routes in the area?
Many of the trails around Ashby St. Ledgers are circular. For example, the popular The Stop House, Braunston – St Martin's Church, Welton loop from Welton is an 8.0-mile (12.9 km) loop that combines canal-side paths with village exploration.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes?
Most trails in the Ashby St. Ledgers area are dog-friendly, especially those along canal towpaths and public footpaths through the countryside. However, always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions or signage.
Are there any longer or more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While the terrain is generally low in elevation, some routes offer a longer distance. The Braunston Canal and Marina – Braunston Tower Mill loop from Braunston is a moderate 11.4-mile (18.4 km) hike, providing a good option for those seeking a longer day out with varied scenery.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural attractions to see along the trails?
The area offers several points of interest. You might encounter the historic Braunston Tunnel or explore nearby natural monuments like Borough Hill Iron Age Hill Fort, which offers expansive views. Draycote Water is also a notable lake nearby, popular for walks.
Are there opportunities for pub stops along the hiking routes?
Yes, many routes pass through or near charming villages like Braunston and Welton, which often feature traditional pubs. Canal-side walks, in particular, frequently offer convenient stops for refreshments.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Ashby St. Ledgers?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 380 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful canal-side walking, the gentle countryside, and the well-maintained paths that connect picturesque villages.
Is public transport available to access the trailheads?
Access to trailheads by public transport can be limited in some rural areas around Ashby St. Ledgers. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules for specific villages like Braunston or Welton, as some services connect to larger towns with better transport links.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Ashby St. Ledgers?
The best time to hike is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the countryside is in full bloom. However, the canal towpaths offer relatively flat and well-drained surfaces, making them suitable for pleasant winter walks on crisp, clear days.
Are there any trails that offer good scenic viewpoints?
While the region is generally flat, you can find elevated spots offering views. Highlights like Cracks Hill Viewpoint and Borough Hill Iron Age Hill Fort provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Most popular attractions around Ashby St. Ledgers
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
