Discovering Leicester’s Best Running Routes: A Detailed Guide
Leicester, a city steeped in history and culture in England’s East Midlands, offers a variety of running routes that cater to all levels of fitness and interests. From scenic riverside paths and historic parks to urban greenways and countryside trails, Leicester provides runners with diverse landscapes and picturesque settings. This comprehensive guide explores some of the best running routes in Leicester, highlighting their unique features, terrain specifics, and practical tips to help you enjoy running in this vibrant city.
1. River Soar and Grand Union Canal
Overview: The River Soar and Grand Union Canal route offers runners a scenic escape along waterways, through parks, and into Leicester’s outskirts.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-10+ miles (out-and-back or loop options)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with paved paths, gravel, and some grass
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Route Description: Start at Castle Gardens near Leicester Castle and follow the path alongside the River Soar. Pass through Bede Park and Castle Gardens, enjoying views of Leicester’s skyline and historical landmarks. Continue along the Grand Union Canal towards Watermead Country Park for longer runs. The route offers a peaceful retreat from the city with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy riverside scenery.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available at Castle Gardens and Watermead Country Park.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings or weekdays for quieter paths; weekends can be busier.
- Safety: Paths can be shared with cyclists and pedestrians; be mindful of other users.
2. Victoria Park and University of Leicester
Overview: Victoria Park, located near the University of Leicester, offers runners a blend of scenic parkland, historic architecture, and university campus paths.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: 2-4 miles (loop options)
- Terrain: Flat, paved paths
- Difficulty: Easy
Route Description: Start at Victoria Park and follow the paths that wind through well-kept gardens and open fields. Run alongside the University of Leicester campus, passing by historic buildings and modern facilities. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park and the vibrant atmosphere of the university surroundings. This route is ideal for a leisurely run or interval training sessions in a picturesque setting.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and water fountains available in Victoria Park and on campus.
- Best Time to Run: Mornings for quieter paths; weekdays when university activity is lower.
- Safety: Well-lit paths; suitable for evening runs.
3. Bradgate Park and Old John Tower
Overview: Located to the northwest of Leicester, Bradgate Park offers runners expansive parkland, wooded trails, and scenic views from Old John Tower.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-8 miles (multiple loops and paths)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with trails, gravel paths, and some hilly sections
- Difficulty: Moderate
Route Description: Start at the Newtown Linford car park and explore the paths that wind through Bradgate Park. Run alongside the River Lin and up to Old John Tower for panoramic views over the Leicestershire countryside. Explore the park’s historic ruins, including Bradgate House, and spot wildlife such as deer and birds along the way. This route offers a peaceful and scenic escape into nature within a short drive from Leicester’s city center.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available at Newtown Linford car park.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter trails; weekends can be busier with visitors.
- Safety: Some trails can be muddy or uneven; wear appropriate footwear.
4. Leicester Riverside
Overview: The Leicester Riverside route follows the River Soar and offers runners a scenic path through parks, green spaces, and cultural landmarks.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-6 miles (out-and-back or loop options)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with paved paths, gravel, and some grass
- Difficulty: Easy
Route Description: Start near Bede Park and follow the path alongside the River Soar towards Aylestone Meadows. Pass through Castle Gardens, Western Boulevard Gardens, and Braunstone Park, enjoying views of waterways, bridges, and historical sites along the route. The path is popular with runners, cyclists, and walkers, offering a pleasant route through Leicester’s urban and natural landscapes.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available at various points along the route.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier with recreational users.
- Safety: Shared path; be courteous to other users and mindful of cyclists.
5. Watermead Country Park
Overview: Watermead Country Park, located to the north of Leicester, offers runners a tranquil route through lakes, woodlands, and grassy meadows.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 2-5 miles (multiple loops and paths)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with trails, gravel paths, and some boardwalks
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Route Description: Start at the North Entrance car park and explore the park’s network of paths that wind around the lakes and through nature reserves. Runners can enjoy views of wildlife habitats, waterfowl, and serene landscapes. The park is popular with families and dog walkers, offering a peaceful escape into nature close to Leicester’s city center.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available at North Entrance and South Entrance car parks.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for wildlife spotting; weekdays for quieter paths.
- Safety: Some paths can be muddy or slippery; use caution, especially in wet weather.
6. Leicester to Market Bosworth Trail
Overview: The Leicester to Market Bosworth Trail offers runners a longer-distance route through countryside and villages, following the former railway line.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: 14 miles (round trip)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with gravel paths, trails, and some road sections
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to length and varied terrain
Route Description: Start at Abbey Park and follow the trail northwest towards Market Bosworth. Pass through scenic villages, nature reserves, and open countryside, enjoying views of rural Leicestershire along the way. The trail is well-suited for long-distance training runs or cycling outings, providing a scenic and historical route through the region’s landscapes.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Limited facilities along the trail; plan for water and rest stops.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier.
- Safety: Some road crossings and shared sections with cyclists; use caution and respect other users.
Conclusion
Leicester’s running routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from scenic riverside paths and historic parks to countryside trails and expansive parklands. Whether you’re a local runner looking to explore new routes or a visitor seeking to experience Leicester’s natural beauty and historical landmarks on foot, there’s a route to suit every preference and fitness level. Lace up your running shoes, explore these diverse routes, and enjoy staying active while discovering the best of Leicester’s outdoor spaces.
