Ashby Canal Trail
Ashby Canal Trail: Complete Guide to Hiking the Scenic Waterway Path in GB
Nestled in the heart of the English Midlands, the Ashby Canal Trail offers a tranquil journey alongside one of Britain’s most scenic historic waterways. As you follow the gentle curves of the canal, you'll be treated to a landscape of peaceful wetlands, lush green meadows, and timeless villages dotting the route. The trail is lined with colorful wildflowers in the spring and summer, and birdlife is abundant year-round—making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.
With its flat, well-maintained paths and an atmosphere steeped in history, the Ashby Canal Trail is ideal for those seeking a relaxed hiking experience. Whether you’re embarking on a full-day adventure or enjoying a short stroll, the combination of picturesque waterside views, charming canal boats, and delightful spots to pause ensures an enjoyable outing for hikers of all ages.
Route Overview
The Ashby Canal Trail is a point-to-point route that extends for approximately 35 kilometers. The trail typically begins at the Snarestone Tunnel in rural North West Leicestershire and follows the canal southwards, finishing in the Moira area. Walkers can expect the journey to take about one full day for those traveling at a moderate pace, though sections can be completed individually for shorter excursions.
Key locations along the route include Shackerstone, Market Bosworth, and Moira Furnace, with the path passing through small towns, peaceful villages, open countryside, and stretches of wetlands. The trail’s surface consists mainly of well-maintained dirt and gravel towpaths, with occasional paved sections near villages or road crossings. Terrain is flat throughout, and elevation gain is minimal, making the trail suitable for a wide range of walkers. Basic facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and water sources can be found at key stopping points, while accommodation options include nearby hotels, campsites, and wild camping spots close to the canal.
History of the Ashby Canal Trail
First opened in the early 19th century, the Ashby Canal was originally constructed to facilitate the transportation of coal from the rich mines of Leicestershire and Derbyshire to the expanding industries in the Midlands. This waterway quickly became a lifeline for local communities, boosting commerce and helping shape the economic landscape of the region. Over the years, the canal played host to countless narrowboats carrying goods and supplies, each boat a testament to the industrious spirit that defined the era.
As railways began to dominate British transport, the commercial use of the Ashby Canal gradually declined. However, parts of the canal remained in use for leisure activities, and dedicated restoration efforts in the late 20th and early 21st centuries have preserved much of its original charm. Today, hikers can still discover remnants of the canal's industrial heritage, including historic bridges, aqueducts, and the distinctive lock-free design that made the Ashby Canal unique for its time. Walking the Ashby Canal Trail is as much a journey through history as it is through nature, offering a window into the region’s storied past.
Notable highlights
Snarestone Tunnel: This historic tunnel marks the northern end of the navigable canal and is a fascinating engineering feature with a distinctive brick entrance and tranquil surroundings, perfect for photos and exploring nearby.
Moira Furnace: An impressively preserved 19th-century ironworks and heritage center, Moira Furnace offers guided tours, museum exhibits, and family-friendly activities, all set in a picturesque woodland and canal-side park area.
Market Bosworth: This charming market town is renowned for its timeless architecture and vibrant local shops. It's also near the site of the famous Battle of Bosworth, making it ideal for history enthusiasts.
Shackerstone: Known for its quaint village feel and the historic Shackerstone Railway, visitors can enjoy a short detour to ride vintage trains or simply relax by the canal’s peaceful banks.
Wildlife and Wetlands: Various sections of the trail pass through thriving wetlands, offering opportunities to spot kingfishers, herons, dragonflies, and an abundance of other wildlife among the reeds and canal edges.
Picturesque Bridges and Locks: Numerous iconic brick bridges, aqueducts, and original canal features dot the route, providing scenic viewpoints and glimpses into the canal’s storied past.
Woodland Walks: Sections near Conkers and Moira offer beautiful stretches through leafy woodlands, especially vibrant in spring and autumn, perfect for a shaded respite or a picnic stop by the water.
Challenges to expect
While the Ashby Canal Trail is generally considered easy and accessible, some challenges may arise along the route. After periods of heavy rain, certain dirt and gravel sections—especially those close to wetlands—can become muddy or waterlogged, making them slippery and requiring sturdy footwear. Trail maintenance is usually good, but occasional overgrown areas or uneven surfaces may be encountered, particularly in less-trafficked stretches.
Weather in the Midlands is known for being unpredictable, with the possibility of frequent rainfall, especially in spring and autumn. Bringing appropriate rain gear and checking the forecast before setting out is advised. Additionally, while navigation is straightforward in most areas due to the canal following a continuous path, some urban segments and older canal diversions can briefly obscure the main route. Carrying a map or GPS device can help prevent confusion at junctions or when the path diverts away from the waterway.
United Kingdom 
England - Wetlands
- Urban
- Dirt
- Gravel
- Paved
- Hotels
- Campsites
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
Starting at the historic Snarestone Tunnel, the route proceeds south along the Ashby Canal through tranquil countryside and wetland areas. The trail passes by Shackerstone, famous for its heritage railway, and onward to the bustling market town of Market Bosworth, with options to explore its local attractions. Continuing through lush meadows and alongside the serene waterway, hikers reach Moira Furnace, a restored industrial landmark set within beautiful parkland. The journey concludes in the Moira area, offering easy access to nearby facilities and public transport links. Expect generally flat, well-maintained canal towpaths, occasional paved sections near villages, and ample opportunities for rest stops and wildlife observation along the 35km stretch.