Top 8 Dog Walks in Leicester and Leicestershire

Looking for the best dog walks in Leicester and Leicestershire? Whether you're searching for peaceful woodland trails, scenic canal paths or wide-open countryside where your dog can stretch their legs, there are plenty of fantastic options to choose from.

In this guide, we've picked eight of our favourite dog walks near Leicester, including popular destinations such as Bradgate Park, Beacon Hill Country Park and Watermead Country Park. Each walk offers something different, from family-friendly routes and waterside strolls to challenging countryside adventures.

If you're looking for dog-friendly walks in Leicestershire, these locations are a great place to start.

Quick Comparison of the Best Dog Walks in Leicester and Leicestershire

Which Dog Walk in Leicester and Leicestershire is Right for You?

Best dog walk for views: Bradgate Park

Best woodland walk: Beacon Hill Country Park

Best canal walk: Foxton Locks

Best for off-lead exercise: Burbage Common and Woods

Best dog walk near Leicester city centre: Watermead Country Park

Best peaceful countryside walk: Sence Valley Forest Park

Best waterside walk: Thornton Reservoir

Best riverside walk: Aylestone Meadows

1. Bradgate Park – One of the Best Dog Walks in Leicestershire

Best for: Long walks, open countryside and stunning views.

Typical route: 2–6 miles
Terrain: Grassland, woodland paths and hills
Parking: Multiple paid car parks available

Bradgate Park is one of the most popular dog walks in Leicestershire, covering around 850 acres of parkland, woodland and rolling hills. The park offers a variety of routes, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging walks up to Old John Tower, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views across the county.

Dogs are welcome throughout the park, but owners should be mindful of the resident deer and grazing livestock. The mix of open space, natural beauty and varied terrain makes Bradgate Park a fantastic destination for dogs that enjoy exploring.

Facilities: Car parks, toilets, café and visitor facilities.

View our full Bradgate Park dog walk guide →

2. Beacon Hill Country Park

Best for: Woodland adventures and scenic viewpoints.

Typical route: 1.5–4 miles
Terrain: Woodland trails, heathland and moderate inclines
Parking: Pay and display parking available

Located in Charnwood Forest, Beacon Hill Country Park offers a mixture of woodland trails, open heathland and some of the highest viewpoints in Leicestershire. The network of paths makes it easy to tailor your walk to suit your dog’s energy levels.

Dogs love exploring the woodland sections, while owners can enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside. The park can be muddy after wet weather, so suitable footwear is recommended.

Facilities: Parking, visitor centre, café and picnic areas.

View our full Beacon Hill Country Park dog walk guide →

3. Foxton Locks

Best for: Waterside walks and local history.

Typical route: 1–4 miles
Terrain: Flat canal towpaths
Parking: Large public car park nearby

Foxton Locks is a picturesque dog walk along the Grand Union Canal and is home to Britain's longest staircase lock flight. The canal towpaths provide an easy, mostly flat route that is suitable for dogs of all ages and fitness levels.

Along the way, you'll pass narrowboats, historic lock structures and peaceful countryside. It's a particularly enjoyable walk for dogs that like quieter routes with plenty of interesting sights and smells.

Facilities: Parking, café, toilets and canal-side refreshments.

View our full Foxton Locks dog walk guide →

4. Sence Valley Forest Park

Best for: Peaceful lakeside walks.

Typical route: 1–3 miles
Terrain: Lakeside paths and woodland trails
Parking: Free parking available

Sence Valley Forest Park was created on the site of a former opencast coal mine and has been transformed into a beautiful country park with lakes, meadows and woodland. The wide paths and open spaces make it ideal for relaxed dog walks away from busy roads.

The park attracts a variety of wildlife, making it a pleasant destination for owners who enjoy nature as much as their dogs do.

Facilities: Free parking and picnic areas.

View our full Sence Valley Forest Park dog walk guide →

5. Burbage Common and Woods

Best for: Variety and off-lead opportunities.

Typical route: 2–5 miles
Terrain: Woodland, meadows and open grassland
Parking: Free parking available

Burbage Common and Woods combines open grassland, meadows and mature woodland to create one of the most varied dog walking locations in Leicestershire. The extensive path network allows walkers to choose anything from a short stroll to a longer adventure.

Many dog owners visit regularly thanks to the large open spaces and opportunities for dogs to stretch their legs. The woodland sections also provide welcome shade during warmer months.

Facilities: Parking, café and visitor facilities nearby.

View our full Burbage Common dog walk guide →

6. Thornton Reservoir

Best for: Waterside scenery and wildlife.

Typical route: 2–4 miles
Terrain: Reservoir paths and countryside tracks
Parking: Parking available near the reservoir

Thornton Reservoir offers a peaceful circular walk around one of Leicestershire's most attractive bodies of water. The route combines waterside views, open countryside and opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife.

The relatively gentle terrain makes this a good choice for older dogs or owners looking for a more relaxed walk. The reservoir setting creates a calm atmosphere throughout the year.

Facilities: Parking and nearby refreshments.

View our full Thornton Reservoir dog walk guide →

7. Watermead Country Park – A Popular Dog Walk Near Leicester

Best for: Easy walks and family outings.

Typical route: 1–5 miles
Terrain: Mostly flat surfaced paths
Parking: Multiple parking areas available

Watermead Country Park is one of the closest major dog walking destinations to Leicester city centre. The park features a series of lakes, wildlife habitats and well-maintained paths that are suitable for year-round walking.

Its accessibility and wide trails make it popular with families, casual walkers and dog owners alike. Dogs can enjoy plenty of new scents while owners take in the waterside scenery.

Facilities: Parking, toilets and accessible pathways.

View our full Watermead Country Park dog walk guide →

8. Aylestone Meadows

Best for: Natural riverside walks near Leicester.

Typical route: 1–4 miles
Terrain: Grassland, riverside paths and woodland
Parking: Several access points with nearby parking

Aylestone Meadows is a large area of grassland, woodland and riverside habitat located just south of Leicester city centre. The network of paths follows the River Soar and provides plenty of space for dogs to explore.

Despite being close to the city, the meadows feel surprisingly rural and offer a peaceful escape from urban life. The mix of riverside scenery and open grassland makes it a favourite among local dog walkers.

Facilities: Multiple access points and nearby parking options.

View our full Aylestone Meadows dog walk guide →

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for woodland trails, canal walks or open countryside, Leicester and Leicestershire offer plenty of excellent dog walking opportunities.

If you'd like more information about any of the walks featured above, follow the links to our detailed walk guides where you'll find route maps, parking information, photos and local tips.