Have you been feeling cooped up lately?
Is your desire for exploration and freedom calling you to get out and enjoy the great outdoors?
If so, why not consider a walk in Derby?
With its stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and abundance of footpaths, it’s easy to see why Derby is one of the best places for walking.
From short strolls to long hikes, there are plenty of walks to choose from. This article will provide an overview of 15 of the best walks that Derby has to offer.
1. Calke Abbey Walk
For those searching for a tranquil escape, the Calke Abbey Walk is an idyllic experience.
Located in the heart of Derbyshire, the abbey and its surrounding nature offer a peaceful retreat.
A haven of wildlife and lush foliage, this walk is perfect for a leisurely stroll or even an adventurous hike.
The grounds of the abbey offer plenty of opportunities to explore and take in all the beauty of nature.
There are winding paths through meadows full of wildflowers, woods with mysterious trails leading to hidden gems, and a beautiful lake at the center of it all.
With such a diverse landscape, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The breathtaking views will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
2. Milton To Carvers Rocks
Beginning the walk at Milton, you’ll be greeted with a stunning view of the Derwent River.
It’s a gentle stroll along the riverbank, taking in the unspoiled beauty of nature and wildlife.
As you make your way further along, don’t forget to look up and take in the vast views across to Ironstone Hill and beyond.
Along your route, there are plenty of places to stop and take a break; whether it be for lunch or just to take in the sights.
Towards the end of your journey, you’ll come across Carvers Rocks. This is a great spot to really soak up all that nature has to offer.
Here you can rest while admiring the tranquil surroundings, with views out towards Derwent Park and Cornelian Bay.
With so much beauty right on your doorstep, it’s no wonder why this area is such a popular destination for walkers!
3. Elvaston Circular
The Elvaston Circular offers a picturesque walk through the Derbyshire countryside.
The trail meanders through rolling hills, lush forests, and ancient woodland, making it perfect for those looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The 6-mile route begins in Elvaston Castle Country Park, which is home to some of the oldest trees in England.
From here, you’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views across the parkland before heading out into the surrounding countryside.
As you make your way along the path, take time to explore fascinating historic sites such as Alton Towers, Calke Abbey, and Melbourne Hall.
You can also spot a variety of wildlife including birds and deer.
Once you reach your destination, take a break at one of the many pubs or cafes located nearby before returning to Elvaston Castle Country Park.
This circular walk is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature while taking in some beautiful views along the way.
With its diverse landscape and plenty of places to rest and refuel, this is an excellent option for anyone seeking a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike in Derby.
4. Darley’s Loop From West End
Darley’s loop from West End is an easy, leisurely walk that anyone can enjoy.
It offers stunning views of the River Derwent, as well as plenty of opportunities for spotting wildlife along the way.
Starting at the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, you’ll find yourself in a lovely landscape of meadows and wooded areas.
The trail follows the river upstream, crossing several tributaries over bridges and boardwalks.
Along the way are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery – from wildflower meadows to rushing waterfalls.
At the highest point of the walk, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view over Derby city center.
This walk is ideal for those looking for a relaxing stroll through nature.
With its gentle gradient and easy navigability, it’s perfect for families or groups who want to get away from it all without having to go too far.
Whether you’re after a peaceful escape or an inspiring hike, Darley’s Loop has something for everyone.
5. Epic View Loop From Allestree
Just outside the city of Derby lies a rural gem, the Epic View Loop from Allestree.
This stunning walk offers something for everyone; whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, this route has it all.
The loop takes you around Allestree Park and to many of its hidden treasures; meadows, woodlands, historic sites, and stunning views.
The route starts off with a gentle climb through the park’s meadows and woodland areas, before emerging onto the open ground where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
You can spot landmarks like Kedleston Hall in the distance before heading back down into more peaceful surroundings.
From here you’ll wind through picturesque villages and past ancient buildings before finishing up at Allestree Lake.
This delightful loop is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while getting a glimpse of rural Derbyshire.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or get your heart rate up on an invigorating hike, this route has something for everyone – so why not give it a try?
6. Radbourne Park Loop From Mickleover
The next destination for a wonderful walk in Derby is the Radbourne Park loop from Mickleover.
This stunning trail takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the city, with views of lush green fields, rolling hills, and historic buildings.
The route starts at the village of Mickleover and then meanders across country roads, following a stream into Radbourne Park.
Along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views over the River Trent and out across the countryside.
Once in Radbourne Park, there are plenty of opportunities to explore its many attractions.
The park is home to an abundance of wildlife and plants, as well as tranquil ponds, gardens, and play areas.
A highlight of this walk is discovering some of its hidden gems such as historical monuments that date back centuries and delightful secret pathways tucked away amongst trees and bushes.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an invigorating hike, this loop offers something for everyone.
So why not take a day off to explore this beautiful corner of Derby?
7. Kedleston Hall Walk
The Kedleston Hall Walk is a beautiful and serene walk located in the heart of Derby.
This stunning walk takes you through the grounds of Kedleston Hall, an 18th-century country house set in magnificent landscaped gardens.
The stunning views along this route will take your breath away, as you marvel at the beauty of nature surrounded by centuries-old architecture.
As you journey along this walk, you’ll be able to appreciate the many different aspects of nature and wildlife that call it home.
From majestic oaks to tranquil lakes, and lush green meadows to ancient ruins, the sights along this path will captivate you and make you feel truly free.
With its rolling hills, winding paths, and breathtaking flora and fauna, this walk offers an escape from everyday life that will leave your soul refreshed and your spirit uplifted.
There is also plenty of opportunity for photography along this route, so make sure to bring your camera with you!
Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, the Kedleston Hall Walk promises a unique experience that will never be forgotten.
So take some time out to explore this beautiful part of Derby – it’s waiting for you!
8. Elvaston Walk
Elvaston Walk is one of Derby’s best-kept secrets. Located just outside the city, this path takes you through stunning countryside that’s been preserved since the Victorian era.
From rolling hills to lush forests, there’s something for everyone on this walk.
The route starts at Elvaston Castle, a stunning country house with an impressive lake and plenty of wildlife to enjoy.
As you progress along the path, you’ll take in views of majestic fields and leafy trees that stretch for miles.
You’ll also come across quaint villages, historic churches, and monuments – all of which are great places to stop and rest or take photos.
The whole journey is truly breathtaking and will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed.
This walk is suitable for both experienced hikers and those looking for a gentle stroll in the countryside.
Whether it’s a peaceful morning spent admiring nature or an afternoon adventure exploring historical landmarks – Elvaston Walk has something to offer everyone.
So why not make some time to explore Derby’s hidden gem?
9. Belper Walk
One of the best walks in Derby is the Belper Walk. This five-mile route offers a picturesque stroll through Derbyshire’s beautiful countryside, with stunning views of rolling hills and lush meadows.
Along the way, you’ll pass historic sites like the ruins of Duffield Castle and numerous quaint villages.
It’s a perfect walk for those looking to escape into nature and find some time to relax.
The first part of the Belper Walk takes you along the winding lanes of Little Eaton before arriving at Nether Heage, where you can stop for a break and take in some breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
After passing through several more small villages, you arrive at Duffield Castle, an 11th-century ruin that is now home to a variety of wildlife species.
From here, you make your way up onto Turnditch Hill before dropping down into Belper itself, where there are plenty of places to enjoy refreshments after your walk.
With its gentle terrain and stunning landscapes, this walk will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed – ready to explore all that Derby has to offer!
10. Clemson’S Park
Clemson’s Park is a great spot for a peaceful walk. With its winding trails, it offers a serene and varied landscape.
The trails meander through the park’s woodlands, making up a spectacular route that will take your breath away.
You can explore the area at your leisure, and you will be surrounded by lush trees and foliage as you go.
The park also has an abundance of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer and other animals as you wander through the woods.
There are plenty of benches to sit on if you need to take a break, or even just admire the views.
Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or something more challenging, Clemson’s Park is perfect for all levels of hikers.
So grab your friends and family and head out to experience this beautiful spot in Derby!
11. Great Northern Greenway
From the peaceful trails of Clemson’s Park, we set off to explore the Great Northern Greenway.
This 6-mile stretch of green space is a great way to get away from it all.
Running along the banks of the River Derwent, and with stunning views over Derby city center, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
As you wander along the path you’ll find plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking scenery and spot wildlife; there are plenty of bird boxes dotted around the area.
The Great Northern Greenway also has several different trails that can be taken, so if you’re looking for something a bit more challenging then this is definitely worth exploring.
The Great Northern Greenway offers something for everyone; whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or a more rigorous hike, you won’t be disappointed by what this beautiful area has to offer.
Whether you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate or get your heart pumping, this is definitely one of Derby’s best walks!
12. Locko Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic walk in Derby, then look no further than Locko Park.
Located just minutes from the city center, this stunning park is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
With plenty of walking paths and trails, Locko Park makes for an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll or even hike.
The rolling hills and valleys of the park provide a serene backdrop for your walk.
You can take in the lush green pastures, majestic trees, and wildflowers as you make your way through the park’s many trails.
As you explore further into the park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by woodland areas that are home to an abundance of wildlife.
From frogs hopping around to birds singing in the treetops, there’s always something interesting to see on your journey.
Locko Park is a great place to escape from everyday life and get lost in nature’s beauty.
Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll or going on an adventurous hike, this tranquil oasis provides something for everyone – all within easy reach of Derby city center.
So go ahead, let yourself be free, and explore Locko Park!
13. Belper To Derby
The walk from Belper to Derby is a beautiful journey through the countryside.
You’ll be surrounded by lush pastures, rolling hills, and woodlands, with views that are simply breathtaking.
The path is well-marked and easy to follow, so even those who are new to hiking can enjoy the experience.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of rural pubs and cafes to rest your feet, as well as sights to explore such as historic sites, churches, and old mills.
This route is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a serious hike – whatever your preference you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
Plus, it’s only a few miles away from Derby city center so you can easily get back if you need to!
14. Darley Abbey
Darley Abbey is a picturesque village just outside of Derby, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The village is steeped in history and the remains of Darley Abbey are still visible today.
Stroll over the old stone bridge and take in the beautiful views of the River Derwent, which meanders through the village.
You can also visit Darley Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty that features lush green grass and trees, as well as beautiful flowers in bloom.
The Abbey itself is a magnificent sight to behold, with its imposing stone walls and grand arches. Inside you’ll find stunning stained-glass windows, carved stonework, and impressive artwork from centuries past.
It’s a great place to explore and take in the peace and tranquility that comes with it.
There’s even a café nearby where you can enjoy some refreshments before continuing your walk through this stunning part of England.
15. Anchor Church Circular
Anchor Church Circular is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful countryside around Derby.
This easy-going, 4-mile walk takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Derbyshire.
You’ll get to experience glorious views of rolling hills and pastures, as well as glimpses of wildlife along the way. It’s an ideal choice for families, with plenty of places for a picnic or for a rest along the route.
The path starts at Anchor Church and follows a circular route as it winds its way through picturesque villages and farms.
Highlights include a charming 17th-century church, wildflower meadows, and a panoramic viewpoint looking out across the valley below.
The path is clearly marked with information boards and markers guiding you throughout your journey.
Anchor Church Circular takes in all that the Derbyshire countryside has to offer – so why not grab some walking boots, grab your family and friends, and enjoy a wonderful day out?
Best Walks in Derby – Final Thoughts
I have to say, Derby is a great place to explore on foot. After exploring the 15 best walks in Derby, I can confidently say that it’s a great spot for hikers and nature lovers alike.
From the serene route from Milton to Carvers Rocks to the epic view loop from Allestree, there’s something for everyone.
My personal favorite was Darley’s Loop from West End.
The rolling hills and lush greenery proved to be a stunning backdrop for my walk. I’m so glad I discovered this gem of a path; it really added an extra element of beauty and tranquility to my trip.
If you’re ever in Derby, make sure you take the time to enjoy one or two of these amazing walks.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventurous hike, these trails are sure to satisfy your needs!
FAQs
What are some easy walks in Derby?
Some easy walks in Derby are Calke Abbey Walk, Elvaston Circular, and Milton to Carvers Rocks.
What are the best circular walks in Derby?
Some of the best circular walks in Derby are Elvaston Circular, Anchor Church Circular, and Darley Abbey Park Circular Walk.
What are some good family walks in Derby?
Some good family walks in Derby are Elvaston Circular, Elvaston Castle Nature Reserve, and Kedleston Hall Circular.