Beacon Hill, River Linn and Swithland Wood Loop

Starting near Leicestershire, England, the Beacon Hill, River Linn and Swithland Wood Loop is a captivating 17 km (approximately 10.5 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a diverse range of landscapes, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding experience for hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive to the Beacon Hill Country Park, located near Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire. For those using public transport, the nearest major town is Loughborough, which is well-connected by train. From Loughborough, you can take a local bus or taxi to the Beacon Hill Country Park.### Trail Overview The trail begins at Beacon Hill Country Park, a prominent landmark known for its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The initial ascent to Beacon Hill is gradual, with the highest point reaching 248 meters (814 feet) above sea level. This section offers stunning vistas and is a great spot for photography.### Beacon Hill to River Linn As you descend from Beacon Hill, the trail meanders through open fields and woodlands, eventually leading you to the River Linn. This part of the trail is relatively flat and easy, making it a pleasant walk along the riverbanks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals.### Swithland Wood Approximately halfway through the loop, you'll enter Swithland Wood, a historic woodland area known for its ancient trees and rich biodiversity. The wood is particularly beautiful in the spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor. The trail through Swithland Wood is well-marked but can be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.### Historical Significance Swithland Wood is not just a natural wonder; it also holds historical significance. The area was once part of the Swithland Slate quarries, which provided roofing materials for many historic buildings in the region. As you hike through the wood, you may notice remnants of the old quarries, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your journey.### Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain and the presence of multiple intersecting paths, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is generally well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in the denser sections of Swithland Wood.### Final Stretch The final section of the loop takes you back towards Beacon Hill Country Park, passing through more open fields and offering a chance to see grazing livestock. The gentle ascent back to the starting point provides a nice cool-down after the more challenging parts of the hike.### Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of plant and animal life. The diverse habitats support everything from wildflowers and ancient oaks to deer and foxes. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the variety of species that can be spotted along the river and in the woodlands.This 17 km loop trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and moderate physical challenge, making it an excellent choice for a day hike in the Leicestershire area.