Out & about
Top 10 local walks with pubs
Melton Mowbray
Oakham
Nicholas Rudd-Jones describes his 10 favourite walks in the region, all of which have a fabulous pub at the finish through the middle level from north to south and offers up the beautiful honey-coloured stone that defines our vernacular architecture. All intercut west to east by the majestic Nene and Welland valleys and the delightful smaller valleys of the Gwash, the Chater, the Eyebrook and Willow LOVE walking, we all love walking, it makes Brook. And, finally, the man-made us feel better, happier and more interventions of the Great North connected to nature and one’s KEY POINTS For full directions Road, which has been with us in companions through spending and a map for each walk, some form since Roman times, uninterrupted time together. head to our new website: and the much more harmonious It has been especially important www.locallivinguk.com. creation of Rutland Water. during lockdown. Call ahead to pubs to check Here I give an overview of my And this region has so much the latest arrangements 10 favourite walks in the region. varied landscape. The flat lands and whether or not For full directions and maps to the east (an acquired taste), you need to book for each walk, head to our new the hillier country to the west, the a table. website: www.locallivinguk.com. plateau of Jurassic limestone that runs
‘I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it. If one keeps on walking, everything will be alright.’ Kierkegaard
Uppingham
I
Market Harborough
2. BRAUNSTON & LAUNDE ABBEY (THE BLUE BALL)
1. HALLATON ROUND (THE BEWICKE ARMS)
This is a lovely walk that makes you feel on top of the world (albeit only 535ft/163m), with long views over the Welland Valley and a start and finish in the quaint village of Hallaton. • How far? 5.4 miles (8.6km), allow 2 hours • OS map: Explorer 233, Landranger 141 • Start & finish: Hallaton (LE16 8UB) • Route: Head southwest to Cranoe, north to Hallaton Wood, then back to Hallaton • Full directions: www.locallivinguk.com • Our pub favourite: The Bewicke Arms, Hallaton, LE16 8UB. A traditional village pub with a good garden at the back. Recently established owners offer really good food.
This walk starts at the pretty village of Braunstonin-Rutland, passing through gently undulating countryside. It has some interesting historical features and wonderful views over the remote Chater Valley. • How far? 6 miles (10km), allow 2½ hours • OS map: Explorer 234, Landranger 141 • Start & finish: Braunston All Saints’ Church (LE15 8QS) • Route: Head south west past South Lodge Farm to Launde Road; head south to Launde Abbey; head east on southern bank of River Chater, then north-east back to Braunston. • Full directions: www.locallivinguk.com • Our pub favourite: The Blue Ball, LE15 8QS, opposite the church. Good food and a really friendly place, ideal post-walk.
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18/08/2020 16:42