Belton Park: Old Wood, Lion Gates and riverside circuit

A parkland circuit from Belton’s visitor car park, taking in the avenue towards Bellmount, the edge of Old Wood, Lion Gates and the River Witham. The saved route is about 7.3 km including the visitor approach. Allow two and a half hours; the gentle slopes are manageable, but rough pasture and muddy paths make this more demanding than a surfaced park stroll.

Enter through the signed National Trust entrance from the A607 at Belton village, NG32 2LS. All visitors must pass the admission points on the drive before parking. Follow the visitor paths towards the front of the house, then the gravel route into the park. Keep the estate railings to your left and use the pedestrian gates through any temporary livestock fencing.

Follow the East Avenue away from the house. Before its far gate, turn right onto the walking path around Old Wood. Stay outside the golf course boundary as the path bends downhill past the Conduit House and Alford Memorial. Continue through the gates towards Towthorpe Ponds and along the wooded estate path to Lion Gates. Remain inside the estate.

Turn back up the avenue briefly, then take the waymarked riverside path on the left. Follow the River Witham north past the former Towthorpe village site, using the upper path beside the meadow rather than the optional boardwalk. At the pond-side gate, turn towards the old south drive and follow it back to the house and visitor paths to the car park. Keep the saved route with you at the park junctions.

Paths cross uneven grass, gravel and pasture, with gates and a short hill. The riverside can be muddy after rain; wear footwear with grip and postpone if flooding or a closure affects it. Keep away from the river edge, leave gates as found and watch for estate vehicles. Deer and sheep graze throughout the park, so dogs must stay on a lead. Give deer plenty of space, especially during the autumn rut.

Estate admission applies to non-members; parking is included. Toilets and the Stables Café are available during visitor opening hours. Check closing times and current notices before travelling. Route information: National Trust, Belton Park walk and visitor guidance.