Kedleston Hall: Long Walk, woodland and lakes

Follow Kedleston’s Long Walk around the woodland edge of the park, returning beside the lakes with views towards the Hall. The circuit is about 5.1 km from the main visitor car park. Allow two hours for the slopes, uneven ground and a few pauses, rather than treating it as a brisk level stroll.

Start at the National Trust visitor car park beside reception, reached from Kedleston Road near Quarndon, DE22 5JH. Check in at reception before entering the park. Follow the Long Walk signs through the small garden gate, turn right past the Pleasure Grounds and climb through the tall House of Lords gates. Continue uphill past the Hermitage, keeping to the main woodland path.

The route turns around the western end of Pleasure Ground Wood, then follows the wooded boundary through Priest Wood and across to Upper Vicar Wood. Use the Long Walk signs at the shorter-route junctions. Descend towards the splash pool at the end of the lakes and turn back along their southern bank. Stay on the bank path, with the water on your right, passing the weirs and looking towards the Robert Adam bridge and Hall. Return to the visitor parking area on the estate paths, watching for vehicles on the final approach.

Expect compacted woodland paths, grass, slopes and livestock gates. The lakeside sections can become very waterlogged in winter; postpone the walk if conditions or a closure make the bank path unsuitable. Wear footwear with grip, keep away from the water’s edge and leave gates as found. Sheep and cattle graze here, so keep dogs on a lead throughout.

Parkland admission applies to non-members; parking is included for visitors. Toilets and refreshments are available near the Hall during opening hours. Check the current closing time and any work-related diversions at reception. Route information: National Trust, Kedleston Long Walk.