Swithland Wood: ancient woodland and Stocking Wood circuit

A woodland circuit linking Swithland Wood’s northern paths, the southern woodland and Stocking Wood. From the North Car Park, follow the paths down the western side of the wood towards Druids Mound, then continue through the southern section and around the eastern woodland loop. Return north on the main track, make the Stocking Wood loop and pass the paths near Old Pit on the way back. The plotted route is about 6 km; allow around 2½ hours at a relaxed pace with stops. Some connecting stretches are retraced.

Start at Swithland Wood North Car Park on Swithland Road. Parking is charged and uses pay-and-display; check the machine and entrance notices on arrival. The wood has no public toilets or café. The nearest public toilets are at Bradgate Park’s Hallgates car park, a separate drive away. Bring water and return before the woodland car park closes, which is earlier than Bradgate Park’s closing time.

This is a walk on established woodland paths and shared tracks, with roots, uneven stones and muddy stretches after rain. Wear shoes with grip and give cyclists and horse riders space. Keep dogs under close control, use a lead near wildlife and other visitors, and take waste to a bin. Both former slate quarries are flooded and access is prohibited: stay on the marked paths outside their boundaries, keep away from edges and never enter the water. Respect fences and conservation areas, including the meadow and Whites Wood. The route stays within the woodland without crossing the surrounding roads.

Planned from Bradgate Park Trust’s suggested-walks and rights-of-way map, linking its northern and southern woodland routes. The Trust’s visitor information explains the quarry restrictions and facilities: https://www.bradgatepark.org/swithland-wood