Leicester’s waterways — the River Soar & Grand Union Canal — feature miles of paths along them that are lovely for running. Here, we feature 6 miles of river/canal paths divided into two sections from the city center: north to Watermeade, including Abbey Park; and south to Aylestone. There are many opportunities to mix & match and combine with additional trails in the riverside parks. 

Central Section: North to Watermeade

Starting from St. Augustine Rd. and headed north, we’ve mapped 3.5 miles of waterside paths north to Watermeade Way. It starts as a narrow paved path along the Soar for 0.5 miles through the old industrial area of Black Friars. Then, continue along the west bank of the Grand Union Canal, skirting the edge of Abbey Park, for 1.2 miles to Langton Way, where you’ll cross over to the River Soar path, where you’ll alternate between the east and west banks for 1.5 miles to Watermeade. This section is pleasantly green, passing by the National Space Center, through Ellis Meadows. North of the historic Belgrave Bridge, the path is fairly narrow.

Abbey Park, with bridge over River Soar, Leicester by Tim Heaton

Abbey Park

Abbey Park is Leicester’s most significant Victorian Park. The riverside park features lovely paths passing meadows, floral displays, and Augustinian monastery ruins. A loop is ~2.3 miles. Abbey Park is also site a parkrun. 

Southern Section to Aylestone

Google Street View

The southern section is 2.5 miles to Aylestone. From St. Augustine Rd., run on the concrete path alongside the west bank of the River Soar, below road grade. There are good river views, and a couple of industrial feeling sections with wall art. The river path continues along the eastern edge of Riverside Park and Aylestone Meadows Reserve. We’ve mapped ** miles to Middleton St., but you can also continue for many miles south on a narrow paved path alongside the river.