This is a lovely walk which 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 delightful village of Hallaton.

Key Data

• Distance: 5.4 miles (8.6km)
• Typical time: 2 hours
• OS Map: Explorer 233, Landranger 141
• Start & finish: Hallaton (LE16 8UB)
• Terrain: a fair number of ups and downs, generally good paths Stiles: 6, and lots of gates

Directions

1. Park on the village green close to the Bewicke Arms and walk down towards the church, then take the lane to the right of it which bends round past the charming village primary school.
2. The path takes off along the left of a mini-football ground, through a gate, where the path divides; at this point you can see the remains of an old motte and bailey dating back to the 12th century; take the left hand path, down towards the brook and up the other side, and then bearing SW across four fields.
3. The path descends steeply to a spinney and a tiny stream, then on through the farmyard of Othorpe House; follow the farmyard round and continue in a SW direction through a gate on the far side.
4. After about 0.75 miles the path reaches the tiny hamlet of Cranoe, where there is a stile where the Leicestershire Round (on which you have been) meets the Midshires way heading north (which you want to take); only cross the stile if you want to visit the attractive Victorian church. Otherwise, take the Midshires Way nearly due north for about 2.5 miles, signposted to Tugby.
5. About 200 yards after you have crossed the Goadby Rd (not made up, but passable for cars), a path takes off to the right (SE) heading straight back to Hallaton.
6. The path bisects several fields, always aiming back towards Hallaton, with a small stream and valley to your left. 7 When you reach the small road, follow it up a hill for about 200 yards; where the road turns sharp left, go through a gate and head back into the village at the same point where the walk began.

Points of Interest

The famous Hallaton Bottle Kicking and Hare Pie Scrambling takes place on a hill to the south of the village on Easter Monday each year. It is one of the few survivors of the ancient football games of England, the ancestors of soccer and rugby. Thousands of people come to watch or to take part.

Hallaton Museum is situated in The Tin Tab, Churchgate. It is open early May to early Oct, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, 2.30–5pm, www.hallaton-museum.co.uk

Pit Stops

Bewicke Arms, Hallaton, LE16 8UB (01858 555217). A traditional village pub with a good garden at the back.

The Hare Pie Café, LE16 8UB (01858 555734). A very pleasant spot alongside the pub, open every day 10am–5pm