Fleckney to Foxton

Starting from the Scout Hut Car Park head away from the village centre turn left down Kibworth Road and take the first turning to the left, through the gate, across the fields to the canal. At the time of writing the towpath from Fleckney to the Saddington Tunnel is impassable but there is a footpath alongside the canal that can be used instead. At the end of this footpath turn left to go over the tunnel till you reach Kibworth Road. Carefully cross the road, climb over the stile and continue along the path over the tunnel until you descend to the canal towpath.

The towpath will take you all the way to Debdale Wharf where you will see a large assortment of narrow boats in the marina there. Immediately after the marina, take the permissive path to the left and head due south until you reach the footpath proper. Follow this path southeast for about three quarters of a mile where it bends to the right leading you southwards through Fisher Farm to Foxton. As you leave the farm, turn left into North Lane and then right into Main Road. Head along this road, past The Chapel and turn right into the road that leads to The Shoulder of Mutton. Go diagonally through the car park to find the footpath and take the one to the left. This takes you back onto North Lane (you could have turned right after Fisher Farm to arrive at the same location).

Turn right at North Lane and almost immediately take the footpath to the left. This heads east and nears the canal. Keep heading east along this path, over two footbridges. The second one takes you over the canal where the path splits into two. Join the Leicestershire Round by taking the left path which takes you into Gumley.

By now you will be in need of refreshment so call into The Bell Inn where you will receive excellent service, good food and a chance to taste a local ale or two.

Once refreshed, head up the Main Street to the church and keep to the footpath adjacent to the church. You are now back on the Leicestershire Round and this well marked footpath will take you all the way to Saddington. On the way you will climb to the top of Smeeton Hill where you can enjoy panoramic views. There is a bench at the top where you can rest after the short climb.

Continue along the Round, down the far side of Smeeton Hill and carefully cross the bridge over the brook before heading upwards once again until you reach Saddington Main Street. Go straight across the road, up Bakehouse Lane and along the short, narrow, enclosed path which brings you out into a farm before leading you to Fleckney Road. Go straight across the road and once again take the Leicestershire Round across a couple of fields, until the Round veers off to the left. The path you want to follow carries straight on in the same direction past Fleckney Lodge and the backs of many houses until you reach Arnesby Road. Turn right onto this road which will take you back to the Scout Hut Car Park – unless, of course, you fancy some more refreshment at The Golden Shield or The Old Crown!