A tranquil setting a short walk from Leicester’s vibrant city centre reveals the city’s meandering River Soar. The river boasts beautiful scenery, wildlife and was once the most profitable commercial navigation route in Britain.
Used by the Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, settling in Leicester, to support day to day life, the river was a source for drinking, bathing and farming. It was fundamental to the growth of Leicester’s ancient town.
The river’s navigation route largely developed in the 18th Century as a result of the Industrial Revolution; in 1779 the canal route was extended to support the development of trade to and from mills, factories, gasworks and electricity generation stations which lined the river route.
Today, the river extends for up to 28 miles through Leicestershire and is the perfect setting for recreational activities in the midst of Leicester’s metropolitan centre. It’s a breath of fresh air, revealing Leicester’s diverse landscape in the heart of the city.
There’s lots of fun to be had exploring the canal route. The canal route tours by Abbey Park, Aylestone Meadows, Bede Park, Castle Gardens, Watermead Park and landmarks such as Leicester’s Walker Stadium and Abbey Pumping Station and a number of pubs, which are ideal for a quick bite to eat! For further details on Riverside walking routes please contact the Tourist Information Centre or see River Side.
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