Heart of the Forest trail

The Heart of the Forest Trail tells the fascinating tale of the industrial heritage and natural regeneration in the Heart of the National Forest and the surrounding areas.

Discover the history of the local area and its involvement in industries like coal mining and iron-making.

The Heart of the Forest has seen the most significant increase in tree coverage over the last 30 years, with woodland cover increasing from 1% to 27%.

It is an exceptional story of rapid change from 19th century deep coal and open cast mining, clay extraction and associated industrial activity, to a 21st century sustainable landscape led by the creation of The National Forest.

Seven Interpretation Hubs are located in the heart of the Forest: Albert Village Lake, Donisthorpe Woodlands, Moira Furnace, Conkers Waterside, Oakthorpe picnic site, Ashby Woulds heritage trail and Hicks Lodge lake, and were inspired by the stories of the communities who have lived and worked in the villages in and around the Ashby Woulds, between Swadlincote, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Measham and Overseal. You will see three of these on your walk, so come back another day and find the rest!

PLEASE NOTE: There are two circuits that make up the Heart of the Forest Trail:

The Northern Circuit, at 4.5 miles long

This walk will take you from Moira Furnace, to Moira Junction South, Albert Village Lake and Bath Yard Basin, before looping back to the Furnace. You can add another 1.5 miles to take in the peaceful woodland sites of Feanedock and Boothorpe.

The Southern Circuit, at 5.5 miles long

This walk will take you from Moira Furnace, to Hicks Lodge, Thortit Pitt and Donisthorpe Colliery, before looping back to the Furnace.

Leaflets are available on request enquiries@nationalforest.org or from local outlets.

Moira Furnace Museum & Country Park

A hidden gem in the heart of the Forest, you will find plenty to keep you and the family entertained. Visit the museum to learn about iron-making and social history, explore the lime kilns and ancient woodlands, take a trip on the narrowboat or walk along the Ashby Canal towpath. Open all year round and great for picnics, dog walking, woodland walks and wildlife.

Albert Village Lake

Albert Village Lake is a former claypit that now consists of a scenic large central lake surrounded by paths. It is located a mile away from Swadlincote and three miles from Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It is a good area for sightings of gulls, wildfowl and common terns. A circular walk around the lake is enhanced by a number of benches where you can take a rest and admire the views and wildlife. Albert Village took its name from the Albert Brick and Tile Works, itself named after Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert. Prior to becoming Albert Village, the area was previously known as Mushroom Lane. 

Conkers Discovery Centre

Conkers was one of the earliest visitor attractions to be developed in The National Forest. Built on a former deep coal mine, you can now explore 120 acres of woodland, enjoy adventure play and over 100 indoor interactive exhibits.

Hicks Lodge, National Forest Cycle Centre

In the heart of the National Forest, this is a former coal mining site that has been totally transformed by new woodland and exciting trails. A great day out for the budding cyclist, there is a range of trails for beginner to intermediate riders. Visit the lakeside bird hide where you can soak in the beautiful scenery and spot visiting wildlife, such as the migratory sand martins. There are also walking and horse riding paths to explore, a play area and a café.

Donisthorpe Woodland Park

Donisthorpe Woodland Park was created in 1996 by Leicestershire County Council on the former site of Donisthorpe Colliery, which was opened in 1857 and closed, 133 years later, in 1990. The colliery lagoons have been capped with clay and planted with new woodland (around 74,000 trees), in partnership with the National Forest, English Partnerships and the Forestry Commission. 

• Car Parking
• Disabled Parking
• Grassy Paths
• Picnic Area
• Children's Play Area
• Viewpoint
• Refreshments

• Sweet Caroline's 
• Grounds Cafe