7k Run Charnwood: Scenic Route Along the Canal and Dishley Pool

Route Overview & Local Insights

If you're looking for a PB-friendly flat run in Leicestershire, this 6.9km out-and-back route through Charnwood is an absolute gem. Starting on the well-maintained Grand Union Canal towpath, the terrain is a mix of paved surfaces and hard-packed trail, making it accessible for road shoes in most conditions. With zero meters of ascent, it’s a pure "rhythm" run where you can lock into your target pace without the interruption of hills. The highlight of the journey is the tranquil loop around Dishley Pool, where the water views provide a refreshing mental break before you pivot back toward the finish.

Charnwood is steeped in industrial and natural history, and running along the canal offers a front-row seat to the heritage of the East Midlands. This specific stretch near Loughborough was once a vital artery for the transport of coal and limestone; today, it’s a thriving local nature reserve. Keep an eye out for grey herons and kingfishers as you pass Dishley Pool, which stands on the site of an old mill. This area is famously associated with Robert Bakewell, a pioneer in the agricultural revolution, and the surrounding fields still retain that timeless pastoral charm that makes running in the English countryside so rewarding.