Redmile reveals itself through distinct transitions: along the Grantham Canal, grassy and paved path surfaces alternate, while views open up from the village across open fields to the southeast. Circular walks, railway history and local stories add to the picture. When planning your trip, you can weigh up whether you are more drawn to a waterside walk, a scenic viewpoint or the village’s history.
Along the canal: paths and protected area
On the canal path from Harby (Langar Bridge) to Redmile, the towpath is grass-covered as far as Redmile Mill Bridge. After that, a short paved section leads to Redmile Town Bridge and on into the village. The change in surface can therefore be pinpointed at two named bridges. As path surfaces and conditions can change, check the latest conditions before setting out.
The Harby to Redmile SSSI covers the entire canal section from Rectory Bridge No. 44 near Harby to Redmile Mill Bridge No. 53. SSSI stands for Site of Special Scientific Interest. The area between the two named bridges makes the extent of the protected site clear.
Walking: distance, path type and views
The entire section of the Grantham Canal from Redmile to Woolsthorpe is a footpath. The circular walks have different points of interest: the Redmile Circular is one mile long, while the Redmile to Barkestone Circular offers views of Belvoir Castle. You can compare the stated length of one walk with the named viewpoint of the other, rather than judging both routes by their names alone. When choosing, you can therefore start by considering distance or views, while also treating the canal section, described throughout as a footpath, as a separate type of route.
Views of Belvoir Castle
From Redmile, there are wide-ranging views across open fields to the southeast, towards Belvoir Castle and the Vale escarpment. Belvoir Castle is also a viewpoint on the Redmile to Barkestone Circular. The two viewing contexts differ: from Redmile, the open landscape and the direction to the southeast are specified; on the circular walk, the view of the Castle is the main focus. This gives you a concrete comparison between the broad outlook from the village and the viewpoint featured on a particular walk.
Local history and stories
Redmile’s local railway opened in 1879 and carried iron ore to Yorkshire, as well as local produce to towns and markets. According to local tradition, Thomas Daffye, vicar of Redmile, was considered the inventor of Daffy’s Elixir around 1660. The grounds of St Peter’s Church in Redmile also contain three Vale of Belvoir Angels gravestones; their condition may change. This local history highlights different aspects: the railway’s freight traffic, a person associated with Redmile and gravestones in the church grounds.
Discover more destinations: Lutterworth, Woodhouse Eaves, Coalville, Kegworth, Moira, Knipton, Sproxton, Measham.
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