[1] With your back to the sports centre turn right towards the car park, pass the entrance to Abbey Park (A), cross right over the car park and follow the path down to the canal towpath.
(A) Abbey Park is Leicester’s premier park. The River Soar divides this beautiful park into two distinct areas: to the east of the river lies the highly decorative Victorian part of the park with its evergreen shrubberies, trees, lakes and formally planted flower displays and to the west of the river lies the fascinating Abbey Grounds. Within this area are the remains of the twelfth century Leicester Abbey and the ruins of Cavendish House, a seventeenth century mansion.
[2] At the canal turn left and continue along the towpath with the canal on your right. You are now walking on the Grand Union Canal (B).
Take care when walking along the path - keep away from the edge (possibly using the upper path), especially children, and beware of cyclists who may appear without warning
(B) The Grand Union Canal is Britain’s longest linking London to Birmingham. There's plenty to see along the Grand Union Canal. From the vibrant heart of London, it leads you out into the rolling Chiltern Hills, through rural Northamptonshire and Warwickshire and into the Birmingham suburbs. The Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne gives a fascinating glimpse into this waterway’s past.
[3] After about 10 minutes walking you will reach Abbey Park Road bridge. Follow the path left up onto the bridge and continue for a short distance along Abbey Park Road, passing the car park, until you come to the main entrance to Abbey Park on the left. Enter the park through this entrance, marked Gate A.
[4] Follow the path straight ahead for a short distance until you come to the main path which loops the park. Turn right along this path and bear right on the main path just past bowling green. You will come to a signpost for the Sensory Garden to your right, follow this sign to enter the Sensory Garden (C).
(C) This specially designed garden within Abbey park combines good access together with features that appeal to all the senses. Whilst everyone is welcome it is particularly enjoyable for people with a sensory or physical disability.
Leave the Sensory Garden and re-join the main path on the right. Continue along the main path around the side of the lake, crossing over the island where paths meet..
[5] Follow the next right -hand path down to the river and turn left following the riverbank. You are now walking alongside the River Soar. Continue along the river bank until you reach the end of the park and a path off to your left.
[6] Take the path to your left and continue along this path passing the Miniature Railway (D) on your left hand side. At the end of the path turn right and go through the gate into the car park. This is the end of the walk.
(D) The Leicester Society of Model Engineers was founded in 1909. In 1949, the Parks Committee gave the Leicester Society of Model Engineers permission to install a miniature railway for model engines on Abbey Park. The railway is open to the public most Sundays throughout the summer.