Charnwood Forest is home to some of England’s oldest landscapes: its rugged rock outcrops formed half a billion years ago. At Bradgate Park, the ancient rocks are complemented by a remarkable history. The park is the only surviving enclosed medieval deer park in the East Midlands and contains some of England’s oldest rocks.
Discover landscapes and trails
Bradgate Park is accessible year-round, every day, via public footpaths, by bike, on bus 120 or by car. Check the latest access conditions before your visit. Leicestershire’s country parks are free to enter and open daily, although parking charges may apply. Check parking conditions before setting off.
The National Forest covers 200 square miles northwest of Leicester. Its landscapes include ancient woodland, newly planted forest, wildflower meadows and rugged, rocky uplands. Two long-distance walking trails differ in length and route: the Leicestershire Round is a 102-mile circular trail through the county. The National Forest Way stretches for 75 miles, passing rocky outcrops, rolling hills, striking viewpoints and landscapes with an industrial heritage.
More than 70 miles of waterways offer local leisure opportunities in Leicestershire. At Hicks Lodge, too, wildlife watching and getting active go hand in hand: visitors can watch migratory birds such as sand martins from the lakeside bird hide. There are also signposted, traffic-free cycle routes suitable for families and beginners.
Experience history along the way
Take the Great Central Railway through the Leicestershire countryside on a restored steam train, travelling from Leicester North to Loughborough Central. All four stations are wheelchair accessible: Loughborough Central, Quorn & Woodhouse, Rothley and Leicester North. Check the latest station conditions before travelling.
At Ashby de la Zouch Castle, Hastings Tower is a separate residence within the castle. Visitors can also explore an underground passage from the kitchen to the tower. Check the latest access conditions before travelling. At Bosworth Battlefield, the 2.2-kilometre Battlefield Trail passes audio and visual information points. Visitors can also try on armour and shoot a longbow. The battlefield tells the story of the Battle of Bosworth, where King Richard III was defeated, bringing the Middle Ages to an end and ushering in the Tudor dynasty.
The 1620s House and Garden shows what life was like in the 17th century. Other topics explored there include the Gunpowder Plot, the Age of Enlightenment and witchcraft. Conkers offers another perspective on the region’s history: the site was once a coal mine and is now used for outdoor adventures and to share the history of mining. Activities there include a barefoot trail, an activity trail and a fairy maze.
Crafts, wildlife and local discoveries
Loughborough Bellfoundry is the last working bell foundry in the United Kingdom. Since 1859, it has cast more than 25,000 bells, which hang in over 100 countries. Its long history and continued operation make it a special destination for anyone interested in craftsmanship.
Twycross Zoo is home to more than 500 animals, including all four species of great ape. The zoo’s history includes breeding endangered species as part of conservation programmes. Those interested in local specialities will find stalls selling Melton pork pies and Stilton at Melton Mowbray Market, which is over 1,000 years old. As market hours can change, check them before your visit. Brockleby’s offers a hands-on pork pie-making workshop; check booking availability before travelling.
The Belvoir Castle estate also brings together a variety of landscapes, with formal gardens and woodland offering beautiful views. Leicestershire’s attractions range from ancient rock outcrops and long-distance trails to crafts, wildlife and culinary discoveries.
Discover more destinations: Swannington, Narborough, Sibson, Shepshed, Rothley, Orton, North Kilworth, Melton Mowbray, Medbourne, Markfield, Market Harborough, Market Bosworth, Lutterworth, Loughborough, Kegworth, Hinckley, Coalville, Castle Donington, Broughton Astley, Ashby De La Zouch, Appleby Magna, Earl Shilton, Sutton Cheney, Great Glen, Croxton Kerrial, Great Easton, Sapcote, Old Dalby, Harby, Bottesford, Ibstock, Moira, Kirkby Mallory, Woodhouse Eaves, Hathern, Redmile, Sproxton, Stathern, Knipton, Higham on the Hill, Measham, Goadby Marwood, Buckminster and Quorn.
For the regional travel overview: East Midlands.
