Leicestershire Things to Do Tips by leics Top 5 Page for this destination

Old John

Old John is a 'folly' in Bradgate Park, built for no reason other than to look good in the landscape. The story goes that it is a memorial to an old family servant, built in the shape of his favourite beer tankard. Believe that if you like!

Bradgate Park is simply stunning......and area of almost-wildness in the heart of the rolling East Midlands. A walk up to Old John gives fantastic views over the surrounding countryside.

Address: Bradgate Park

Directions: West of Leicester city. Access by car (several car parks including one very near Old John) or by bus to Newtown Linford.

Website: http://www.bradgatepark.org/index.php?ID=1

Bradgate Park

Bradgate Park originally belonged to Bradgate House, the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey who was beheaded in Tudor times. You can still see the ruins of the house, and visit sometimes (opening hours vary).

A small river babbles through the park, rocky and shallow and ideal for paddling and catching tiddlers.........

Deer, tame enough to pose for photos, wander freely.

The exposed rocks are some of the oldest in the country, ideal for childish scrambling and exploration.

Acres of rough grass and bracken to run and explore and hide in...... hills for rolling down, or flying kites....ancient trees of all types.....

See my travelogue for more info and photos.

Address: Newtown Linford, near Leicester

Directions: West of Leicester city. Access by car (charge for parking, several different car parks) or by bus to Newtown Linford.

Website: http://www.bradgatepark.org/index.php?ID=1

The Battlefield Line.

If you like steam trains, take a trip on the Battlefield Line. The trains run between the villages of Shenton and Shakerstone on most weekends of the year (Santa specials at Christmas, of course ....and Thomas the Tank Engine visits regularly). The countryside is lovely, and there are some good pubs in Shakerstone.

Address: Shenton, Leicestershire.

Directions: Between Stoke Golding and Market Bosworth, near the site of the Battle of Bosworth.

Website: http://www.battlefield-line-railway.co.uk

Bosworth Battlefield.

In 1485 the Battle of Bosworth changed the course of English history. King Richard lll was killed and the Welsh prince Henry Tudor (father of King Henry Vlll) took the throne. You can visit the battle site in West Leicestershire. There's a visitor's centre, an excellent cafe and lovely walks (guided tours available for groups). Visit my Battle of Bosworth page for more backgound.

Address: Ambion Hill, near Sutton Cheney, Leicestershire

Phone: 01455 290429