8 beautiful gardens and parks to visit in Leicestershire this summer‍

Rooted in not both historical wonder but natural beauty, the county of Leicestershire is marked as the heart of rural england. From the renowned childhood home of Lady Jane Grey to the family favourite Wistow Maze, We’re sharing some of the best and well loved gardens and parks across Leicestershire.

Bradgate Park

With over 830 acres of wonderful wildlife, rich history and amazing landscapes, Bradgate park has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a keen walker, a buzzing family or simply want to enjoy a delicious cake with a view- Bradgate park is one of Leicestershire’s favourite spots for a day out.

Famous for being the childhood estate of Lady Jane Grey, as well as over 500 of the UKs oldest fossils- Bradgate park also has a free to visit, visitors information center. There are also 2 tea rooms, with multiple car parks and transport options.

The park lies between the villages of Newtown Linford, Anstey, Cropston, Woodhouse Eaves and Swithland.

Old John at the summit of Bradgate Park in Leicestershire

Watermead Country Park

With a series of lakes, walking trails and tracks- Watermead Park is an ideal day out for nature lovers, walkers and families. As a visitor to the park, you can enjoy beautiful lake views and woodland walks with a variety of picnic spots to rest and soak in the atmosphere.

Watermead Park is also a hit for families or those with children, featuring many resident ducks and geese as well as a giant mammoth sculpture overlooking the south side of the park.

Located in the north of Leicestershire, between Birstall, Wanlip and Thurmaston- the park is easily accessible by car, bike, foot or public transport. The park features multiple car parks, as well as multiple cycle and walking routes, as well as a regular 5km run circuit.

View across Watermead Country Park - Photo credit to Visit Leicester (www.visitleicester.info/see-and-do/watermead-country-park-south-p708221)

Beacon Hill

As the second highest point in Leicestershire, Beacon Hill country park consists of over 330 acres of grasslands and woodlands. With a circuit loop track, the park is popular with walkers and cyclists.

There are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing too, whether it’s taking in the impressive views across the county, getting up close with the grazing wildlife or finding the chainsaw sculpture decorating the woodland.

From the summit of the hill you can observe the nearby Loughborough, Quorn and Rothley. Gazing further into the distance on a clear day, you could also spot as far as Belvoir Castle, the Peak District hills and into Derbyshire and Nottingham.

Beacon Hill summit view across Leicestershire

Cattows Farm

Located in North West Leicestershire (Coalville), Cattows Farm resides in 100 acres of woodlands and wildlife. 

The farm itself is owned by the Ludlam family for over 120 years and features a mix of livestock, soft fruit growing and reforested land. 

When visiting, you’ll have plenty to see and do- with nature trails and woodland walks, children's play areas, fresh fruit picking, rounded off with a beautiful farm shop, restaurant and cafe to indulge in a treat and beverage.

Strawberry picking at Cattows Farm - Photo credit to Cattows Farm (www.facebook.com/cattowsfarm)

Thornton Reservoir

As a small reservoir based in the National Forest area, Thornton Reservoir is ideal for a relaxing and calming day out. Featuring a 2.5 mile circular walk, the reservoir is a popular spot for walkers and runners.

There are also great opportunities for bird watching and fishing (subject to permits).

View across Thornton Reservoir in North West Leicestershire

Sence Valley Park

This 60 hectare park features a variety of paths and trails for walking areas, fishing and bird watching.

Located between Ibstock and Heather in North West Leicestershire, and within the National Forest, is rich in history and wildlife. There are also a range of wellbeing activities and events available at the park including ‘forest bathing’, Nature walks and craft workshops.

With such a diversity of options, Sense Valley Park makes an enjoyable day out for all ages.

Resident swan at Sence Valley Park - Photo credit to Forestry England (www.forestryengland.uk/sence-valley)

Wistow Maze

Set in 8 acres of living maize and sunflower crop, Wistow Maze is one of the country's largest maize mazes. Making a fun and enjoyable day out for all ages, you can not only tackle the maze itself but also enjoy the activity fun yard- featuring a range of mini games to enjoy.

Located in Wistow, a historic village in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, the maze is just a few miles south of Leicester and slightly north of Market Harborough.

Wistow Maze 2024 Maze Design 'The Javelin Thrower' - Photo credit to Wistow Maze (www.wistow.com/wistow-maze)

Leicester Botanical Gardens

Located in 16 acres of lovingly cultivated gardens, around the four Edwardian Houses on the site, Leicester Botanical Gardens and Attenborough Arboretum makes a perfect day out to see and learn about a range of plants and flowers from around the world.

University of Leicester Botanical Gardens - Photo credit to Matt Neale WIkipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Leicester_Botanic_Garden)

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