Attractions and Places To See around Kilby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kilby, Leicestershire, offer a variety of outdoor experiences. This region features 20 hidden gems, ranging from historical sites to natural landscapes. Visitors can explore areas with significant cultural heritage and enjoy green spaces. The area provides opportunities for both hiking and cycling.
Best attractions and places to see around Kilby
- The most popular attractions is Stone Bridge in Abbey Park, a historical site located within a park with the River Soar flowing…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Foxton Locks
Highlight • Monument
Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located …
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Stone Bridge in Abbey Park
Highlight • Historical Site
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Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna
Highlight • Historical Site
The village's notable landmark is the Church of …
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Foxton Locks Basin
Highlight • River
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Friars Mill
Highlight • Monument
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Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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Peatling Magna, formerly known as "Great Petlyng" and later as "Great Peatling," is a village in the Harborough district of south Leicestershire. The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods. In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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Cafe, toilets, beautiful park, miniature railway. Cycle route through the patk
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Friars Mill gets its name from the site which had been a Dominican Priory (the Black Friars). The main surviving building of a cluster of early industrial buildings, Friars Mill, dates from around 1794.
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just be vigilant of glass along the canal paths as they seem to be in places especially approaching Bridges for some reason and near benches.
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Nice view of Friars Mill from the west bank of River Soar (Grand Union Canal - Leicester branch).
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With the River Soar flowing through its centre, Abbey Park is a lovely place to relax in the city. The park was opened in 1882 and has since become a popular green retreat. There are also plenty of historic sites to explore: the park is bounded by medieval walls and includes archeological sites of the former St Mary's Abbey and the ruined Cavendish House.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Kilby?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Foxton Locks offers 34 acres of green space, a museum, boat trips, and cafes. Stone Bridge in Abbey Park is another great option with a miniature railway, cafe, and plenty of space to explore historical sites and green areas.
What historical sites can I visit near Kilby?
The area is rich in history. You can explore Stone Bridge in Abbey Park, which features medieval walls and archaeological sites of the former St Mary's Abbey. Foxton Locks is a significant historical site with its unique 'staircase' of 10 canal locks and the remains of an Inclined Boat Lift. Additionally, Friars Mill, dating from around 1794, offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
Where can I find easy walks or beginner hiking trails near Kilby?
For easy walks, consider routes like the Wistow Church – Canal View loop from Newton Harcourt, which is 4.2 km. Another easy option is the Kilby Bridge Canal Crane loop from Oadby and Wigston, at 5.1 km. You can find more easy hikes and detailed routes on the Easy hikes around Kilby guide.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, several attractions offer facilities for refreshments. At Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs and two cafes, including the Top Lock Cottage cafe and Foxton Locks Inn. Abbey Park also has a cafe. For a local experience, Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is known for its great coffee, cakes, and pork cobs.
What outdoor activities are available around Kilby?
Beyond exploring the attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. The area is popular for hiking, with routes like the Wistow Church – Canal View loop or the Grand Union Canal Lock loop. Running trails are also available, such as the Cafe Cosmo – Glen Parva Manor Pub loop. For more details on routes, check the Hiking around Kilby and Running Trails around Kilby guides.
What is special about Foxton Locks?
Foxton Locks is renowned for its unique 'staircase' of ten canal locks, an engineering marvel built in the early 19th century. It's set within 34 acres of natural green spaces, offering opportunities for nature spotting. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips, a museum, two pubs, and two cafes on site.
Are there any parks or green spaces to relax in?
Yes, Abbey Park is a beautiful green retreat with the River Soar flowing through it, perfect for relaxation and exploring historical sites. Foxton Locks also boasts 34 acres of natural green spaces, ideal for nature spotting and leisurely strolls.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kilby?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The unique engineering of Foxton Locks and the tranquil, historical setting of Abbey Park are frequently highlighted. The availability of facilities like cafes and pubs, along with opportunities for walking and nature observation, also contribute to a positive experience.
Can I find circular walks near Kilby?
Yes, there are several circular walking routes available. For example, the Wistow Church – Canal View loop from Newton Harcourt is a circular route. You can explore more options, including moderate circular hikes like the Wistow Rural Café – Wistow Church loop from Wistow, by checking the Hiking around Kilby guide.
Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover?
While popular spots like Foxton Locks are well-known, exploring the historical industrial architecture of Friars Mill offers a unique perspective on the region's past. The site, once a Dominican Priory, provides a different kind of historical insight. Additionally, the local charm of places like Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen can be a delightful discovery for local treats and a break.
What is the best time of year to visit attractions around Kilby?
The attractions around Kilby can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the most vibrant natural scenery and are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and boat trips at Foxton Locks. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a peaceful, crisp experience, especially at sites like Foxton Locks, though some facilities or boat trips might have reduced hours.
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