Attractions and Places To See around Leicester Forest West - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Leicester Forest West include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. While Leicester Forest West itself is historically a wooded area, it serves as a gateway to numerous points of interest in the surrounding region. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, expansive parks, and significant natural features. The area offers diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and discovering local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Leicester Forest West
- The most popular attractions is Ruins of Bradgate House, a historical site that was once a Tudor mansion and home to Lady Jane Grey. The house was abandoned in the 1730s and declared a ruin by 1790.
- Another must-see spot is Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument and viewpoint. This folly stands at 212 meters high on the highest hill in Bradgate Park, offering prominent views across Leicester and Leicestershire.
- Visitors also love Bradgate Park Deer Park, a natural area known for its roaming herds of deer. This popular spot is ideal for those seeking family friendly attractions near Leicester Forest West and offers opportunities for walking and cycling.
- Leicester Forest West is known for its historical sites, natural parks, and unique activity centers. The region provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to the UK National Dive Centre.
- The attractions around Leicester Forest West are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and 95 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Old John Tower, Bradgate Park
Highlight • Monument
The earliest recorded use of the name is on a map of 1754, which records a windmill on the site, some 30 years before the tower was built. The tower itself began life as a ruined folly, built in 1784, during the time of George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford. He got Thomas Sketchley of Anstey to build him the mock ruin, which had strong similarities to Mow Cop, Staffordshire. It was adapted in the mid-19th century by the seventh Earl to serve as an observation tower for the practice circuit he laid out for his horses, along with the building of a stable block lower down the hill.
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Ruins of Bradgate House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Bradgate Park Deer Park
Highlight • Lake
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Bagworth Heath Woods
Highlight • Natural
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Bradgate Park Entrance (Newtown Linford)
Highlight • Natural
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Tips from the Community
Sand martins return annually to an artificial nesting wall at Bagworth Heath Wood Country Park in Leicestershire, usually arriving in March to nest through the summer. The site, featuring a specialized "Sandmartin Pool," is maintained by rangers and volunteers who refresh the sandy bank annually, with hundreds of chicks raised there.
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From this entrance at Newtown Linford there is a traffic-free, good asphalt drive which descends slowly for 2 miles to the eastern end of the park. But as Ken and others have commented it can get very busy with walkers, especially at weekends. A lovely part of the East Midlands; keep an eye out for the elusive deer.
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Bradgate House is one of England's great 'lost country houses', a once-magnificent Tudor mansion and the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, the tragic 'Nine Days Queen'. The story of Bradgate House goes back long before Lady Jane's birth, however, and is intertwined with the history of Bradgate Park, a large country park in which the ruins stand. Bradgate Park began as a hunting ground in the early 13th century. It was enclosed by an earthwork bank and ditch, topped by oak timbers. In 1445 the park passed by marriage to the Grey family, who owned it for the next 5 centuries. The first grey owner was Edward Grey, whose son John married Elizabeth Woodville. After John's death at the Battle of St Albans in 1461 Elizabeth married King Edward IV. One of Elizabeth's sons by her first marriage was Sir Thomas Grey, the 1st Marquess of Dorset.
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Old John is the highest hill in Bradgate Park, Leicestershire, England, on the southern edge of Charnwood Forest. It gives its name to the folly that stands at its top. The hill stands at 696 foot (212 m) high, and is a prominent landmark across Leicester and Leicestershire. The earliest recorded use of the name is on a map of 1754, which records a windmill on the site, some 30 years before the tower was built. The tower itself began life as a ruined folly, built in 1784, during the time of George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford. He got Thomas Sketchley of Anstey to build him the mock ruin, which had strong similarities to Mow Cop, Staffordshire. It was adapted in the mid-19th century by the seventh Earl to serve as an observation tower for the practice circuit he laid out for his horses, along with the building of a stable block lower down the hill.
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Arrive early at Bradgate Park to enjoy it at its best. It's a lovely ride, but as a very popular attraction, the park can get very busy with pedestrians later in the day. Cyclists do not have right of way, and you may be asked to dismount on very busy days. Stick to the tarmac as cycling off-route can attract heavy fines.
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Bradgate House was a Tudor mansion built in the early 1500s, and was lived in by the Grey family - including Lady Jane Grey - for 220 years. The house was abandoned in the 1730s, and by 1790, it was declared a ruin.
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Love this place; the nearest thing in this part of the world to the Yorkshire moorland of my upbringing. Regularly ride the drive through the park or picnic at one of the cafes. Links with Lady Jane Grey for the historians and elusive deer for the curious. Be aware though that it is difficult to cycle along the drive on summer weekends due to the number of tourists in this honeypot for nearby cities.
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Bradgate Park is a tranquil space for pedestrians and cyclists only. Whether it be the old manor house ruins, 830 acres of medieval deer forest to explore or the babbling river Lin meandering through - Bradgate Park has been a favourite for hundreds of years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Leicester Forest West?
The area boasts several significant historical sites. You can explore the picturesque moated remains of Kirby Muxloe Castle, just 3 miles away, or visit the impressive Ruins of Bradgate House, a Tudor mansion and birthplace of Lady Jane Grey. Further afield, the Jewry Wall in Leicester offers a glimpse into Roman history, and Ashby de la Zouch Castle provides a medieval experience.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Leicester Forest West?
Yes, there are several excellent options for families. Bradgate Park Deer Park is a popular choice, offering wide-open spaces to see roaming deer and opportunities for walking and cycling. The National Space Centre in Leicester is also a fantastic attraction with interactive exhibits and the UK's largest planetarium, perfect for all ages.
Where can I find good walking and hiking trails near Leicester Forest West?
The region offers numerous walking opportunities. Bradgate Park is a prime location for walks, featuring varied terrain and scenic views, including the prominent Old John Tower. For more extensive natural exploration, The National Forest, located to the northwest, provides a range of trails through ancient forests and newly planted woodlands. You can find various routes, including easy and circular walks, in guides like Cycling around Leicester Forest West, which often include walking paths.
What natural features and viewpoints are accessible in the area?
You can enjoy stunning natural beauty at Bradgate Park, which features ancient Precambrian rocks and the picturesque Old John Tower, offering prominent views across Leicestershire. Croft Hill Trig Point also provides easy hikes with rewarding views. The broader National Forest area is rich in natural landscapes, including wildflower meadows and woodlands.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond walking and cycling in places like Bradgate Park, you can explore various outdoor activities. The National Forest offers cycle trails and opportunities for clay shooting. For a unique experience, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre provides diving in a flooded quarry. For cycling enthusiasts, there are dedicated guides such as MTB Trails around Leicester Forest West and Road Cycling Routes around Leicester Forest West.
Are there any cultural sites or museums worth visiting?
Yes, the broader Leicester area offers several cultural attractions. The historic Leicester Cathedral is the reinterment site of King Richard III, with the nearby King Richard III Visitor Centre detailing his life. The Leicester Museum & Art Gallery on New Walk houses diverse collections, and the Curve Theatre is known for its modern design and performances.
What is the best time of year to visit Bradgate Park?
Bradgate Park is beautiful year-round, but many visitors find spring and autumn particularly appealing for walking and enjoying the scenery. In autumn, the foliage is vibrant, and in spring, the park comes alive with new growth. The deer herds are a constant presence, making it a great visit any time, though it can get very busy with pedestrians, especially on weekends.
Are there dog-friendly walks in the Leicestershire area?
Many of the natural areas and parks in Leicestershire, including parts of Bradgate Park and The National Forest, are dog-friendly. It's always advisable to check specific park rules regarding leash requirements and restricted areas to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Leicester Forest West?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and nature. The historical significance of sites like the Ruins of Bradgate House and the panoramic views from Old John Tower are highly rated. The opportunity to see roaming deer in Bradgate Park Deer Park and the overall natural beauty of the region are also significant draws for the komoot community.
Are there any unique activity centers or sports facilities nearby?
Yes, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre is a unique facility, offering a large flooded quarry for diving with an 'underwater adventure park' and a heated training pool. It also features a pub/cafe and is a good spot for birdwatching, including peregrine falcons.
Where can I find information about cycling routes near Leicester Forest West?
Komoot offers several guides for cycling in the area. You can explore Cycling around Leicester Forest West for general routes, MTB Trails around Leicester Forest West for mountain biking, and Road Cycling Routes around Leicester Forest West for road cycling, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Are there any places to eat or drink with outdoor seating near the attractions?
While specific pubs with outdoor seating are not detailed for every attraction, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre has a pub/cafe on site. Many villages surrounding Leicester Forest West and popular parks like Bradgate Park often have nearby establishments offering refreshments and outdoor seating, especially during warmer months.
Most popular attractions around Leicester Forest West
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