Best attractions and places to see around Stanton-Under-Bardon include a variety of historical sites and natural features. This Leicestershire village is surrounded by countryside, offering landmarks and scenic views. The area provides opportunities to explore historical ruins, monastic architecture, and diverse natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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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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Such a calm place to visit. The monks here brew their own ale which is delicious!
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Mount St Bernard Abbey is a Roman Catholic, Trappist monastery near Coalville, Leicestershire, England, founded in 1835 in the parish of Whitwick and now in that of Charley. The abbey was the first permanent monastery to be founded in England since the Reformation and is the sole Trappist house in England. The monks brew the only Trappist beer in Britain.
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The present "Gill-style" sculptures surmounting the calvary rock are the work of Father Vincent Eley, 1965, and represent the crucified Jesus, mounted on a cross of concrete, with images of Our Lady and St John on either side. The Calvary at Mount St Bernard has the distinction of being only the second in England since the Reformation. The first had been established on a rocky outcrop on De Lisle's Grace Dieu estate off Thurlough Road, near Thringstone, about a mile away.
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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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The area offers several natural highlights. Beacon Hill Summit is a must-visit, providing tremendous viewpoints as the second highest peak in Leicestershire. You can also explore Billa Barra Hill, a local nature reserve with far-reaching views and diverse flora, or enjoy the tranquil setting of Stanton Lakes.
Stanton-Under-Bardon is rich in history. You can visit the Ruins of Bradgate House, once home to Lady Jane Grey, and the iconic Old John Tower, a folly offering panoramic views within Bradgate Park. Additionally, the Mount St Bernard Abbey is a significant historical and religious site, being the only Trappist monastery in England.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Beacon Hill Summit offers easy accessibility and great views, while Ruins of Bradgate House and Old John Tower within Bradgate Park provide historical exploration in an open setting. The Bradgate Park Deer Park is also a popular spot for families to observe wildlife.
The area around Stanton-Under-Bardon is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. For detailed routes, explore the hiking routes around Stanton-Under-Bardon or discover cycling tours and road cycling routes.
Yes, there are many hiking opportunities. Popular routes include loops around Thornton Reservoir, such as the 'Partings Wood – Thornton Reservoir loop from Markfield' (10 km) or the 'Thornton Reservoir – Thornton Reservoir loop from Bagworth & Thornton' (11 km). You can find more options and details on the hiking guide for Stanton-Under-Bardon.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from places like Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture of Mount St Bernard Abbey are also highly appreciated, as is the chance to see deer in Bradgate Park Deer Park.
When visiting Bradgate Park, it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can get very busy. Cyclists should be aware that they do not have right of way and may be asked to dismount on busy days. There's also a visitor's centre where you can learn more about the park's history, including the Ruins of Bradgate House.
The Stanton under Bardon War Memorial is a granite cross located outside St. Mary and All Saints Church on Main Street. It commemorates the men from the village who died in World War I and World War II. More details can be found on the Stanton Under Bardon Parish Council website.
The area is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for observing wildflowers like bluebells and daisies in the open fields and woodlands. Weekends can be busy at popular spots like Beacon Hill, so consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Yes, Mount St Bernard Abbey is unique as the only Trappist house in England and is known for brewing its own ale, which you can often purchase there. This offers a distinct local experience.
While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not detailed, Beacon Hill Summit is noted for its superb accessibility, allowing many to enjoy its views with minimal effort. It's always advisable to check specific site conditions before visiting.
Many outdoor areas, such as Bradgate Park and the various walking trails, are generally dog-friendly. However, always check specific rules for each location, especially regarding lead requirements, particularly in areas with wildlife like the Bradgate Park Deer Park.


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