Attractions and Places To See around Ab Kettleby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ab Kettleby include historic landmarks, natural features, and rural landscapes. This Leicestershire village is situated on the southern dip slope of the Wolds, offering extensive views over the Wreake valley. The area is characterized by undulating hills, open farmland, and waterways, providing a setting for exploration. Ab Kettleby's history dates back to the Domesday Book, with ancient origins evidenced by Roman discoveries.
Best attractions and places to see around Ab Kettleby
- The most popular attractions is Hickling Basin, a facility along the Grantham Canal. It offers a tearoom and a pub, making it a suitable stop for visitors.
- Another must-see spot is Belvoir Hilltop Road, a cycle way. This road provides views across the Vale of Belvoir and is known for its enjoyable surface.
- Visitors also love Ashby Folville Village Highlights, a village known for its chestnut tree-lined lanes and a 1,000-year-old Grade I-listed church. It also features a local pub.
- Ab Kettleby is known for its historic sites, natural landscapes, and charming villages. Visitors can explore ancient churches, moated sites, and scenic routes.
- The attractions around Ab Kettleby are appreciated by the komoot community, with 57 upvotes and 3 photos shared by users.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Racehub Lake
Highlight • Lake
racehub.uk
Tip by
Hickling Basin
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
All Saints' Church, Hoby
Highlight • Religious Site
The tower holds five bells, including the Tenor bell, known as 'Great Tom.' Legend has it that in the late 17th century, two individuals found their way to safety guided by Great Tom's sound during fog.
Tip by
Whissendine Level Crossing
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Ashby Folville Village Highlights
Highlight • Pub
The local pub is full of countryside charm. As well as serving good pub grub at reasonable prices, the establishment has a definite games culture, with darts, pool and even skittles on offer.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Ab Kettleby.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Perched on a slight hill, Hoby All Saints church overlooks Wreake Valley. It includes a west tower with a 13th-century base and added spire, north and south aisles, nave, and chancel. Dating mainly to the 13th century, the church underwent Victorian restoration in the chancel. The tower holds five bells, including the Tenor bell, known as 'Great Tom.' Legend has it that in the late 17th century, two individuals found their way to safety guided by Great Tom's sound during fog.
0
0
The disused Grantham Canal passes through the village and there is a large basin adjacent to the main road. This would have facilitated loading and mooring when the canal was in use. The basin now attracts a substantial population of swans and ducks.
0
0
A good place to start a cycle tour of this end of the Vale of Belvoir. Up to Bottesford and back and finish watching the ducks in the basin.
1
0
Use this at least once a week. One of the few level crossings in these parts where you aren't obliged to wait minutes before a train passes. The tarmac either side is lovely and smooth; at least until they 'improve' it with chippings.
0
0
bring money for the Old Wharf Tea Rooms. check opening times before you come
1
0
Freshly laid tarmac and the chances of pinch punctures has reduced 👍
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Ab Kettleby?
Ab Kettleby is rich in history. You can visit St James's Church, a 13th-century ironstone church with a Norman font and a memorial to Everard Digby. The village also features the 17th-century Ab Kettleby Manor and the Wesleyan Chapel, built in 1843. Additionally, explore the ancient Moated Site, a scheduled ancient monument with an integrated fishpond, located east of St James's Church.
Are there any natural features or scenic landscapes to enjoy in Ab Kettleby?
Yes, Ab Kettleby offers several natural attractions. The village has a charming Village Pond next to a magnificent horse chestnut tree, and the historic Holy Well. The area is situated on the southern 'dip' slope of the Leicestershire Wolds, providing extensive views over the Wreake valley with undulating hills and open farmland. Nearby, you can also visit Eye Kettleby Lakes for peaceful waters and beautiful countryside, or explore Melton Country Park.
What are some family-friendly attractions around Ab Kettleby?
Families can enjoy several spots. Belvoir Hilltop Road offers enjoyable cycling with views across the Vale of Belvoir. Racehub Lake provides open water swimming and has a bike shop and cafe. Hickling Basin is a pleasant stop along the Grantham Canal with a tearoom and a pub. The nearby Melton Country Park also offers easy walking routes suitable for all ages.
Where can I find a traditional pub in Ab Kettleby?
The village is home to The Sugar Loaf Inn, a traditional pub dating back to the 17th century, known for its warm atmosphere and food. Additionally, the nearby Ashby Folville Village Highlights includes a charming local pub with countryside character, serving good food and offering games like darts, pool, and skittles.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near Ab Kettleby?
Absolutely. The surrounding Leicestershire Wolds offer undulating hills and paths along waterways, ideal for walks and hikes. You can find various routes, including easy options like the 'Melton Country Park loop' or 'Pond in Melton Country Park' and moderate trails such as 'Village Stocks, Grimston loop'. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Ab Kettleby guide.
What cycling routes are available in the area?
Cyclists can enjoy Belvoir Hilltop Road, a cycle way offering views across the Vale of Belvoir with an enjoyable surface. For mountain biking, routes like 'Asfordby to Hoby and Ashby Foville loop' and 'Moscow Lane – Sandy Lane loop' are available. You can find more cycling options in the MTB Trails around Ab Kettleby guide.
Is there anything accessible for wheelchairs in Ab Kettleby?
Yes, the Whissendine Level Crossing is noted as wheelchair accessible. It features a small gate for crossing and smooth tarmac on either side.
What unique experiences or 'hidden gems' can I discover?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting Ashby Folville Village, characterized by its chestnut tree-lined lanes and a 1,000-year-old Grade I-listed church, along with its charming local pub. The Moated Site near St James's Church is also a less commonly known but historically significant ancient monument.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Ab Kettleby?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic views and enjoyable surfaces for cycling on Belvoir Hilltop Road. The peaceful setting and facilities at Hickling Basin, with its tearoom and pub, are also highly rated. The community also values the historical charm of villages like Ashby Folville and the welcoming atmosphere of local pubs.
Are there any places for open water swimming nearby?
Yes, Racehub Lake offers open water swimming a few times a week. It's known for being a clean lake with clearly marked laps, and it also features a bike shop and cafe.
What is the best time to visit Ab Kettleby for outdoor activities?
The surrounding landscape of undulating hills and open farmland makes it suitable for walks and hikes throughout much of the year. Summer offers pleasant conditions for activities like open water swimming at Racehub Lake. For walking, spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery, while winter walks can also be enjoyed, especially in areas like Melton Country Park.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
