Attractions and Places To See around Appleby Magna - Top 20

Appleby Magna is rich in history. You can visit the impressive St. Michael's and All Angels' Church, which incorporates St. Helen's Chapel, considered the village's oldest surviving building. Another significant site is the Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site with a visitor's centre and museum. Nearby, you'll also find the ruins of Ashby de la Zouch Castle, an imposing royalist stronghold.

Yes, the area offers several natural spots. You can explore Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, which provides short walks around the lake and through the woods. Georgina's Wood, a small woodland planted with native trees, is also within the village. The Meadow Brook, which bisects the village, offers a traditional feature with its 'Duck Lake' area.

For families, Moira Furnace and Canal is a great option, featuring a children's play area alongside its historical exhibits. Snibston Colliery Park offers a skills area, cafe, and museum, making it an engaging visit. The National Forest Adventure Farm is also a short distance away for more family fun.

The region around Appleby Magna is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For specific cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Appleby Magna guide, which includes routes like the 'Moira Furnace and Canal – Moira Furnace loop'. For running, the Running Trails around Appleby Magna guide offers options such as the 'Moira Furnace and Canal – Ashby Wolds Heritage Trail loop'.

Absolutely. The village is home to St. Michael's and All Angels' Church, an impressive structure enlarged in the early 14th century. It incorporates St. Helen's Chapel, which is considered the oldest surviving building in the village. Additionally, St Helen's Church, with parts dating from the 14th century, is also a significant religious building nearby.

Moira Furnace and Canal is a historical site with a visitor's centre, museum, and a children's play area. The adjacent canal is perfect for walks, and there's a large forest area with trails. It's also notable for being the inspiration for 'The Mines of Moria' in J.R.R. Tolkien's *The Lord of the Rings*.

Within Appleby Magna itself, you can discover several unique historical buildings. These include the Grade II listed Moat House, with fragments dating back to the 12th century, and the Sir John Moore School, designed by Christopher Wren. The village also features Appleby House and the 1693 Thatched Cottage (Jordon's Farmhouse), which is the only remaining thatched cottage in the area.

Yes, road cyclists will find several options. The Road Cycling Routes around Appleby Magna guide features routes like the 'Derby Lane loop from Appleby Magna' and the 'Warton Lane – Appleby Hill loop from Appleby Magna', offering easy to moderate rides through the local scenery.

Beyond the main highlights, Appleby Magna itself is a 'hidden gem' with its preserved historic layout and buildings. The earthworks behind the church hall, associated with the demolished Dormer's Hall, offer an intriguing historical mystery. The village's Black Horse Inn is also a central point for historical walking tours, offering a glimpse into local life.

Yes, Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park is an excellent choice for a leisurely walk. It's part of the National Forest and offers short, accessible paths around the lake and through the surrounding woods. It's also a starting point for the National Forest Birthday Walk.

Appleby Magna offers a deep dive into English village culture and history. Its layout largely reflects that of 200 years ago, preserving many historic buildings and features. Evidence of human settlement dates back 6,000 years, with Roman and Iron Age sites nearby. The village's rich past, influenced by Saxon and Danish settlements, is reflected in its architecture and local sites, providing a tangible connection to centuries of village life.