Attractions and Places To See around Staunton Harold - Top 20

Staunton Harold is rich in history. You can visit the remarkable 17th-century Staunton Harold Church (Chapel of the Holy Trinity), known for its Gothic architecture and preserved interiors. Another significant site is Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical industrial site with a visitor center and museum, famously inspiring J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Mines of Moria'. Additionally, Mount St Bernard Abbey offers impressive architecture and serene grounds.

The area offers several natural beauty spots. The Staunton Harold Reservoir is a central feature, surrounded by wildflower meadows and woodland, offering stunning views and walking trails. You can also explore Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a natural monument perfect for walking and wildlife spotting. Dimminsdale, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, features open water ponds and evidence of past quarrying.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Moira Furnace and Canal has a visitor center, museum, and a children's play area. The Staunton Harold Reservoir offers easy walking trails, a cafe, and a playground. Many of the walking routes, especially around the reservoir and Deer Park at Calke Abbey, are also suitable for families.

You'll find a variety of walking trails. There's a 2.5km circular walk around the Staunton Harold Reservoir, including a scenic wildflower walk. Longer routes connect to nearby Calke Abbey. For more structured hiking, explore routes like the 'Staunton Harold Hall Lake – Dimminsdale Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Mere Pond – Deer Park at Calke Abbey loop'. You can find more hiking options at Hiking around Staunton Harold.

Absolutely. The area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can find routes like the 'Cloud Trail – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop' for touring bicycles, or more challenging mountain bike trails such as the 'Foremark Reservoir to Robin Wood loop'. Discover more routes at Cycling around Staunton Harold and MTB Trails around Staunton Harold.

Yes, the Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts is a vibrant cultural hub. Located in the restored former stables of Staunton Harold Hall, it hosts fifteen independent workshops and studios where you can see artisans at work, including textile artists, metalworkers, and ceramists. It also features a deli and a garden center.

The Staunton Harold Reservoir is home to the Staunton Harold Sailing Club, offering activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding, with training available. Fishing is also an option at the reservoir.

Yes, a scenic 2.5km (1.5-mile) wildflower walk along the Staunton Harold Reservoir bank is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies in parts, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty.

Beyond the main attractions, look for the Tower Windmill, a historic landmark from 1798, and the ornate Golden Gates providing a picturesque entrance to the estate. The John Blunt Poetry Walk, with its 13 inscribed stiles, offers a unique blend of walking and cultural interest. Also, the Victorian Model Workshop within the Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts, which designs automatons, is a quirky and notable studio.

Many of the outdoor areas around Staunton Harold are dog-friendly. For example, the Deer Park at Calke Abbey is suitable for dog walking. Always check specific signage for rules regarding leads and access in certain areas, especially nature reserves or near livestock.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. They appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of places like Mount St Bernard Abbey and the stunning views from Staunton Harold Reservoir. The variety of walking trails, the family-friendly amenities at Moira Furnace and Canal, and the unique craftsmanship at the Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts are also highly valued.

A great spot for a break during a cycle ride is Swarkestone Lock on the Trent & Mersey canal. It's a pleasant location to rest and enjoy the canal-side scenery.