Attractions and Places To See around Kibworth Beauchamp - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Kibworth Beauchamp include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This Leicestershire village, often associated with Kibworth Harcourt, offers insights into local heritage and countryside exploration. The area is characterized by its historic buildings, canal systems, and diverse natural habitats. Visitors can explore sites ranging from medieval churches to significant canal engineering.
Best attractions and places to see around Kibworth Beauchamp
- The most popular attractions is Great Oxendon Tunnel, an other man-made structure that allows cycling through a disused railway tunnel. It offers an interesting experience, though it can be dark and have an uneven surface.
- Another must-see spot is Foxton Locks Basin, a river feature marking the convergence of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm. This basin is situated at the base of Foxton Locks, a "staircase" of ten canal locks built in the early 19th century.
- Visitors also love Foxton Locks, a man-made monument set within 34 acres of natural green spaces. This site includes a historic Canal Museum and offers opportunities for boat trips and day boat hire.
- Kibworth Beauchamp is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and canal-related points of interest. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval architecture to significant engineering feats and wildlife habitats.
- The attractions around Kibworth Beauchamp are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Foxton Locks
Highlight • Monument
Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat.
Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton:
Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust
Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only)
Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD
Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history
Guided walks, themed activities and events
Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing
Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read
Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61.
source: canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
Tip by
Foxton Locks Basin
Highlight • River
Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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
Great Oxendon Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna
Highlight • Historical Site
The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods.
In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
Tip by
Saddington Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Kibworth Beauchamp.
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
It's the perfect spot to hydrate, stretch, and simply appreciate nature before continuing to ride. Beware the thorns and sticks in spring time!
0
0
Can be wet, slippy and very dark! Make sure that you have your lights! If you're on road tyres I would advise walking. Mountain and Gravel bikes are suitable to ride through.
2
0
Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
0
0
Peatling Magna, formerly known as "Great Petlyng" and later as "Great Peatling," is a village in the Harborough district of south Leicestershire. The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods. In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
0
0
The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
0
0
There is a good coffee shop at Waterloo Farm Leisure just off Brampton Valley Way about half a mile from the Great Oxendon tunnel entrance on the Market Harborough side.
2
0
Interesting experience! Need good lights as obviously it is very dark. Surface is not good, quite a few puddles and potholes, need to take it steady. The notices at the entrance actually advise getting off and pushing your bike through but I wouldn’t have thought this was necessary if you were a reasonably good rider and had lights. I rode through OK although got a puncture!
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Kibworth Beauchamp?
Kibworth Beauchamp and its sister village, Kibworth Harcourt, are rich in history. You can visit the medieval St Wilfrid's Church, explore the local heritage at the Kibworth Museum, or see the historic Kibworth Harcourt Windmill. The Old Grammar School, dating back to 1359, is also a significant landmark. For a broader historical experience, consider the Kibworth Villages Heritage Trails.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Kibworth Beauchamp?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Foxton Locks is a great option, offering 34 acres of green space for nature spotting, boat trips, and a Canal Museum. The nearby Foxton Locks Basin is also family-friendly. Saddington Reservoir provides a peaceful natural setting for wildlife observation, and Welham Village and Stone Bridge offers a quaint village experience.
What natural features can I enjoy around Kibworth Beauchamp?
The area boasts several beautiful natural features. The Grand Union Canal runs through the villages, offering picturesque towpath walks. Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site with diverse habitats and wildlife. You can also explore the natural green spaces surrounding Foxton Locks, which are ideal for nature spotting, including herons, swans, and kingfishers.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Kibworth Beauchamp?
There are many walking opportunities. The towpaths along the Grand Union Canal offer leisurely strolls. For more structured hikes, you can explore routes around Foxton Locks or Saddington Reservoir. The Kibworth Villages Heritage Trails also provide historical walking routes. For a variety of hiking trails, check out the Hiking around Kibworth Beauchamp guide.
Are there cycling routes available near the attractions?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Great Oxendon Tunnel offers a unique cycling experience through a disused railway tunnel, though it can be dark and uneven. The area around Kibworth Beauchamp also features various gravel biking routes. You can find detailed routes in the Gravel biking around Kibworth Beauchamp guide.
What are some unique or hidden gems in the Kibworth Beauchamp area?
Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy the quaint charm of Welham Village and Stone Bridge in the beautiful Welland Valley, which is worth visiting year-round. Smeeton Westerby Gardens is another hidden gem, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a tea room. For an adventurous experience, cycling through the dark and atmospheric Great Oxendon Tunnel is quite unique.
What amenities are available at Foxton Locks?
Foxton Locks is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find two pubs, two cafés, and a Canal Museum. There are also opportunities for boat trips and day boat hire. The site hosts guided walks, themed activities, and a summer events programme, along with a pre-loved bookshop.
Can I spot wildlife around Kibworth Beauchamp?
Absolutely. Foxton Locks is excellent for nature spotting, with herons, swans, swallows, and kingfishers frequently seen. Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site, providing a home for various wildlife, including scarce beetle species, across its wet willow, woodland, swamp, and wetland habitats.
Are there any other activities to do in Kibworth Beauchamp besides sightseeing?
Yes, Kibworth Beauchamp offers a range of other activities. You can try clay pigeon shooting at Kibworth Shooting Ground, play a round at Kibworth Golf Club, or browse for treasures at the Kibworth Antiques Centre. The Kibworth Theatre hosts performances, and the newer Kibworth Skatepark provides a leisure facility for the community.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kibworth Beauchamp?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The unique experience of cycling through the Great Oxendon Tunnel is often highlighted. The tranquil atmosphere and wildlife at places like Saddington Reservoir and the vibrant activity at Foxton Locks, with its historical locks and amenities, are also highly appreciated.
What is the best time to visit Kibworth Beauchamp?
The area is enjoyable year-round, with attractions like Welham Village being recommended in any season. During summer, Foxton Locks offers a special events programme, including paddle boarding and canoeing, and boat trips are available. The historic inns also provide a cozy atmosphere during colder months.
Most popular routes around Kibworth Beauchamp
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:
