Top 10 Natural Monuments around Ashby-De-La-Zouch

The area offers a diverse range of natural features. You can visit the ancient Deer Park at Calke Abbey, known for its veteran trees like the 1000-year-old Old Man of Calke Oak and historic deer population. Blackbrook Reservoir features a plant community unique to the Midlands and native white-clawed crayfish. For geological interest, Bardon Hill Trig Point is part of an eroded volcano and the highest point in Leicestershire.

Yes, the Anchor Church Caves are a notable historical site. These naturally formed caves in a sandstone outcrop were extended to create dwellings, likely a hermitage, with visible door and window holes. They also saw use as a summerhouse in the 19th century.

The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is home to a historic deer population and diverse deadwood invertebrates. Dimminsdale Nature Reserve is excellent for birdwatching, with species like woodpeckers, nuthatch, and blackcap, as well as wood mice, hares, and deer. Blackbrook Reservoir is known for its native white-clawed crayfish.

Many natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey and the Old Man of Calke Oak offer expansive parkland for walks and wildlife spotting. Blackbrook Reservoir also provides an accessible natural setting for a family outing.

The region, particularly within The National Forest, offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find many hiking and cycling opportunities. For example, there are several hiking routes and MTB trails, including easy options like the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre loops. The National Forest itself is ideal for walking and exploring woodlands.

Yes, there are several easy walking options. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey offers gentle paths through historic parkland. Dimminsdale Nature Reserve has varied terrain, including boardwalks, suitable for engaging walks. For more structured easy routes, consider the easy hikes around Ashby-De-La-Zouch, which include routes like the Hicks Lodge Trail Centre loops.

Many natural monuments are accessible year-round. Dimminsdale Nature Reserve is particularly famous for its spectacular display of snowdrops in late winter and early spring, making it a beautiful winter destination. The ancient trees at Calke Abbey Deer Park also offer a unique atmosphere in the colder months.

The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is generally dog-friendly, offering expansive grounds for walks. The broader National Forest area also provides many dog-friendly trails. Always check specific site regulations for areas where dogs might need to be on a lead, especially near wildlife.

For stunning floral displays, late winter and spring are ideal. Dimminsdale Nature Reserve is renowned for its spectacular snowdrop display in late winter and early spring, followed by wild garlic blooms in spring. The woodlands and meadows throughout The National Forest also come alive with wildflowers during these seasons.

Most major natural attractions, such as Calke Abbey Deer Park and Dimminsdale Nature Reserve, have dedicated parking facilities. For areas within The National Forest, specific trail centers like Hicks Lodge also provide parking. It's advisable to check the individual site's official website for detailed parking information and any potential fees.

Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The ancient trees and wildlife at Calke Abbey Deer Park are highly appreciated, with many enjoying the opportunity to observe wild deer. The unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history at Dimminsdale, along with its seasonal floral displays, also receives positive feedback. The extensive network of trails for walking and cycling within The National Forest is also a major draw.