Top 10 Natural Monuments around Breedon On The Hill

Visitors frequently enjoy the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, known for its walking opportunities and a cafe. Another highly-rated spot is Anchor Church Caves, a historical site with unique rock formations. Blackbrook Reservoir is also popular for its distinctive plant community and native white-clawed crayfish.

The area is rich in diverse natural features. You'll find prominent Carboniferous limestone hills like Breedon Hill, ancient semi-natural woodlands such as Breedon Cloud Wood, and significant reservoirs like Blackbrook Reservoir. There are also ancient trees, geological formations, and areas designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for their ecological value.

Breedon Hill is a notable Carboniferous limestone hill, rising 122 meters and offering significant geological importance with exposed limestones and dolostones. A large part of it is an SSSI due to its species-rich grassland. From its summit, you can enjoy panoramic views across several counties, and it also hosts historical features like an Iron Age hill fort.

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is excellent for walking and has a cafe. Blackbrook Reservoir is also considered family-friendly, offering a chance to observe unique flora and fauna. Additionally, exploring the ancient trees like The Old Man of Calke Oak can be an engaging activity for all ages.

Yes, the Deer Park at Calke Abbey is dog-friendly, making it a great option for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs on a lead where required, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and clean up after them.

The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, running, and gravel biking. For example, there are several MTB trails, running trails, and gravel biking routes that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Absolutely. Anchor Church Caves are a prime example, being naturally formed caves in a sandstone outcrop that were extended to form a dwelling, possibly a hermitage, and later used as a summerhouse. Breedon Hill itself also has historical importance, being the site of an Iron Age hill fort and the historic Priory Church of St. Mary and St. Hardulph.

For ancient trees, head to Calke Abbey. Here you can find The Old Man of Calke Oak, which is estimated to be around 1000-1200 years old. The parkland at Calke Abbey is renowned for its countless ancient and veteran trees, rich in deadwood habitat that supports diverse saproxylic life.

The highest point in Leicestershire is Bardon Hill Trig Point, standing at 278 meters. It is part of the eroded remains of a volcano. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy extensive views, potentially seeing as far as the Malvern and Shropshire Hills or Lincoln Cathedral. It's a popular spot for walking and mountain biking.

Spring is particularly beautiful, especially for places like Breedon Cloud Wood, which is known for its impressive displays of bluebells. However, the panoramic views from Breedon Hill and the walking opportunities at places like the Deer Park at Calke Abbey can be enjoyed year-round, weather permitting. Always check local conditions before your visit.

Yes, Blackbrook Reservoir is home to native white-clawed crayfish, making it an interesting spot for aquatic wildlife. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is also a great place to observe deer and other local fauna in their natural habitat. Breedon Hill itself, as an SSSI, supports species-rich carboniferous limestone grassland, attracting various insects and birds.