Best attractions and places to see around Hathern include a mix of natural landmarks, historical sites, and scenic waterways. Located in Leicestershire, the area offers diverse landscapes from the elevated views of Charnwood Forest to the tranquil canals and rivers. Visitors can explore significant historical locations and enjoy various outdoor activities. The region provides opportunities for both leisurely exploration and more active pursuits.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Such a calm place to visit. The monks here brew their own ale which is delicious!
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Several attractions near Hathern are ideal for families. Beacon Hill Summit offers easy access to panoramic views and has a park and cafe. Trent Lock provides a scenic spot with a pub and cafe, perfect for a break by the waterways. The Cloud Trail is an old converted railway line, offering an off-road path suitable for family cycling or walking. Additionally, Mount St Bernard Abbey and Swithland Reservoir are also noted as family-friendly.
For spectacular views, head to Beacon Hill Summit. It is the second highest peak in Leicestershire, offering 360-degree panoramic vistas of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley, and beyond. Another great spot for scenery is Swithland Reservoir, where you can enjoy views over the water and potentially spot steam trains on the viaduct.
The most notable historical site is Mount St Bernard Abbey, a Trappist monastery founded in 1835. It features fantastic architecture, stunning grounds, and is known for being the sole Trappist house in England that brews its own beer. Trent Lock is also historically significant as a principal canal junction and a border point between Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Derbyshire, crucial for transporting goods during the textile industry's height.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Hathern. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options. For example, you can explore routes like the Diamond Wood Active Trail loop or the Burnside Island – Normanton on Soar Weir loop. Discover more hiking routes in the area on the Hiking around Hathern guide.
Absolutely. The Cloud Trail is an excellent option, being an old converted railway line that is part of National Cycle Route 6, offering an off-road experience. For more extensive cycling, you can find various road cycling routes around Hathern, ranging from easy to moderate. Explore options like the St Helena's Church loop or the View of Cropston Reservoir loop on the Road Cycling Routes around Hathern guide.
Hathern offers several running trails suitable for jogging. You can find moderate routes such as the Dishley Pool – Loughborough Wharf loop or the Burnside Island – Normanton on Soar Weir loop. These trails provide scenic paths for your run. More details on running routes can be found in the Running Trails around Hathern guide.
Yes, Trent Lock is a significant junction where the River Soar and Erewash Canal link to the Trent and Mersey Canal via the River Trent. It's a great place to observe boats and enjoy the canal-side atmosphere. Additionally, Swithland Reservoir offers beautiful water views, though access to the immediate margins is limited.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views from Beacon Hill Summit and the peaceful, unique atmosphere of Mount St Bernard Abbey, including its monastic brewery. The scenic setting and amenities like pubs and cafes at Trent Lock are also highly rated for taking a break during outdoor activities. The off-road nature of the Cloud Trail is also a favorite among cyclists.
Yes, Beacon Hill Summit is known for its superb accessibility and offers parking both at the top and bottom, making it easy to enjoy the views with minimal effort. The Cloud Trail, an old railway line, provides an easy, off-road path suitable for leisurely walks, though specific parking for this trail would depend on the access point.
Beyond the main highlights, Mount St Bernard Abbey stands out not just for its history and architecture, but also for its unique monastic brewery, which produces the only Trappist beer in Britain. The Cloud Trail, an old converted railway line, offers a distinct experience for cycling or walking through varied landscapes, including an impressive quarry near Wilson.
The area around Hathern boasts diverse natural landscapes. You can experience the elevated views from Beacon Hill Summit, which is part of the Charnwood Forest. There are also significant waterways like the River Soar and River Trent converging at Trent Lock, and the expansive Swithland Reservoir, offering opportunities to observe water birds and woodland scenery.


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