Best attractions and places to see around Austrey encompass a variety of historical sites and natural landscapes. The region features significant historical landmarks, including industrial heritage sites and castles. Visitors can explore diverse country parks, lakes, and woodlands, many of which are part of the National Forest. These settings provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Popular junction of the Coventry canal which passes over the river Tame just past the junction.. Travel towards Birmingham and you will pass the famous white swing bridge near Drayton Bassett and Drayton Manor. Walk along the canal to Middleton lakes RSPB site, Middleton Hall and Kingsbury water park.
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Stop off to admire the historic castle, which was originally a Motte and Bailey. It has been added to since. Also see the statue of Ethelfleda, the queen of Mercia, the bandstand, flower beds and the tribute to the Watchmen of the Staffordshire Regiment in the castle grounds... There is parking here to start the course if you prefer. Lots of nice cafes and places to eat. Recommend the castle grounds cafe, Christopher's at the Peel, no 18 coffee House and the Book Nook and Bakery.
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A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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The canal is a lovely place for a walk, especially on a sunny day when the water reflects beautifully. There's a large forest area adjacent to the canal, with trails leading back to the path. You'll also find a museum, some small shops, and public restrooms. It's a great place for a day out, whether you're looking for adventure, walking the dog, fishing, or just grabbing a bite at the cafe!
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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Shackerstone steam railway station, stands as a preserved railway station and a distinguished heritage museum. Serving as the terminus and headquarters of the Battlefield Line Railway, this location boasts the Shackerstone Railwayana Museum, a tea room, a well-stocked shop, and houses both the locomotive shed and main rolling stock.
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Beautifully laid out flower beds around the motte down to the former moat.
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Several attractions cater to families. Moira Furnace and Canal offers a children's play area, a museum, and footpaths suitable for walks. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park provides short walks around the lake and through woodlands. Additionally, Shackerstone Railway Station & Battlefield Line Heritage Centre features a museum and offers train rides, while Tamworth Castle and Gardens provides historical exploration within beautiful grounds.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Moira Furnace and Canal, an industrial heritage site with a museum. Another significant historical landmark is Tamworth Castle and Gardens, offering insights into the region's past within a castle setting. The Shackerstone Railway Station & Battlefield Line Heritage Centre also serves as a preserved railway station and heritage museum.
For natural beauty and walks, visit Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, which is part of the National Forest and offers various trails. Pooley Country Park also provides surfaced trails through woodlands and along canals, with access for walkers and cyclists.
The area around Austrey offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate loops, by exploring the Hiking around Austrey guide. For cyclists, there are many routes, some of which pass by attractions like Tamworth Castle; check the Cycling around Austrey guide. Running enthusiasts can also find suitable trails in the Running Trails around Austrey guide.
Yes, several locations offer easy walking options. Moira Furnace and Canal has easily accessible footpaths, including routes suitable for pushchairs in Donisthorpe Woods. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park provides short, simple circuits around the lake. Pooley Country Park features surfaced trails that are generally accessible.
Parking is generally available at the main attractions. Moira Furnace and Canal offers good free parking. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park has a car park, though it is no longer free and requires card or app payment. Pooley Country Park has a large pay and display car park.
Yes, you can find refreshment options. Moira Furnace and Canal has a cafe on-site. Shackerstone Railway Station & Battlefield Line Heritage Centre features a Victorian tea room. Pooley Country Park also has a tea shop.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. Many enjoy the easy access to footpaths and the family-friendly facilities at places like Moira Furnace and Canal. The tranquil walks around Horseshoe Lake and the extensive trails at Pooley Country Park are also highly rated. The historical charm of Tamworth Castle and the unique experience of the heritage railway at Shackerstone are also popular.
Yes, several locations are suitable for dog walking. The footpaths around Moira Furnace and Canal, including the adjacent forest area, are popular for dog walkers. Sence Valley Forest Park, home to Horseshoe Lake, and Pooley Country Park also offer extensive trails through woodlands and along canals, which are great for dogs.
Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the area. Tamworth Castle and Gardens are next to miles of cycle paths and numerous parks. Pooley Country Park offers access for cyclists, including a red mountain bike route and connections to the canal towpath. At Shackerstone Railway Station, there is a bike park, and it's possible to take your cycle on the train for a small fee.
The attractions around Austrey, with their mix of historical sites and natural parks, are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the gardens and trails, such as those at Tamworth Castle and Gardens or Sence Valley Forest Park. Autumn provides beautiful foliage in the woodlands, while many sites, like Moira Furnace, remain open and offer indoor activities during colder months.


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