On this page:
- Historic Castles and Buildings
- Local Walks, Gardens and Water Resorts
- Leisure Parks and Zoos
- Museums in Leicestershire
Historic Castles and Buildings
Belvoir Castle
Belvoir Castle occupies a commanding position with breathtaking views across the vale of Belvoir. The present castle is the fourth to have stood on the site since Norman times.
Website: http://www.belvoircastle.com/
Rockingham Castle
900 years of living History. 450 years a castle, 450 years a family home, Rockingham has something of interest for everyone. Its hilltop site commands magnificent views over five counties and visiting its interior is like a passage through time.
Website: http://www.rockinghamcastle.com/
Warwick Castle
Described as Britain’s greatest mediaeval experience.
Website: http://www.warwick-castle.co.uk/
Stanford Hall
Has been the home of the Cave family since 1430. The present house was built in 1690.
It has a motorcycle museum and hosts many events.
Website: http://www.stanfordhall.co.uk/
Deene Park
Deene is a 16th century house incorporating a mediaeval manor.
Website: http://www.deenepark.com/
Local Walks, Gardens and Water Resorts
Walks
There are numerous public footpaths around Hothorpe, details of which are available from our Reception.
There is also a Meditative Walk available around Hothorpe's 12 acres of ground. Ask in Reception
Foxton Locks
Flight of 10 locks on the Grand Union canal set in lovely Leicestershire countryside
Website: http://www.foxtonlocks.com/
Barnsdale Gardens
As tribute to the work of Geoff Hamilton his Barnsdale Garden is now open in Rutland, Oakham.
Website: http://www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk/
Coton Manor Garden
Coton Manor lies in peaceful Northamptonshire countryside and enjoys beautiful views providing an ideal setting for the garden.
The ten acre garden, originally laid out in 1925 by the grandparents of the present owner, encloses a variety of smaller gardens providing surprises and contrasts as it gradually unfolds.
Website: www.gardenvisit.com/g/cot2.htm
Cottesbrooke Hall and gardens
18th century house with beautiful park, lakes and gardens
Website: http://www.cottesbrookehall.co.uk/
Garden Organic, Ryton
Thirty two beautiful, landscaped display Gardens and the place to find out about organic gardening, farming and food, set in the Warwickshire countryside.
Website: www.gardenorganic.org.uk
Pitsford Reservoir
Nestling in the rolling Northamptonshire countryside, Pitsford Water is not only a vital water supply reservoir, but also an ideal venue for walking, cycling, sailing and fishing.
Website: http://www.anglianwaterleisure.co.uk/
Rutland Water
Rutland water is the biggest man made lake in England and in Europe. Many go to walk, cycle even take a tour around the lake by boat. It also has beautiful land for relaxing with a picnic and enjoying the panoramic views.
Website: http://www.rutlandwater.org.uk/
Conkers
Conkers brings hands on fun for everyone - at the heart of the national forest.
Conkers is great outdoors, too - with assault courses, adventure playgrounds, train rides and lakeside restaurant.
Website: http://www.visitconkers.com/
Leisure Parks and Zoos
Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo provides breeding programmes for threatened species and provides education, study and wonder for its visitors.
As well as visiting the animals, Twycross offers a Restaurant, Gift Shop, Picnic Area and Children's Playground.
Website: http://www.twycrosszoo.com/
West Lodge Rural Park
Farm park with ‘cuddle corner’, barrel rides and playground
Website: www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk
Wicksteed Leisure Park
Wicksteed Park provides fun rides for all ages set in Kettering town.
Website: http://www.wicksteedpark.co.uk/
Museums in Leicestershire
Great Central Railway
Daily rides on steam engines with historic stations
Website: http://www.gcrailway.co.uk/
Leicester City museums and heritage sites
Including New Walk Museum, Jewry Wall, Newarke Houses, The Guildhall, Abbey Pumping Station, Belgrave hall and gardens
Website: http://www.leicestermuseums.ac.uk/
Market Harborough Museum
Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough
Museum illustrating the Harborough area, including the town's role as a marketing and social focus, as a staging post, a hunting centre and as a medieval planned town.
Website: http://www.leics.gov.uk/index/community/museums/harborough_museum.htm
Snibston Discovery Park
Leicestershire’s all-weather science and industry museum where visitors can get their hands on loads of fun in the popular science alive gallery.
Website: www.leics.gov.uk/museums/snibston
Space Centre in Leicester
The award winning National Space Centre is the UK's largest attraction dedicated to space. From the minute you catch sight of the Space Centre's futuristic Rocket Tower, you 'll be treated to hours of breathtaking discovery and interactive fun.
Website: http://www.spacecentre.co.uk/

