Attractions and Places To See around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath include natural landmarks and historical sites. The region features diverse landscapes, from the elevated viewpoints of Charnwood Forest to the industrial heritage along its canals. Visitors can explore areas offering panoramic views and accessible footpaths. This area provides a range of outdoor experiences for those interested in its natural and cultural history.
Best attractions and places to see around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath
- The most popular attractions is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that offers panoramic views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. It is the second highest peak in Leicestershire, providing accessible views with minimal effort.
- Another must-see spot is Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument and folly located on the highest hill in Bradgate Park. This prominent landmark offers extensive views of the surrounding area and Leicester city centre on clear days.
- Visitors also love Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site situated next to the canal with accessible footpaths. It features a visitor's centre, museum, and children's play area, making it a family friendly attraction Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath.
- Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and family-friendly trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from scenic viewpoints to canal-side walks.
- The attractions around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and 150 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Old John Tower, Bradgate Park
Highlight • Monument
The earliest recorded use of the name is on a map of 1754, which records a windmill on the site, some 30 years before the tower was built. The tower itself began life as a ruined folly, built in 1784, during the time of George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford. He got Thomas Sketchley of Anstey to build him the mock ruin, which had strong similarities to Mow Cop, Staffordshire. It was adapted in the mid-19th century by the seventh Earl to serve as an observation tower for the practice circuit he laid out for his horses, along with the building of a stable block lower down the hill.
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Beacon Hill Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
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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Moira Furnace and Canal
Highlight • Historical Site
This furnace as well as having good free parking a visitors centre, museum and childrens play area is also the inspiration for one of the key locations in perhaps the greatest fantasy novel of all time; The Mines of Moria in JRR Tolkien The Lord of the Rings is based directly on the mining town of Moira.
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Mount St Bernard Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
Not just for the faithful!
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Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
Highlight • Lake
Good free car park open during daytime, toilets and information board.
My sat nav tried to direct me to an old entrance but easy enough to skirt round from there to the main entrance (keep turning left) if the same happens.
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Tips from the Community
beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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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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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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Such a calm place to visit. The monks here brew their own ale which is delicious!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath?
The region offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Beacon Hill Summit, the second highest peak in Leicestershire, for panoramic views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Another option is Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, which provides a tranquil setting for walks through woodlands and around the lake.
Are there historical sites to visit in the area?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site with a visitor's centre, museum, and accessible footpaths along the canal. Another significant historical landmark is Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a 18th-century folly offering extensive views, and Mount St Bernard Abbey, the first permanent Trappist monastery founded in England since the Reformation.
What are some family-friendly attractions near Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath?
Several attractions are suitable for families. Moira Furnace and Canal features a children's play area, museum, and easy canal-side walks. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park offers short, easy walks around the lake and through the woods, with facilities available. Beacon Hill Summit also provides accessible views with minimal effort, making it enjoyable for all ages.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath?
For breathtaking views, head to Beacon Hill Summit, which offers panoramic vistas of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, situated on the highest hill in the park, also provides extensive views of the surrounding area and Leicester city centre on clear days.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy options. The footpaths around Moira Furnace and Canal are easily accessible and lead past lime kilns to nearby woodlands. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park offers short, simple circuits around the lake and through the woods. For more options, you can explore the running trails around Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath, which include moderate routes like the Sence Valley Forest Park loop.
What outdoor activities are available besides sightseeing?
Beyond sightseeing, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. The area is popular for cycling, with routes like the 'Snibston Grange Fishing Ponds – Snibston Discovery Trail loop' available. There are also numerous running trails, including loops around Sence Valley Forest Park. For mountain biking enthusiasts, trails like the 'Snipston Country Park and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood loop' offer exciting rides. You can find more details on cycling, running, and MTB trails in the region.
Are there places with facilities like cafes or restrooms?
Yes, some attractions offer facilities. Moira Furnace and Canal has a visitor's centre, museum, and public restrooms, along with a cafe. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park provides toilets and an information board. Beacon Hill Summit also has a cafe and an ice-cream van available.
Is there parking available at the attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available. Moira Furnace and Canal offers good free parking. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park has a car park, though it now requires card or app payment. Beacon Hill Summit has parking available at both the top and bottom of the hill.
Can I find dog-friendly walking trails?
Many of the outdoor areas are suitable for dog walking. For instance, the canal-side paths at Moira Furnace and Canal are popular for dog walkers. Similarly, Sence Valley Forest Park, with its lake and woodland trails, is a great place to walk your dog. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, such as lead requirements.
What is the best time of year to visit Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for outdoor activities, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours for exploring. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery, especially in forested areas like Sence Valley Forest Park. While some trails can be busy on weekends and holidays, there are usually plenty of routes to choose from.
Are there any unique or less-known places worth discovering?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the tranquil setting of Mount St Bernard Abbey, known for its stunning architecture, peaceful grounds, and unique Trappist beer brewed by the monks. The area around Moira Furnace also connects to Donisthorpe Woodland and the Ivanhoe Way, offering further exploration away from the most popular spots.
Where can I experience wildlife or nature walks?
Sence Valley Forest Park is a haven for wildlife, transformed from a former opencast coal mining site into a diverse woodland. It's an excellent spot for nature walks and birdwatching. The trails around Beacon Hill also offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna within Charnwood Forest.
Are there wheelchair accessible places to visit?
Yes, there are accessible options. Moira Furnace and Canal features easily accessible footpaths along the canal. Beacon Hill Summit is noted for offering accessible views with minimal effort, suggesting paths that are manageable for various mobility levels. Always check specific trail conditions before your visit.
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