Attractions and Places To See around Harborough - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Harborough include a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites within this market town in Leicestershire, England. The region is characterized by its rich past, tranquil green spaces, and notable Victorian engineering. Visitors can explore a diverse landscape that combines historical architecture with scenic waterways and expansive natural areas.
Best attractions and places to see around Harborough
- The most popular attractions is Foxton Locks, a man-made monument that features the UK's longest staircase lock system. This historic site offers opportunities to watch canal boats, walk along the towpath, and visit the Foxton Canal Museum.
- Another must-see spot is Twyford Viaduct (John O’ Gaunt), a man-made monument and historical site. Visitors can observe this piece of railway history and explore surrounding footpaths.
- Visitors also love Saddington Reservoir, a lake and natural area. This important biological site covers 47 acres and provides habitats for nature observation.
- Harborough is known for historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from engineering marvels to serene reservoirs and historical churches.
- The attractions around Harborough are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 4 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Foxton Locks
Highlight • Monument
Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat.
Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton:
Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust
Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only)
Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD
Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history
Guided walks, themed activities and events
Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing
Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read
Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61.
source: canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna
Highlight • Historical Site
The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods.
In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
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Foxton Locks Basin
Highlight • River
Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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Café Ventoux
Highlight • Cafe
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Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen
Highlight • Cafe
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Sludge Hall Hill
Highlight • Climb
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Saddington Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Welham Village and Stone Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
The village and its surrounding area is worth a visit year round. Be sure to pop into the Old Red Lion if you fancy a drink in front of the cosy log fire.
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Twyford Viaduct (John O’ Gaunt)
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
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Goadby Road Gravel Track
Highlight • Cycleway
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Popular around Harborough
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Tips from the Community
Top tip only park your bike on the left, (looking from the road) there is a sign to remind you when you arrive. Great service, nice little upstairs room when the weather isn’t so good, or sit outside side on warm sunny days, good value for money with the coffee and cake.
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It's the perfect spot to hydrate, stretch, and simply appreciate nature before continuing to ride. Beware the thorns and sticks in spring time!
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Lovely ride all year round - puddles get bigger in winter, but no problem to ride!
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There is a reasonable view from the very quiet lane running from Owston through Maresfield to Twyford. Freight trains were using the viaduct until 1964 and the track was lifted soon after that.
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Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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Peatling Magna, formerly known as "Great Petlyng" and later as "Great Peatling," is a village in the Harborough district of south Leicestershire. The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods. In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for walking and cycling around Harborough?
The Harborough area offers several excellent options for walking and cycling. The Grand Union Canal towpaths, particularly around Foxton Locks, provide scenic routes. For a longer, traffic-free experience, the Brampton Valley Way is a 14-mile trail following an old railway line from Market Harborough. You can find various routes, including easy hikes and road cycling, in the komoot guides like Easy hikes around Harborough and Road Cycling Routes around Harborough.
Where can I explore historical landmarks in Harborough?
Harborough is rich in history. You can visit the iconic St Dionysius' Church, dating back to the 13th century, or admire The Old Grammar School, a unique timber-framed building from 1614. The Market Hall, built in 1860, is also a central historical feature. Further afield, the Twyford Viaduct (John O’ Gaunt) offers a glimpse into railway history.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Harborough area?
Yes, Harborough has several family-friendly attractions. Foxton Locks is a great day out, where families can watch canal boats, walk along the towpath, and visit the Foxton Canal Museum. Saddington Reservoir is ideal for nature observation. For a unique summer activity, the Wistow Maze & Rural Centre offers an 8-acre maize maze with quiz trails.
What natural areas are good for wildlife observation near Harborough?
For nature and wildlife, Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site covering 47 acres, featuring wet willow, woodland, and wetland habitats. Launde Big Wood, one of the largest ancient semi-natural woodlands in the East Midlands, is home to wildflowers, nightingales, and butterflies, offering a truly wild experience.
Which museums can I visit to learn about Harborough's history?
The Harborough Museum, located in The Symington Building, provides a fascinating journey through the town's industrial past and archaeology, including the internationally important Hallaton Treasure. Additionally, the Foxton Canal Museum at Foxton Locks offers insights into canal engineering and the industrial revolution.
What is Foxton Locks and what can I do there?
Foxton Locks is a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering on the Grand Union Canal, featuring the longest staircase lock system in the UK. Visitors can watch canal boats navigate the ten locks, walk along the scenic towpath, or explore the Foxton Canal Museum. There are also boat trips available, and two pubs and two cafés on site.
Are there dog-friendly walks or places to visit around Harborough?
Many of Harborough's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly. The towpaths along the Grand Union Canal, including those around Foxton Locks, are popular for walks with dogs. Welland Park in Market Harborough also welcomes dogs, offering open spaces and riverside paths. Always ensure dogs are kept on leads where required and follow local guidelines.
What unique shopping and dining experiences does Market Harborough offer?
Market Harborough is known for its vibrant High Street, lined with unspoiled Georgian buildings. It offers a blend of independent retailers, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in areas like St Mary's Place. The Market Hall also hosts various stalls with fresh produce and local crafts, providing a unique shopping experience.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in the Harborough area?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting Launde Big Wood for a truly wild woodland experience, or explore the historic market town of Lutterworth, known for John Wycliffe's Bible translation and Sir Frank Whittle's jet engine development. The Nevill Holt Opera and Festival also offers world-class cultural events in a beautiful estate setting.
What are the best times of year to visit Harborough for outdoor activities?
Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities in Harborough, with pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring natural areas like Welland Park and the Grand Union Canal. The Wistow Maze is also a summer attraction. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can be suitable for crisp walks, though some facilities or opening hours might be reduced. Always check specific attraction details before visiting.
Are there options for mountain biking or more challenging cycling routes near Harborough?
Yes, for mountain biking and more challenging cycling, Harborough has options. You can explore routes like the 'Merry Tom Lane – View of Pitsford Water loop' or the 'Gartree Road Crossroads – Goadby Road Gravel Track loop'. These are typically moderate in difficulty. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Harborough guide.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the main attractions?
Many attractions in Harborough have nearby cafes or pubs. At Foxton Locks, you'll find the Foxton Locks Inn and Bridge 61, along with the Top Lock Cottage café. Market Harborough's High Street and St Mary's Place are also full of independent cafes and pubs. For cyclists, Café Ventoux is a popular cycling-themed stop.
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