Attractions and Places To See around Swithland - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Swithland include a variety of natural and historical sites within the Charnwood Forest area of Leicestershire. The region is characterized by its ancient woodlands, prominent hills, and significant historical landmarks. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from elevated viewpoints offering panoramic vistas to historical ruins with rich pasts. Swithland offers opportunities for easy walks near Swithland and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Best attractions and places to see around Swithland
- The most popular attractions is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that serves as the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It offers spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley, providing superb accessibility for those seeking views with minimal effort.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Bradgate House, a historical site. This Tudor mansion, built in the early 1500s, was once home to Lady Jane Grey and was abandoned in the 1730s.
- Visitors also love Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument. This folly stands at the highest point in Bradgate Park, offering extensive views across the surrounding area and Leicester, and is a prominent landmark.
- Swithland is known for natural monuments, historical sites, and man-made follies. The area offers a mix of historical landmarks, natural viewpoints, and significant cultural sites to explore.
- The attractions around Swithland are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and more than 150 photos shared.
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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Ruins of Bradgate House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Mount St Bernard Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
Not just for the faithful!
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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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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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Bradgate House is one of England's great 'lost country houses', a once-magnificent Tudor mansion and the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, the tragic 'Nine Days Queen'. The story of Bradgate House goes back long before Lady Jane's birth, however, and is intertwined with the history of Bradgate Park, a large country park in which the ruins stand. Bradgate Park began as a hunting ground in the early 13th century. It was enclosed by an earthwork bank and ditch, topped by oak timbers. In 1445 the park passed by marriage to the Grey family, who owned it for the next 5 centuries. The first grey owner was Edward Grey, whose son John married Elizabeth Woodville. After John's death at the Battle of St Albans in 1461 Elizabeth married King Edward IV. One of Elizabeth's sons by her first marriage was Sir Thomas Grey, the 1st Marquess of Dorset.
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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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Mount St Bernard Abbey is a Roman Catholic, Trappist monastery near Coalville, Leicestershire, England, founded in 1835 in the parish of Whitwick and now in that of Charley. The abbey was the first permanent monastery to be founded in England since the Reformation and is the sole Trappist house in England. The monks brew the only Trappist beer in Britain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Swithland?
The area around Swithland offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Beacon Hill Summit, the second highest peak in Leicestershire, offering spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Another natural highlight is Bradgate Park Deer Park, known for its deer, river, and forest areas.
Are there historical sites to visit near Swithland?
Yes, Swithland is rich in history. You can explore the Ruins of Bradgate House, a Tudor mansion once home to Lady Jane Grey. Another significant historical site is Mount St Bernard Abbey, the first permanent Trappist monastery founded in England since the Reformation, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful grounds.
What are some prominent landmarks or viewpoints in the Swithland area?
For prominent landmarks and views, visit Old John Tower, Bradgate Park. This folly stands at the highest point in Bradgate Park, offering extensive views across the surrounding area and Leicester. Beacon Hill Summit also provides tremendous 360-degree views across Charnwood Forest.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Swithland?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Beacon Hill Summit is family-friendly with superb accessibility for views. The Ruins of Bradgate House and Bradgate Park Deer Park are also great for families, offering space to explore and wildlife spotting opportunities.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Swithland area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and road cycling. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Swithland guide, the Running Trails around Swithland guide, or the Road Cycling Routes around Swithland guide.
Are there easy walks or beginner hiking trails available?
Yes, there are easy walking options. For example, the 'Swithland Wood – Swithland Wood loop from Newtown Linford' is an easy 6 km hike, and 'Great Pit, Swithland Wood – Swithland Wood loop from Swithland' is an easy 5.5 km hike. You can find more easy and moderate trails in the Hiking around Swithland guide.
Can I spot wildlife in the Swithland area?
Yes, wildlife spotting is a popular activity, especially at Bradgate Park Deer Park, where you can often see deer. The natural areas like Beacon Hill and Swithland Wood also offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Swithland?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views from Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The historical significance of sites like the Ruins of Bradgate House and the peaceful atmosphere of Mount St Bernard Abbey are also highly appreciated.
Is Swithland Wood accessible for visitors?
Swithland Wood offers various trails, including some that are considered easy. While specific wheelchair accessibility details for all paths vary, Beacon Hill Summit is noted for superb accessibility for those seeking views with minimal effort. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions for mobility needs.
Are there any circular walks near Swithland?
Yes, there are several circular walks. For instance, the 'Swithland Reservoir loop from Swithland' is a moderate 7.25 km running route. You can find more circular options for hiking and running in the respective guides, such as Hiking around Swithland.
What is the best time to visit the Swithland area?
The Swithland area, with its natural beauty and historical sites, can be enjoyed year-round. However, for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Weekends and holidays can be busy, especially at popular spots like Bradgate Park, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there dog-friendly trails in the Swithland area?
Many of the natural areas and trails around Swithland are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy walks with your pet. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife like Bradgate Park Deer Park, and check for any specific local restrictions or lead requirements.
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