Attractions and Places To See around Syston - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Syston, a region in Leicestershire, United Kingdom, offer a variety of outdoor experiences. Situated near Charnwood Forest, the area features prominent hills and historical sites. Syston is known for its natural landscapes and cultural landmarks, with 20 hidden gems available for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Syston
- The most popular attractions is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that offers extensive views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. It is the second highest peak in Leicestershire, providing accessible panoramic vistas.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Bradgate House, a historical site. This Tudor mansion, once home to Lady Jane Grey, was abandoned in the 1730s and now stands as a significant ruin within Bradgate Park.
- Visitors also love Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument. This folly stands at the highest point in Bradgate Park, offering wide-ranging views across Leicester and Leicestershire.
- Syston is known for its natural landmarks, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to expansive natural landscapes.
- The attractions around Syston are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and more than 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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Ruins of Bradgate House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bradgate Park
Highlight • Settlement
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Tips from the Community
Cycling is only permitted on the one route through the park, which gets busy with walkers, take it slow in the park. Cafe and toilets in the middle.
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park (for hunting) in the 12th Century. Herds of Red and Fallow Deer still roam freely across the Park's 800 acres today.The Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance as a wildlife habitat and its geological interest - the 600 million year old Precambrian rocks here are some of the oldest in England. Bradgate House, built around the year 1500, was one of the first unfortified, brick-built country houses in the country and was the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey and played an important role in the English Civil War. Abandoned in the 18th Century, the house is now an evocative ruin set in a landscape that has changed little since the house's heyday.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Syston?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Beacon Hill Summit offers accessible panoramic views and has a park and labyrinth. Ruins of Bradgate House and Bradgate Park Deer Park provide historical exploration and opportunities to see wildlife. Swithland Reservoir is also a great spot for enjoying scenery and spotting water birds.
What natural features can I explore near Syston?
The region boasts several natural highlights. Beacon Hill Summit is the second highest peak in Leicestershire, offering extensive views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Bradgate Park Deer Park features a lake, river, and forest, with wild deer roaming freely. Swithland Reservoir provides scenic views, woodland, and opportunities for water bird spotting.
Are there historical sites to visit around Syston?
Absolutely. The Ruins of Bradgate House are a significant historical site, once a Tudor mansion and home to Lady Jane Grey. Within the same park, Old John Tower is a man-made folly from 1784, offering historical context and wide-ranging views.
Are there easy walking trails near Syston?
Yes, there are several options for easy walks. Beacon Hill Summit offers various routes up and down, suitable for different fitness levels, with superb accessibility. Bradgate Park, home to the Bradgate Park Deer Park and Ruins of Bradgate House, also provides numerous paths for leisurely strolls amidst nature and history.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond visiting attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. For road cycling, explore routes like the 'Tour of the Soar' or 'Bradgate Park – View of Cropston Reservoir loop'. Running enthusiasts can try trails such as 'Watermead Country Park' or 'John Merrick's Lake – Bridge Over the River Soar loop'. There are also gravel biking options like the 'Swithland Reservoir loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes around Syston, Running Trails around Syston, and Gravel biking around Syston.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Syston?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views from spots like Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The historical significance of sites like the Ruins of Bradgate House and the chance to see wild deer in Bradgate Park Deer Park are also highly appreciated. The natural beauty and opportunities for walking and enjoying the outdoors are consistent highlights.
Are there cafes or refreshments available near the attractions?
Yes, for instance, Beacon Hill Summit has a cafe and an ice-cream van, making it convenient for refreshments during your visit. Bradgate Park also has visitor facilities, including a visitor's centre where you might find information on available refreshments.
Can I spot wildlife near Syston's attractions?
Yes, wildlife spotting is a popular activity. Bradgate Park Deer Park is home to wild deer, which are often seen roaming freely. Around Swithland Reservoir, you can enjoy the scenery, woodland, and observe various water birds.
Is there parking available at these attractions?
Parking is generally available at major attractions. For example, Beacon Hill Summit has parking available at both the top and bottom of the hill. Bradgate Park also has designated parking areas, though it can get busy, especially on weekends.
What is the best time to visit attractions around Syston?
Many attractions, particularly those outdoors like Beacon Hill Summit and Bradgate Park, can be enjoyed year-round. However, they can get busy on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is often recommended, especially for popular spots like Bradgate Park Deer Park, to enjoy them at their best and avoid crowds.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
While the main highlights are well-known, the broader Charnwood Forest area, which Syston borders, offers many smaller trails and viewpoints. Exploring the areas around Swithland Reservoir, beyond the main viewing points, can reveal quieter spots to enjoy the natural beauty and potentially catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct.
Most popular routes around Syston
Most popular attractions around Syston
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