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Bradgate Park – Cropston Reservoir loop from Shepshed

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Bradgate Park – Cropston Reservoir loop from Shepshed

Moderate

5.0

(1)

riders

Bradgate Park – Cropston Reservoir loop from Shepshed

02:38

44.0km

330m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: July 11, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

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12.7 km

Bradgate Park

Highlight • Settlement

Large car park, toilets, and an ice cream van in the summer months. What more do you need. £3 all day parking.

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13.8 km

In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000.

Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard.

Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house.

Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size.

The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold.

Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).

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16.3 km

Rothley Railway Station

Highlight • Monument

Norths deli next to railway bridge is great for pastries, cheese straws etc if your peckish. of you want a hot drink try the cafe at the railway station. At weekends I'm fairly sue you could put your bike on the stream train and get a lift to Loughborough or Leicester North if you fancy an alternative to pedalling.

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17.8 km

The Blue Bell Inn

Highlight • Pub

Brilliant pub to take a break at during any ride nearby, whether taking the road ride, or the gravel track through the golf course

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19.4 km

Soar Navigation Lock

Highlight • Other

26.8 km

Barrow Bridge

Highlight • Viewpoint

The bridge crosses the River Soar navigation. Located only a stone's throw from the bridge is the Soar Bridge Inn, a traditional pub popular with boaters and walkers attracted by the picturesque scene.

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