Bradgate Park

Situated just four miles north west of Leicester, Bradgate it an old deer park… but don’t let that put you off!

The park was given to the people of Leicestershire by a man named Charles Bennion in 1982. It is an area of natural beauty and home to the unique beer-mug shaped folly of Old John, (which was actually an old observation tower built to give the ladies a view of a race course which once circled the top of the hill) as well as herds of Deer (approx 300 in size, a mixture of roe and fallow deer). Also on the smaller of the two hills there stands a War Memorial and down toward the bottom of the hills stands Bradgate House. This was the Leicestershire residence of Lady Jane Grey, later known as the "Nine Day Queen".

Enough of the history, what can you actually do there??

If you are a keen horse rider, yes you can take them out for a day and ride along many of the designated paths. There are tracks laid out across the park linking Newtown Linford, Hunt's Hill and Hallgates. Access can be gained via the gate at Hunt's Hill and also there are special box gates at other two entrances. Unfortunately the park closed to riders at weekends, Bank Holidays and on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons or when ground conditions are unsuitable (at the discretion of the Land Agent and Ranger). No permit is needed to be able to ride at Bradgate park but please adhere to the restrictions on time of use. Box parking is available at all 3 entrances and there is a small fee.

Climbing on the rocks is not actually forbidden although climbing the trees, walls and buildings is.
The warden has been known to say that climbing is forbidden after the volume of public complaints (another Bye Law says you can't do anything that produces complaints).

Bradgate Park is an excellent place to walk, relax, picnic or just have a quiet day out with friends.
On clear days there are views you’ll not want to miss stretching as far as the eye can see…

A good place to take photo’s might I add!!