Official Visitor Guide to & 2007 FREE

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Great ideas for short breaks • Things to do • Accommodation • Great days out

www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com brought to you by Leicester Shire Promotions Market Harborough CONTENTS Great Ideas for 3-16 Go Beyond Your Getting Away Living Life to the 3 Full in Leicester Expectations The Fun has Just Begun 5 A Journey to Foodie Heaven 7 Town Hall Square Over a Thousand Years 9 of Adventure Belgrave Mela Get Fresh in the Great Outdoors 11 Leicester & Leicestershire’s Market Place 15

Leicestershire 17-45 Places to go If you haven’t already discovered Leicester and Leicestershire, Family Days Out 19 you’re in for a wonderful surprise! At the heart of , Gardens, Parks & Nature 26 this county combines the finest English rural traditions with the cosmopolitan buzz of city life. Perfectly located, Leicestershire Museums & Galleries 30 is easy to find, but almost impossible to leave without savouring History & Heritage 34 at least some of its many delights. Waterways 38 Leicester’s continuing renaissance has created one of the UK’s Places to Shop & Eat 40 most cultural, creative and progressive cities. Visitors can witness Entertainment 44 this first-hand at cutting-edge visitor attractions like the National Space Centre and at a wide range of world-renowned events including the Leicester Comedy Festival, Summer Sundae 46-49 Events 2007 Weekender and the UK’s most spectacular Diwali celebrations. Add to this the city’s fabulous shopping, sports and nightlife, the newly refurbished New Walk Museum with world-class 50-75 Where to Stay international exhibitions, plus some of the UK’s best curry houses along the famous Belgrave Road and you have a truly culturally Hotels 52 diverse and exciting city. Guest Accommodation 59 Of course, the county of Leicestershire is equally as exciting; Self Catering 68 within just a few miles of the city lie beautiful rolling fields, winding waterways, ancient woodland, historic country towns Caravan & Camping 73 and picturesque villages. The newly emerging National Forest boasts enormous diversity, from history, heritage and amazing Win a Fabulous 76-77 attractions, to mile upon mile of hidden nature trails. Meanwhile, Family Break some of England’s quintessential market towns are sprinkled within this rural landscape: Market Harborough, with nearby Planning Your Foxton Locks; , home of the Great Central 78-84 Railway; Ashby de la Zouch, with its imposing castle; the Break historical Market Bosworth, and the nearby Bosworth Battlefield Tourist Information Centres 78 and of course , the UK’s Rural Capital of Food Getting to Leicestershire 79 WELCOME... and Drink and home to the annual Food Festival. Welcome to the official visitor guide for Leicester and Leicestershire. Whether you need Leicester City Map 80 inspiring ideas for great days out, a weekend break or a longer stay, this comprehensive As you’ll see, Leicester and Leicestershire Leicestershire Map 81 guide is packed with details of things to see and do, and places to stay. Updated information are the perfect places for a short break, Front cover images: Main images Wistow can also be found at www.goleicestershire.com which has literally thousands of ideas of Maze. Left to right: Belgrave Road, Town Hall whatever the season. Square, Leicester, Foxton Locks, National what to do while you’re here. So enjoy! Space Centre. Back cover images: Left to right: Leicester Lanes, New Walk Museum, Hotel room, Bradgate Park. 1 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 2 Living Life to the Full in Leicester Tin Fish, Leicester Lanes New Walk Museum Belgrave Hall Curry Pot San Carlos Come and enjoy the delights of the UK’s most diverse, progressive city, packed full of exciting things to do and places to go to make your visit memorable.

Leicester is undergoing some modern European to contemporary the ancient heart of Leicester, with dramatic changes. Over the next Asian cuisine. its gardens, riverside walks and few years over £3 billion is being fascinating buildings. Don’t miss spent on transforming the city The Golden Mile Leicester Cathedral and the half- Belgrave Road is the vibrant heart centre, including a world-class timbered Guildhall, built in 1390 of Leicester’s Asian communities and Performing Arts Centre, a new and reputedly home to five ghosts! a riot of colour and activity. You’ll be Shopping Quarter and an emerging Then there’s the stunning Jain spoilt for choice with its numerous Cultural Quarter. Centre, the first in the Western great restaurants, not least the world World, with its extraordinary famous Bobby’s. Take your pick from Shopaholics carvings. Understand the social Looking for retail therapy? In the colourful saree shops, the history of Leicester at the Newarke Leicester’s city centre you’ll find specialist spice emporiums and the Houses Museum. An innovative a lively mix of top stores in the many gold jewellery shops that are £2 million refurbishment tells the rapidly expanding Shires Shopping one of the reasons this area is history of the Royal Leicestershire Centre, plus a vibrant selection of internationally known as the Golden Regiment, in the context of the story independent galleries, craft specialists Mile. Celebrate Leicester’s diversity of Leicester. At the opposite side of and designer clothes shops around by visiting the inspirational Peepul town, visit one of the many special the Leicester Lanes. Just on the Centre, a £14.7 million flagship arts events at the ‘haunted’ 18th Century outskirts of the city centre, you will and community centre. Belgrave Hall and Gardens. find a unique shopping experience Music to your ears in the Stoneygate area. Wander Sporting Leicester Leicester is blessed with a number around the market town-style Sports enthusiasts are spoilt for of music venues, from legendary boutique shops on Francis Street choice with world class rugby rock gigs at The Charlotte, to De and Allendale Road, alternatively, from Welford Road, Championship Montfort Hall where you can catch SHORT BREAK IDEA just south of the city, visit Fosse football at the Walkers Stadium, the best touring musicals, opera, Why not make a weekend of it? Enjoy a day of retail therapy, before dinner at one of the city’s Shopping Park, one of the country’s at Grace Road and orchestral, rock and world music. largest out of town shopping parks. horse racing at Leicester Racecourse. contemporary restaurants. Then explore Leicester’s colourful past at one of the city’s many Visit in the summer and you can If you’re looking for faster sports chill out at the Hall’s hugely popular, museums for a truly cultural weekend away. Visit www.goleicestershire.com for up to date Take a pit stop pursuits then travel into the county When you need refuelling there’s laid back outdoor festivals. events and great city hotel offers. and visit Donington Park with an plenty of choice. Treat yourself at extensive events calendar including smart modern restaurants serving Historic Leicester If you’re looking for a little peace and GP Live, and of course Mallory Park. a range of quality food from quiet, wander over to Castle Park, FIVE BRIGHT IDEAS Summer Sundae, De Montfort Hall Hop on and hop Visit one of the many changing Visit the Peepul Centre Take the family to the award- Or why not feast on one off the Discover two exhibitions at New Walk Museum and three and enjoy Asian theatre four winning Summer Sundae five the dazzling colours Leicester open Art Gallery, including Matisse to Freud, and leading Jazz artists Weekender at De Montfort Hall and and flavours of the top bus tour. Picasso and Joe Orton, taking place this from around the world. see bands from all over the world Caribbean Carnival. spring and summer. playing some fine summer music.

3 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 4 The Fun has Just Begun FIVE BRIGHT IDEAS Discover how one astronauts use the toilet when they’re in space at the National Sparks Festival Space Centre.

Conkers For more jungle adventures, swoop maze set in eight acres of corn crop Are your kids ready to… explore the galaxy, The louder you down to Tropical Birdland, where with a quiz trail and secret code to encounter rare species of monkeys, go wild in two scream, the faster 85 species of exotic birds display their crack. For a green day out visit we go! Enjoy all the forest, escape from a giant maze, mess colourful plumage. The animal magic Brocks Hill Country Park and enjoy the fun of the fair, continues at Stonehurst Family Farm the human sundial. Meanwhile, about on the water and discover fascinating every November and Gorse Hill City Farm. Twinlakes Park is the place for all-out, in Loughborough. local heritage? Leicester and Leicestershire all-weather family fun – from Excalibur Discovery Park is where offer excitement for everyone! Adventure, with swings, slides and a kids’ imaginations run riot. This former Survive the terrifying chance to climb around the awesome Truly out of this world, the National Space Centre is Britain’s colliery site offers 90 indoor and 50-foot drop at Black Knights Castle, to the Labyrinth, three only attraction dedicated to space exploration. With 250 exhibits, outdoor exhibits, including a diesel- Trauma Tower, an unbelievable four floors of slides, you can do everything from ascending the awesome 42 metre- hauled locomotive, interactive Twinlakes Park. National Space Centre rides and discovery. high Rocket Tower and experiencing intergalactic travel in the discovery zones and a chic new Fashion state-of-the-art space theatre, to undertaking ‘astronaut training’ Gallery with garments from modern Full steam ahead to the Great Central Reach the exit in Human Spaceflight 2025, featuring the UK’s most thrilling couture right back to 1750. Railway in Loughborough, where four (finally!) at space simulator. With visits by legendary astronauts like Buzz Thomas the Tank Engine is a frequent Wistow Maze. You’d be bonkers to miss Conkers! Aldrin to exclusive Dr Who exhibitions, the National Space Centre visitor and special events at Halloween This award-winning attraction in Test your strength is out of this world! and Christmas are a must for all The National Forest is the perfect place by lifting a Mini the family. five Back on earth, Twycross Zoo, the World’s Primate Centre, is one to enjoy British woodland – 120 acres Cooper and visit of the UK’s leading zoos. It’s home to 1,000 animals from 170 with four discovery zones designed Finally, Leicestershire museums are the amazing Fashion species and is famous for its rare and endangered primates – from for all ages. Don’t miss the fun Tree guaranteed to intrigue young minds. Gallery at Snibston Pygmy Marmosets to Western Lowland Gorillas. Of course, there Top Walk or the huge outdoor play For over 150 years, Leicester’s New Discovery Park. are lions, giraffes and elephants to marvel over, too! And one of area for children of all ages; plus Walk Museum and Art Gallery has the latest attractions is the South American Tropical House. lakeside walks, sculpture and nature inspired the likes of Lord Attenborough SHORT BREAK IDEA trails, assault courses, train rides and and Sir David Attenborough with its Leicestershire is so easy to find, but hard to leave! So why not enjoy a mid-term break at one water play. wide-ranging collections spanning the of the many family-friendly hotels situated close to the major attractions. Visit natural and cultural world. From 20th Other outdoor highlights include Century German Expressionist art to www.goleicestershire.com to get up to date special offers, including family rooms from just £60 unravelling clues at the award-winning the mighty Rutland Dinosaur, it’s all Wistow Maze, a gigantic summer per night and seasonal money off vouchers at a huge range of attractions. waiting to be discovered! Twinlakes Park

5 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 6 A Journey to Foodie Heaven Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, Melton Mowbray Local produce The Bakers Arms, East Langton

Sakonis, Leicester Come to Leicester and Leicestershire and get fed up! From cosy gastropubs that nestle in classic English countryside to cutting edge Indian cuisine, you’ll find just what you fancy. Come and enjoy a flavour of what’s on offer.

A Taste of Asia imitators. But there’s so much Brewing up a storm When it comes to Asian food, more to enjoy. Also protected is After pork pie and cheese, nowhere comes close to matching Melton’s inimitable Stilton cheese you may want a swift half and Leicester’s quality and diversity. In – why not pick up a truckle of the Leicestershire is just the place the mood for a traditional Asian world’s finest blue cheese at the with its quirky microbreweries. experience? Then head to market, held every Tuesday and Enjoy a brewery tour and seek Belgrave’s Golden Mile where Friday morning. Try it with some out Rutterkin, a premium bitter you’ll find an enticing array of of the fabulous organic sourdough made by Brewsters in the tranquil restaurants serving cuisine from bread from Paul’s craft bakery. and named after all over the Asian sub-continent Indulge yourself at Brockleby’s, the cat belonging to a local coven to a demanding clientele. From one of the biggest and best farm of witches! Take it steady though, pure vegetarian cuisine to shops you’ll find, with a wide with ‘Baz’s Bonce Blower’, one of traditional Gujarati restaurants selection of rare breed meats and the strongest cask beers brewed there’s plenty of choice and while organic vegetables. You can even anywhere in the world, from the you’re here, why not buy the watch gourmet pies being made Parish Brewery. Independent spices and ingredients to try to in the farmhouse kitchen. Add to brewing flourishes in the city of recreate the perfect curry at all this the award-winning East Leicester with a thriving real ale home? Midlands Food Festival held scene. “Is there a city centre in each October with over 200 fine these islands that better serves Melton - a passion for food food exhibitors, and it’s no the visiting real ale fan?” asked Melton Mowbray’s pork pies are wonder Melton Mowbray is the Real Ale Pub Guide in naming legendary, and soon hope to have dubbed the UK’s Rural Capital Leicester its top town for 2007. European Union protection from of Food and Drink.

FIVE TASTY IDEAS one two three four five Pick up a perfect Visit Leicester Market - Discover one of the many Leicestershire’s heaving Spice up your SHORT BREAK IDEA pie from Ye Olde with places to take tea. life with a the largest covered Farmers’ Markets and track Enjoy a little Taste of Asia on a short break to Leicester. This tasty short break offers great Pork Pie Shoppe market in Europe, down some genuine artisan- After enjoying a Masala Dhosa in Melton offering an unbelievable made Red Leicester from bracing walk, indulge in one of deals at local hotels, restaurants and insider knowledge on where to shop and eat around Mowbray, where range of fruit, vegetables, Sparkenhoe Farm, now in afternoon tea at one Belgrave’s the Golden Mile area of the city. Alternatively, try one of the county’s great gastropubs or fine pies have meat and fish. reviving a 200 year tradition of the many tea rooms buzzing restaurants to create a truly unique food and drink break. For special offers and to request been made since of cheese making. close to Bradgate Park. restaurants 1851. and cafés. your Gourmet map, visit www.goleicestershire.com

7 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 8 Over a Thousand Years of Adventure Great Central Railway Bosworth Battlefield Belvoir Castle Hear the echoes of history resound around Leicester and Leicestershire! With Roman ruins, majestic castles, FIVE haunted medieval buildings and significant historic BRIGHT IDEAS events, there’s so much to discover. Take a glimpse of Tales of the city of the Battle of Bosworth Field where one life in the 1950s at Did you realise that Leicester boasts King Richard III lost his crown and his Wigston Framework one of the largest pieces of Roman life to the future Henry VII in 1485. Knitters Museum. architecture in Britain? The Jewry Wall, The newly refurbished visitor centre Don’t miss the part of the Roman Baths, dates from explains the fascinating story of this medieval knights about AD150. For medieval history, decisive battle in the Wars of the Roses. two and jousting at the head for Castle Park, the original site Industrial heritage Bosworth Medieval of the city during the Middle Ages. Relive the bygone era of steam trains Festival. The Great Hall of Leicester Castle at the Great Central Railway, the still stands, close to St Mary de Castro country’s only double track mainline Marvel at Gimson’s Church, where Geoffrey Chaucer is steam railway. Loughborough Station magnificent beam believed to have married his second three houses a museum, working signal box engine in action at wife. Leicester Cathedral and the and historic locomotion collection. one of Abbey timber-framed Guildhall are among You can even drive a steam train under Pumping Station’s the city’s other historic treasures. expert supervision! special steam events. Rural splendour A visit to Lutterworth and the home See how a bell is You’re never far from a stately home of Sir Frank Whittle, inventor of the made at one of the or castle in Leicestershire. They include jet engine, is a must for any aviation four exclusive castings 17th Century Stanford Hall and the enthusiast. Also worth a visit is at the John Taylor majestic Belvoir Castle, ancestral home Stanford Hall, where you’ll find a Bellfoundry. of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, model of Percy Pilcher’s 1898 flying where medieval jousting festivals are machine, the first man in England to Visit the fairytale often held. fly using unpowered flight. five Belvoir Castle with its Other must-sees are Rockingham Meanwhile, Shackerstone Station is elegant interiors and Castle, built by William the Conqueror a unique railway museum on the its notable collections and Britain’s best-preserved Norman Battlefield Line Railway, near of paintings and castle, the medieval ruins of Ashby Bosworth. Or why not tinkle along to sculptures. de la Zouch Castle, which was the the John Taylor Bellfoundry Museum setting for Ivanhoe, the superbly in Loughborough, part of the world’s Leicester Cathedral restored Manor largest working bellfoundry. Find out House, the reputedly haunted Belgrave how Thomas Crapper lent his name SHORT BREAK IDEA Hall, and Calke Abbey, frozen in time to science at the Abbey Pumping in 1920. Not to mention Bradgate Station, and see some of the finest Step back in time and spend a weekend in Leicester and Leicestershire discovering the past. Country Park, a hunting park with examples of Victorian steam Whether it’s retracing the final steps of Richard III or discovering the history of the toilet, 750 years of history, featuring the ruins engineering as well as Leicester’s of the magnificent Tudor house, and there’s plenty to explore. For up to date information on events and hotel offers, visit industrial, technological and scientific Britain’s first Grand Carillon at heritage. Finally, have a blast at the www.goleicestershire.com. Loughborough. Moira Furnace, an impressive early Of course, you shouldn’t miss the site 19th Century blast furnace. 9 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 10 Get Fresh

in the SHORT BREAK IDEA After all that fresh air, you’ll sleep well! So why not book Great in at one of the many great pubs or small hotels with good quality, comfortable Outdoors rooms and enjoy a good meal and soft pillow before starting the next day’s activity. For special offers, visit

Bradgate Park www.goleicestershire.com

Take a deep breath and enjoy Leicestershire’s great Walking back to happiness find nothing quite gets the sap outdoors - perfect for fun, relaxation and adventure. Leicestershire has beautiful rolling rising like the magnificent displays Bluebell Wood countryside, and we’ve made it so of springtime bluebells at ancient Forest walks, cycle routes and first-class waterside easy to enjoy! Pick a section of the Woods, Outwoods and attractions will help to blow away those cobwebs. Leicestershire Round, a 100-mile, Bluebell Woods, near waymarked circular walk and take Loughborough. Water world yourself out to the heart of rural Tree-mendous There’s a superb variety of rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs for you England. Look around at the pretty If you’re wanting to get up close to enjoy. Just five miles from the bustle of the city, Watermead Park villages and sheltered river valleys and personal with nature, we’ve is an oasis of greenery and lakes just waiting to be explored. Relax and or head over to High Leicestershire got Britain’s newest forest and it’s rejuvenate in this wildlife hotspot of 140 hectares of prime wetland – and get some air in your lungs along Bosworth Water Trust purpose-made for 21st Century and watch out for the elusive Kingfisher! You can also use the network those windy ridges. Trek up to the sustainable leisure. The National of surfaced paths for gentle cycling or horseriding. For action on the 802ft summit of Beacon Hill and Forest gives Leicestershire visitors water, get along to Bosworth Water Trust, a 50 acre leisure park enjoy the thrilling views from its untold scope for enjoying outdoor where you can fish, sail, canoe and windsurf, all in beautiful clear water Bronze Age fort. Then pop across life, featuring an incredible 700 miles fed from a 400ft deep bore hole. Stay overnight - there’s plenty of craggy Charnwood Forest to of paths ideal for cycling, walking, space and facilities for tents and caravans. Or for a more relaxing pace, Bradgate Park with its herds of and horseriding, with new routes enjoy the Ashby Trip, a speciality boat trip that takes in all canal red and fallow deer. Take pleasure opening up all the time. Hire a bike wildlife and picturesque countryside on the 200 year old, lock free in a reflective hike among bracken and get back to nature. There are Ashby canal. In total contrast, Foxton Locks, in the south of the county, covered moorland and the evocative plenty of purpose-built routes around has a staircase of ten locks! Enjoy watching the crews of colourful ruins of the home of Lady Jane Grey, attractions such as Watermead Country Park narrowboats turn their paddles and heave gates open to move their England’s nine-day Tudor Queen. Reservoir and Sence Valley Forest boats up and down the hill. Leicestershire has fantastic woodland Park. While you’re at Staunton walks during all seasons but you’ll Harold, the Ferrers Centre for Arts FIVE BRIGHT IDEAS and Crafts, adjacent to Staunton Harold Hall, is certainly worth a one two three four five visit. This is where art meets nature and the centre is home to a gallery, a range of workshops and an award- Enjoy the slow pace of Foxton Explore High Challenge all the Relax in award-winning Abbey Park, Enjoy high speed action at either winning tearoom. Locks, and visit the museum to Leicestershire and fly a family to complete near , with its Donington or Mallory Park. From two learn about the restoration of the kite at Burrough Hill. the assault course boating lake, pets corner and the wheels to four, there are plenty of inclined plane back to its former at Conkers. ruins of Leicester Abbey, the last events going on throughout the year to Bradgate Park glory. resting place of Cardinal Wolsey. please all motorsport enthusiasts.

11 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 12 Rutland Water While you’re here, why not visit Rutland, a little piece of England

Rutland lies to the east of Leicestershire and at its heart you will find Rutland Water, Europe’s largest man-made lake. On offer are many outdoor watersports and activities, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and fishing. Choose between hiring a bike to cycle around the lake or boat trips on the Rutland Belle. Once you’ve finished your activities, you can enjoy a guilt-free break at one of the many fantastic watering holes conveniently located around the lake, serving great local food and drink.

Walkers can ramble along the shoreline or embark on a more energetic trek on the Rutland Round – a long distance walking route of 65 miles through quiet winding lanes, gentle rolling countryside and quintessential English villages.

Gardeners will enjoy Geoff Hamilton’s famous Barnsdale Gardens, whilst bird lovers will appreciate the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre at Egleton. The nature reserve is home to the first ospreys hatched in England for 150 years and the British Birdwatching Fair is held here every August. Other local experiences to be enjoyed are Rutland brewed real ales, The Rutland County Show, Rockingham Castle, Music in Lyddington, Lyddington Bede House and Tolethorpe Hall, famous for its enchanting outdoor Shakespeare Festival productions held every summer.

Rutland’s two historic market towns, Oakham and Uppingham, are full of pretty honey-coloured buildings, medieval churches, interesting shops and galleries. Both are famous for their public boarding schools and hold weekly markets, vibrant arts and music festivals, and annual Christmas markets.

To obtain your free guide to Rutland 2007, please contact Rutland County Museum or Rutland Water Tourist Information Centre, contact details on page 78.

Stamford Shakespeare FestivalSeaton Viaduct Uppingham Cycling at Rutland Water

13 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 14 Leicestershire’s Market Place Loughborough MarketMarket Harborough Leicester Market Hinckley

Melton Mowbray Market FARMERS’ MARKETS Leicestershire is home to some of the finest Ashby de la Zouch market towns in the country, all offering a taste Cheese, fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat of local life in the county. - all locally grown. Runs the third Visit the historical Melton Mowbray the town is explained in the museum, Saturday of the month 9-2pm. Tuesday market, which dates back which is due to reopen in June 2007 to 1077, and buy some of the finest after extensive redevelopment. A popular market selling all types locally produced products from Spend a day in the quintessential of local produce. Runs the second traditional Melton Mowbray Pork English town of Market Harborough Saturday of every month. Pies to the unusual bison and ostrich! in the south of Leicestershire. Wander around the town centre Hinckley Meander around the boutique where Melton’s history is still evident All types of freshly grown food and shops on Manor Walk or visit the and visit Anne of Cleves’ House, a drink. Runs third Thursday of indoor market, held three days a present from King Henry VIII to his every month. week. Or visit the Harborough divorced wife. Learn more about Museum and discover more about Burbage the local history at Melton Carnegie the town’s vast history. Market All types of freshly grown food and Museum and discover the origins of Harborough also offers some of the drink. Runs the first Saturday of the phrase ‘painting the town red’. finest architecture in Leicestershire, the month except January. At the edge of the Charnwood such as the Old Grammar School Leicester Forest is Loughborough, or St Dionysuis Church. Fresh, locally produced food and Leicestershire’s largest market town, At the southern most tip of drink on sale every month. Runs where every Thursday and Saturday Leicestershire is Lutterworth. Enjoy the last Wednesday in every the traditional market takes place the monthly farmers’ market or visit month except December. and is one of the finest street during August when Feast Week markets in the country with an Loughborough takes place with a week of events excellent range of local goods and All kinds of freshly produced food including the Lutterworth Carnival. and drink. Runs every second produce. This ancient tradition The vibrant market towns of Wednesday of the month except (since 1221) has of course adapted Hinckley and Market Bosworth November. to the 21st Century and offers a huge range of local produce, are surrounded by many of Lutterworth including hosiery, for which the area Leicestershire’s pretty villages and All types of locally produced food is famous. Charnwood Museum, its rolling countryside. Enjoy an and drink. Runs the third Friday located in Queens Park, is a great afternoon wandering around Market of every month. place to delve into local history. Bosworth’s specialist shops, antique stores and garden centres. Market Bosworth In the north west of the county, All types of freshly grown food and at the edge of The National Forest Finally, if you are looking for one of drink. Runs the fourth Sunday of is Ashby de la Zouch, an historic the most vibrant markets in England every month 9-2pm. market town. At the heart of the why not visit Leicester market, Escape the rush of the city and see what Leicestershire’s rural market towns Market Harborough town is the ancient Ashby Castle one of the largest covered markets have to offer. Wander around farmers’ markets, discover home grown and Leicestershire's local food and ruins, and in the town centre there in Europe. The bustling market offers drink. Runs the first Thursday in is a daily indoor market and monthly an eclectic range of local produce, handcrafted treats, and get a taste of our local traditions. every month except January. farmers’ market continuing a including exotic spices, fruit and tradition dating back to the 15th vegetables which contribute to the Century. The fascinating history of city’s multi-cultural offer. 15 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 16 Places New Walk Museum

to go Conkers Ferrers Gallery

Belvoir Castle Discover a new adventure every day in Leicester CONTENTS and Leicestershire. There is a huge amount of things to do in Leicester 19-26 Family Days and Leicestershire whatever the weather; the only Out problem is fitting it all in! So why not make the most Gardens Parks of our great hotel deals and stay a little longer. 26-30 & Nature

Visitor Attraction Only those attractions that have been Museums Quality Assurance assessed by VisitBritain receive the 30-33 Service (VAQAS) quality marque, your sign of a & Galleries ‘Quality Assured Visitor Attraction’. When looking for places to visit, you need an Look for VisitBritain’s VAQAS marque, History accreditation system you can trust. and visit with confidence. 34-38 VisitBritain’s ‘Visitor Attraction Quality • Ashby de la Zouch Castle & Heritage Assurance Service’ offers you • Barnsdale Gardens reassurance about the quality of the • Belvoir Castle visitor experience. • Bosworth Battlefield Visitor Centre 38-40 Waterways Participating attractions are visited & Country Park annually by trained, impartial assessors. • Charnwood Museum They look at all aspects of the visit, • Donington le Heath Manor House • Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts from customer service to catering, and Places to • Harborough Museum 40-44 all aspects of the ‘visitor experience’, • Melton Carnegie Museum including interpretation and activities Shop & Eat • National Space Centre for visitors, giving you the confidence • Rockingham Castle that the attraction has been thoroughly • Snibston Discovery Park checked before you plan your visit. 44-45 Entertainment • Twinlakes Park

What is the same high environmental standards, Green Flag creating a benchmark of excellence KEY TO ATTRACTION SYMBOLS Award Scheme? in recreational green areas. The Green Flag Award is the national For further information on parks Is accessible to a wheelchair user travelling Provision for blind or partially sighted people* standard for parks and green spaces awarded the Green Flag Award, log independently* Induction Loop* in England and Wales. The award on to www.greenflagaward.org.uk Is accessible to a wheelchair user travelling with Car parking scheme began in 1996 as a means • Market Bosworth Country Park assistance* of recognising and rewarding the • Knighton Park Train station within five miles Is accessible to someone with limited mobility, able to best green spaces in the country. • Evington Park walk a few paces and up a maximum of three steps* Accessible by bus It was also seen as a way of • Abbey Park encouraging others to achieve the • Aylestone Hall Gardens * Establishments have provided their own accessibility information and have not been assessed by an official body. Please phone ahead for specific requirements. Bosworth Battlefield

17 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 18 Family Days Out Family Days Out

Conkers 1 Snibston Discovery Park 2

Ashby Road LE67 3LN t: 01530 278 444 e: [email protected] www.snibston.com

Rawdon Road Moira Visit Snibston, the award- Swadlincote winning hands on museum for DE12 6GA the whole family. Come and t: 01283 216 633 see our £1.4 million makeover. f: 01283 210 321 • Over 90 indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits e: [email protected] including ‘Wild Water’ and ‘Science Play’. www.visitconkers.com • Try and lift a Mini Cooper in our new interactive gallery, Extra Ordinary. • Let off steam in our new colliery themed Enter a World of Adventure and Discovery adventure play area. Conkers, the award-winning attraction in The Heart of • Take a tour of the historic colliery buildings with the National Forest, is a unique mix of indoor and a real life miner, and find out what it was like to outdoor experiences. work underground*. The Discovery & Waterside Centres have over 100 • Ride on our diesel hauled locomotive along the interactive exhibits, simulated tree top canopy walk, restored colliery track*. indoor play plus licensed lakeside cafés, gift shop and • Visit our amazing Fashion Gallery, housing over craft workshops. 1000 items from 1750s to the Conkers has 120 acres of growing woodland, the present day, the largest such Conkers train, woodland & lakeside trails, adventure play, collection outside . assault course, viewing platform, picnic areas, canal basin, • Learn about the history of ranger activities, family events and covered amphitheatre Leicestershire’s industrial with live theatre shows - visitors will never run out of Free parking. Café. Gift Shop. heritage, including seeing a things to do! Daily Apr-Sep 10am-5pm, Oct-Mar 10am-3pm Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm Sat/Sun (except Christmas Day and Boxing working steam beam engine in action*. Conkers is a fantastic place to bring the Day and one week in January for maintenance) • Discover wildlife in a bug hut, pond dipping on family for a day… Adults £6, Children £4, Concessions £4.20, Family ticket a nature trail in The Grange Nature Reserve for 4 £18, Family ticket for 5 £20, under 5s free. (includes a fishing lake and picnic areas*). Small charge for train rides and colliery tours. • Entertain your under 5s in the soft play area. Daily: 10am-6pm (Summer), 10am-5pm (Winter), * Some activities are not available every day of opening, except Christmas Day. FREE entry to park, picnic areas, foyer, shop and café. Full disabled access. please phone in advance to confirm. Adults: £6.70, Children (3 - 15): £4.70, Ongoing events and activities Concessions: £5, Family (2 adults + 2 children): Frequent buses. J22 of the M1, J13 of the M42 £18.95 and under 3s FREE. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet, parking, guide dogs throughout the year. Group rates and annual membership available. welcome. Small additional charge for indoor adventure play. Prices correct at time of going to press and may be subject to change.

19 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 20 Family Days Out Family Days Out

Twinlakes Park 3 National Space Centre 4

Exploration Drive Melton Spinney Road Leicester LE4 5NS Melton Mowbray LE14 4SB Off A6 north of city centre t: 01664 567 777 f: 01664 560 070 Signed from M1 junctions 21a/22 www.twinlakespark.co.uk t: 0870 607 7223 e: [email protected] Daily from 10am, except December 24, 25 and 26. www.spacecentre.co.uk Adults and Children £8.50; Family of four (2+2 or 1+3) £32; Under 92cm free. The award-winning National Space Centre is the UK's largest attraction dedicated to Space. Ample parking. Generous Group discounts. Disabled access. Three restaurants, shop, BBQ and picnic areas. From the minute you catch sight of the Space Centre's Fantastic Birthday Parties. futuristic Rocket Tower, you 'll be treated to hours of breathtaking discovery and interactive fun. Melton Mowbray You'll find yourself immersed in an awe-inspiring journey An exciting variety of family rides and attractions is set in through six interactive galleries, see amazing space 60 acres of glorious countryside at Twinlakes Park, Melton rockets, satellites and capsules, take part in hundreds of interactive hands-on activities and experience the full Mowbray where action packed Play Zones entertain the astronaut challenge - Human Spaceflight: Lunar Base 2025 whole family. Whatever the weather expect a full day has been designed to challenge and involve the visitor on of play in massive indoor venture centres complete with every level. Interactive exhibits will test visitors’ mental 5 rides. Enjoy fascinating flying displays in the Falconry and physical ability to survive the long and dangerous Centre, friendly animals, ferret racing and cute birds in voyage into deep space and culminate in a stunning 3D Red Rooster Farm Centre. Live entertainers, workshops mission through our solar system to the ice moon Europa. and events make school holidays special. Included in every ticket is a show in the The soaring flying sensations of the Icarus Sky Flyers and stunning Space Theatre. Join Ewan McGregor the speeding rocking Mercury Minicoaster are Twinlakes on a journey through the body of an favourite rides. Expect laughter and thrills on the Spinning astronaut, discover the perils of space and visit destinations you only every dreamed existed. Spiders, Dune Buggies and Shark Bite Rides. While the big thrill Trauma Tower is an indoor scream machine. Tues-Sun 10am-5pm (last entry 3.30pm) Bump, pedal and row boats on lakes, pump iron on Open Mondays during the Leicestershire school holidays daring obstacles of the Texan Assault Course, shoot down and every bank holiday except Christmas Day, Boxing multi slides, fly down zip slides and pedal like crazy on Day and New Years Day. Indy Karts. Please note that from 8 January - 12 January 2007 the Space Centre will be closed. There’s Big Zones for small kids with interactive soft play centres, absorbing Wild West city, challenging attractions Adult £11.00, Child (4 - 16years) £9.00, Senior Citizen/Student/Disabled £9.00, and a host of activities to give maximum fun. Family of Four (max 2 adults) £34, Indoors the massive Labyrinth has awesome challenges Family of Five (max 2 adults) £42. and rides with four floors of super high slides, daring The National Space Centre is a not-for-profit charity. If you tower climbs and multi swings. Enjoy bouncing in are a UK tax payer, sign the Giftaid form upon entry and Buccaneers Island and blasting balls at upgrade your ticket to a full year pass at no extra cost! buddies in the two Master Blaster areas. Rail: Leicester 1 1/2 miles. With action, animals and acres of beauty Bus: Frequent (54 to Abbey Lane). there’s all weather fun at Twinlakes. Leicester

21 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 22 Family Days Out Family Days Out

Butterfly Farm & Aquatic Centre Mini Beast Zoo 5 Wistow Maze 7

The largest tropical house in the area, a perfect choice for young and old, whatever the weather. WINNER OF 'BEST VISITOR ATTRACTION' 5,000 sq. ft. of walk through jungle with free flying tropical Butterflies and Birds. Situated 5 miles south of Leicester, opposite Iguana Lizards. Ponds with Koi Carp and Terrapins. ‘Twilight Zone’ insect cave Hours of fun for all the family with over 16,000 visitors last summer. Wistow Rural Centre, signed from A6 at featuring (behind glass) Tarantulas, Scorpions and other mini-beasts. Monitor Lizard Unravel the mystery and find clues hidden in over 8 acres of tall maize crop Great Glen & Kibworth, and A5199 at Kilby. enclosure. Superb display of local coarse and game freshwater fish. and sunflowers. High level bridges and towers give panoramic views of the t: 07884 403 889 Sykes Lane Car Park, Empingham maze and beautiful surrounding countryside. www.wistow.com Daily, 1 April-31 Aug 10.30am-5pm. 1 Sept-29 Oct 10.30am-4.30pm North Shore, Rutland Water New theme for 2007 with quiz trail amongst over 3 miles of paths designed by world famous maze expert, Adrian Fisher. Adults £5.50, Children (3-15) £3.50, Family Tickets £16 (2+2) and £18 (2+3). Oakham LE15 8PX 10am - 6pm Senior Citizen £4.50. Under 3 years free. There is also an Activity Funyard packed with mini mazes, games, puzzles Daily from 14 July to 2 Sept (just off A606 Oakham - Stamford.) and a football shooting game which can be played with before or after Parking. Purpose-designed for visitors with disabilities. Perfect for schools and (and then weekends until 23 Sept) t/f: 01780 460 515 entering the giant maze. other groups. Discounted group rates on request. e: [email protected] Opposite is the Wistow Rural Centre (see page 26) with tearooms, garden Adult £4.50, Child £3.50, Family of four £14. Oakham www.rutlandwaterbutterflyfarm.co.uk centre, model village and many shops. (price includes Activity Funyard and parking)

Stonehurst Family Farm & Motor Museum 6 Twycross Zoo 8 Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary 9

Twycross on A444 233 Shaw Lane Burton Road Markfield t: 01827 880 250 LE67 9PW www.twycrosszoo.org t: 01530 243 925 Bond Lane, Loughborough LE12 7AR t: 01509 413 216 www.stonehurstfarm.co.uk See wildlife from across the world at Twycross Zoo, www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk the centre for conservation, education…and fun! Winner of “Best Leicestershire Visitor Attraction 2000-2001”. Daily all year 9.30am-5pm. Closed Dec Sanctuary to domestic, farm and wild animals; these can 50 acres of parkland housing nearly 1000 animals, mainly rare Escape, unwind and enjoy. 25th-Jan 2nd. range from hamsters to horses! Some domestic animals and endangered species. Famous primate collection, from tiny Enjoyment for the whole family at Stonehurst Farm and a warm welcome from Adults £4.45, Children £3.45, Concessions are available for re-homing. £3.95, Family (2 adults 2 children) £14, Pygmy Marmoset to huge Western Lowland Gorilla. the Duffin Family. See and touch friendly farmyard animals, cows, sheep, pigs, Friendly café and gift shop. Limited parking. goats, horses and donkeys. Collect eggs. Hold baby rabbits and guinea pigs in including motor museum. Under 2s FREE. Explore the fascinating South American tropical house, a real Family & season tickets. Access to farm shop “Cuddle Corner”. Play in the strawbarn and large activity area. FREE tractor and adventure and sensory experience as you are amazed at the Toilets and disabled toilet. Level ground. and teashop FREE. Reduced fare on Great majesty of a South American rainforest. trailer ride, kiddies tractors. Pony rides weekends / school holidays. Central Railway with Stonehurst ticket. Daily 10am-4pm (except Christmas Day). Lions, giraffes, flamingos and elephants. Sealion, penguin and Wander through the fields on the farm walk and go pond-dipping on the way. Rail: Barrow or 2 miles. (no direct bus to feeding times. Pet’s Corner. Cafeterias. Shop. Donation appreciated. Stonehurst Farm Motor Museum: Impressive collection of vintage motor cars, Mountsorrel). motor cycles and memorabilia including Leicestershire’s first motor bus,1920s Bus: Frequent service from Loughborough and Daily except Christmas Day 10am-5.30pm (4pm Winter). Bus: 117/118 from Leicester Leicester-routes 125 & 127. Contact for prices. period garage and working Blacksmith’s Forge. A511 westbound, just beyond long row of houses Disabled Visitors: reasonable access. Parking: Free. Access to vehicles at all times. Farm Shop and Gift Shop: Home grown produce, potatoes, vegetables, eggs and 1/ mile after Flying Horse roundabout. Educational school visits. Disabled visitors: Access to animal houses and cafeteria; toilets. 2 meat. The Farmers Den teashop: Homemade cakes, clotted cream teas, lunches Parking: Cars and coaches free. and children’s menu. Sileby/Barrow

23 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 24 Family Days Out Gardens, Parks & Nature

Open Top Bus Tours 10 Gorse Hill City Farm 11 Wistow Rural Centre 14 Anstey Lane Kibworth Road Leicester LE4 0FJ Wistow LE8 0QF t: 0116 253 7582 www.gorsehillcityfarm.co.uk Situated off the A6 Tours depart from Leicester city at Great Glen, signposted Wistow. centre and main county towns Family friendly community farm, with access for all. Touch the animals, join in workshops, enjoy the playgrounds and nature during the summer. t: 0116 259 2009 walk, relax in the garden. Picnic area, cafe. Education facilities www.wistow.com t: 0906 294 1113* for schools and groups. Daily, 10am-4.30pm (4pm winter). Donation £2 Adult, e: [email protected] £1 Child requested. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet, parking, Set in beautiful countryside, the centre boasts the fantastic www.goleicestershire.com guide dogs welcome. Leicester ‘Ken Bailey’ Garden Centre, with undercover area for rainy days. Enjoy a meal or cream tea in the Tea Rooms, wander around the quaint Model Village and shops specialising in Tropical Birdland 12 good quality crafts, gifts, teddy bears, floral design, jewellery, Lindridge Lane curios, military memorabilia, saddlery and country clothing, See the best of Leicestershire & Rutland by Desford LE9 9GN bespoke handmade kitchens, original watercolours and open top bus! Live commentary will reveal Signposted off A47 portrait pottery, coldwater and tropical fish, pet foods, quality fascinating facts about local history and t: 01455 824 603 oak and reclaimed pine furniture. places of interest. Enjoy a great value family www.tropicalbirdland.co.uk Open all year round, well worth a visit. day out – the kids will love it! For exact opening times tel 0116 259 2009 Experience Birds of the Rainforest. Over 85 species, walk Tours will be operating around the county through aviaries, chick room, spectacular free-flying birds, or 0116 259 3756. during the summer of 2007. woodland walk, koi ponds, picnic gardens, bird shop, new Coaches by appointment. restaurant. Free parking. Sorry, no dogs allowed. Everyday 10am-5.30pm (or dusk). Adult £5, Child (Opposite award winning Wistow Maze - See page 24) £3.50, Sen. Citizen £3.50, Disabled £3. Group discounts. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet. An easy way to visit: Conkers, Belvoir Castle, National Space Brocks Hill Country Park, Visitor Centre & Café 13 Art Dejardin, Sculpture Garden 15 Centre, Twycross Zoo, Foxton Locks, The National Forest, Great Central Railway, Washbrook Lane Wingwell, Top Street Bosworth Battlefield, Rockingham Castle, Oadby Wing, Oakham LE15 8SE 2 miles south of Rutland Water. Twinlakes, Snibston Discovery Park, Bradgate LE2 5JJ Off A6003 between Oakham Park, Rutland Water and many more! Off B582, Wigston Road. and Uppingham. t: 0116 257 2888 t: 01572 737 727 www.brockshill.co.uk e: rosedejardin@ btopenworld.com www.artdejardin.co.uk Operation: Summer 2007. (various dates, see website). Unique Environment Centre built to demonstrate wind and A unique showcase of high quality, contemporary art works, solar power, photovoltaics, rainwater re-cycling and sewage in a variety of media by nationally established artists, carefully Fares: Please contact for details. composting. Exhibition area, self-guided tours classroom / sited throughout the garden and grounds of Wingwell, which Private hire also available: great for meeting room facilities and café (menu includes local and fairly have already been designed to be a sculptural event in their weddings, corporate events, community traded produce). Set in 67 acres of country park with young own right. Woodland, Meadowland, Community Orchard, Arboretum, groups etc. From 13 May to 31 August, daily from 10am to 5pm. Call 0116 225 4043. Play Area and Human Sundial. Park all year. Centre and café 10am-5pm Mon-Fri; 10am- Adult £3, accompanied children free. *Calls are charged at 25p per minute and will be 4pm Sat, Sun, Bank Hols. Please telephone for Christmas Parking: Free. answered Mon-Fri 9am-9pm and Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. and New Year opening arrangements. Refreshments: Excellent meals in the village pub and home- Free. made teas every Sunday afternoon in the village hall Parking: Free. throughout the summer. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome, induction loop. Disabled visitors: Partial access and disabled toilet. Catering: Café. Borough of Leicester Oadby & Wigston

25 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 26 Gardens, Parks & Nature Gardens, Parks & Nature

Gates Nurseries Garden Centre UK Garden Centre of the Year 2005 16 Woodlands Nurseries The UK’s Garden Centre of the Year 2003 & 2004 17

Gates Nurseries Garden Centre Ashby Road, Stapleton LE9 8JE 3 miles north of Hinckley along Somerby Road the A447 Hinckley - Road. Cold Overton t: 01455 291 494 Oakham f: 01455 292 152 LE15 7QB Flower Shop t: 01455 292 618 16 miles from Leicester www.woodlandsnurseries.co.uk Follow brown tourism signs from A warm welcome awaits you at Woodlands Nurseries - one of the UK’s premier garden Flower Shop with local delivery service Tilton on the Hill off A47, centres! Situated within an 18 acre site in the heart of the country, the foundation for our and extended Giftware Department. 8 miles from Melton Mowbray, success is our ability to nurture nearly three million plants in our site nursery. As a result, Aquatics and Pet Store. 4 miles from Oakham off A606. we are able to provide top-quality plants to our customers throughout the seasons. Daily all year, Mon-Sat 9am-6pm (5pm October, November, January t: 01664 454 309 Purpose built and, most importantly, all-weather, Woodlands welcomes customers from and February); Sun 10.30am-4.30pm. throughout the Midlands and further afield. Whether it’s a hardy shrub, an exotic orchid, www.gatesnurseries.co.uk Please phone to confirm our café unusual water feature or Colonial-styled garden furniture - customers will find an exciting opening times. selection of quality products associated with today’s busy home and garden lifestyles. Disabled Visitors: Purpose-built on one Coupled with this refreshing shopping experience, customers can relax and enjoy the level; disabled toilets; free use of wheelchairs. Set in a beautiful location, close to the market town atmosphere in the 240-seater Courtyard Café. Here, a wide selection of food and Parking: Plenty of FREE car and coach parking. of Oakham, we offer a wide range of plants, gifts, beverages is on offer, including tempting home-made cakes, dishes from around the Bus: Occasional (159). cards and ornaments to enhance your garden. world and good traditional British fayre. Laid out in a charming and original Victorian walled garden, built in 1818, the nursery has a lovely relaxed atmosphere where you can meander around the 18 Grange Garden Centre & Alpine Restaurant 19 outdoor plants areas, visit the farmhouse style Tea Barnsdale Gardens Shop for a light lunch or afternoon tea before The Avenue, Exton A6006, off the Asfordby browsing our stylish gift and card area. Oakham LE15 8AH Hill roundabout, just With a delightful children’s play area we have Turn off A606 Oakham - outside Melton Mowbray. everything you need to make your visit an enjoyable Stamford road at Barnsdale t: 01664 812 012 Lodge Hotel, then 1 mile. family experience. e: houghty@intheshrubs. t: 01572 813 200 demon.co.uk So why not plan a visit soon for a warm welcome e: office@barnsdale and a great day out? www.grange- gardens.co.uk gardencentre.co.uk www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk A family owned and run centre, supplying all your outdoor needs for The Barnsdale television garden is familiar to millions of your garden or trip to the mountains. Set in peaceful rural location BBC Gardeners’ World viewers as the home of Geoff close to Melton Mowbray, with excellent facilities and large areas Nursery: Monday-Saturday 8am-5.30pm, Hamilton. It is made up of 37 individual gardens and features, Sunday 9am-5pm. undercover. all blending into one eight-acre garden. Grange Outdoor - Local specialist for outdoor clothing and Tea Shop: Daily 9.30am-4.30pm Daily March, April, May, September and October: 9am equipment. The Grange Garden Centre - everything you might Closed December 25th to 27th inclusive and to 5pm; June, July and August: 9am to 7pm; November, need for your garden, with nurseries open to visitors. New Years Eve and New Years Day. December, January and February: 10am to 4pm. The Grange Alpine Bar and Restaurant - licensed bar and table service, relax in front of a log fire or sit out on one of the two outdoor Parking: Over 2 acres of landscaped free car and Adult £6, Concession £5, Children £2, Family Ticket areas. Specialising in traditional English and authentic French Alpine coach parking. (2 adults + 3 children) £15. cuisine, with everything from full English breakfast and morning coffee Coaches by appointment. Parking: Free parking for cars and coaches. to afternoon tea and lunches. We can also cater for group bookings or functions, including birthdays, celebrations, weddings and fundraising Disabled visitors: Special parking, full access, toilets. Refreshments: Coffee Shop selling a wide range of hot and events. Grange Gift Centre - an extensive selection of gifts and cards cold food and drink. and quality adult clothing range. Disabled Visitors: Disabled toilets and excellent Every day of the week (except Christmas, Boxing & New Years access around gardens. Three wheelchairs available day). 9 am to 6 pm (Sundays 10 am to 4 pm). free of charge. Coaches are welcome but booking is essential. Full disabled access and the restaurant can cater for all your dietary needs Oakham including lactose, vegetarian and gluten free. 27 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 28 Gardens, Parks & Nature Museums & Galleries

Bradgate Country Park 20 Botanic Garden 25 Gas Museum 29 National Gas Museum Trust Glebe Road, Oadby LE2 2NE 195 t: 0116 271 2933 / 271 7725 LE2 7QH www.le.ac.uk/biology/botanicgarden t: 0116 250 3190

16 acres, including arboretum, woodland, herbaceous e: information@ borders, water garden, glass-houses with temperate / tropical gasmuseum.co.uk plants, alpines, succulents. www.gasmuseum.co.uk Apr-Oct daily 10am-4pm; Nov-Mar Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. t: 0116 236 2713 Free, except special events. Group visits. The largest gas museum in the world Leicester Bradgate Park is Leicestershire’s largest and most visited Country Park. A most See vintage heating and washing equipment, lighting, cookers, picturesque location, with extensive areas of grass, bracken, tracks, rocky outcrops, Daily (on foot) until dusk. meters, an all gas 1920s kitchen, model gas rig, unusual items majestic trees, small woodlands, herds of red and fallow deer and the attractive valley Free, but parking charge. Hazel Kaye’s Garden and Nursery 26 such as a gas radio, hairdryer, slide projector, dishwasher, and of the River Lin. A well-known Leicestershire landmark – the folly known as Old John Entrances: , Hallgates much more including original advertising. Tower – dominates the ridge of high land. Created 750 years ago as a hunting park. 1700 Melton Road (), Hunts Hill (Old John). Historical links with influential nobles of Medieval and Tudor England. Tuesday to Thursday 12noon-4.30pm, excluding Further details, including opening times, Shop: Newtown Linford car park. Gifts, Ruins of Bradgate House: Centre of LE7 4YR Christmas to New Year’s Day. from Bradgate Park Trust, Estate Office, Souvenirs, Publications, Information, Park. Extensive remains of magnificent t: 01664 424 578 Free. Guided tours for groups by arrangement. Refreshments, Picnic tables. Tudor house and grounds – one of finest Deer Barn Buildings, Bradgate Park, Visitor Centre: Centre of Park, between brick houses of its period. Birthplace and Newtown Linford, Leicester LE6 0HE. Disabled Visitors: Partial access for wheelchair users 1 acre garden in old orchard in rural Wreake Valley. Plantsman’s Ruins and Hallgates. Modest admission early home of Lady Jane Grey (nine days t: 0116 236 2713. (disabled access to ground floor only, in the larger part of the delight. Hardy herbaceous, clematis, grasses, aquatic plants a charge. Displays on the Park and the Queen of England 1553). museum; guide dogs welcome). Grey family. Book and gift shop. Swithland Wood: 146 acres of Ancient Registered Charity speciality. Many for sale in the nursery. Ample parking. Teas in Information. Woodland. Bus: Reg (120/121) Victorian greenhouse. Parking: Free. Deer Barn Tea Room: (next to the Guided Walks and Tours: Extensive Mar-Oct 10am-5pm Tue-Sat (10am-12noon Sun), Nov-Feb Visitor Centre) Wide range of light programme throughout season. Also Loughborough please phone for details. £2 (garden). Disabled Visitors: Full Leicester refreshments. pre-booked tours. Fee payable. access, toilet, parking.

Beacon Hill Country Park 21 Burrough Hill Country Park 22 The Fuchsia Centre Thornton Nurseries 27 EcoHouse 30

Reservoir Road Western Park Thornton LE67 1AN Hinckley Road Three miles Jn 22 of M1. Near Burrough on the Hill Leicester Loughborough t: 01530 230 331 Melton Mowbray LE3 6HX t: 01509 890 048 t: 0116 267 1944 www.fuchsiaplants.co.uk t: 0116 254 5489 www.leics.gov.uk www.leics.gov.uk Fuchsia specialists with over 350 varieties to view. Family run e: [email protected] nursery by picturesque Thornton Reservoir. Warm welcome. www.gwll.org.uk/ecohouse Heathland, woods, native tree collection, new planting as part Site of Iron Age Hill Fort. Toposcope with fine views over of National Forest. Second highest point in Leicestershire, Friendly advice by Radio Leicester 'Down to Earth' expert John Eastern Leicestershire. Waymarked trail, and other walks. Smith. Coffee Shop. Ample parking. great views, Toposcope on summit shows landmarks in all Parking £1.50. directions. Also Broombriggs Farm, Windmill Hill, Jubilee Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10.30am-4.30pm. The EcoHouse, Britain's original and leading showhome Wood. Parking £1.50. Loughborough and organic garden, showcases hundreds of environmental products and energy efficiency solutions for the home. From Watermead Country Park (North) 23 Equine-Emporium 24 Long Close Gardens 28 worktops made from juice cartons and bedroom furniture made from reclaimed wood through to solar panels and a 61 Main Road Pene Crafts Gift Shop wind turbine, there is something for every budget and home. Kirby Bellars 53 Main Street Interactive displays include environmental education Melton Mowbray LE14 2DU Woodhouse Eaves computer games. We also have a café, gift shop and an t: 01664 813 701 near Leicester LE12 8RY outdoor playarea. e: [email protected] t: 0116 267 1944 www.equine-emporium.co.uk t: 01509 890 616 Wednesday - Friday 2pm-5pm. www.leics.gov.uk Equine-Emporium open horse shows, livery, grazing and Wonderful five acre garden and original wild flower meadow. Saturday - Sunday 10am-5pm. Lakes, woodland walks, nature reserve with bird hides and horses and ponies for sale. Clear round jumping on large Terraced lawns, herbaceous borders, flowering shrubs, mature Garden, playarea, shop and café: Free. reedbeds. Sail boarding, sailing, fishing and cycleway. Access to show ground during season. Ring 01664 813 701 for details trees. Tea/coffee facilities available. Plants for sale. Showhome: £2/ £1 Concessions. and Grand Union Canal. Parking £1.50. or visit www.equine-emporium.co.uk. Mar-July & Sept-Oct, Tues-Sat. Adult £3.50, Tickets & Information from shop. Syston Melton Mowbray Leicester

29 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 30 Museums & Galleries Museums & Galleries

Ashby de la Zouch Museum 31 Charnwood Museum 32 Leicester City Museums 39-44 North Street Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1HU Queen's Hall, Granby Street e: [email protected] www.leicester.gov.uk/museums t: 01530 560 090 Loughborough LE11 3DU www.ashbydelazouchmuseum.org.uk t: 01509 233 754 Small welcoming museum. County Heritage Award Winner Award-winning museum exploring the history of Charnwood, (2001 / 2002 / 2003). Displays on Ashby’s fascinating history. including geology, wildlife, industry & farming. Regular Large local archive and research facilities. changing exhibitions, events and children’s activities, café, shop. Easter-Sep, Mon-Fri 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm. Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm, Sun/Bank Hol 2pm-5pm Groups welcome. Evening by arrangement. Adults £1, Senior Citizens/Children 50p. Disabled Visitors: summer, 1pm-4pm winter. Free. Disabled Visitors: Full access, Full access, toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome. toilet, guide dogs welcome. L’boro

New Walk Museum 39 Abbey Pumping Station 40 Belgrave Hall 41 Harborough Museum 33 Hinckley and District Museum 34 & Art Gallery Corporation Road, off Abbey Lane Museum & Gardens Leicester LE4 5PX Framework Knitters’ Cottages 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA Church Road, off Road t: 0116 299 5111 Lower Bond Street t: 0116 225 4900 Leicester LE4 5PE View Leicester’s industrial, technological t: 0116 266 6590 Hinckley LE10 1QU Galleries include Our World Through Adam & Eve Street and scientific heritage. Also within this An early 18th-century house and gardens, t: 01455 251 218 Art, Expressionism and Beyond, World Market Harborough LE16 7AG grand building are four beautifully famed for its ghost story, as seen on Living Arts, Wild Space, The Mighty Dinosaurs, t: 01858 821 085 www.hinckleydistrictmuseum.org.uk decorated, magnificent steam beam TV’s ‘Most Haunted’. Refurbished period Ancient Egypt and Discover, the engines, rare examples of Victorian Charming museum housing the Symington Collection of Restored C17th thatched cottages. Displays illustrating aspects of rooms show the lifestyle of a Victorian interactive children’s gallery. engineering that are in steam at special Corsetry as well as local history displays. Exhibitions & the history of Hinckley & district, the Battle of Bosworth (1485) family. The community gallery tells the weekend events. Entrance at rear of Council Offices. and the hosiery industry. Garden. Tea Room. For opening times, please telephone events. story of the Belgrave neighbourhood. the museum direct. Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm, Sun 2pm-5pm. Free. Easter Mon-end Oct; Sat & Bank Hol Mon 10am-4pm, Sun For opening times, please telephone For opening times, please telephone 2pm-5pm. Adult 50p, Child 25p. Disabled Visitors: Partial Free. Disabled Visitors: Partial access, toilet, guide dogs welcome. the museum direct. the museum direct. access (ground floor only), guide dogs welcome. Access: Wheelchair access, accessible Free, except on certain special events. Mkt Harborough Hinckley Free. toilet and parking, induction loop in Access: Limited wheelchair access, Access: Limited wheelchair access, downstairs art gallery, guide dogs accessible toilet and parking, guide dogs accessible toilet and parking, guide dogs Museum 35 Melton Carnegie Museum 36 welcome. Coffee shop and gift shop. welcome. Gift shop. welcome. 52 High Street Leicester Kegworth DE74 2DA Thorpe End t: 01509 670 137 Melton Mowbray LE13 1RB t: 01664 569 946 Displays include Victorian parlour, saddlers, local school, knitting Displays on the social, artistic & industrial history of industry, RBL war memorabilia. New displays for 2007. the Melton area. John Ferneley paintings, Stilton Easter to Sept; Sun, Wed, Bank Hol Mon 2pm-5pm. tableware, regular exhibitions & events. Adults £1, Child/Senior Citizen 50p. Groups by arrangement. Daily 10am-4.30pm. Free. The Guildhall 42 Jewry Wall Museum 43 Newarke Houses 44 Disabled Visitors: ground floor access. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet, guide dogs welcome. Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ St Nicholas Circle, Leicester LE1 4LB Museum & Gardens Melton Mowbray t: 0116 253 2569 t: 0116 225 4971 The Newarke, Leicester LE2 7BY Experience one of the best-preserved Amongst the wonderful setting of the t: 0116 225 4980 timber-framed halls in the country, dating Fantastic new social history galleries and 38 2000-year-old remains of the Roman Rutland County Museum 37 City Gallery back 600 years. Its unique rooms include displays including a museum of the Royal police cells, a 17th century Town Library town's public baths, this museum of 90 Granby Street Leicestershire Regiment set in the context Catmose Street and the Great Hall - a fantastic setting for archaeology tells the story of Leicester Leicester LE1 1DJ of the story of modern multicultural Oakham storytelling, concerts, weddings and from prehistory through to the end of t: 0116 223 2060 Leicester. Opens in spring 2007. LE15 6HW theatrical performances. As seen on the medieval period. (Minicom during opening hours) For opening times, please telephone t: 01572 758 440 Living TV’s ‘Most Haunted’. For opening times, please telephone e: [email protected] the museum direct. www.rutnet.co.uk/rccmuseum www.leicester.gov.uk/citygallery For opening times, please telephone the museum direct. the museum direct. Free. Free. The Welcome to Rutland Gallery tells the story of England’s The City Gallery is one of the region’s most exciting contemporary Access: Wheelchair access, accessible smallest county. Displays of rural life and archaeology are set in Free. Access: Limited wheelchair access, arts galleries, exhibiting a changing programme of arts and crafts. toilet and parking, induction loop, guide the former Riding school of Rutland Fencible Cavalry. Access: Limited wheelchair access, accessible toilet, guide dogs welcome. Also a venue for adult and children’s workshops and gallery hire dogs welcome. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm; Sun 2pm-4pm (all year). Closed space for local artists to exhibit. Tues–Fri 11am–6pm, Sat accessible toilet, induction loop, guide Gift shop. Good Friday, Christmas & New Year. Free. Disabled Visitors: 10am–5pm. Closed Sun, Mon and Bank Holidays. Telephone for dogs welcome. Gift shop. Full access, toilet. Christmas hours. Free. Access: Wheelchair access, accessible Leicester Oakham toilet, guide dogs welcome. Gift shop. Leicester Leicester Leicester 31 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 32 Museums & Galleries History & Heritage

Bellfoundry Museum 45 Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park 49

John Taylor BELLFOUNDRY MUSEUM Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre Freehold Street and Country Park, Loughborough Sutton Cheney, Market Bosworth CV13 0AD LE11 1AR t: 01455 290 429 f: 01455 292 841 e: [email protected] Unique museum relating to all aspects of bellfounding from early times to today. t: 01509 233 414 www.leics.gov.uk Part of the world’s largest working bellfoundry. The museum shows craft techniques f: 01509 638 503 of moulding, casting, tuning and fitting up of bells. Shop. Tours of the Foundry & Works e: [email protected] One of the Midlands premier historical sites, Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre new exhibition opening summer available on certain days (please phone in advance for timetable before travelling as we www.taylorbells.co.uk witnessed the death of a King and saw the end of the 30 year do not have tours every day). Please also note that we cannot allow open toe shoes or 2007. April - October daily 10am to 5pm. November - We are near the Great Central Steam power struggle for the throne of England. Was King Richard III, who sandals in the Works. If you wish to tour the Works then please wear closed toe shoes. Railway in Loughborough. March excluding end Dec & Jan Closed Mon, Tues - Fri lost his life and crown at Bosworth a noble warrior or murdering 11am - 3pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm. Carpark and paths Open: All year (not Good Friday or Christmas to New Year) - Museum and Tour of Works: Adults £6.50, Children £3.25. We crookback who ordered the death of the Princes in the Tower? And open all year. Tuesday to Friday & most Saturdays 10am-12.30pm & 1.30pm - regret tours are NOT suitable for very young children. Please also who was Henry Tudor whose success at Bosworth gave birth to the 4.30pm (last entry 3.45pm). Occasional evening or Sunday tours note that we must insist on closed toe shoes (no sandals) be worn Exhibition: Adults £5, Children and senior citizens £3, available (phone for details). Special Tours can be organised for by anyone going round the works site. powerful Tudor dynasty bringing two of our most famous monarchs, under 3s free children under 16. Group rates available. groups of 20 or more at reduced rates. Rail: Loughborough 1/2 mile Bus: Frequent from all parts of town Henry VIII and Elizabeth I to the throne. Car Parking: £1.50. Disabled visitors: Heritage Centre Please note we are normally closed on Sundays & Mondays. centre (10 min walk). Parking: Street parking (no restrictions) at no Market Bosworth Country Park, and battle trail accessible. Electric scooter available. Occasionally closed at other times depending on staff availability charge near to Museum. Room for one coach with advance booking. The Park, Market Bosworth t: 01455 290 429 www.leics.gov.uk Catering: Fully licensed Tithe Barn restaurant. so please phone in advance before travelling. Disabled Visitors: Access to Museum ground floor and to all of Tour. Historic parkland and woodland including a collection of exotic Admission: Museum only: Adults £3.30, Children £1.60. Loughborough trees in the arboretum. Children’s playground. Lake. Parking £1.50.

Wigston Framework Knitters Museum 46 Abbeyfield Studios The Mews Gallery 47 Belvoir Castle 50 Rockingham Castle 51 42-44 Bushloe End 22a Coventry Road Belvoir, Leicestershire Narborough LE19 2GR Rockingham village Wigston NG32 1PE t: 0116 284 9596 on the A6003 LE18 2BA Signposted off A1, A46, e: [email protected] Market Harborough 4 miles south of Leicester A607 and A52. www.abbeyfield-studios.co.uk t: 01536 770 240 on B582, off A5199 t: 01476 871 002 (formerly A50) Small but fascinating framing gallery in converted C18th www.rockinghamcastle.com stables. Paintings and drawings. Over 18,500 prints available. e: [email protected] t: 0116 288 3396 Also Leicestershire prints and cards. www.belvoircastle.com t: 0116 288 6243 On-premises picture framing service. Mon-Sat 10-6, closed Thursday. Free. 18th century Master Hosier’s house and 1890 workshop Home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, commanding Built by William the Conqueror, Rockingham is the best- Narborough preserved example of a Norman Castle in Britain. A royal with 8 original frames, conducted tours. spectacular views over the Vale of Belvoir. Housing a fine collection of paintings and furniture. Magnificent gardens. Events most fortress for 450 years it has been a much-loved family home Hands-on. Use the Griswold, Knit on the frame. Victorian since 1544. Beautifully furnished rooms tell the story of its long Market Harborough U3A weekends check website for details. Restaurant and Gift Shop. cottage garden. Winner of the 1994 County Heritage Award. Millennium Tapestry 48 history. Surrounded by 18 acres of widely varying gardens, the 11am-5pm (Saturdays 11am-4pm). April: 3rd-12th inclusive Castle commands spectacular views of five counties. Tea, coffee & biscuits available. Pen Lloyd Library & weekends. May & June: Tue-Thurs, Sat-Sun & Bank Holiday Easter (8 April) to the end of May: Sundays and Bank Every Sunday, First Saturday of the month, Bank Holiday Adam & Eve Street Mondays. July & Aug: Closed Fri. Sept: Sat & Sun only. Holiday Mondays. June-Sept: Tuesdays, Sundays & Bank Holiday Market Harborough Mondays (except Christmas and New Year), 2pm-5pm. Adults £11, Senior Citizens £10, Children (5-16) £6, Mondays 12 noon - 5pm. Grounds and tearoom open at 12 LE16 7AG Organised parties and private visits at any time, by prior Family (2 adults and 3 children) £30. noon, Castle opens at 1pm. t: 01858 821 272 arrangement. Grounds only Adult £6, Children £2. House & Garden: Adults £7.50, Sen Cit. £6.50, Child (5-16) £4.50, Family (2+2) £19.50. Adults £1, Children (under 16) 50p. Parking: Carpark charge at the weekends. Designed and made by members of Market Harborough U3A, Disabled Visitors: All rooms except 1st floor Long Disabled Visitors: Partial access (ground floors). this stunning tapestry depicts the town as it enters the new Disabled Visitors: Partial access (ground floor only), Gallery, toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome. millennium. Approx. 10ft x 6ft. Has 60 panels. toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome. South Wigston For further information on opening, prices and All year, daily except Sun. 9.30am - 8pm (Mon, Tue, Thu), special events please visit ww.rockinghamcastle.com * * * Melton Mowbray The museum gratefully acknowledges the financial support 5.30pm (Wed, Fri), 5pm (Sat). Free. or call 01536 770 240. of the worshipful company of framework knitters. Disabled Visitors: Full access, parking. Mkt Harb *Access to ground floor of Castle only

33 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 34 History & Heritage History & Heritage

Calke Abbey (nr Ashby de la Zouch) 52 Donington-le-Heath Manor House 55 Stanford Hall 56 Lutterworth LE17 6DH Signposted from A5199, A426, A14. 2 miles from Manor Road M6/M1/A14. Donington-le-Heath t: 01788 860 250 t: 01332 863 822 Coalville LE67 2FW f: 01788 860 870 e: [email protected] t: 01530 831 259 e: enquiries@ www.nationaltrust.org.uk stanfordhall.co.uk www.stanfordhall.co.uk Explore medieval life at a superbly restored 13th century Beautiful 1690s house on the banks of the River Avon Manor House. Period herb & flower gardens, maze & containing antique furniture, fine pictures and family costumes. English eccentricity in its fading glory 18 March - 28 October. Garden: Open orchard. See how people lived in medieval, Tudor and Stuart The Grounds include a Walled Rose Garden, Nature Trail, Enter a world where the clocks stopped in 1920. An extraordinary house, garden and 7 days a week 28 Jun-1Sept. House: 12.30- a replica 1898 Flying Machine and a Tearoom. Events most park poised in time, telling the tale of an eccentric family: their passions, collections and 5pm. Garden and Church: 11am-5pm last times. Try on replicas of their clothes and have a go with some Sundays from early May. way of life. admission 4.30pm. Shop: 10.30am- 5.30pm. of the toys and games that would have been played over the The House: Discover the collections and treasures of 300 years. See the stunning 250 Restaurant: 10.30am-5pm. past seven centuries. A computer based virtual tour, a free Open on selected days in conjunction with park events. year old Chinese silk bed - kept in its box and never unpacked until 1985! Explore the Park open daily all year, during daylight hours. audio guide and interactive activities. Regular family events Please call or see website for details. servants’ tunnel - if you dare! House and Garden: Adult £8, Child £4, and exhibitions and children’s activities. Café and gift shop. House and Grounds: Adults £6, Child (5-15yrs) £2.50, The Garden: Spectacular formal flower gardens. Restored 18th Century Orangery with Family £20. Garden only: Adult £5, Child Daily from 11am-4pm. Dec, Jan, Feb: weekends only Group rate applies. Grounds Only: Adult £3.50, its magnificent glass dome. Discover the gardener's bothy, left untouched for a generation. £2.50, Family £12.50. Park: £3.60 per 11am - 4pm. Plus occasional weekdays. Phone for details. Child (5-15yrs) £1.50. vehicle refundable against a House and Disabled Visitors: Partial access, toilet, parking, guide dogs The Park: Stroll through 600 acres of historic parkland - now designated a National Free. Nature Reserve. Spot woodpeckers, owls, rare beetles and our herd of Red and Fallow Garden or Garden only ticket. (NT welcome. deer. Meet "The Old Man of Calke", an oak tree 900 years old - and still going strong! members free). Admission price includes Disabled Visitors: Partial access downstairs only, toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome. Shop, Restaurant, Children's Play area, Family Events and Activities. voluntary gift aid donation.

Ashby de la Zouch Castle 53 Lyddington Bede House 54 Oakham Castle 57 Carillon & War Memorial 58 Off Market Place Queens Park Oakham Loughborough

ENGLISH HERITAGE ENGLISH HERITAGE t: 01572 758 440 t: 01509 263 370 / 231 667 www.rutnet.co.uk/rcccastle e: [email protected] South Street Blue Coat Lane w: www.charnwood.gov.uk Ashby de la Zouch Lyddington LE15 9LZ LE65 1BR Next to church. Exceptionally fine Norman Great Hall of C12th fortified manor First grand carillon in Britain. Museum of Armed Forces. Displays house. Unique display of horseshoes presented by peers and of 1st World War. Magnificent views of Charnwood Forest. t: 01530 413 343 t: 01572 822 438 royalty to the Lord of the Manor. Good Fri-30th Sept. Seven days a week, 10am-4.30pm Mon-Sat 10.30am-1pm & 1.30pm-5pm. Sun 2pm-4pm www.english-heritage.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk Thurs & Sat, 1pm-4.30pm other days. Carillon recitals: Sun (all year). Closed Good Friday, Christmas & New Year. and Bank Hols 3.30pm. Thurs 1pm throughout the year. Tour the impressive ruins of this grand medieval fortified manor Walk through the delightful village of Lyddington and discover Free. Disabled Visitors: Full access, toilet. Adults 50p, others free. house with extensive grounds. See the original setting for many this beautiful medieval palace originally built for the Bishops of Oakham Loughborough of the scenes in Sir Walter Scott’s classic tale ‘Ivanhoe’ and learn Lincoln. View its attractive16th century rooms with a fireplace about the dramatic siege of Ashby with our free audio tour. and decorated timber ceilings. Explore the rooms that were 59 60 Climb the magnificent 24-metre Hastings Tower and explore Wymondham Windmill Moira Furnace converted into an almshouse for the poor after the the secret kitchen tunnel used in the siege. Butt Lane Furnace Lane, Moira Reformation and find out how Lyddington was implicated in 1 Apr-30 Jun, Thurs-Mon, 10am-5pm. 1 July-31 Aug, Wymondham near Ashby de la Zouch daily, 10am-6pm. 1 Sep-31 Oct, Thurs-Mon 10am-5pm. Catherine Howard’s (Henry VIII’s fifth wife) fall from grace. Melton Mowbray LE14 2BU DE12 6AT t: 01283 224 667 / 225 682 1 Nov-20 Mar, Thurs-Mon, 10am-4pm. 1 April-31 Oct, Thursday-Monday, 10am-5pm. t: 01572 787 304 m: 07976 637 858 Adult £3.50, Concession £2.60, Child £1.80, Family Adult £3.30, Concession £2.50, Child £1.70, www.wymondhamwindmill.co.uk e: [email protected] ticket £8.80. Family ticket £8.30. Partially restored windmill. Tearooms serving hot and cold A Blast from the Past. Impressive early C19th blast furnace. meals, homemade cakes and cream teas. Outdoor playarea Bus: Arriva 9, 25/7 Burton on Trent - Ashby de la Disabled Visitors: Partial access (ground floor only). Woodland Walks; Tea Rooms, Guided Tours, Restored Section Zouch, Arriva 118, 218 Leicester to Swadlincote. and wood. Various unique shops. Group bookings / coaches by appointment. of Ashby Canal, Boat Trips, Children’s Playground, Free Parking. Disabled Visitors: Partial access (grounds only), Easter-End Sept, Tues-Fri 10.30am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am- Tue-Sun (Beg Apr-end Sept), 10am-5pm. Wed-Sun (Beg parking. 5pm. Winter-Tue-Fri 11am-3pm, Sat-Sun 10.30am-4.30pm. Oct-end Mar) 11am-4pm. Museum: Adults £3.50, Children Free Parking. £1.50, Concession £2.50. Boat: Adult £2.50, Child £2.

35 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 36 History & Heritage Waterways

The Battlefield Line Railway 61 Leicester Cathedral 62 Loughborough Parish Church 64 Sileby Mill Boatyard 66 Church Gate Loughborough LE11 2DT Shackerstone Station e: [email protected] Shackerstone CV13 6NW Mill Lane, Sileby The Cathedral Centre www.aswht.org t: 01827 880 754 Loughborough 21 St Martin’s The historic parish church of All Saints is a large and beautiful LE12 7UX f: 01827 881 050 Leicester LE1 5DE medieval building at the heart of the town. Exceptional C15th t: 01509 813 583 www.battlefield-line- t: 0116 248 7400 roof & clerestory. Grand & unusual Somerset tower. www.silebymill.co.uk railway.co.uk e: [email protected] Fri / Sat, 10am-12noon all year & by arrangement. www.cathedral.leicester.anglican.org THE BATTLEFIELD LINE RAILWAY in Leicestershire runs Free, but donations appreciated. Meander with the river at nature’s pace and share it with Loughborough from Shackerstone to Shenton, the site of the Battle of The beautiful Cathedral Church of St Martin offers a warm abundant wildlife. Hire one of our purpose built narrowboats Bosworth Field. Shackerstone Station is a Grade 2 listed welcome and a sanctuary for visitors of all faiths and none. for a day, suitable for 2 to 12 persons. All fitted with gas hob, sink, fresh water, separate toilet compartment. One boat with building housing a unique museum collection, café and a A little of the original 1086 Norman church remains visible Ashby Boat Company 65 wheelchair lift. It’s the fastest way of slowing down. nostalgic souvenir shop. At Shackerstone you will find a but the majority is a Victorian restoration, which began in Canal Wharf, Stoke Golding Telephone for brochure or visit our website. selection of preserved steam and diesel locomotives plus 1860. It is an intimate space where people feel at home CV13 6EY additional rolling stock. Trains operate Easter to October. and at peace. t: 01455 212 671 Short breaks and holidays also available on fully equipped 4 There are family orientated special events held throughout Listen to the meticulously restored Harrison organ with many www.ashbyboats.com and 8 berth boats. the year. MORE THAN A TRAIN RIDE, A JOURNEY INTO of the original Snetzler pipes remaining from 1774. Easter to end October, for day (9am-5pm), half day or ENGLISH HISTORY. short break hire. Learn about the Leicester Tigers connection and the Day, Short Break and Holiday hire. Steer yourself along the Weekends all year round. memorial to Richard III. picturesque lock free Ashby Canal in a traditional narrowboat. from £120 per day, all inclusive. 2 - 12 people. Souvenir Shop. Chandlery. Return Fare: Adult £7, Child £4, Family £20. Fares may 8am - 6pm every day of the year. Rail: 3/4 mile. Bus: Regular (2). All year. vary on Special Event days. Free. Disabled Visitors: Full access, parking, guide dogs welcome. From £90 per day inclusive for 7 1/2 hours. Leicester Bus: Regular (86/87). Hinckley Sileby

Great Central Railway 63 The Ashby Trip 67

Off A6 south of Loughborough t: 01509 230 726 www.gcrailway.co.uk

Britain’s only double track main line heritage railway. (All day ticket) Adults £12; On the Ashby Canal alongside Bosworth Battlefield from Café Wharfside at Sutton Sutton Cheney Wharf Main line steam train rides every weekend and Bank Holiday throughout the year Children/ Seniors £8; Family £30. Cheney Wharf. and weekdays Easter to September. The eight mile section between Leicester and 40-minute rides on ROSEBUD 20 foot open sided launch offering a duck eyed view Wharf Lane Disabled Visitors: Facilities available, Loughborough runs across the Swithland Reservoir viaduct and through country of the Ashby Canal. Weekends Easter to September. Daily during school holidays. Sutton Cheney CV13 0AL please phone in advance. stations - , still with its gas lighting, retains features of the Edwardian period One-hour trip on JUBILEE a 35 foot narrowboat, with licensed bar and snacks t: 01455 213 838 when the line first opened; Quorn & Woodhouse recreates World War 2, when Parking: On street at Loughborough. available. Easter, then daily May to October. m: 07778 734 073 the station was used for troop transport. Car parks at Quorn and Rothley. Three-hour cruises aboard ROSE a 72 foot narrowboat, including supper cruises, Loughborough Central station marks the closure of the railway in the 1960s Refreshments: Available on board, or dinner cruises, live music cruises with Jim Hirons, and Sunday lunches, (All three-hour e: [email protected] and is home to the Museum, working Signal Box and historic loco collection. at Loughborough Central station (other cruises must be pre booked) March to December, including Santa trips and Christmas www.ashbytrip.com Drive a steam or diesel train under expert supervision. A range of packages, stations at weekends). Parties. For details on all trips phone including weekend breaks, are available. Reduced admission to Stonehurst Farm with Bank Holidays one-hour trips aboard BOSWORTH LADY, a 70ft narrowboat with or see website. Dine in style by enjoying a sumptuous 4 or 6 course meal while travelling Great Central Railway voucher. Journey on licensed bar including beer on tap, 3 hour Disco / Karaoke cruises, Xmas party through Leicestershire's scenic countryside by steam train. Departures certain the Discover Leicester Tour Bus FREE with cruises and private charters. Some Sundays joint trips with the Battlefield Line All boats available for private charter. Fridays and Wednesdays 7.30pm, Saturday 1.15pm & 7.30pm and Sunday 1.15pm, a Great Central Railway ticket. Railway aboard the BOSWORTH LADY. Wedding receptions welcome. or join us for 'Murder Mystery Special'. Special services and charters available. CAFÉ WHARFSIDE offers good views of the canal whilst eating. Breakfasts, lunches L’boro Coaches and Schools very welcome. and afternoon teas available daily. Also gift shop and toilets. 37 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 38 Waterways Places to Shop & Eat

Rutland Water 68 Foxton Canal Museum 71 Lakeside Tearoom 74 Foxton Canal Museum Shortheath Water Shortheath Road Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Moira DE12 6AL Gumley Road t: 01283 763 777 Foxton e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Leicestershire LE16 7RA www.anglianwaterleisure.co.uk t: 0116 279 2657 Traditional family run licensed tearoom, peacefully situated www.anglianwater.co.uk overlooking the lake. Breakfasts, coffees, lunch and cream teas. e: [email protected] Rutland Water Tourist Homemade specials and puddings. Sunday lunch - Booking www.fipt.org.uk Information Centre advisable. Day fishing and accommodation on site. Summer: Tues-Sun 9.30am-4pm. Winter: Wed-Sun 9.30am-3pm. t: 01572 653 026 The Museum is halfway down the flight of 10 locks, situated in the rebuilt former boiler house of the Incline Plane boat lift. Burton on Trent Anglian Water's great lake is situated in the heart of Rutland between Stamford and Family annual, short break and day explorer Using interactive displays, models, artefacts and photographs, we Oakham. There is something for everyone and it is a great place to start for fishing, packages offer excellent value to both the casual tell the story of the Canals, Locks and Lift past, present and future. Gibson’s Grey Lady Restaurant 75 and regular visitor to Anglian Water reservoirs. watersports and birdwatching in which we have an international reputation. The site of the Inclined Plane Boat Lift is now undergoing a £2.8m Sharpley Hill Benefits include: free parking, admissions and Cycle or walk around the 25 mile perimeter track. restoration, details and the latest news available in the museum. Newtown Linford discounts on tuition, hire and retail goods. Leics LE6 0AH Normanton Church Museum, the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre and the These can be purchased at Anglian Water Set in a beautiful area with wonderful views over the t: 01530 243 558 Butterfly Farm and Aquatic Centre can be enjoyed by all the family whatever the visitor centres. countryside, the site has pubs, shops, boat trips, walks etc. e: [email protected] weather. Ospreys can be seen between May and September and the famous British Disabled Visitors: Access at most buildings and www.gibsonsgreylady.co.uk Birdwatching Fair is held in August. attractions including: parking, toilets, hearing Every day in the summer 10am-5pm. In winter we open A fine dining restaurant offering a range of dishes prepared from every day except Thursdays and Fridays (subject to staff the finest ingredients together with attentive service. The ideal Try rock climbing and the high ropes course at Whitwell. Take in some of the best loops, buggy for nature reserve, smooth track availability). celebration restaurant. Carvery available at lunchtimes. views on the Rutland Belle that cruises between Whitwell and Normanton. routes, sailability, angler wheely boat, RNIB A lá carté, fixed price and early bird menu available evenings. "maps for all". Adults £2.50, Concession £2, children free with an adult. There are two children's play areas and each car park has catering facilities and toilets. Tues-Fri 12-2pm, 6-9.30pm. Sat 12-2pm, 7-9.30pm. Oakham Market Harborough Sun 12-3pm. Loughborough

Rutland Belle 69 Rutland Cycling 70 Shortheath Water Fishery 72 On The Sands Café and Deli 76 The Harbour Shortheath Water Whitwell Leisure Park Shortheath Road Whitwell Park LE15 8BL Moira DE12 6AL 7a The Sands, North Shore Off A606 near Oakham. t: 01283 763 611 Leics LE14 4PE Rutland Water e: [email protected] t: 01664 820 208 t: 01780 460 705/720 888 www.onthesands.co.uk (just off A606 Oakham- e: [email protected] Well stocked 24 peg lake. Carp (up to 20lb+), many other coarse Our inviting and relaxing surroundings and mouth-watering Stamford road). fish. Toilet facilities (inc disabled) and disabled pegs. Lakeside www.rutlandcycling.com menu promise an enjoyable experience in a beautiful village t/f: 01572 787 630 licensed tearoom and lakeview lodge s/c accommodation on site. location. Be tempted by our delicious range of handmade www.rutlandwatercruises.com M42 3 miles. cakes and pastries, beautiful cream teas and ever changing Dawn (6am earliest) until dusk (9pm latest). choice of home-made quiches and pies available to eat in Enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of Rutland Water aboard the Voted ‘Britain’s Best Cycling Day Out’ Adult £5 per day, Child/Concession £4 per day. or take-away from our luxury Deli. Monday to Saturday 8am to 5.30pm pleasure cruiser Rutland Belle. by Sunday Express Magazine. All-weather cover for 70 and open-air for 40. Come to Rutland Water and enjoy cycling as it was always Parking: Whitwell (car/coach). meant to be enjoyed - away from all the traffic and with the Bosworth Water Trust 73 The Cattows Farm Shop and Tearoom 77 Disabled visitors are welcome (a lift is available). Guide/support sights and sounds of the countryside around you. The Far Coton Lane Road dogs only. Induction Hearing Loop to enhance commentary. landscaped track never strays far from the water’s edge making Market Bosworth Heather LE67 2RF Tactile map Braille legend. it ideal for cycling. Cycles for hire, cycles for sale, cycles to suit CV13 6PD t: 01530 264 200 April/Easter: Daily from Sun 1 April to Sun 15 April the entire family - many makes, including Kona, Scott, Marin, On B585 west of the town e: [email protected] inclusive, then weekends only. May to Sept: Daily. t: 01455 291 876 www.thecattowsfarmshop.co.uk Rocky Mountain, Raleigh, Saracen, Dawes, Orange, Giant, - Oct: Weekends only. Daily Mon 22 Oct - Fri 26 Oct. Public plus tricycles, mountain bikes, tandems and ex demo bikes to buy. 50 acre leisure park with 20 acres of lakes for dinghy, windsurfing, A stylish shop in rural surroundings offering field fresh sailings on the hour 1pm, 2pm, 3pm (from noon on kayaking & fishing. Caravan & camping park. Lakeside Picnic area. vegetables and fruit throughout the year. Quality local and Sundays / Bank hols). Special morning trips for schools. Daily all year round, 9am - 6pm approx. Café/restaurant with licensed bar. Children's play area, man made regional products from small specialist producers, including; From £7.99 for two hours. £14.99 for a whole day. Adults £6, Children (3-15 years) £4. Family Ticket (2 Adults, beach & crazy golf. cheese, milk, bread, meat, eggs and more. Daily all year, 10am-dusk. £2 per car. £3 Sun. 2 Children) £17. School and group rates on request. Europe’s premier demo fleet and test centres! Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm. Summer: £3 per car, £4 Sun/Bhol. Disabled Visitors: Partial Oakham Oakham access, toilet, parking, guide dogs welcome.

39 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 40 Places to Shop & Eat Places to Shop & Eat

Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe & The Sausage Shop 78 Brockleby’s Farm Shop 79 Ferrers Centre 84 Melton Road Asfordby Hill Melton Mowbray 8-10 Street LE14 3QU Melton Mowbray t: 01664 813 200 LE13 1NW www.brocklebys.co.uk t: 01664 562 341 www.porkpie.co.uk

Melton Mowbray’s oldest remaining bakery producing truly We believe in Food that has Provenance a known origin and authentic Melton Mowbray Pork Pies. Learn about the history, and is good for both you and the environment. fascinating history of the shop and why Melton Mowbray • Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Makers became the original home of the pork pie industry. Watch • Rare and traditional breeds demonstrations of hand raised pork pies (best to book), • In-store farmhouse kitchen sample their unique taste and also visit The Sausage Shop • A good range of organic produce next door. • Fresh vegetables, salads and herbs Monday- Saturday all year 8am-5pm. Closed Sundays • Local milk, cheese and yoghurts and most Bank Holidays. • Special dietary food Parking: Car and coach parking close by. • Licensed game dealer Disabled Visitors: designated parking. 7 days a week Mon-Thurs 9am to 6pm, Fri 9am to 7pm, Rail: Melton Mowbray 1/4 mile. Bus: Frequent. Sat 9am to 5pm, Sun 10am to 4pm. Ferrers Centre for Arts and Crafts, Staunton Harold, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire LE65 1RU Ferrers Gallery t: 01332 863 337 Staunton Stables Tea and Luncheon Rooms t: 01332 864 617 Melton Mowbray Melton Mowbray www.ferrerscentre.co.uk

The Melton Cheeseboard 80 The Flower Barn 81 Whitemoors Antiques & Craft Centre 85 Country Furniture 86

8 Windsor Street Church Lane, Somerby Mill Lane Melton Mowbray LE13 1BU Melton Mowbray t: 01664 562 257 Leicestershire LE14 2PS Shenton e: [email protected] t: 01664 454 898 Market Bosworth e: [email protected] CV13 6BZ www.meltoncheeseboard.co.uk www.the-flower-barn.co.uk 17 Far Street t: 01455 212 250 / Wymeswold LE12 6TZ Over 100 cheeses stocked, our speciality is specially selected Specialist florist using only quality and realistic looking silk 01455 212 981 t: 01509 880 309 Stilton from Long Clawson, and local Red Leicester. Many other flowers in designer containers and arrangements. Seasonal f: 01455 213 342 locally produced foods and tasty treats in store. Come and try. flower stems, pots, glassware and potted orchids are always www.wymeswold e: [email protected] Mon 9am-3pm, Tues 8.30am-5pm, Wed & Thurs 9am- available. Make ideal gifts. Online shop now open. countryfurniture.co.uk Daily 10am-5pm. 4pm, Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 8.30am-4pm. Antiques, Tearooms, Gardens, Books, Curios, Paintings. Six showrooms on two floors in converted Georgian stables, Melton Mowbray Hundreds of objects to purchase located within 20+ heated displaying beautiful original pine and local crafts together with antiques / crafts units. carefully selected accessories, gifts and cards. Leicester Tourist Information Centre Gift Shop 82 Michaelmas House 83 Comfortable licensed tearooms seating 50, serving light hot Workshops undertaking antique restoration work and and cold meals, homemade soup, puddings, cakes, scones etc. professional picture framing. Town Hall Square 4 Main Street Extensive cultured Victorian Gardens running down to the The Art Gallery promotes the work of talented local artists Leicester LE1 6AG Market Bosworth River Tweed. The tearoom menu is also served in the garden and includes paintings, pottery, glass, bags and cushions. t: 0906 294 1113 t: 01455 291 303 during summer months. An original 1930s Bedford van is used to deliver your larger calls charged 25p per minute www.michaelmashouse.co.uk Regular live music evenings with supper held in a fully heated purchases to your home. www.goleicestershire.com barn adjacent to the tearooms bar (advance bookings only). You will be welcomed with complimentary coffee and can shop or browse in a relaxed atmosphere. The Tourist Information Centre sells a huge range of Leicestershire There are more surprises waiting for you in 2007. 7 days, (except Dec 24, 25, 26 and Jan 1). Weekend Souvenirs. If you haven’t been in for a while, come and have a look! Traditional and modern country furniture; glassware, ceramics, opening times 11am-5pm, week days in summer 11am-5pm, Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm; Sunday 2pm You can also book tickets for: Haymarket Theatre, De Montfort gifts cushions and throws. New this year, fitted and winter 11am-4pm. Coaches and large groups by appointment. to 5pm. Closed 25th and 26th December. Hall, Phoenix Arts Centre, Peepul Centre, LCFC home games, All freestanding kitchens and a fantastic interior design service. Free entry. Parking: Free car parks on site. West End (London) shows, Regional theatres such as the Derby Disabled Visitors: Partial access (ground floor only). We look forward to welcoming you.... Disabled Visitors: Partial access, toilet. Playhouse, Ticketmaster Concerts and Events. Mon - Sat 10am - 5.30pm Hinckley Loughborough

41 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 42 Places to Shop & Eat Entertainment

Leicester Markets 87 Melton Mowbray Market 88 Great Days Out Guide e: [email protected] www.leicester.gov.uk/markets Melton Mowbray Leicester Retail Market and Market Hall, Market Centre, Market Place, Leicester LE1 5HQ Town Centre t: 0116 223 2373 Customer Care Centre t: 0116 223 2377 Contact: John Burns Beaumont Market, Beaumont Shopping Centre, Beaumont Leys, Leicester LE4 1DE For hundreds of ideas on t: 01664 566 953 t: 0116 223 2378 f: 0116 223 2374 great days out and events in Leicester and Leicester Retail Market Leicestershire in 2007

The largest and finest of its type in Europe, with a including discounts at Why not visit Melton Mowbray’s wonderful traditional street tradition for quality and service stretching back 700 many attractions. market and explore the variety of exciting goods on offer and years. Over 300 stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, the bargains to be found. It’s how a market should be. clothing, jewellery, materials, gifts and a wide selection Located in the centre of town just 5 minutes walk from the of other goods. Although open air, this market in the railway station and with ample parking nearby. To order your FREE copy email heart of Leicester is completely sheltered from the elements by a bright new roof. Very recently, the [email protected] market has been redeveloped with the introduction Tuesday and Saturday - general market, of a continental coffee bar, a new layout with excellent Wednesday - Collectables and craft, lockable units, wider aisles and improved lighting. Special Markets and Theme Markets at Christmas. Don’t Miss Out! The tremendous amount of bargains needs to be seen to be believed. Car parking is available in the city centre. Melton Mowbray The Leicestershire Events Guide contains hundreds Mon to Sat 7am to 6pm. of events, most of which

Leicester are FREE. The guide can be picked up from any Charnwood Borough Markets & Fairs 89 County Council library or museum. Tourist Information Leicester Market Hall Alternatively, to receive t: 01509 218 113 regular copies directly, you The famous food hall offers meat, poultry and dairy produce as well as fresh fish from all over the world. All market enquires: can e-mail [email protected] or This indoor market also has another four floors selling t: 01509 634 624 fill in a request form at the back of the guide. a wide range of other commodities. There are eating facilities as well. It's THE most comprehensive FREE guide to events happening across Tue to Sat 7am to 6pm. Loughborough Market: One of the finest in the country. Superb Leicestershire. Leicester character, tradition, atmosphere. Excellent range of quality goods and produce. Held in the Market Place and adjacent streets every Thursday and Saturday. Beaumont Market Farmers’ Market: Devonshire Square, Loughborough, 2nd Peepul Centre 90 This 60 stall market (150 stalls on Sunday) offers a lively Wednesday each month. Wide variety of produce including meat, Orchardson Avenue sausages, cake, preserves, cheese, plants, wine and more. atmosphere with a wonderful array of goods for sale at Leicester LE4 6DP Bric a brac Market: Devonshire Square every Friday, Mar-Dec, t: 0116 261 6000 bargain prices. The market is located within the recently 25-35 stalls with many interesting items. f: 0116 261 0674 refurbished Beaumont Shopping Centre which offers Market: Attractive outdoor market with numerous www.peepulcentre.com over 1000 free car parking spaces each day. stalls. Farmers’ market traders on occasions. Hallcroft, every Friday. The Peepul Centre is one of Leicester’s hottest new venues with Loughborough Fair: (7/8/9/10 Nov, 11am-11pm approx, Wed plenty of attractions for the whole family. Holistic treatments, health 6pm-11pm). One of the largest street fairs in the country. Over Wed to Sun 7am to 6pm. and fitness suite, delicious snacks at Coffeeshop@peepulcentre, twenty large rides, numerous stalls, shows, attractions. Superb thought provoking theatre, comedy and dance performances and spectacle, tremendous atmosphere. pre-theatre meals in our new restaurant Tamarind@peepulcentre. Come and be part of the magic! Loughborough Leicester

43 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 44 Entertainment

Stamford Shakespeare Festival 2007 91

RUTLAND OPEN AIR THEATRE Events At Tolethorpe Hall Little Casterton near Stamford PE9 4BH (just off A1) 2007 Caribbean Carnival

Box Office: 01780 756 133 Or book online at: www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk June 4th – August 25th. Performances take place on an open air stage in an idyllic woodland setting facing a 600 seat covered auditorium. No performances are ever cancelled because of rain. All performances start at 8pm. Stamford Shakespeare Company presents: £9 - £16 The Importance of Being Earnest Concessions available for Senior The Taming of The Shrew Citizens, Students and groups. Antony and Cleopatra Tolethorpe Hall and Rutland Open Air Theatre lie in the heart of the Welland Valley Visit Website: and just five minutes from Stamford and twenty minutes from Oakham, Uppingham, www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk Rutland Water and Peterborough. One of Europe’s finest open air Pre-performance restaurant in elegant dining rooms and ready prepared picnics theatres - on your doorstep. available (advance booking essential). Enjoy our covered auditorium, picnic area, free car parking, restaurant and bar, all set Stamford in stunning surroundings. Disabled access and facilities. Full colour brochure available from most libraries and TIC’s, or visit our website.

Enjoy England Excellence Awards The Enjoy England Excellence Awards acknowledge the achievements of tourism businesses that have worked hard to deliver exceptional visitor service. 2006 winners in Leicestershire: Ferrers Centre Snibston Discovery Park Large Visitor Attraction Silver Award - Snibston Discovery Park Bronze Award - Twycross Zoo Bronze Award - Belvoir Castle Marketing Excellence Silver Award - Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts Outstanding Customer Service Bronze Award - Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts Taste of England Silver Award - East Midlands Food & Drink Festival There’s plenty to do in Leicester and Leicestershire all year round. Here is just a Bronze Award - Dickinson & Morris small selection of what is planned for 2007. Visit www.goleicestershire.com for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism more events and up to date information. East Midlands Food & Drink Festival East Midlands Food & Drink Festival

45 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 46 Events 2007 Events 2007 Great Central Railway Summer Sundae Weekender

Hallaton Bottle Kicking Leicester Comedy Festival & Hare Pie Scrambling Leicester Pride and Parade Melton Country Fair 27 January – 18 March 13 – 15 April 28 May 4 June – 25 August 16 June – 30 September 30 June - 21 September Matisse To Freud Dabar South Asian Music Festival Streets Alive Stamford Shakespeare Festival Picasso: The Attenborough University of Leicester New Walk Museum & Art Gallery Phoenix Arts Loughborough Town Centre Tolethorpe Hall, Little Casterton Collection Sculpture Exhibition A major touring exhibition of Enjoy the real experience of a An opportunity to experience Enchanting outdoor productions in New Walk Museum & Art Gallery Harold Martin Botanic Garden, approximately 80 works of art, colourful and vibrant South Asian performing arts, children’s rides, the grounds of historic Tolethorpe Hall. Tis exhibition will draw from a Oadby collected by Alexander Walker. music festival in Leicester. craft stalls, face painting, circus skills 01780 756 133 unique collection of over 140 A prestigious exhibition of 0116 225 4900 0116 266 0946 food and refreshments. www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk Picasso ceramics personally collected international sculpture set amidst the 9 – 18 February Re-opening end April 2007 01509 268 903 8 – 10 June over the last 50 years by Lord University of Leicester Botanic Garden. Comedy Festival Newarke Houses Museum 28 May Download Donington and Lady Attenborough. 0116 252 3335 0116 225 4900 Venues across Leicestershire After a major refurbishment, Newarke The Melton Mowbray Show Donington Park 7 – 8 July The longest running Comedy Festival Houses Museum re-opens with exciting – Silver Jubilee A very popular rock music festival. 22 – 24 June Rempstone Steam in the UK, attracting over 800 new galleries and displays. Including Play Close & Egerton Park 2007 looks to have an even bigger Rally of the Midlands & Country Show performers to Leicestershire. a museum dedicated to the Royal Major outdoor community event and better line up. Car rally beginning in Hinckley. Wymeswold 0116 261 6812 Leicestershire Regiment. including live entertainment, www.downloadfestival.co.uk Spectators can view the race Annual charity show featuring live www.comedy-festival.co.uk 0116 253 2569 children’s entertainers, bandstand of 10 – 16 June from many venues including Moira, steam exhibits, arts, crafts, games, 3 March – 7 May 6 – 7 May live music, craft fair, classic car show. Festival of Hinckley Mallory Park and Bosworth Park. wildlife and a real ale bar. 01664 500 335 www.rallyofthemidlands.co.uk www.rempstonesteam.org Ortonesque - Joe Orton Leicestershire Show Various venues in Hinckley 1933-1967 Melton Mowbray Airfield 28 May – 10 June Seven days of events including 23 June 15 July New Walk Museum The county’s largest agricultural Spark Children’s Arts Festival Hinckley Carnival. Leicester Pride Parade Ashby Show Retrospective exhibition looking at the life and horse show. Various venues in Leicestershire 01455 891 953 & Festival Lodge Farm and times of the man who made religion, 01509 646 786 The Spark is a festival of theatre, 15 – 17 June Leicester City Centre & Victoria Park A traditional agriculture show with sex and death outrageously funny. www.leicestershireshow.co.uk dance, music and storytelling for Big Session Festival Leicester Pride is the colourful strong livestock classes and a variety 0116 225 4900 children aged 0-13 years. and vibrant annual festival which of exhibits. 12 – 13 May De Montfort Hall & Gardens 0116 261 6893 celebrates lesbian, gay, bisexual 01283 229 225 April & October Moira Canal Festival Be prepared for another fantastic www.sparkfestival.co.uk and trans-gendered culture. www.ashbyshow.com Leicester’s Continental Market Conkers Waterside line up of contemporary, traditional 0116 254 7412 Leicester City Centre Canal festival including boat trips, live June (throughout) and alternative folk music. 2 - 5 August www.leicesterpride.co.uk Local produce and regional specialities music, local food fair, entertainment. Blaby, Oadby & Wigston 0116 233 3111 Leicestershire’s Country from many European countries 01530 273 956 Festival 15 – 17 June 23 June – 3 July Music Festival 0116 252 7000 18 – 20 May Blaby and Oadby & Wigston World War II Event Market Bosworth Festival Hinckley United Football Club The Bowfest is a community arts Market Bosworth This is a fantastic Country Music 6 April GP Live Great Central Railway festival that will include visual and A fantastic festival, full of Festival, perfect for a family day out. Christ in the Centre Donington Park Dress up 1940s style for this World performing arts, music and crafts. entertainment including classical Now in its 18th year, with lots of live Leicester City Centre A motor sport experience celebrating War II re-enactment. 0116 272 7617 music concerts, art exhibitions, music with artists from all over the UK. An open air dramatic presentation of the the pinnacle of racing achievement, 01509 230 726 Christian story of Good Friday and Easter. and showcasing historic, classic, and 2 – 3 June open air music, drama productions. 01455 272 410 16 – 17 June 01455 290 429 www.christinthecentre.co.uk contemporary grand prix machinery. Riverside Festival Stapleford Steam 4 August 01332 810 048 Bede Park 9 April Stapleford Miniature Railway 24 June Leicester Caribbean Carnival A decorated boat parade and Victoria Park Hallaton Bottle Kicking 19 May – 9 June Steam rally with full size and miniature Melton Mowbray Country Fair competition, market stalls and food Melton Mowbray Town Centre A fantastic parade made up of & Hare Pie Scrambling Early Music Festival steam traction engines, rollers, vintage stalls, live music, workshops, and A traditional and established country troupes & floats, and an extravaganza Hallaton & Medbourne Castle Park, Leicester tractors and vehicles, fairground organs, other entertainment and activities. fair celebrating town and borough of music, dance and Caribbean food. A Parade in Hallaton village followed Events include concerts, workshops, craft tents, displays and trade stalls. 0116 299 5982 of Melton Mowbray and its heritage. 0116 299 5982 by a madcap rugby-style contest. Ghost Walk, Wine and Whisky Tasting. 01462 851 711 01858 555 310 0116 270 9984 01664 563 327 47 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 48 Events 2007 Where

East Midlands to Stay Diwali Loughborough Fair Food & Drink Festival Christmas Light Switch On 10 – 12 August 13 - 16 September October – November If you’re looking for somewhere to stay then Leicester Summer Sundae Weekender Leicester International Music Black History Season De Montfort Hall & Gardens Festival Venues across Leicester and Leicestershire offer you a great range of quality CONTENTS A relaxed outdoor celebration of Various venues in Leicester This year's programme will mark the accommodation. You’ll find award-winning hotels with 52-58 top class music. World-class musicians gather to bicentenary of the abolition of slavery in great leisure facilities, family run B&Bs, gastropubs Hotels 0116 233 3111 present concerts and master classes. Great Britain and there will be a vibrant with comfy rooms and cosy self catering cottages. 17 – 19 August 0116 225 4916 program of music, dance & the arts. Guest www.musicfestival.co.uk www.leicesterblackhistory.co.uk 59-67 British Birdwatching Fair Finding the right accommodation Accommodation Rutland Water Nature Reserve 21 September - 5 October 3 November Each accommodation establishment is numbered to help you locate it Birdfair encompasses the whole Leicestershire Food Fortnight Abbey Park Bonfire on the fold out map on the back pages. Leicester city centre hotels are 68-72 spectrum of the birdwatching industry Venues across Leicestershire & Firework Display shown on the map on p80. Self Catering whilst at the same time supporting A celebration in the city, towns and Abbey Park To make it easy for you to find the right place to stay, we have divided global bird conservation. villages across the county of the best Leicester’s largest bonfire party the accommodation into four sections: Hotels, Guest Accommodation Caravan 01572 771 079 food the county has to offer, farmers with fireworks, stalls and a funfair. 73-75 (including B&Bs), Self Catering, and Caravan & Camping. www.birdfair.org.uk markets, tasters, demonstrations, 0116 299 5982 & Camping 18 - 19 August harvest festivals and restaurants. 7 – 10 November How to Book: Medieval Festival 0116 265 7023 Loughborough Fair Online at www.goleicestershire.com Bosworth Battlefield 29 – 30 September Loughborough 1 See soldiers preparing for battle, meet Food & Craft Show One of the largest street fairs in Britain. (Only certain establishments currently offer this facility. craftsmen, watch falconry displays, Rockingham Castle 01509 634 624 Look out for the @ symbol). knights jousting and the mayhem of war. Browse up to 120 trade stands for that 18 November 01455 290 429 individually crafted item. Attractions Christmas Light Switch On 2 Call 0906 294 1113* include; cookery demonstrations, Vodka 19 August Town Hall Square, Leicester making demonstrations, wine & beer Ibstock Country Fair Annual Christmas light switch on Contact the establishment direct by telephone tasting, Children’s make ’n’ take area. 3 Ibstock plus entertainment. 01536 770 240 Traditional country fair with 0116 299 5982 4 Contact the establishment direct by email agricultural activities for children. October November – December 01530 262 609 Diwali Light Switch On Leicester’s Bavarian Market Belgrave Area 20 – 27 August Leicester City Centre The largest Diwali (Hindu Festival Castle Park Festival Selling unique crafts, fancy goods, Throughout the year, we offer a number of great short break ideas of Light) celebrations in the country. Castle Park, Leicester food and confectionary from Germany. based around events and attractions in the city and county. From 0116 299 5982 This festival is a time for people of all 0116 252 7000 great outdoors breaks to city culture weekends, food and drink cultures and backgrounds to celebrate getaways and festival deals, there are plenty of reasons to visit. For 6 – 7 October 2 December Leicester's past, present and future as the most up to date offers and deals on accommodation and attractions East Midlands Food Melton Mowbray Victorian it relates to the historic heart of the city. visit www.goleicestershire.com & Drink Festival Christmas Fayre 0116 299 5982 Melton Cattle Market Melton Mowbray Town Centre To make sure you stay up to date on all our latest offers, complete Over 200 exhibitors displaying the * Calls cost 25p per minute. 27 August A costumed Victorian Christmas Fayre the form on pages 76 and 77 to join our mailing list and be in with best food and drink the East Midlands The Leicestershire Information Line National Forest Wood Fair with a large Santa parade, workshops, a chance to win a free weekend break. has to offer. Include celebrity chefs, is open Monday - Friday 9am-9pm, Beacon Hill Country Park farmers market and quality foods. Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm. demonstrations and exhibitions. Wood Fair offering a range of practical 01664 563 327 It is closed Christmas Day, Boxing 01664 569 388 exhibitions, demonstrations and crafts. Day and New Years Day. 0116 265 6961 www.eastmidlandsfoodfestival.co.uk 49 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 50 Key to Accommodation Facilities Ratings & Awards All the Is accessible to a wheelchair Internet access for visitors accommodation user travelling independently* Ironing facilities available Is accessible to a wheelchair featured in this guide Hotels Laundry/Valet service user travelling with assistance* has been quality Lounge for residents’ use Is accessible to someone with assessed by either VisitBritain, the AA Passenger lift limited mobility, able to walk a or other quality schemes recognised Continental breakfast only few paces and up a maximum by Leicester Shire Promotions, or has of three steps* Evening meals recently applied for a rating and is Provision for blind or partially Licensed (table) sighted people* awaiting assessment. Please be aware Electric shaver points that ratings may change throughout Induction Loop* Hairdryer the year. Car parking Tea/coffee making in bedrooms Train station within five miles Hotels and Guest Minibar in bedrooms Accessible by bus Houses that go the Television Smoking allowed extra mile to make Satellite television Totally non-smoking your stay a special Self Catering Accommodation Dogs/pets accepted by one will be awarded a high star Internet access for visitors arrangement rating and may achieve a Gold or Laundry facilities available Dogs/pets NOT accepted Silver award. Silver Awards Linen provided Public house/Inn recognise exceptional quality at all Linen for hire No. Establishment Nearest Town / City Page Working Farm levels and Gold Awards are given to Freezer the very ‘best of the best’. 1 Best Western Belmont House Hotel Leicester 53 Garden Dishwasher 2 Best Western Sketchley Grange Hotel Hinckley 53 Park facilities limited to members This property welcomes Microwave cooker 3 Best Western Premier Yew Lodge Hotel Loughborough 53 Parking space next to pitch walkers 4 Best Western Three Swans Hotel Market Harborough 53 Ironing facilities Visa/Mastercard/Switch 5 Best Western Ullesthorpe Court Hotel Lutterworth 53 Drying facilities This property welcomes accepted 6 Campanile Leicester 54 cyclists Coach parties welcome Hairdryer 7 Leicester Marriott Hotel Leicester 54 Single sex groups NOT accepted Television 8 Ibis Hotel Leicester 54 Single sex groups welcome Satellite television Best Breakfast Award 9 The Regency Leicester 54 Cycles for hire (on site or nearby) Video/DVD 10 Westfield House Hotel Leicester 54 Fishing (on site or nearby) CD Player 11 Ashby de la Zouch Premier Travel Inn Ashby 55 Online Availability shown 12 Champneys Springs Ashby 55 Golf available (on site or nearby) Central heating @ on goleicestershire.com 13 Donington Manor Hotel Castle Donington 55 Pony trekking/Horse riding Real log/coal fires 14 Ramada Birmingham East Hotel Ashby 55 (onsite or nearby) Barbecue AA Rosette for food quality 15 The Royal Hotel Ashby 56 Water sports (onsite or nearby) Caravan and Camping 16 Thistle East Midlands Airport Castle Donington 56 Games room onsite Ironing facilities Prices 17 Fallen Knight Hotel & Restaurant Ashby 56 Snooker/billiards/pool onsite Laundry facilities All prices stated are per room per 18 Quality Hotel Loughborough 56 Gym onsite Drying facilities night (or per week for self catering 19 The Kegworth Whitehouse Hotel Loughborough 56 Health/Beauty facilities onsite Lighting throughout park properties) unless otherwise stated. 20 The Quorn Country Hotel Loughborough 57 21 Ramada Loughborough Hotel Loughborough 57 Leisure club (onsite or nearby) Heated shower block pppn - per person per night 22 Quorn Grange Hotel Loughborough 57 Sauna onsite Showers prpn - per room per night 23 Comfort Inn Hinckley North Hinckley 57 Swimming pool - indoor onsite Hairdryer pw - per week (self catering only) 24 Paramount Hinckley Island Hotel Hinckley 57 Swimming pool - outdoor onsite Flush toilets with lighting All prices are intended as a guide, 25 Kilworth House Hotel Market Harborough 58 Children welcome Hot water and therefore it is advisable to 26 Sysonby Knoll Hotel Melton Mowbray 58 Children’s outdoor play area Electric shaver points confirm the rates before booking. Baby listening service Barbecue Prices can vary depending on the These properties are licensed, offer dinner at least five nights a week and have all rooms en-suite or with Cots available Chemical toilet disposal season, and on single or double occupancy of rooms. Please check! private bathrooms. Included in this category are Hotels, Small Hotels, Country House Hotels, Town House High chairs available Dish washing facilities Hotels, Metro Hotels and Budget Hotels. Serviced Accommodation Gas cylinder exchange or refill * Establishments have provided their own accessibility information and have not been Simple, practical, no frills | Well presented and well run | Good level of quality and comfort Air Conditioning Electric hookup assessed by an official body, please phone Excellent standard throughout | Exceptional with a degree of luxury Central Heating Waste/water hookup ahead for specific requirements.

51 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 52 Best Western Hotels Hotels

Best Western Hotels Campanile 6 Ibis Hotel 8 Leicestershire’s Finest Independent Hotels @ St Matthews Way @ Constitution Hill, St Georges Way Leicester LE1 1PL Excellent Accommodation, Fine Dining, Conference and Banqueting. Bedford Street North t: 0116 248 7200 Leicester LE1 3JE f: 0116 262 0880 Best Western Belmont House Hotel 1 e: [email protected] t: 0116 261 6600 www.ibishotel.com De Montfort Street f: 0116 261 6601 @ Rooms & prices: 94 double bedrooms. Leicester LE1 7GR e: leicester@campanile- t: 0116 254 4773 Weekends £51, weekdays £56, prices hotels.com f: 0116 247 0804 per room per night inc VAT. e: [email protected] Just 5 minutes walk from the city centre and train station. All AA Rosette for www.belmonthotel.co.uk Food Quality rooms have double beds and air cooling / heating. 24 hour reception / snack service. Rooms & prices: 77 en-suite bedrooms. Rates: From £47.50pppn B&B. Rooms & prices: 93 en-suite bedrooms. 26 twins, 67 An elegant Town House Hotel centrally located and just 4 doubles. Prices from £49.95 mid week, £46.95 weekend. minutes from the railway station, yet set in the tree lined Corporate rates available The Regency 9 conservation area of New Walk. The hotel reflects its Victorian This modern hotel is situated on the Leicester inner ring 360 London Road surroundings and provides you with the comfort, facilities and road (A594). It is in close proximity to the railway and bus Leicester LE2 2PL atmosphere to make your stay a real experience. Renowned t: 0116 270 9634 Cherry’s Restaurant, and excellent conference and banqueting. stations and is within walking distance of all shops, f: 0116 270 1375 restaurants and entertainment venues in the city centre. www.the-regency-hotel.com The hotel offers a Bistro restaurant, bar, 24 hour room Rooms & prices: 32 en-suite rooms. service, 3 meeting rooms and free on site parking. All rooms 15 single from £40, 2 twin £56, Best Western Sketchley Grange Country House Hotel 2 Best Western Premier Yew Lodge Hotel 3 feature satellite TV, direct dial phones, modem points for 13 double £56, 2 family £65. Prices per room bed and breakfast. Sketchley Lane, Burbage Hill internet access, courtesy tray and hairdryer. Exquisite Victorian Town House hotel with many original historical Hinckley, Leics. LE10 3HU Kegworth DE74 2DF architectural features. Two restaurants. Extensive banqueting and t: 01455 251 133 t: 01509 672 518 conference facilities, regular dinner dances and themed nights. f: 01455 631 384 f: 01509 674 730 Close to city centre. Private car park. Special diets catered, snacks. AA Rosette for e: [email protected] e: [email protected] AA Rosette for Food Quality www.bw-sketchleygrange.co.uk www.bw-yewlodgehotel.co.uk Food Quality Rooms & prices: 52 en-suite bedrooms. Rooms & prices: 87 en-suite bedrooms. Leicester Marriott Hotel 7 Westfield House Hotel 10 Rates: From £45pppn B&B. Rates: From £45pppn B&B. Enderby Road This privately owned hotel boasts elegantly furnished en-suite Best Western Premier Yew Lodge is situated right at the heart of @ bedrooms complemented by romantic four poster rooms and Kegworth village and is just a half mile from junct 24 of the M1 Blaby luxurious suites to make your stay with us a memorable one. and 2 miles from East Midlands Airport. The hotel offers Leicester LE8 4GD The hotel is perfect for business or pleasure situated in the heart superbly appointed bedrooms, purpose built conference/ All the right connections t: 0870 609 6106 of England and within easy reach of the major motorway network meeting rooms, the award winning Orchard Restaurant and the Smith Way f: 0116 278 1974 stunning Reeds our Health Club & Spa. as well as mainline railway stations. Getaway Breaks Available. Grove Park e: reservations.leicester@ Enderby corushotels.com Leicester LE19 1SW www.corushotels.com/leicester Best Western Three Swans Hotel 4 Best Western Ullesthorpe Court Hotel & Golf Club 5 t: 0870 600 1348 www.leicestermarriott.co.uk High Street Frolesworth Road, Ullesthorpe Market Harborough LE16 7NJ Leicestershire LE17 5BZ Rooms & prices: 227 luxury en-suite bedrooms. Rooms & prices: 48 en-suite bedrooms. Single from £45, t: 01858 466 644 t: 01455 209 023 Weekend rates from £58 per room. Twin from £45, Double from £45, Family from £55. f: 01858 433 101 f: 01455 202 537 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] The new Leicester Marriott is ideally located close to the Modern hotel set in own grounds. Quiet leafy suburb www.bw-threeswanshotel.co.uk www.bw-ullesthorpecourt.co.uk M1 J21 yet only minutes from the city centre. An ideal base convenient for M1 junction 21 and city centre. Bedrooms Rooms & prices: 61 en-suite bedrooms. Rooms & prices: 72 en-suite bedrooms. whether for business or pleasure, the hotel offers a great to superior standard. Hunters Restaurant. Bar brasserie. Rates: From £35pppn B&B. Prices from £45 pppn B&B. choice of dining including Mixx Restaurant, a blend of Asian “Lifestyles” Leisure Club includes pool, spa, sauna, steam This 16th century coaching inn offers traditional values with and Mediterranean cuisines, and local Leicestershire food Set amidst glorious Leicestershire countryside close to the room 28 station gym with cardio theatre. Ample free modern day comforts and an excellent standard of Midlands motorway network, the M1 and M69 are within and cocktails in Tanners Bar. The Atrium Lounge serves light accommodation. The Hotel is renowned for its fine cuisine and illuminated parking within landscaped grounds, public areas a 10 minute drive. 72 en-suite bedrooms. Facilities include meals and Illy coffee and 24 hour room service is available. elegant restaurant. Located in the town centre it is an ideal venue leisure centre with indoor pool, beauty rooms, 18 hole comfort cooled & CCTV. for touring the surrounding countryside and visitor attractions. championship golf course, conference facilities and á la carte Leisure Club with gym, swimming pool, steam room and Conference / banqueting up to 150. Short Breaks available. restaurant. Licensed for Civil Wedding Receptions up to 120. sauna. Extensive car parking.

53 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 54 Hotels Hotels

Ashby de la Zouch Premier Travel Inn 11 Donington Manor Hotel 13 The Royal Hotel 15 The Fallen Knight Restaurant & Hotel 17 Flagstaff Park Station Road Kilwardby Street Ashby de la Zouch Ashby de la Zouch Leicestershire LE65 1DS Ashby de la Zouch Leicestershire LE65 2FQ t: 01530 561 210 Leicestershire t: 01530 412 230 e: ashbydelazouch.pti www.fallenknight.co.uk LE65 2GP @premiertravelinn.com Rooms & prices: 24 Rooms. Single www.premiertravelinn.com t: 01530 412 833 High Street rooms from £45, Twin/Double rooms Rooms & prices: Prices from £49 e: [email protected] from £69, Price per room per night per room. Castle Donington including full English breakfast. www.royalhotelashby.com You'll find comfy, well-equipped bedrooms with en suite bathrooms Derby DE74 2PP A hotel of mellow charm and curious legend. Friendly and and enjoy great value food at our restaurant, everything you need. t: 01332 810 253 courteous staff ensure you have an enjoyable stay in our privately Located off J13 of the A42 close to Ashby de la Zouch and EMA. www.doningtonmanorhotel.com owned hotel. Just two minutes from Ashby Town Centre.

Rooms & prices: 32 bedrooms. Rooms & prices: 33 en suite rooms from £40 - £120 per Prices from: Single £75, Double/Twin £85, Family £105. room bed and breakfast. Champneys Springs 12 Quality Hotel & Suites, Loughborough 18 Stretching back to 1794, Donington Manor sits in the thriving A charming Regency style hotel retaining many of its original Gallows Lane Branded village of Castle Donington on the Derbyshire-Leicestershire classic features. Standing within four acres of its own Junction 23/M1 Ashby de la Zouch New Ashby Road Hotel borders, less than five minutes drive from East Midlands grounds and less than 5 mins walk from the historic town of t: 01530 279 611 Loughborough LE11 4EX f: 01530 270 987 Airport, the A50 and M1 Motorway. Ashby de la Zouch and the heart of the National Forest. t: 01509 211 800 e: [email protected] We believe that small is beautiful. Under private ownership Ideal base for NEC, EMA, Conkers, Twycross Zoo and close e: [email protected] www.champneys.co.uk and having just thirty two bedrooms and suites, we provide links to M1 and M6. www.hotels-loughborough.com Rooms & prices: 35 single from £95, a level of intimacy and personal service which is simply Rooms & prices: 94 en-suite rooms. 54 twin/double from £190. Weekend rates from £49 B&B. impossible in large but similarly-priced hotels. With free Champneys Springs Health Resort has 89 bedrooms, extensive Modern hotel located just off the M1 junction 23. Facilities include health and leisure facilities and 3 conference rooms. The resort is car-parking, free wi-fi access and wholesome food and drink. leisure club with indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and gym. easily accessible from the M1 and M42. Excellent conference rooms and superb restaurant. Free Parking.

Ramada Birmingham East Hotel 14 Thistle East Midlands Airport 16 The Kegworth Whitehouse Hotel 19

@ Junction 11 M42 Castle Donington Packington Hill Derby Kegworth DE74 2SH Derby DE74 2DF Leicestershire t: 0870 333 9132 t: 01509 672 427 DE12 7BQ e: [email protected] f: 01509 674 664 t: 01530 279 500 www.thistlehotels.com/ e: [email protected] f: 01530 279 501 eastmidlandsairport www.whitehousehotels.com e: [email protected] www.ramadabirminghameast.com

Rooms & prices: 164 rooms. single rooms from £70, Twin/Double from £80 and Family from £90. Perfectly located on the outskirts of Tamworth and and Situated at the entrance to East Midlands Airport convenient for Rooms & prices: Twin/double rooms Rooms & prices: Please contact us for an up to date midway between Birmingham and Nottingham, the hotel is located just off attractions including Alton Towers, Donington Park, Nottingham price list. from £45, £10 supplement for children. and links to the M1, M42, M6 and A50. Junction 11 of the M42. Single occupancy from £45 room only. This modern hotel has 164 bedrooms including executive and Award-winning hotel renowned for exceeding the Each of the 95 bedrooms has an en suite bathroom, colour TV with in-house deluxe bedrooms. All rooms have climate control and are a expectations of quality and service. Really competitive prices. movie channel, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities. Enjoy a relaxing meal in the mixture of smoking and non smoking. Pets are welcome by Located in the heart of the three-shire’s an excellent restaurant, which serves contemporary bistro food in stylish surroundings. prior arrangement. hotel for all your needs. Rates include free use of leisure Afterwards relax and enjoy a drink in the friendly atmosphere of the bar and We have a restaurant, bar, lounge with coffee shop offering a wide selection of drinks, light refreshments and meals. The facilities, power showers plus many more amenities. lounge area. With our hotel located in the Heart of the National Forest, you’ll be hotel has an Otium Health and Leisure Club with swimming spoilt for choice with things to do such as visiting Tamworth Snowdome, pool, sauna, steam room, spa pool and workout facilities. The Drayton Manor Theme Park, Alton Towers, Twycross Zoo or Conkers Outdoor hotel offers car parking for guests at a cost of £5 per night. Activity Centre.

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The Quorn Country Hotel 20 Quorn Grange Hotel 22 Kilworth House Hotel 25 @ 88 Wood Lane, Quorn @ Lutterworth Road Loughborough LE12 8DB North Kilworth t: 01509 412 167 Charnwood House Leicestershire 66 Leicester Road f: 01509 415 621 LE17 6JE Quorn e: [email protected] Leicestershire www.quorngrangehotel.co.uk t: 01858 880 058 LE12 8BB Rooms & prices: 38 rooms. f: 01858 880 349 From £72 - £132. t: 01509 415 061 AA Rosette for e: [email protected] f: 01509 415 064 Food Quality Set amidst 8 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and offering e: [email protected] an excellent á la carte restaurant in an informal environment. www.kilworthhouse.co.uk www.quorncountryhotel.co.uk Conference / function room available. AA Rosette for Rooms & prices: Twin/Double room from £125 (£95 Fri & Food Quality Sat), Suites from £160 (£130 Fri & Sat), Single Occupancy from £110 (£84 Fri & Sat). Kilworth House is a 19th century country house hotel, situated within 38 acres Rooms & prices: 44 en suite bedrooms. Comfort Inn Hinckley North 23 Set in the heart of Leicestershire, this award winning hotel dates of beautiful parkland deep in the heart of rural Leicestershire. It is complete with 9 luxury rooms, 2 four poster rooms, back to the time of the Domesday Book. The hotel is created 32 Wood Street a magnificent Orangery which has been lovingly restored for guests to experience. 4 twin garden rooms, 29 double garden around the original 17th Century listed building. Earl Shilton LE9 7ND Located just four miles from junction 20 of the M1, Kilworth House sets a new The Hotel has been awarded 2AA Rosettes for maintaining a t: 01455 840 010 rooms. consistent reputation for fine cuisine and excellent wines in both f: 01455 841 010 standard in luxury accommodation - all of the forty-four bedrooms are individually Prices start from £135 Room Only. its renowned restaurants. e: [email protected] designed to the highest standards. Experience the comfort of one the 30 tastefully decorated www.comfortinnhotel.net Our 6 individual conference & banqueting suites can accommodate a maximum bedrooms, including 3 suites and 7 executive rooms, all Rooms & prices: Single room £45, Small Hotel of the Year equipped to the very highest standard. Double/twin £55, Family room £65, of 80 delegates for meetings or seminars. Whilst our Cellar Bar of the Hotel Winner 2006 and 2007 The outstanding cuisine, the delightful surroundings, and the Suites from £75. comfortably hosts drinks receptions or evening entertainment for up to 130 tranquillity of the gardens are appreciated by many of the guests 40 well equipped en-suite bedrooms with TV/DVD and hospitality guests. who return time and again. trays, lounge bar, fine dining Indian restaurant, conference and banqueting facilities, free car and coach parking, close to Mallory Park. Whether you are simply looking for a relaxing break or somewhere to impress an important client you will find Kilworth House the perfect venue.

Ramada Loughborough Hotel 21 Paramount Hinckley Island Hotel 24 Sysonby Knoll Hotel 26 High Street Branded @ A5 Watling Street Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray Loughborough Hotel Hinckley Leicestershire LE13 0HP LE11 2QL Leicestershire t: 01664 563 563 t: 01509 233 222 LE10 3JA f: 01664 410 364 f: 01509 264 664 t: 01455 631 122 e: [email protected] www.ramadaloughboroughhotel.com Room Reservations www.sysonby.com t: 01455 898 560 www.paramount-hotels.co.uk

Silver Award Best Tourism Website Best Leicestershire Heart of England Visitor Accommodation Rooms & prices: 78 en-suite bedrooms. Rooms & prices: 350 en-suite bedrooms. 2003 & 2005 2002/2003 Weekend rates from £60 per room. Weekend rates from £60 per room. Occupying a secluded position on the edge of the town, Sysonby Knoll has well Rooms & prices: 30 en-suite bedrooms, maintained gardens and a further 4 acres on the banks of the river Eye. The bright This Georgian style townhouse, built around a delightful Paramount Hinckley Island Hotel is a great destination and 9 single from £64, colonial style restaurant has views over the river and meadows to Burrough Hill, courtyard, complete with its own fountain. Set in the heart extremely easy to get to from M6, M69, M1 and M40. 17 double / twin from £78, one of the highest points in Leicestershire. of the lively market and university town of Loughborough. The hotel offers 21 flexible meeting & event rooms for up to 1 family room from £105, The popular restaurant is open to non-residents and serves a wide choice of Just 15 minutes drive to East Midlands Airport and Castle 400 delegates, 350 bedrooms, a mixture of suites, premium, 3 four posters rooms from £110. lunchtime and evening menus from bar food to á la carte as well as traditional Donington Race Circuit. There is free wifi internet access in executive and standard rooms. There is a great new Piazza and Sunday lunches. Booking is essential. Weekend Breaks Available. the lounge area for our guests and also free car parking. terrace bar, the first ever Triumph bar and not forgetting two The 30 bedrooms are furnished to a high standard with a wide range of styles Sunday Lunch club and licensed for civil weddings. excellent restaurants so there’s plenty of choice. To unwind we and sizes. Most bedrooms look into the quiet courtyard area whilst the four have a Bodysense Health & Leisure Club. posters overlook the gardens and river. Paramount Hinckley Island Hotel, ‘Venue Choice of the Midlands.’ Discounted rates are available for weekend breaks and pets are welcome at no extra charge. Please visit our award winning website for further details, menus and wine list.

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Abinger Guest House 27 Aaron Lodge 29 Guest Accommodation @ 3 Coppice Court 175 Hinckley Road Off Colby Drive, Leicester Leicester LE4 8PJ LE3 0TF t: 0116 269 4494 t: 0116 255 4674 e: [email protected] www.aaronlodgeguesthouse.co.uk e: [email protected] Rooms & prices: Single room from www.leicesterguest.co.uk £25, Double/twin room from £45, Triple/family rooms from £65. A warm friendly welcome awaits you at Aaron Lodge which is a small family run guesthouse offering B&B. Ample parking is available.

Rooms & prices: 8 bedrooms: 1 single from £32, 2 double from £47, 3 twin from £47, 2 family / triple rooms from £65. Glenfield Lodge Hotel 30 3 Star Rated, situated 1km to the west of the High Street off @ 4 Glenfield Road A47. 8 guest rooms, sleeping 17 max. Wireless Internet & Leicester freeview available throughout. Free on street parking 24/7. If LE3 6AP you have been disappointed with the standards of guest t: 0116 262 7554 Nearest Nearest houses before, don't despair. Come to Abinger and www.glenfieldlodge.co.uk No. Establishment Page No. Establishment Page Town / City Town / City experience our friendly service, clean fresh accommodation Rooms & prices: 14 bedrooms: Single £24pp, double £20pp, family rooms £20pp. 27 Abinger Guest House Leicester 60 53 Bed & Breakfast at Vale Farm Hinckley 64 and high specification rooms at budget prices. Visit our 54 Bosworth Accommodation Market Bosworth 64 All prices include full English breakfast. 28 Castle Park Leicester 60 website www.leicesterguest.co.uk to view 29 Aaron Lodge Leicester 60 55 Burbage Guest House Hinckley 64 Homely atmosphere, close to city centre, budget hotel, our facilities and book online, or call. interesting antique courtyard, bar and separate TV lounges. 30 Glenfield Lodge Leicester 60 56 The Old House Hinckley 64 31 Haynes Hotel Leicester 60 57 Top House Farm Market Bosworth 64 32 The Squirrels Leicester 60 58 Upton Barn Hinckley 64 33 Stoneycroft Hotel Leicester 61 59 Croft Farm Lutterworth 64 34 The Appleby Inn Ashby 61 60 Homestead House Market Harborough 64 Castle Park 28 Haynes Hotel 31 35 Church Lane Farm House Ashby 61 61 Honeypot Lane B&B Lutterworth 65 12 Millstone Lane @ 185 Uppingham Road 36 The Cedars Ashby 61 62 Hunters Lodge Market Harborough 65 Leicester Leicester Knaptoft House Farm LE5 4BQ 37 The Clockmaker’s House Ashby 61 63 Lutterworth 65 LE1 5JN & The Greenway t/f: 0116 276 8973 38 Hillfield House Ashby 62 t: 0116 251 1000 64 Langton Brook Farm Market Harborough 65 e: [email protected] 39 The Hollybush Inn Ashby 62 f: 0116 253 6358 65 Matchbox Cottage Market Harborough 65 Rooms & prices: Double/twin from 40 Lady Gate Guest House Castle Donington 62 £55, Single from £35, Family from £60 66 Medbourne Grange Market Harborough 65 e: [email protected] 41 Measham House Ashby 62 dependant on occupancy, to include 67 Ravendale House Lutterworth 65 www.castleparkhotel.com breakfast, evening meals on request. 42 The Queen’s Head Loughborough 62 68 Beckmill Guest House Melton Mowbray 66 43 Royal Oak House Loughborough 62 Convenient to the city centre, General Hospital and Nuffield 69 The Forge Melton Mowbray 66 Hospital on major bus route, approx 2 miles from main line 44 Underhill Cottage Castle Donington 62 70 Hall Farm Melton Mowbray 66 station and easy access to motorway network. All rooms en-suite. 45 The De Montfort Loughborough 62 71 Hillside House Melton Mowbray 66 Rooms & prices: Single rooms from £29.95, Double rooms 46 The Grange Courtyard Loughborough 63 from £39.95, Twin / king size rooms from £49.95, Family / 72 The Manners Arms Melton Mowbray 66 47 Holywell House Loughborough 63 triple rooms from £55. All rooms have en-suite, colour TV 73 The Red House Melton Mowbray 66 The Squirrels 32 48 Highbury Guest House Loughborough 63 and tea / coffee making facilities. Contract rate and special 74 Shoby Lodge Farm Melton Mowbray 66 49 Horseshoe Cottage Farm Loughborough 63 weekend rates available, please ask for details. 9 Widford Close 75 The Lodge Melton Mowbray 67 The Castle Park a newly re-furbished hotel situated in the @ 50 Leys Guest House Loughborough 63 Humberstone 76 Conifers B&B Oakham 67 historical heart of the city, surrounded by quality restaurants, Leicester LE5 0AN 51 The Mountsorrel Loughborough 63 bars and fashionable night clubs also boasting one of the best 78 The Old Rectory Oakham 67 t: 0116 220 2894 52 Orchard House Loughborough 63 shopping centres and largest covered market in the UK all f: 0116 276 8424 within two minute’s walk. The close proximity of both the train, bus stations the De Montfort and Leicester Universities Rooms & prices: 2 bedrooms; and the sporting facilities of the football and rugby clubs all 1 double / single / twin from £25/£30. These properties tend to be run personally by the owners, they may offer dinner and may be licensed. within a ten minute walk, is an added advantage. The Castle Short breaks available. These include Bed and Breakfast, Guest Houses, Inns, Farmhouses and Restaurants with rooms. Park is an ideal place for the business executive and tourists Private guest house. Attractive and comfortable throughout. Quiet, peaceful setting and warm and friendly welcome. Smoking Simple, practical, no frills | Well presented and well run | Good level of quality and comfort to enjoy the city centre facilities and to relax in this homely, friendly and comfortable establishment. room available. Village pub / Italian restaurants 5 mins walk. Easy Excellent standard throughout | Exceptional with a degree of luxury access to the General Hospital.

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Stoneycroft Hotel 33 Church Lane Farm House 35 Hillfield House 38 The Queen’s Head 42 @ 5-7 Elmfield Avenue @ Church Lane 52 Station Hill, Swannington @ 2 Long Street Leicester Ravenstone Leicestershire LE67 8RH Belton, Loughborough LE2 1RB Coalville t: 01530 837 414 t: 01530 222 359 t: 0116 270 7605 Leics. LE67 2AE e: [email protected] e: [email protected] f: 0116 270 6067 t: 01530 810 536 www.hillfieldhouse.co.uk www.thequeenshead.org e: reception@ e: annthorne@ravenstone- Rooms & prices: 3 en-suite bedrooms: Rooms & prices: 6 en-suite rooms. stoneycrofthotel.co.uk guesthouse.co.uk Twin / double from £22.50 per Prices from £60 single occupancy, £70 double. www.stoneycrofthotel.co.uk www.ravenstone- person, single occupancy from £30. guesthouse.co.uk Spacious rooms and large garden for enjoyment of guests. Located A contemporary gastro pub with rooms, The Queen’s Head is in the National Forest and on the edge of Charnwood Forest. located in the pretty village of Belton. Accommodation is provided Perfectly situated to explore Middle England, with M42, M1 and in six individually designed rooms, four doubles and two twins. Birmingham and EMA airports close by. Rooms & prices: 41 en suite bedrooms: 24 single £44, Rooms & prices: 3 rooms. Single from £27.50-£39 pppn, 4 twin/ 9 double £55, 4 family rooms £60. double from £64-£70 pn. The Hollybush Inn 39 Royal Oak House 43 The Stoneycroft Hotel comprises 41 en-suite bedrooms Queen Anne farmhouse situated in a Domesday village in and is only a few minutes from the city centre. The hotel the National Forest between M1 (22) M42 (13) off the A511. 1 Melbourne Lane @ 20 Main Street restaurant ‘Reynards’, which is open to non-residents, is An interior designer’s and artist’s home, antiques throughout. DE73 8AT Loughborough one of the finest in the city and has an excellent reputation Gallery and Artist’s studio. Business facilities available. Winner t: 01332 862 359 Leics. LE12 9TA for good food. of Leicestershire Best Breakfast Award. Evening meals by www.hollybushbreedon.co.uk t: 01530 222 443 arrangement. Speciality, vegetarian and other diets. Residents’ Rooms & prices: Single from £65, Rooms & prices: 3 en-suite bedrooms, Double or family room from £70 - licence. Secure guest yard parking. Easy access Airport, Single from £35, double £50. Donington / Mallory Circuit and NEC. Three night weekend £100. Situated in a delightful village, our emphasis is on quality of High standard former coaching inn in picturesque countryside. discount 10%. Motorbike parking, cycle lock up, special diets service, fresh home cooked food in the charm of a genuine 16th Secured parking. Chalet accommodation. Award winning gardens. catered for, trouser press available. Century Inn, close to EMA, Donington Park race track. Close to M1 / A42, East Midlands Airport and Donington Park Racetrack.

The Appleby Inn 34 The Cedars 36 Lady Gate Guest House 40 Underhill Cottage 44 Appleby Parva 60 Burton Road 47 The Green @ 9-11 Main Street Near Swadlincote Ashby de la Zouch Breedon on the Hill Derbyshire DE74 2QN Derby DE73 8AN Derbyshire Leics LE65 2LN t: 01332 811 565 t: 01332 865 630 DE12 7AP t: 01530 412 017 e: [email protected] m: 07952 834 672 t: 01530 270 463 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Rooms & prices: Single from £25, www.ladygateguesthouse.co.uk f: 01530 273 038 http://t-multimedia.net/underhillcottage Double or Twin from £45, Family Rooms & prices: Single rooms from Rooms & prices: 3 bedrooms. from £55, including breakfast. £25, Twin or Double rooms from £55. Phone for details. Family run guest house. Delightful Victorian house stands in A warm welcome and traditional hospitality awaits you at our Pretty cottage in centre of historic village with secure parking extensive well maintained grounds. Off road car parking. Five mins guest house which is situated in a picturesque location close to near EMA and Donington Park. walk to Ashby centre. Close to EMA and Donington race track. EMA and Donington Park. Wireless internet available.

Rooms & prices: Twin/double rooms £55, Family room £75. Single occupancy £47.50. The Clockmaker’s House 37 Measham House 41 The De Montfort 45 The Appleby Inn Hotel is pleasantly situated in the North 8 Lower Street Gallows Lane 88 Leicester Road West Leicestershire countryside and has an excellent @ @ Ashby de la Zouch Measham Loughborough LE11 2AQ reputation for its food, hospitality, accommodation and LE65 1AB Swadlincote t: 01509 216 061 DE12 7HD conference facilities. Situated off junction 11, M42. t: 01530 417 974 f: 01509 233 667 t: 01530 270 465 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/demont www.clockmakershouse.com www.meashamhouse.co.uk Rooms & prices: 10 bedrooms (8 en-suite, Rooms & prices: Single from £35. Prices: Twin from £56, family from £56 1 Four Poster): Single from £35, Twin from £40, Double/twin from £60. Family from £70. +children. 5 caravan pitches £9 per night. Double from £50, Triple/Family from £54. Charming 18th Century house set in a quiet conservation area A very warm welcome awaits you at Measham House Farm Bed & Friendly, family run Victorian establishment. Convenient for off the centre of Ashby, close to the castle. The décor reflects the Breakfast and caravan and campsite. A grade II Georgian farmhouse university, bus and train stations, Prestwold Hall, Beaumanor Hall quirks of this unusual former clockmaker’s home. and Bellfoundry. Homely atmosphere, hearty breakfasts. Warm on a 600 acre working farm, run by John and Di Lovett. welcome guaranteed.

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The Grange Courtyard 46 Horseshoe Cottage Farm 49 Bed & Breakfast at Vale Farm 53 Top House Farm 57 Forest Street @ Hallgates @ Vale Farm, Stoke Lane Main Street Shepshed Cropston Higham on the Hill Shenton LE12 9DA Leics LE7 7HQ Nuneaton CV13 6ES t: 01509 600 189 CV13 6DP t: 0116 235 0038 t: 01455 212 236 t: 01455 212 200 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] www.thegrangecourtyard.co.uk e: [email protected] www.horseshoecottagefarm.com www.valefarm-bed-and-breakfast.co.uk Rooms & prices: 20 en-suite rooms. twin/double £65+VAT (four poster rooms Rooms & prices: 2 Double rooms Rooms & prices: Twin/Double from Rooms & prices: 1 twin £50 B&B, available), Family £75-85+VAT, single £42.50, 1 Twin/Double room £42.50, £55. Single Occupancy from £30. 1 double £50 B&B. occupancy £55+VAT. Single supplement £10. (Per person B&B). Single occupancy £30. Relax and be pampered in a recently restored, 200 year old Multi-award winning bed and breakfast with 20 historical individual Modern accommodation in a tastefully restored barn conversion Beautiful Georgian farmhouse located in peaceful conservation stone farmhouse and barns in Leicestershire’s Charnwood Forest. adjoining farmhouse in peaceful countryside. Ground floor room rooms set within six cottages, each with fully fitted kitchen village. We are a working farm and offer a warm welcome. including washing machine. Free wireless internet in every room. A warm welcome, generous hospitality and quality home cooked available. Ample parking. Close to Bosworth Battlefield and food awaits you. Twycross Zoo. Working farm. Off road parking is available.

Holywell House 47 Leys Guest House 50 Bosworth Accommodation 54 Upton Barn Restaurant & Accommodation 58 40 Leicester Road @ Loughborough Road The Gatehouse, Cadeby Lane Manor Farm, Upton Loughborough Cadeby, Nuneaton CV13 0BA near Nuneaton LE11 2AG Leicestershire LE12 5JB t: 01455 292 259 Warwickshire CV13 6JX t: 01509 267 891 t: 01509 844 373 f: 01455 292 922 t: 01455 212 374 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] f: 01455 212 328 f: 01509 646 440 e: [email protected] www.holywellguesthouse.com e: [email protected] www.bosworthaccommodation.co.uk Rooms & prices: 3 double / twin www.uptonbarn.co.uk Rooms & prices: Please call for Rooms & prices: Bed & Breakfast bedrooms £45, single rate £35, Single £40, Double £60. Also ground Rooms & prices: 5 en-suite rooms. family rate £50. details. floor Self catering maisonettes. 45 pitches. Please call for prices. A fine Georgian town house, with local historical interest near Small family run guesthouse with off road parking. Convenient Tearooms and Restaurant set in beautiful surroundings on a Upton Barn is a family run business with an á la carte restaurant to town centre and university and within easy distance of for M1 (J24), Donington Park and EMA. country lane between Cadeby and Market Bosworth in an area which offers pleasant dining all year round. Also a licensed caravan transport networks and all local amenities. of outstanding natural beauty. Free car parking. and camping site with facilities, open from April to October.

Highbury Guest House 48 The Mountsorrel 51 Burbage Guest House 55 Croft Farm 59 146 Leicester Road @ 217 Loughborough Road 2 Windsor Street Leicester Road Loughborough Mountsorrel, Leics LE12 7AR Burbage, Leics. LE10 2EF Husbands Bosworth t: 01509 412 627 Leicestershire t: 01455 615 990 Lutterworth LE17 6NW t: 01858 880 679 f: 01509 416 105 e: [email protected] LE11 2AQ e: [email protected] e: [email protected] www.burbageguesthouse.co.uk t: 01509 230 545 www.mountsorrelhotel.co.uk www.croftfarm.org.uk e: cosmo@thehighbury Rooms & prices: 14 en-suite rooms. Rooms & prices: Single from £55pp, double from £37.50pp. Includes full Rooms & prices: Twin/ Double £60 single from £40, double/twin from £55, based on 2 sharing. £35 single. guesthouse.co.uk family rooms from £75. English breakfast. www.thehighburyguesthouse.co.uk A family run hotel, we are situated in our own grounds with Situated in the heart of this picturesque village, this historic residence, Delightful farmhouse on working farm. Ample off road parking private car park. 14 quality en-suite rooms offer a high degree dating back to 1829, incorporates natural elegance with modern with open countryside views. Refurbished en-suite rooms with of comfort. The delightfully decorated lounge/bar offers easy amenities. All rooms have en-suite, TV, DVD and tea / coffee. comfortable guest lounge and open fire. seating and a selection of chilled beers. Rooms & prices: 16 en-suite rooms, Single, Double and Family rooms. Prices from £30pppn. Orchard House 52 The Old House 56 Homestead House 60 QUALITY IN TOURISM's assessor states 'The Highbury Guest House offers a very high standard of 3 Star Loughborough Road @ 30 Watling Street 5 Ashley Road Hathern Witherley Medbourne accommodation for which the owners are to be Leicestershire Nr Market Harborough commended'. Let’s hope you agree. LE12 5JB t: 01827 715 634 Leics. LE16 8DL t: 01509 842 462 e: [email protected] t: 01858 565 724 f: 01858 565 324 Go to www.thehighburyguesthouse.co.uk for more details www.theoldhousebandb.co.uk e: [email protected] of our facilities and of our convenient location. Rooms & prices: 4 en suite Rooms & prices: Single from £40, www.homesteadhouse.co.uk bedrooms. Single from £30, Twin or Double/Twin from £60, Family from Rooms & prices: 3 en-suite bedrooms. Double from £45. £75. Twin/Double £50, single occupancy £30. Modern family run bed and breakfast. Convenient for Situated in the charming village of Witherley, with easy access Attractive village location in an elevated position overlooking East Midlands Airport, Donington Park and M1 Junction 24. to the midland motorway network. The Old House provides the Welland Valley. All rooms with rural views. Conveniently Off road parking and garage space for motor cycles. comfortable en-suite accommodation and an excellent breakfast. situated to visit many places of interest.

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Honeypot Lane B&B 61 Matchbox Cottage 65 Beckmill Guest House 68 Hillside House 71 32 Honeypot Lane Billesdon 44 Kings Road 27 Melton Road Husbands Bosworth Leicestershire Melton Mowbray Burton Lazars Lutterworth LE17 6LY t: 0116 259 6784 Melton Mowbray LE14 2UR Leicestershire t: 01664 566 312 t: 01858 880 836 e: [email protected] LE13 1QF f: 01664 501 819 e: [email protected] t: 01664 852 881 e: [email protected] www.honeypotlane.co.uk Rooms & prices: Sleeps 2/3 people www.beckmillguest www.hillside-house.co.uk Rooms & prices: Single room £35, from £195-£300 per week. Short house.co.uk Rooms & prices: Double £50, Twin Twin room £60, Double room £55. breaks available (min 2 nights). £46-£50, en suites available, single supp. Lovely friendly family home accommodation in quiet village, great Cosy cottage set in the picturesque village of Billesdon. Within Comfortable converted farm building, views over rolling breakfasts, lovely garden and donkeys! Close to major road and easy reach of Rutland Water, Market Harborough, Melton countryside. Guest’s lounge, use of garden, ample car parking. rail connections. All en-suite rooms with hydromassage showers. Mowbray, Uppingham and Leicester. 10% reduction min 3 nights stay (except for special events).

Rooms & prices: Single £30, Twin/Double £46. Ensuite £52. Single occupancy £32. Hunters Lodge 62 Medbourne Grange 66 The Manners Arms (near Belvoir Castle) 72 Gumley Nevill Holt 6 Croxton Road The guest house is situated in a quiet road with car parking Market Harborough Market Harborough Knipton Leics. LE16 7RT LE16 8EF and within 5 minutes walk of the town centre. Breakfast Nr Grantham t: 0116 279 3744 t: 01858 565 249 menu. Vegetarians catered for. Evening meals on request. NG32 1RH f: 0116 279 3855 f: 01858 565 257 t: 01476 879 222 e: [email protected] m: 07730 956 116 e: [email protected] www.hunterslodgefoxton.co.uk www.medbournegrange.co.uk www.mannersarms.com Rooms & prices: 3 double / twin Rooms & prices: 1 double/family room, en-suite bedrooms from £54, Rooms & prices: From £55 single / 1 twin £54, single occupancy from £35. single occupancy from £32. £80 double. New accommodation in separate wing of country bungalow Farmhouse on working farm. Situated 2 miles outside Medbourne This former hunting lodge is now a delightful 10 bedroom hotel, set amidst open farmland, ideal for families. Short walk from village in beautiful open countryside. Enjoy a delicious breakfast on the Belvoir Estate. Consistently excellent Restaurant & Bar Menus, Foxton Locks. Excellent local pubs. with home cooked preserves. Heated swimming pool in summer. with use of local produce. Large garden, patio and conservatory.

Knaptoft House Farm & the Greenway 63 Ravendale House 67 The Forge 69 The Red House 73 Knaptoft House Farm Fir Tree Lane 2 Granby Lane Main Street Bruntingthorpe Road Swinford Plungar Nether Broughton near Shearsby, Lutterworth NG13 0JJ Leicestershire LE17 6PR Lutterworth Leicester LE14 3HB t: 01949 861 355 t: 0116 247 8388 LE17 6BH t: 01664 822 429 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] www.knaptoft.com t: 01788 860 442 www.plungarforge.com www the-redhouse.co.uk Rooms & prices: 6 rooms (en suite). f: 01788 860 442 Rooms & prices: Sleeps up to 4 5 double/twin ensuite from £60, 1 double from £280 per week. Short breaks Rooms & prices: Double rooms from £56. Single occupancy from £35. e: ravendalehouse@ (3 nights) from £160. from £100 per night. Farmhouse B&B at its best, comfortable, warm and welcoming. Guests btinternet.com Relax in our cosy stable conversion set in the beautiful Vale of A warm welcome awaits in this charming coaching inn, a beautiful sitting room and new garden room. Secluded parking, excellent pubs. Belvoir, close to the Grantham Canal. An ideal location for leisure rural location, award winning restaurant, relaxing bar with tranquil Easy access to motorways, Leicester, University and L.R.O. or business. Easy access to Melton, Grantham and Nottingham. gardens and courtyard. Perfect to discover the Vale of Belvoir. Rooms & prices: Single from £44, twin/double from £28 per person, Family room from £73. Langton Brook Farm 64 • Bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation. Hall Farm 70 Shoby Lodge Farm 74 Langton Road • 2 double / twin / family en-suite rooms. Holwell Shoby Great Bowden • 2 serviced self contained cottages Melton Mowbray near Asfordby Market Harborough Leics. LE16 7EZ High standard, well appointed accommodation located in a Leicestershire LE14 4SZ Melton Mowbray t: 01858 545 730 quiet village surrounded by open countryside with ample on t: 01664 444 275 Leics. LE14 3PF e: [email protected] f: 01664 444 731 www.langtonbrookfarm.com site parking. M1, M6, A14 interchange approximately 1 mile. t: 01664 812 156 Rooms & prices: 2 en-suite bedrooms. Ideal base for many local attractions. Rooms & prices: 2 bedrooms: Rooms & prices: 3 en-suite rooms 1 double, 1 twin / family room from 1 double, 1 twin. Rooms £48, Doubles / twin from £47-£52 £50. Single occupancy from £30. single occupancy £27. Single occupancy from £28-£30. Modern accommodation in private annex adjoining farmhouse Situated in the conservation village of Holwell, a warm and A warm welcome awaits you at this working family farm. Relax in in peaceful countryside. Near to Great Bowden, Market friendly welcome awaits you at this 19th Century ironstone the spacious lounge with open log fire. The comfortable Harborough and Foxton Locks. farmhouse. Open all year. conservatory offers a beautiful view of the garden.

65 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 66 Guest Accommodation

The Lodge 75

@ Scalford Road Self Catering Melton Mowbray Leicestershire LE14 4UB t: 01664 444 205 e: [email protected] www.geocities.com/thelodgebandb

Formally the original Gatehouse and set in the grounds of Scalford Hall (once owned by Colonel Coleman of Mustard fame). Rooms & prices: Bed & Breakfast with 2 rooms from £30 pppn. This Edwardian Lodge is two miles from the market town of Melton Mowbray and half a mile from the attractive village of Scalford. The Lodge boasts self-contained, tastefully decorated accommodation with private guest entrance and staircase. We offer one twin room, one double room, and private guests' shower room and lounge/dinning room. Both rooms are tastefully furnished with period cottage furniture and excellent views of the surrounding countryside. With roaring log fires in the winter and delightful gardens to enjoy in summer. Extensive Breakfast menu and special diets catered for. Nearest No. Establishment Town / City Page 78 Lakeview Lodge Ashby de la Zouch 69 Conifers B&B 76 The Old Rectory 77 79 Normans’ Barn Ashby de la Zouch 69 37 Main Street 4 New Road 80 Upper Rectory Farm Cottages Ashby de la Zouch 69 Whissendine Belton-in-Rutland 81 Ashby Pad Ashby de la Zouch 70 Oakham Oakham 82 Sylvan Ashby de la Zouch 70 Rutland LE15 7ES LE15 9LE 83 Costock Manor Luxury Cottages Loughborough 70 t: 01664 474 141 t: 01572 717 279 84 Oscar House Loughborough 70 m: 07734 351 647 f: 01572 717 343 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] 85 Brook Meadow Holiday Chalets Market Harborough 70 www.conifers.ukgo.com www.theoldrectorybelton.co.uk 86 Elms Farm Market Harborough 70 87 Halstead House Market Harborough 71 88 Shepherds Rest Market Harborough 71 Rooms & prices: 1 double/single, 1 family/twin, Rooms & prices: 6 bedrooms (4 en-suite) B&B from 89 Short Lodge Cottages Market Harborough 71 £26pppn, en-suite from £29pppn. £40 - £60 prpn. Reductions for stays of 3 nights or more. 90 West Langton Lodge Market Harborough 71 Enjoy warm and friendly hospitality in our large modern Victorian country house & guest annexe overlooking 91 Amberley Garden Holiday Annex Melton Mowbray 71 home set in half an acre of landscaped gardens, in the heart rolling Rutland countryside 10 mins from Rutland Water. 92 Eqi Break Holidays Melton Mowbray 71 of the village. Our bedrooms are large and tastefully decorated, whilst being homely and inviting. Continental or full farmhouse breakfasts from 7-8.45am. 93 Eye Kettleby Lakes Melton Mowbray 72 There is a varied breakfast menu, including homemade bread Public House 100yds. 94 Mill House Holidays Melton Mowbray 72 using flour from Whissendine windmill, and other local produce. 95 The Old Wharf Melton Mowbray 72 Whissendine is an ideal base for exploring Oakham, Rutland Water, Stamford, Melton Mowbray and surrounding areas. The layout and design of the accommodation and the range and quality of kitchen equipment is assessed, as There is also an excellent bistro in the village and 2 pubs well as the quality and comfort of the bedrooms and bathrooms, and most importantly, the cleanliness. serving food 7 days a week. Simple, practical, no frills | Well presented and well run | Good level of quality and comfort Excellent standard throughout | Exceptional with a degree of luxury

67 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 68 Self Catering Self Catering

Lakeview Lodge 78 Normans’ Barn 79 Ashby Pad 81 Brook Meadow Holiday Chalets 85 @ Shortheath Water Ingles Hill Farm 3 Lower Church Street @ Welford Road, Shortheath Road Burton Road Ashby de la Zouch Sibbertoft Leicestershire Moira Ashby de la Zouch Market Harborough Swadlincote LE65 1AB Leicestershire t: 01530 560 541 Leicestershire DE12 6BN LE65 2TE LE16 9UJ t: 01283 763 611 t: 01530 412 224 Rooms & prices: 2 rooms sleeps 4, from £60 per night. t: 01858 880 886 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] f: 01858 880 485 www.normansbarn.co.uk Luxury contemporary apartment with stunning views of historic e: [email protected] market town at centre of the National Forest. www.brookmeadow.co.uk

Rooms & prices: Sleeps 4 + 2, 1 double en-suite, 1 twin. Rooms & prices: Sleeps 2-5 prices from £250 pw. Rooms & prices: Chalet 1 and 2 sleep 3 +1 £300 - £450 per week. Phone for short breaks. Chalet 3 sleeps 4 +2. From £180 - £490 per week. Luxurious new barn conversion set in 130 acres of park and Sylvan 82 Lakeview lodge offers superior self catering accommodation woodland on a working farm. Wonderful sunsets, good carp fishing, peace and quiet. Enjoy perfectly situated overlooking a fishing lake, creating a haven 6 Bath Lane, Moira 2 en-suite bedrooms (1 ground floor). Vaulted lounge / dining watching the birds and wildlife while staying at the heart of of peace and tranquillity. Private garden & parking. Centrally C/o Mrs D E Gasson room featuring minstrel's gallery. Fully equipped kitchen. our farm in one of our self-catering chalets. We have 2 located for business and pleasure, 3 miles from historical 13 Babelake Street, Packington Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1WD chalets that each sleep 3 +1 and 1 that sleeps 4 +2 in Ashby-de-la-Zouch and within 1 mile of National Forest Visitor 1 mile from Ashby. Close to Calke Abbey, Kedleston and t: 01530 412 012 Centre/ Conkers, Moira Furnace, Canal & Trails. Easy access to Sudbury Halls, Conkers, Ski Slope, Derbyshire, Leicester, e: [email protected] luxurious comfort. Family run business. Colour brochure A42/M1, NEC, Donington Racetrack & Airports. Nottingham, NEC, Donington Circuit and Airports. Rooms & prices: 2 bedrooms sleeping available. Awarded by Winalot “The most pet friendly place up to 4/5 people £205 - £295 per On Site: A well stocked 24 peg fishing lake & family run to stay in the Midlands 2004”. There is also a delightfully landscaped caravan club week. Short Breaks: From £62. licensed tearoom, serving breakfasts, homemade lunches and certificated location on the farm (see page 74). Sunday lunch. Please ring for further information. Comfortable detached bungalow near to the National Forest Lakeside Visitor Centre and Conkers. Close to historic Moira Furnace, museum and Canal, local walks and trails. Brochure available.

Upper Rectory Farm Cottages 80 Costock Manor Luxury Cottages 83 Elms Farm 86 Road The Manor, Church Lane Arnesby Road Costock, Loughborough Fleckney Appleby Magna Leicestershire LE12 6UZ Leicestershire DE12 7AJ t: 01509 852 250 f: 01509 853 337 LE8 8AQ t: 01827 880 448 e: [email protected] t: 0116 240 2238 www.luxury-cottages.com f: 01827 830 621 e: [email protected] Rooms & prices: 3 units sleeping 3 to e: [email protected] 5 people. From £270-£580 per week. www.elms-farm.co.uk www.upperrectoryfarmcottages.co.uk Luxury Period Cottages within walled grounds of 13th Century Costock Manor. Tennis, Swimming, Leisure facility, on-line computer. Nottingham 9 miles, Loughborough 6 miles. Rooms & prices: Cottage 1 double £170-£225 per week. Lodge 1 double, 1 twin £250-£450 per week. Oscar House 84 Our comfortable, well equipped cottage will be joined by a 8 Hathern Road modern timber lodge from Easter. The original granaries, stabling and cowsheds of this working arable farm have Rooms & prices: 2 – 8 people per unit Attached to the farmhouse of our working farm, the cottage been beautifully converted to create a haven of peace and tranquillity amid the £300-£970 per week. Leicestershire LE12 5DD comprises a large farmhouse kitchen/diner, lounge, double wheatfields of N.W. Leicestershire. En-suite facilities throughout, splendid t: 01509 842 529 bedroom, dressing room, shower room and conservatory. e: [email protected] panoramic views, lovely old oak beams, luxurious yet homely atmosphere – www.oscarhouse.co.uk The lodge combines generous living space with two bedrooms and a warm welcome! Ideal for holidays or business. Wireless internet. (double and twin), integrated kitchen/diner, bathroom with Rooms & prices: Sleeps 5 £490 per week. shower and French doors leading onto a veranda. Open all year. Colour brochure available. Leicestershire Record Bronze Award Excellent located property situated in quaint village with superb Office, Leicester and Gliding Centre all within easy reach. Self Catering facilities and private rear garden. Close to East Midlands Airport, Donington Park and Loughborough Uni.

69 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 70 Self Catering Self Catering

Halstead House Cottage 87 Amberley Gardens Holiday Annex 91 Eye Kettleby Lakes 93 Mill House Holiday Cottages 94 Tilton on the Hill 4 Church Lane Eye Kettleby Old Mill House Leicestershire Asfordby Melton Mowbray Branston Road, Eaton t: 0116 259 7239 Grantham NG32 1EU Melton Mowbray Leics t: 01476 870 797 e: [email protected] Leicestershire LE14 2TD e: [email protected] www.halsteadhousefarm.co.uk LE14 3RU t: 01664 565 900 www.millhouseholidaycottages.co.uk Rooms & prices: Sleeps up to 8 t: 01664 812 314 e: [email protected] from £395 per week. Short breaks Rooms & prices: £245-£500 per available, minimum 2 nights. e: bruce@amberley www.eyekettlebylakes.com week. gardens.net Situated in beautiful 30 acre valley setting. 3 single story barn Relax in this beautiful Ironstone cottage, set in a rural location on a www.amberleygardens.net conversions, inglenook fireplaces with woodburners next to working farm with fantastic views. Within easy reach of Uppingham, rippling stream, ideal for walkers, birdwatchers fishing at Belvoir Oakham, Melton, Market Harborough, Leicester and Rutland Water. Castle 5 min away. Ideal for all your holiday and business trips.

Rooms & prices: 1 double bedroom plus single put-up bed Rooms & prices: 8 lodges, 7 sleeping up to 6 and 1 in lounge if required. £175 - £225 per week. sleeping up to 8. Week from £300 to £590. Short Breaks Shepherds Rest 88 from £210 to £440, 3 nights. The Old Wharf 95 In conservation area – acre of idyllic floodlit lawns and Manor Farm c/o Grange Farm Relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Eye Back Lane gardens to the river’s edge. Self contained, lounge, dining Plungar Burton Overy conservatory, double bedroom, bathroom, WC and shower, Kettleby Lakes, our luxury log cabins are set around your NG13 0JJ own private fishing lake with fantastic views over the t: 01949 860 630 Leicester kitchen-diner, gas cooker, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, e: [email protected] LE8 9DE freezer and washing machine. Ample parking. Price includes Leicestershire countryside. Each lodge has its own private www.oldwharf.co.uk t: 0116 259 2332 heating, lighting, bed linen and towels. outdoor hot tub and everything you require for a relaxing Rooms & prices: 3 rooms, 2 double, Rooms & prices: Sleeps 2/3 from En suite Bed & Breakfast from £23 also available in break. 1 twin, 2 bathrooms. Prices from £200-£250 per week. £295-£500 per week. Set on a working farm in conservation village. This cosy one bed this delightful setting. Award winning cottage on the banks of the Grantham Canal in cottage has been newly converted. Ideal for walking and bird the Vale of Belvoir. Beautifully restored cottage watching. With easy access to Leicester and Market Harborough. has every amenity for relaxing country breaks. Self Catering Best Leicestershire Holiday of the Year Visitor Accommodation Award 2003 2002/2003 Silver Winner

Short Lodge Cottages 89 Eqi Break Holidays 92 Short Lodge 61 Main Road Feedback Arthingworth Kirby Bellars Market Harborough Melton Mowbray Leicestershire t: 01664 813 701 We are committed to improving the quality of e: [email protected] LE16 8LB www.equine-emporium.co.uk your visit to Leicestershire and Rutland. Your t: 01858 525 323 Rooms & prices: Sleeps 2 plus. feedback will help us continue to improve services Rooms & prices: Sleeps up to 5 £276.50 per week per person for visitors to the area so if you have a comment people. From £340-£450 per week. negotiable. Cosy 3 bedroom Victorian mews cottages. Secluded location. Eqi Break Holidays bring your own horse or we supply one, tailor about any aspect of your stay, please let us know Enjoy rural views and countryside access, patio area. Open all made holidays for equine pursuits or just relax in beautiful Kirby by emailing year. Jct A508 / A14 3 miles. Bellars countryside. Ring 01664 813 701 for full details or view www.equine-emporium.co.uk. [email protected] and telling us about your experience. Coming summer 2007 West Langton Lodge 90 The National Forest However, if you are not completely satisfied Melton Road @ with your accommodation, please write to: Youth Hostel East Langton more than you imagine Leics LE16 7TG For Enjoy England rating: venues • meeting places • conferences • hospitality • corporate action t: 01858 545 450 Quality in Tourism, Farncombe House, t: 0870 770 8868 e: [email protected] Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7LJ www.westlangtonlodge.co.uk Rooms & prices: Sleeps up to 4 from For AA rating: e: [email protected] £50 per night. Short breaks negotiable The AA, 15th Floor, Fanum House, Comfortable, well equipped stable conversion in courtyard. Near to Market Harborough. Ideal for business or pleasure. Set in the than you think Basing View, Basingstoke RG21 4EA www.yha.org.uk beautiful South Leicestershire countryside. closer www.goleicestershire.com/conferences t: 0116 299 6666

71 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 72 Caravan & Camping

Whetstone Gorse Touring Caravan Site 96 Bosworth Water Trust 99 Caravan & Camping Whetstone Gorse East Far Coton Lane Whetstone Gorse Lane Market Bosworth Whetstone CV13 6PD Leicestershire On B585 west of the town. t: 01455 291 876 LE8 6LX Prices: Pitches 40 tent 56 caravan. t: 0116 277 3796 Prices from £12 low season and from www.whetstonegorse.co.uk £14 high season. Beautiful 50 acre family run leisure park with Sailing lake, fishing Listed by & campsite, situated in the historic town of Market Bosworth. Restaurant/café with licensed bar, Crazy golf and children's play area with man made beach. Prices: Mon-Thurs £8 / night, Fri-Sun £10 / night. Whole week £60. Awning £1 / night extra. Wolvey Caravan & Camping Park 100 Whetstone Gorse Caravan site is accessed via the Villa Farm, Wolvey Countesthorpe to Willoughby road. It stands in beautiful Hinckley Leicestershire countryside with lovely views and yet only 6 Leicestershire miles from Leicester city centre. We are open all year round LE10 3HF and have 10 hard pitches and 10 on the grass from Easter. t: 01455 220 493 / 220 630 www.wolveycaravanpark.itgo.com There are good toilet facilities and shower room. Booking advisable. New shower room with toilet for the disabled Prices: Caravans from £11 per night. and laundry facilities now on site. Tents from £8.50 per night. A quiet site situated on the borders of Warwickshire and Leicestershire, ideal to explore the many places of interest in the Midlands. No twin axles.

Ingles Hill Holidays 97 Crossways Farm Caravan Site 101 Ingles Hill Farm, Burton Road Crossways Farm Ashby de la Zouch Lutterworth Road Leics. LE65 2TE t: 01530 412 224 Burbage, Hinckley e: [email protected] LE10 3AH www.ingleshillcaravansite.co.uk t: 01455 239 261 Rooms & prices: 5 – 20 pitches: e: [email protected] From £6 per night. No. Establishment Nearest Market Town/City Page www.crossways-holidays.com 96 Whetstone Gorse Touring Caravan Site Leicester 74 Landscaped site with 5 hardstandings, overlooking ‘Ivanhoe’s Valley’. Ashby 1 mile. Easily accessible to Calke Abbey, ski 97 Ingles Hill Holidays Ashby de la Zouch 74 slope, NEC. Small rally site for tents etc. (see page 69) 98 Lower Grange Farm Coalville 74 Prices: Tents: 20 pitches from £10 per night. 99 Bosworth Water Trust Market Bosworth 74 Caravans: 20 pitches from £10 per night. 100 Wolvey Caravan and Camping Park Hinckley 74 Lower Grange Farm 98 Crossways Farm Caravan site is the ideal base for touring 101 Crossways Farm Caravan Site Hinckley 74 Grange Road the shires of Middle England. Located in the tranquil open 102 Brook Meadow Campsite Market Harborough 75 Coalville LE67 2BT countryside within walking distance of the village of Burbage, 103 Greendale Farm Park Oakham 75 t: 01530 838 074 which has a range of facilities. The site is adjacent to public e: [email protected] footpaths and coarse fishing by day ticket, golf, riding, bowls 104 The Old Rectory Oakham 75 http://hometown.aol.co.uk/lowergrange/ myhomepage/business.html are in the vicinity. This licensed site has pitches with or Prices: Tent: 20 pitches from £5 per night. without electric. Toilets and shower family units on site. Caravans: 5 pitches from £8 per night. Crossways is wildlife friendly. Please enquire about our These properties are assessed on the overall quality of the Holiday, Touring or Camping park. Peaceful site with excellent views, numerous wildlife, small pets holiday cottages in the area. Simple, practical, no frills | Well presented and well run | Good level of quality and comfort area, lovely brook, well situated, walking, many tourist attractions. 5 mins Junction 22 M1 and 10 mins junction 13 A42. Excellent standard throughout | Exceptional with a degree of luxury

73 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 74 Caravan & Camping Brook Meadow Campsite 102 The Old Rectory 104 WIN A FABULOUS Welford Road, Sibbertoft Belton-in-Rutland Market Harborough Oakham Leics. LE16 9UJ t: 01858 880 886 Rutland family weekend break! f: 01858 880 485 LE15 9LE e: [email protected] www.brookmeadow.co.uk t: 01572 717 279 To help us develop and improve Leicester and Leicestershire for the enjoyment of all our f: 01572 717 343 Prices: 20 pitches £9-£11 per night. visitors, we would be grateful if you could complete and return this form or go to e: [email protected] Level mown grass site beside five acre lake. Carp and tench fishing available for visitors. Pets welcome with access to farm www.goleicestershire.com and complete online. walks. Advanced booking required.

Rooms & prices: 15 tents / 5 caravans. Prices from £6pn. Q1. How did you obtain a copy of this Q2. Which, if any, describes the reason why brochure? you obtained this brochure? We are a small family run concern offering farmhouse B&B, Greendale Farm Park 103 Tourist Information Centre To decide between different destinations self catering accommodation as well as hideaway camping & Pickwell Lane, Whissendine, Called Leicestershire Tourist Information Line To book holiday accommodation caravanning site. The small top field is reserved for C&CC Oakham, Rutland LE15 7LB Exhibition / show To decide on places to visit and things to do t/f: 01664 474 516 members only - non members may stay for a limited period Responded to an advert e: [email protected] in the lower rally field or you can join the C&CC here (or Ordered from goleicestershire website Q3. What is your Postcode? www.rutlandgreendale.co.uk tel 0845 130 7631 to call them directly). Facilities include Other (please state) Pitches: 15 Pitches (caravans & tents.) Mains water; toilets; electric hook-up; shower; & chemical Prices £14 - £17 includes electricity. disposal. Village Pub approx 200yds. Pre booking is required; Open after easter to Oct 1st. dogs by prior arrangement only. Q4. How would you rate the following aspects of this brochure? Beautiful, rural, exclusively adult site. Small & quiet with fantastic facilities. Ideal for walking, cycling, birdwatching or relaxing. Good food in village. David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award & East Excellent Good OK Average Poor Midlands Tourism, England in Excellence, Gold Award winner. a. Relevance to your request b. Ease of use c. Introductory pages Enjoy England Excellence Awards d. Range of accommodation e. Range of things to do / events The Enjoy England Excellence Awards acknowledge f. Front cover the achievements of tourism businesses that have g. Maps worked hard to deliver exceptional visitor service. h. Quality and design of brochure 2006 winners in Leicestershire: Kilworth House Hotel Please add any comments for improving the content or style of the guide Small Hotel Gold Award - Kilworth House Hotel Self Catering Holiday Bronze Award - Upper Rectory Farm Cottages Q5. Do you live in Leicestershire? Q8. What will be the main purpose of your Yes (answer Q11 onwards) No visit? Bed & Breakfast Holiday (4+ nights) Silver Award - The Grange Courtyard Q6. Has this guide helped to persuade you Short break (1-3 nights) The Grange Courtyard Camping Holiday Park to visit Leicestershire? Day visit (answer Q10 onwards) Gold Award - Greendale Farm Park Yes No Business Marketing Excellence Visiting friends / relations Bronze Award - Kilworth House Hotel Q7. When do you plan to visit? Special event Spring (March, April, May) Outstanding Customer Service Other (please specify) Summer (June, July, August) Silver Award - Best Western Premier Yew Lodge Autumn (September, October, November) Best Tourism Website Winter (December, January, February) Gold Award - Kilworth House Hotel Upper Rectory Farm Cottages

75 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 76 Win a fabulous family weekend break

Q9. What type of accommodation do you Q12. What do you enjoy doing when away Leicestershire plan to stay in? from home? Hotel Food and drink Guesthouse / farmhouse / B&B Shopping & Rutland Tourist Self catering History and heritage Friends / relations Art and culture Caravan / camping Countryside Information Centres Other (please specify) Sports Family Leicester Tourist Information Centre Festivals and events Leicester Tourist Information Centre Q10. How many nights do you plan to stay? Taste of Asia 7-9 Every Street, Town Hall Square, Leicester LE1 6AG t: 0906 294 1113* About you e: [email protected] Please tick your age range: Gold Winner Q11. Including yourself, how many adults and 18-24 25-34 35-44 Market Harborough children will be in your group? 45-54 55-65 Over 65 Bronze Tourist Information Winner Are you male or female? Adults: Children: Adam & Eve Street, Market Harborough Male Female Ashby Community Leicestershire LE16 7LT & Tourist Information t: 01858 82 82 82 Town Hall Square, Leicester North Street e: [email protected] Tick the box to join our mailing list and let us keep you posted about Ashby de le Zouch exciting new events, special offers and great short break deals. Leicestershire LE65 1HU Hinckley Tourist t: 01530 411 767 Information Centre Tick the box if you wish to enter the prize draw only. e: [email protected] Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road Please let us have your details: Please return your completed form (no stamp required) Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 0AT Loughborough Visitor Email: to: Go Leicestershire Survey t: 01455 635 106 Leicester Shire Promotions Service Centre e: [email protected] Name: FREEPOST LE 6249 Town Hall, Market Place Address: Leicester LE1 7ZP Loughborough Rutland County Museum Leicestershire LE11 3EB & Visitor Centre All returned questionnaires will be entered into the draw, t: 01509 218 113 Oakham which will take place on 30 November 2007. You must be e: loughborough@ Rutland LE15 6HW over 18 to enter. The decision of Leicester Shire Promotions is final and no correspondence will be entered into. goleicestershire.com t: 01572 758 441 Postcode: e: [email protected] The weekend is for up to two adults and two Melton Tourist This mailing list is only used by Leicester Shire children and must be booked in advance, subject to Information Centre Rutland Water Tourist Promotions and their partners. availability on that date. 7 King Street Information Centre Melton Mowbray Sykes Lane Car Park, Empingham Once you have been to Leicestershire you’re sure to want to visit again. Leicestershire LE13 1XA Oakham, Rutland LE15 8PX Why not share the fun with your friends and family by sending them a free t: 01664 480 992 t: 01572 653 026 copy of this guide and give them the opportunity to enter the prize draw. e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Please provide their details below: Large print format also available. Email: Email: Please call 0116 225 4000 for details. Name: Name: This brochure is the official tourism guide for Photography - With thanks to Roger Rixon Guides for local attractions Address: Address: Leicester and Leicestershire and was produced at Leicestershire County Council; Andy Ward by Leicester Shire Promotions Limited. at Creative Link Solutions; Neville Chadwick Photography; Richard Adams; Stuart Hollis; * Calls cost 25p per minute. The All information was believed to be correct at the Leicestershire Information Line is time of going to press. Leicester Shire Promotions John Oakley; Atkinson Design Associates; cannot accept liability for inaccuracies, omissions Leicester Mercury; Christopher Beech at open Monday - Friday 9am-9pm, or subsequent alterations in information supplied. The National Forest; Lesley Hextall; Smug Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm. Photographics; Shakir Cadir at Iways and You are advised to check opening times, prices, It is closed Christmas Day, Boxing Postcode: Postcode: etc with establishments before your visit. David Morris. Day and New Years Day.

77 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 78 Leicester City Map Getting to Leicestershire 6

Leicestershire lies at the heart of England in the East Midlands. With excellent road, rail and air links, it is one of the easiest places to reach from all parts of the UK and mainland Europe.

By Car By Coach The M1 motorway passes right National Express offers coach services through Leicestershire, with junctions to Leicester, with direct services from 19-24 providing good access to the London taking just under three hours. county (see the map on the back Ashby de la Zouch, Coalville, 43 42 pages). The M69, M6 and M42 also Kegworth, Market Harborough, 87 offer easy access from Birmingham, Loughborough, and East Midlands 62 Wales and the south-west. The journey Airport are also served by National 82 time by car from London is two hours, Express. For further information visit 8 Birmingham is one hour and www.nationalexpress.com or call 28 Manchester is just over two hours. 08705 80 80 80. 38 By Train By Air Leicester is on the Midland Mainline Travellers from around Europe and 44 network from London St Pancras the UK can fly direct to East Midlands which provides regular, high speed Airport. Leicester is only 30 minutes 10 services from the capital. Direct trains away from the airport, and with direct from London take around 75 minutes. bus services and connecting trains into In 2007 St Pancras will become the the city and many of the neighbouring home of the Eurostar service with towns, getting from the airport to the launch of the High Speed 1 your destination has never been easier. service. This will ensure that travellers For more information on flights to from mainland Europe will be able to Leicestershire visit 39 reach Leicestershire easily. www.eastmidlandsairport.com or 1 call 0871 919 9000. Leicestershire is Central Trains also provide services also within easy reach of other airports from Birmingham and London including Birmingham International, Stansted Airport. Market Harborough, London Luton and London Stansted. Loughborough, Melton Mowbray and Hinckley all have railway stations Local Travel ensuring you can travel to all parts For information on bus services of the county with ease. The nearest throughout Leicester and station to Ashby de la Zouch and Leicestershire, including Park & Ride Coalville is Loughborough. services for the city, call Traveline on 0870 6082 608 or visit For further information on train travel www.traveline.org.uk. visit www.nationalrailenquiries.com or call 08457 48 49 50. Key overleaf

79 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 80 Places to Go Key Where to Stay Key

Family Days Out p19 30 D4 EcoHouse 62 D4 Leicester Cathedral Hotels p52 32 D4 The Squirrels 72 F2 The Manners Arms 1 A3 Conkers 31 B3 Ashby de la Zouch Museum 63 C3&D4 Great Central Railway 1 D4/5 Best Western Belmont 33 D5 Stoneycroft Hotel 73 E2 The Red House House Hotel 2 B3 Snibston Discovery Park 32 C3 Charnwood Museum 64 C3 Loughborough Parish Church 34 A4 The Appleby Inn 74 E3 Shoby Lodge Farm 2 B5 Best Western Sketchley 3 E3 Twinlakes Park 33 E6 Harborough Museum Waterways p38 35 B4 Church Lane Farm House 75 E3 The Lodge Grange Hotel 4 D4 National Space Centre 34 B5 Hinckley & District Museum 65 B5 Ashby Boat Company 36 A3 The Cedars 76 F3/4 Conifers B&B 3 C2 Best Western Premier Yew 37 B3 The Clockmaker’s House 77 F5 The Old Rectory 5 G4 Butterfly Farm & Aquatic 35 C2 Kegworth Museum 66 D3 Sileby Mill Boatyard Lodge Hotel Centre Mini Beast Zoo 38 B3 Hillfield House Self Catering p68 36 E3 Melton Carnegie Museum 67 B5 The Ashby Trip 4 E6 Best Western Three Swans 6 D3 Stonehurst Family Farm 37 F4 Rutland County Museum 68 G4 Rutland Water Hotel 39 B3 The Hollybush Inn 78 A3 Lakeview Lodge & Motor Museum 38 D4 City Gallery 69 G4 Rutland Belle 5 C6 Best Western Ullesthorpe 40 B3 Lady Gate Guest House 79 A3 Normans’ Barn 7 D5 Wistow Maze Court Hotel 39 D4 New Walk Museum 70 G4 Rutland Cycling 41 A4 Measham House 80 A4 Upper Rectory 8 A4 Twycross Zoo & Art Gallery 6 D4 Campanile Farm Cottages 71 E6 Foxton Canal Museum 42 B3 The Queen’s Head 81 A3/B3 Ashby Pad 9 C4 Redgate Farm Animal 40 D4 Abbey Pumping Station 7 C5 Leicester Marriott Hotel 43 B3 Royal Oak House 72 A3 Shortheath Water Fishery Sanctuary 82 A3 Sylvan 41 D4 Belgrave Hall Museum 8 D4 Ibis Hotel 44 B3 Underhill Cottage 73 B5 Bosworth Water Trust 10 D4/A3/C3/B6/E3/E6/F4 & Gardens 83 D2 Costock Manor 9 D5 The Regency 45 C3 The De Montfort Open Top Bus Tours Places to Shop & Eat p40 Luxury Cottages 42 D4 The Guildhall 10 D5 Westfield House Hotel 46 C3 The Grange Courtyard 11 C4 Gorse Hill City Farm 74 A3 Lakeside Tearoom 84 C3 Oscar House 43 D4 Jewry Wall Museum 11 B3 Ashby de la Zouch 47 C3 Holywell House 12 C4/5 Tropical Birdland 75 C4 Gibson’s Grey Lady Premier Travel Inn 85 E6 Brook Meadow 44 D4 Newarke Houses Museum Restaurant 48 C3 Highbury Guest House Holiday Chalets Gardens, Parks & Gardens 12 A4/B4 Champneys Springs & Nature p26 76 E2 On The Sands Café & Deli 49 C4 Horseshoe Cottage Farm 86 D5 Elms Farm 45 C3 Bellfoundry Museum 13 B2 Donington Manor Hotel 13 D5 Brocks Hill Country Park 77 B4 The Cattows Farm Shop 50 C3 Leys Guest House 87 E4 Halstead House 46 D5 Wigston Framework Knitters 14 A4 Ramada Birmingham East & Visitor Centre & Tearoom Museum Hotel 51 D3 The Mountsorrel 88 E5 Shepherds Rest 14 D5 Wistow Rural Centre 78 E3 Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe 47 C5 Abbeyfield Studios 15 A3 The Royal Hotel 52 C3 Orchard House 89 E7 Short Lodge Cottages 15 G5 Art Dejardin, Sculpture & The Sausage Shop The Mews Gallery 16 B2 Thistle East Midlands Airport 53 B5 Bed & Breakfast at Vale Farm 90 E5/6 West Langton Lodge Garden 79 E3 Brockleby’s Farm Shop 48 E6 Market Harborough U3A 17 A3 Fallen Knight Hotel 54 B5 Bosworth Accommodation 91 E3 Amberley Garden 16 F4 Gates Nurseries Garden 80 E3 Melton Cheeseboard Millennium Tapestry & Restaurant Holiday Annex Centre 55 B5 Burbage Guest House History & Heritage p34 81 F4 The Flower Barn 18 C3 Quality Hotel 92 E3 Eqi Break Holidays 17 B5 Woodlands Nurseries 56 A5 The Old House 49 B5 Bosworth Battlefield Heritage 82 D4 Leicester Tourist 19 C2 The Kegworth Whitehouse 93 E3 Eye Kettleby Lakes 18 G4 Barnsdale Gardens 57 B5 Top House Farm Centre & Country Park Information Centre Hotel 58 B5 Upton Barn 94 F2 Mill House Holidays 19 E3 Grange Garden Centre 50 F2 Belvoir Castle 83 B5 Michaelmas House 20 C3 The Quorn Country Hotel 59 D6 Croft Farm 95 E2 The Old Wharf 20 C4 Bradgate Country Park 51 F6 Rockingham Castle 84 B3 Ferrers Centre 21 C3 Ramada Loughborough 60 F5/6 Homestead House Caravan & Camping p73 21 C3 Beacon Hill Country Park 52 B2 Calke Abbey 85 B5 Whitemoors Antiques Hotel 96 C5 Whetstone Gorse & Craft Centre 61 D6 Honeypot Lane B&B 22 E4 Burrough Hill Country Park 53 B3 Ashby de la Zouch Castle 22 C3 Quorn Grange Hotel Touring Caravan Site 86 D3 Wymeswold Country 62 E6 Hunters Lodge 23 D4 Watermead Country Park 54 F5 Lyddington Bede House 23 C5 Comfort Inn Hinckley North 97 A3 Ingles Hill Holidays Furniture 63 D6 Knaptoft House Farm 24 E3 Equine-Emporium 55 B4 Donington le Heath 24 B6 Paramount Hinckley Island 98 B4 Lower Grange Farm 87 D4 Leicester Markets & The Greenway Manor House Hotel 25 D5 Botanic Garden 64 E6 Langton Brook Farm 99 B5 Bosworth Water Trust 88 E3 Melton Mowbray Market 25 D6 Kilworth House Hotel 56 D7 Stanford Hall 26 D3 Hazel Kaye’s Garden 65 E5 Matchbox Cottage 10 0 B6 Wolvey Caravan 89 C3 Charnwood Borough 26 E3 Sysonby Knoll Hotel & Nursery 57 F4 Oakham Castle & Camping Park Markets & Fairs 66 F5 Medbourne Grange Guest Accommodation p59 27 C4 The Fuchsia Centre 58 C3 Carillon & War Memorial 10 1 B6/C6 Crossways Farm Entertainment p44 67 D7 Ravendale House Thornton Nurseries 27 D4 Abinger Guest House Caravan Site 59 F3 Wymondham Windmill 90 D4 Peepul Centre 68 E3 Beckmill Guest House 28 C3 Long Close Gardens 28 D4 Castle Park 10 2 E6 Brook Meadow Campsite 60 A3 Moira Furnace 91 H4 Stamford Shakespeare 69 E2 The Forge Museums & Galleries p30 29 D4 Aaron Lodge 10 3 F3/4 Greendale Farm Park 61 B4/5 The Battlefield Line Festival 2007 70 E3 Hall Farm 29 D5 Gas Museum Railway 30 D4 Glenfield Lodge 10 4 F5 The Old Rectory 71 F3 Hillside House 31 D4 Haynes Hotel 81 www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com 82 UK Map

Key to Symbols

Lots Of Things To Do

Accommodation

Motorway & junction Main roads Secondary roads Minor roads (selected) Railway & passenger station Preserved railway & passenger station Canal River, lake or reservoir Built-up area Park & woods Boundary of The National Forest County boundary

For a detailed Leicester city map turn to page 80. www.goleicestershire.com 83