Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park
Historic iron furnace, museum, and country park offering canal rides, woodland walks, and community events. Free parking!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Events and lively atmosphere
Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park
Best Time
Events and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic iron furnace, museum, and country park offering canal rides, woodland walks, and community events. Free parking!
"A great little museum and country park in one, with free parking and modest charges!"
Check Boat Schedules First
Canal boat rides are popular! Confirm operating times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Plenty of lovely spots for a picnic amidst nature. Enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moira Furnace Museum
Main building
Discover the rich history of iron making and local social heritage. A fascinating glimpse into the past.
Canal Boat Rides
Canal adjacent to the museum
Glide along the scenic canal on a charming narrowboat. A relaxing way to see the park from a different perspective.
Woodland Walks
Country Park trails
Wander through peaceful woodlands, perfect for a stroll or a family picnic. Enjoy the natural beauty.
Artisan & Community Events
Various locations within the park
Experience local craft markets, car shows, and seasonal events. Check the schedule for unique happenings.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Parking & Modest Fees
Explore Diverse Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Boat Schedules First
Canal boat rides are popular! Confirm operating times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Plenty of lovely spots for a picnic amidst nature. Enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Explore the Artisan Hub
Discover unique crafts and local produce from talented artisans. Great for souvenirs!
Dog-Friendly Museum
Bring your furry friends along! The museum welcomes dogs, making it a great outing for all.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Boat Schedules First
Canal boat rides are popular! Confirm operating times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Pack a Picnic Basket
Plenty of lovely spots for a picnic amidst nature. Enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Explore the Artisan Hub
Discover unique crafts and local produce from talented artisans. Great for souvenirs!
Dog-Friendly Museum
Bring your furry friends along! The museum welcomes dogs, making it a great outing for all.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, from museum floors to woodland paths.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Moira Furnace for its blend of history, nature, and community events, highlighting the free parking and modest fees as great value. The canal boat rides and woodland walks are frequently mentioned as enjoyable activities, though some note the museum might be under renovation at times. Overall, it's considered a lovely, affordable day out for families and individuals alike.
"It was a lovely sunny weekend day in March. We entered the car park and quickly found the entrance to the park. The museum itself was under renovation so we didn’t visit. We took a walk on the path adjacent to the river. Highly recommended."
Jeff Frankling
"Very interesting place with a selection of things to see and experience. Cheap entrance fee and beautiful site.
Several artisan workshops, canal walk and teashop."
Michael Lees
"Great venue for an evening car show, cars at the furnace, plenty of parking and an organized entrance. Toilet facilities available. Great atmosphere and vibe, Nice place for walks and photos."
Imran Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moira Furnace is located in Moira, near Swadlincote. It's accessible by car with ample free parking available.
Yes, there is free parking available at Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park. Donations are welcomed.
The park is generally pushchair friendly, and paths are often accessible. The museum's accessibility may vary, so it's best to check directly if you have specific needs.
The nearest towns include Swadlincote, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, and Coalville. These towns offer additional amenities and attractions.
The park and surrounding areas offer pleasant cycling routes, especially along the canal towpath.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the country park itself is generally free, with free parking. There are modest charges for specific attractions like the museum and canal boat rides.
The canal boat rides have a modest charge. It's recommended to check the current schedule and prices directly with the venue before your visit.
Yes, Moira Furnace Museum is dog-friendly, making it a great place to visit with your pets.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the museum and boat rides. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, for specific events or canal boat rides, it might be advisable to book ahead, especially during peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the iron-making museum, take a canal boat ride, enjoy woodland walks, have a picnic, and visit artisan workshops. The park also hosts various community events.
Yes, there is a cafe at Moira Furnace where you can enjoy coffee, cake, and light refreshments.
Toilet facilities are available on-site for visitors.
Moira Furnace hosts a variety of events, including car shows, Halloween spooktaculars, woodland festivals, and craft markets.
Absolutely! The historic furnace, canal, woodlands, and events provide many picturesque opportunities for photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic iron furnace itself, the narrowboats on the canal, the scenic woodland paths, and the vibrant community events all offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with the venue management or local authorities regarding drone operation policies before flying.
Yes, events like car shows and festivals create dynamic and colorful scenes perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, especially in the park and woodland areas.
Yes, capturing the narrowboats on the water adds a unique element to your photos. Consider different angles from the towpath.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The canal boat rides are usually a hit with children, providing a fun and memorable experience. While the museum delves into history, it's presented in an engaging way that can spark curiosity in younger visitors. The dog-friendly policy also means families can bring their pets along for the adventure.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts
Visitors can expect to see impressive displays of automotive passion, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts, and often find food and drink vendors on-site. It's a great opportunity to admire unique cars and connect with the local car scene.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers
It's an ideal location for a leisurely walk, bird watching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors. The well-maintained trails make it accessible for most fitness levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Industrial Heritage
Beyond the museum, the very landscape of the country park tells a story of industrial activity. Exploring the old workings and understanding the context of the furnace provides a richer appreciation for the site. It’s a place where history is not just read about but can be felt and observed in the surroundings.
For those interested in industrial archaeology or local history, Moira Furnace provides a fascinating and accessible experience. It’s a reminder of the hard work and innovation that shaped the area.
Nature and Recreation by the Canal
A key feature is the canal, which runs alongside the park. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the towpath, and for a unique perspective, canal boat rides are available. These rides offer a tranquil journey, allowing you to appreciate the waterways and the surrounding flora and fauna.
With ample space for picnics and the dog-friendly nature of the museum and park, Moira Furnace is an ideal destination for a relaxed day out in nature. It’s a place where history and natural beauty harmoniously coexist.
Community Hub and Vibrant Events
+2These events add a dynamic layer to the visitor experience, offering opportunities to engage with local culture, discover artisan products, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. The presence of local businesses, such as distilleries and craft studios, further enhances the community feel.
+1Whether you're attending a specific event or just visiting on a regular day, you'll likely encounter friendly volunteers and a welcoming environment. This community spirit is a significant part of what makes Moira Furnace a special place to visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit