Bradgate Park
Vast 830-acre parkland with roaming deer, historic ruins, and stunning hilltop views. A true Leicestershire gem for nature lovers and history buffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bradgate Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast 830-acre parkland with roaming deer, historic ruins, and stunning hilltop views. A true Leicestershire gem for nature lovers and history buffs.
"An incredible place! Visit the ruins and gardens, hike the hills for panoramic views, and see deer and peacocks wander freely."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and hilly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic meal amidst nature. Cafes are available, but a picnic offers more flexibility.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deer and Peacocks
Witness majestic fallow deer and vibrant peacocks roaming freely across the park's expansive grounds.
Bradgate House Ruins
Explore the atmospheric remains of this historic 16th-century manor house, once home to Lady Jane Grey.
Old John's Tower
Hike to this iconic folly for breathtaking panoramic views of the Leicestershire countryside.
Swithland Wood
Wander through ancient woodland adjacent to Bradgate Park, offering a different, more intimate natural experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Wildlife and Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and hilly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic meal amidst nature. Cafes are available, but a picnic offers more flexibility.
🦌 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from deer and peacocks. Never feed them.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Car parks fill up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and hilly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic meal amidst nature. Cafes are available, but a picnic offers more flexibility.
🦌 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from deer and peacocks. Never feed them.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Car parks fill up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and wildlife shots. Consider film for a unique look!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bradgate Park for its stunning natural beauty, the thrill of seeing free-roaming deer and peacocks, and its historical landmarks like Bradgate House ruins and Old John's Tower. It's considered a gem for walks, picnics, and connecting with nature. However, some find the parking fees quite high, and the cleanliness of certain facilities, particularly the men's toilets, could be improved.
"Bradgate Road leads to the stunning Bradgate Park, a truly beautiful and expansive place that’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. The park is filled with wildlife — from grazing deer to a variety of birds — and its natural scenery makes it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re after a quiet stroll, a scenic jog, or a full day out with family, the area offers something for everyone.
There are designated BBQ spots, picnic areas, and clean toilet facilities that make visiting convenient and enjoyable. The walking and running tracks are well-maintained, offering routes for all fitness levels and interests. Overall, Bradgate Road and its surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the city, combining nature, history, and recreation in one truly lovely destination."
Martin Reviews
"What and incredible place! Visit the ruins and the gardens. Take a walk alongside the stream. Or hike up the rocky hills to take in the panoramic views and pay your respects at the war memorial. Deer and Peacocks wonder freely around the grounds. This really is a stunning part of the midlands. When you need to rest your legs you can pop into the cafe to refresh, grab a bite to eat and take bathroom break. There's something for everyone to enjoy regardless of your physical abilities. I came via public transport from Nottingham. The number 9 Kinchbus took me from West Bridgford (Notts) to Loughborough (Auberry Gap stop), and then I got the 154 Centrebus from the Auberry Gap stop to the reservoir at the Bradgate Park. The stop which takes to back to Loughborough is also right next to the reservoir wall. I believe the last bus back to Loughborough is at around 18:30, and then there are multiple late buses back to Nottingham from there"
80s_film_fan
"The park is beautiful. What I didn't like was the amount of dogs off leads near the deers. This included a pit bull. Owners need to be wary at all times as deer are loose everywhere. Great for photographers. I parked in the south woods carpark as it is £2 all day."
T K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Bradgate Park via bus. From Nottingham, take the Kinchbus 9 to Loughborough, then the Centrebus 154 to the reservoir near Bradgate Park. The last bus back to Loughborough is around 18:30. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Bradgate Park has several car parks. Fees apply daily, with higher charges on weekends. Arriving early is recommended as they can get very busy.
Cycling is permitted on designated paths within Bradgate Park. Enjoy exploring the park on two wheels!
Some areas are accessible, particularly around the visitor center and cafe. However, due to the hilly and uneven terrain, full accessibility can be challenging.
The nearest major train stations are in Leicester and Loughborough. From there, you would need to connect to a bus service to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Bradgate Park itself is free. There are charges for parking.
Bradgate Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific opening times for facilities like the cafe may vary.
The park itself is free to enter. Parking fees are charged daily, with different rates for weekdays and weekends.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Bradgate Park, but they must be kept on a lead, especially in areas with free-roaming deer.
While there isn't a formal visitor center, there are cafes and toilet facilities available at key entrances, providing information and amenities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can see fallow deer and peacocks roaming freely. Keep a safe distance and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat.
For easier walks, stick to paths near the stream and Bradgate House ruins. For more challenging hikes with great views, head towards Old John Tower and the Leicestershire Yeomanry War Memorial.
Yes, there is a playground area within Bradgate Park, making it a great destination for families.
Absolutely! Bradgate Park is a fantastic spot for picnics. There are plenty of open spaces to spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal.
Key landmarks include the ruins of Bradgate House, Old John's Tower, and the Leicestershire Yeomanry War Memorial. The natural landscape itself is also a major draw.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes located near the reservoir and at the Newtown Linford entrance, offering refreshments and light meals.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. There are bins throughout the park to help keep it clean.
The cafes typically offer a range of snacks, light meals, hot and cold drinks, and ice cream.
While there are many open spaces for picnics, designated picnic tables might be limited. It's best to bring a blanket.
Information on alcohol sales at the cafes is not widely available, but it's generally advisable to bring your own if desired, and consume responsibly.
📸 📸 Photography
The ruins of Bradgate House, Old John's Tower with its panoramic views, and the roaming deer and peacocks offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Yes, the rolling hills, ancient trees, and expansive views make it a great location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a softer, more dramatic atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or local council for any restrictions before flying a drone.
While not common, keep an eye on local event listings or National Trust (for nearby Stoneywell) for potential photography-related activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wildlife of Bradgate Park
When visiting, especially during rutting season (autumn), be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings. The deer can be unpredictable. The peacocks, with their striking plumage, add a touch of exotic beauty to the park, often seen strutting near the ruins or cafes.
Beyond the larger fauna, the park also supports a diverse range of birdlife and smaller creatures within its woodlands and grasslands. Birdwatchers may find species like woodpeckers, warblers, and various birds of prey. The presence of these animals contributes to the overall ecological richness and appeal of Bradgate Park.
A Walk Through History: Bradgate House and Old John's Tower
For a more commanding historical perspective, a hike up to Old John's Tower is a must. This iconic folly, built in the 19th century, stands proudly on the highest point of the park. From its summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Leicestershire and beyond. It's a popular spot for reflection and offers a fantastic vantage point for photography.
These historical landmarks, set against the rugged natural beauty of the park, offer a compelling blend of history and landscape. They provide context to the park's evolution from a medieval deer park to the cherished public space it is today.
Navigating Bradgate Park: Trails and Terrain
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Hunts Hill entrance leads to steeper, rockier terrain. This area is perfect for more strenuous hikes, culminating in rewarding views from Old John Tower and the Leicestershire Yeomanry War Memorial. The rugged landscape here is a key part of the park's unique appeal, often compared to uplands.
Regardless of the chosen route, sturdy footwear is highly recommended due to the uneven ground. The park's extensive network of paths means you can easily spend hours exploring, so be prepared with water and snacks, especially if venturing further afield.
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