Attractions and Places To See around Mowsley - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Mowsley include historical sites and natural features within this small village in south Leicestershire. Mowsley is situated on a ridge of hills, offering elevations up to about 550 feet and featuring numerous springs. The village retains a medieval boundary and several listed buildings, contributing to its historic character. The surrounding area provides a variety of attractions, from canal locks to disused railway tunnels.
Best attractions and places to see around Mowsley
- The most popular attractions is Great Oxendon Tunnel, an other man-made structure that allows cycling through a disused railway tunnel. Visitors describe it as an interesting experience, requiring good lights due to its darkness.
- Another must-see spot is Foxton Locks Basin, a river basin marking the convergence point of the Grand Union Canal's Leicester line and Market Harborough arm. This basin is situated at the base of the 'staircase' of ten canal locks.
- Visitors also love Foxton Locks, a man-made monument featuring the longest cascade of staircase locks in the UK. This historic site also includes the remains of a unique Inclined Boat Lift.
- Mowsley is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The attractions around Mowsley are appreciated by the komoot community, with 23 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Foxton Locks
Highlight • Monument
Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat.
Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton:
Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust
Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only)
Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD
Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history
Guided walks, themed activities and events
Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing
Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read
Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61.
source: canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna
Highlight • Historical Site
The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods.
In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
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Foxton Locks Basin
Highlight • River
Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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Great Oxendon Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
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Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen
Highlight • Cafe
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Tips from the Community
Top tip only park your bike on the left, (looking from the road) there is a sign to remind you when you arrive. Great service, nice little upstairs room when the weather isn’t so good, or sit outside side on warm sunny days, good value for money with the coffee and cake.
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Can be wet, slippy and very dark! Make sure that you have your lights! If you're on road tyres I would advise walking. Mountain and Gravel bikes are suitable to ride through.
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Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
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Peatling Magna, formerly known as "Great Petlyng" and later as "Great Peatling," is a village in the Harborough district of south Leicestershire. The village's notable landmark is the Church of All Saints, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, featuring fine examples of carved woodwork from different periods. In 1265, Peatling Magna gained national attention when, after the Battle of Evesham, the villagers refused to cooperate with the victorious royal forces, citing concerns for the welfare of the realm. This led to a court appearance recorded in the Plea Rolls of 1266, highlighting the village's resistance and reflecting communal ideas at the smallest village level in 13th-century England.
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The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
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There is a good coffee shop at Waterloo Farm Leisure just off Brampton Valley Way about half a mile from the Great Oxendon tunnel entrance on the Market Harborough side.
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Interesting experience! Need good lights as obviously it is very dark. Surface is not good, quite a few puddles and potholes, need to take it steady. The notices at the entrance actually advise getting off and pushing your bike through but I wouldn’t have thought this was necessary if you were a reasonably good rider and had lights. I rode through OK although got a puncture!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Mowsley?
Mowsley village itself offers a glimpse into history with its medieval boundary, earthworks representing ancient fishponds, and the remains of the Brabazon manor house. You can also visit the historic St Nicholas Church, built around 1250 AD, and see other listed buildings like Millstone House. Nearby, the Foxton Locks are a significant historic landmark featuring the longest cascade of staircase locks in the UK, along with the remains of a unique Inclined Boat Lift.
Are there any natural features or viewpoints worth visiting near Mowsley?
Mowsley is situated on a small ridge of hills in south-east Leicestershire, offering elevations up to about 550 feet. The area is known for its numerous springs. For a specific natural spot, Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site covering 47 acres, featuring wet willow, woodland, swamp, and open water habitats, providing a home for various wildlife.
What family-friendly activities are available around Mowsley?
The area offers several family-friendly options. Foxton Locks is a great day out with boat trips, a canal museum, and plenty of green space for nature spotting. During warmer months, the Wistow Maze, located about 4.2 miles away, provides a popular outdoor experience. Additionally, the Great Oxendon Tunnel offers a unique cycling adventure through a disused railway tunnel, which can be fun for older children.
Where can I go for a walk or cycle ride near Mowsley?
Mowsley is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore the historic village on foot, tracing its medieval boundary. For cycling, the Great Oxendon Tunnel is part of a disused railway line, offering an interesting route (remember to bring good lights!). For more structured routes, you can find various cycling and MTB trails around the area, such as the 'Foxton Locks – Saddington Reservoir loop' or 'Abandoned Railway Bridge – Red Lion Pub loop'. You can explore these and more on the Cycling around Mowsley or MTB Trails around Mowsley guide pages.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. At Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs, two cafés (including Top Lock Cottage café), and the Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. Near the Great Oxendon Tunnel, there's a good coffee shop at Waterloo Farm Leisure. In the wider area, Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is a great spot for coffee, cakes, and snacks.
What is the best time of year to visit Mowsley and its surrounding attractions?
The best time to visit Mowsley and its attractions largely depends on your preferred activities. For outdoor pursuits like walking and cycling, the warmer months from spring through early autumn (April to October) are ideal. Attractions like Wistow Maze are typically open during these periods. The historic sites and canal locks can be enjoyed year-round, though some boat services at Foxton Locks may be seasonal.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions near Mowsley?
Beyond the well-known spots, the medieval village boundary of Mowsley itself is a unique feature, as its current 'footprint' remains largely unchanged from 500 years ago. The earthworks representing ancient fishponds and the remains of the Brabazon manor house also offer a glimpse into a deeper past. The Great Oxendon Tunnel, a disused railway tunnel, provides a distinctive and less common experience for cyclists.
What are the most popular attractions around Mowsley according to visitors?
Visitors particularly enjoy the Great Oxendon Tunnel for its unique cycling experience through a disused railway tunnel. The Foxton Locks Basin and the Foxton Locks themselves are also highly appreciated for their historical significance, scenic beauty, and the variety of activities available, from boat trips to exploring the canal museum.
Can I find dog-friendly walks or attractions in the Mowsley area?
Many of the outdoor areas around Mowsley are suitable for dog walking. The natural green spaces around Foxton Locks are popular for walks, and the trails around Saddington Reservoir also offer pleasant routes. Always ensure dogs are kept on a lead where necessary, especially around wildlife or livestock, and check specific venue policies before visiting.
What other cultural attractions are within a reasonable drive from Mowsley?
Beyond Mowsley's immediate vicinity, you can find several cultural attractions. The Harborough Museum in Market Harborough is about 5.6 miles away. For those interested in space and science, the National Space Centre in Leicester is roughly 11.5 miles distant. English Heritage sites like Jewry Wall (Roman bath-house wall in Leicester), Kirby Muxloe Castle, and Rushton Triangular Lodge are also within a reasonable driving distance.
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not detailed, the flat towpaths along the Grand Union Canal at Foxton Locks generally offer easier access for strollers and some wheelchairs, though surfaces can vary. It's always advisable to check with individual attractions for their most up-to-date accessibility information before planning your visit.
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