Attractions and Places To See around Coleorton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Coleorton include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Located in North West Leicestershire on the edge of the National Forest, the area offers picturesque countryside and significant historical locations. Visitors can explore sites like Coleorton Hall, St. Mary's Church, and various natural reserves. The region provides opportunities for exploring both its industrial heritage and tranquil natural settings.
Best attractions and places to see around Coleorton
- The most popular attractions is Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a natural park located in the grounds of Calke Abbey. It is a significant natural feature, offering walking opportunities.
- Another must-see spot is Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site with a visitor's centre, museum, and children's play area. This location is noted as the inspiration for the "Mines of Moria" in J.R.R. Tolkien's *The Lord of the Rings*.
- Visitors also love Mount St Bernard Abbey, a historical religious building with impressive architecture and serene grounds. It is a peaceful part of the Charnwood Area.
- Coleorton is known for its historical sites, natural reserves, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to former colliery sites transformed into woodlands.
- The attractions around Coleorton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and 70 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Deer Park at Calke Abbey
Highlight • Natural
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Moira Furnace and Canal
Highlight • Historical Site
This furnace as well as having good free parking a visitors centre, museum and childrens play area is also the inspiration for one of the key locations in perhaps the greatest fantasy novel of all time; The Mines of Moria in JRR Tolkien The Lord of the Rings is based directly on the mining town of Moira.
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Mount St Bernard Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
Not just for the faithful!
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Melbourne Pool
Highlight • Lake
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Staunton Harold Reservoir
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Tips from the Community
The canal is a lovely place for a walk, especially on a sunny day when the water reflects beautifully. There's a large forest area adjacent to the canal, with trails leading back to the path. You'll also find a museum, some small shops, and public restrooms. It's a great place for a day out, whether you're looking for adventure, walking the dog, fishing, or just grabbing a bite at the cafe!
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The Cross Britain Way is a long-distance route that goes 279 miles (450 km) from Barmouth on the West Wales coast to Boston on the East coast of England. The route was initiated to span the UK to highlight the lesser-known areas of our picturesque hidden countryside. Here you are at Staunton Harold Reservoir, which is a fair size at 210 acres (85 hectares). Here on the north-west shore, you have fine views out over the water and the surrounding woodland. There is an abundance of birdlife to look at here too. Not far away is the National Trust Cafe for Staunton Harold with access to toilets.
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Great walks and biking awesome views parking cafe
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Such a calm place to visit. The monks here brew their own ale which is delicious!
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lovely walk. donisthorpe woods great for pushchairs etc. path to oakthorpe walkers only
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Although its extent in the medieval period is not known, Melbourne Pool was certainly large by the early 17th century, as shown on a map of that time. Tradition says that stone for Melbourne Castle was quarried here before the area was flooded. A map of 1787 shows the Pool extending further to the west than it does now. It provided water to Melbourne Mill. The level of the water was raised by two feet at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to work the fountains in the Hall gardens, although this flooded part of the vicarage garden. By the early 19th century the pool was silted up completely at the west end. In the 1840s it was partly filled and the rest was cleaned out, making two ornamental islands and landscaping the surrounding area. In its current form it covers some 20 acres. It is not known when it was first created, but references to a mill pool are found in the early 14th century.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Coleorton?
The area around Coleorton is rich in history. You can visit Moira Furnace and Canal, a significant industrial heritage site with a visitor's centre and museum, famously inspiring Tolkien's 'Mines of Moria'. Another notable site is Mount St Bernard Abbey, a peaceful monastery with impressive architecture. Additionally, the village features St. Mary's Church, a beautiful 13th-century medieval church, and the Coleorton Heritage Trail, which delves into the village's past industries.
Where can I find natural beauty and walking opportunities near Coleorton?
For natural beauty and walks, the Deer Park at Calke Abbey offers extensive grounds perfect for walking. You can also enjoy the tranquility of Staunton Harold Reservoir and Melbourne Pool. Coleorton Wood, a six-hectare mixed woodland on a former colliery site, provides well-maintained walking paths and picnic facilities. The nearby New Lount Reserve is another nature spot developed for wildlife and public access.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Coleorton area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Moira Furnace and Canal features a children's play area, visitor's centre, and museum. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is excellent for family walks and exploring nature. Staunton Harold Reservoir also offers a playground and beautiful views for a family outing.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or running, are available near Coleorton?
The area around Coleorton is great for outdoor activities. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Cloud Trail – Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath loop' or the 'Willesley Wood – Hicks Lodge Trail loop'. Road cyclists have options such as the 'Thornton Reservoir – View of Polly Botts Lane loop'. Runners can enjoy trails like the 'New Lount Nature Reserve – Rough Park loop' or the 'Featherbed Lane Bridle Path'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the cycling guide, road cycling guide, and running trails guide for Coleorton.
Are there any dog-friendly places to visit around Coleorton?
Many natural areas around Coleorton welcome dogs. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is a popular choice for dog walks. The canal paths at Moira Furnace and Canal are also suitable for walking your dog. Coleorton Wood and the New Lount Reserve offer open spaces and trails for you and your canine companion to explore.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walks around Coleorton?
The terrain around Coleorton is varied, reflecting its location on the edge of the National Forest and its historical past. You'll find picturesque countryside with ancient hedgerows, mixed woodlands like Coleorton Wood, and paths along former colliery sites now transformed into nature reserves. Many walking paths are well-maintained, but some trails might include natural surfaces, especially in the woodland and reserve areas.
Where can I find cafes or facilities near the attractions?
You'll find facilities at several key attractions. Moira Furnace and Canal has a visitor's centre, museum, and cafes. At Staunton Harold Reservoir, there's a cafe available. The grounds of Calke Abbey, near the Deer Park, also host a cafe. For Melbourne Pool, local shops and cafes are just a minute's walk away.
What are some lesser-known historical gems in the vicinity of Coleorton?
Beyond the main highlights, you can discover fascinating historical gems like the ruins of Ashby Castle, known for its connection to Sir Walter Scott's *Ivanhoe*, and the picturesque Kirby Muxloe Castle. For Roman history enthusiasts, the Jewry Wall in Leicester and the Wall Roman Site offer intriguing insights into the past.
What is the best time to visit Coleorton for outdoor activities?
Coleorton's picturesque countryside and woodlands are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, ideal for walking and cycling. Summer provides longer daylight hours for extended exploration. While winter can be colder, many trails remain accessible, offering a different, serene experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Coleorton?
Visitors frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere and impressive architecture of Mount St Bernard Abbey. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is loved for its walking opportunities and natural beauty. Many also appreciate Moira Furnace and Canal for its historical significance, family-friendly facilities, and lovely canal-side walks. The overall blend of history, nature, and tranquil settings is highly valued.
Are there any specific heritage trails to follow in Coleorton?
Yes, the Coleorton Heritage Trail offers an engaging route through several historically significant sites within the village, highlighting its past industries. Additionally, the wider Mining Heritage Trail, a nine-mile route, explores the region's rich coal mining history, with Coleorton Wood forming part of its path. More information can be found on the Coleorton Heritage Trail website.
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