Best attractions and places to see around Sapcote, a village in south-west Leicestershire, offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. The area reflects a long history and rural setting, with points of interest that showcase its cultural significance. Visitors can explore ancient sites and enjoy the surrounding countryside, which largely consists of agricultural land.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
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The church of St James mostly dates from the 14th century and probably replaces an earlier church on the site. The church consists of a low west tower, nave, chancel and south chapel. The circular arcade dates to the 13th century, the low west tower has a brick upper stage which was rebuilt in the early 19th century. The font is probably 14th century. There is a monument to William Roberts who died in 1633 a recumbent alabaster effigy. He lies in armour with his two wives, one kneeling at his feet. The inscription reads; “here lyeth interred the body of Sir William Roberts, who in his life-time, being devoted both to hospitality and charity, among other memorable works erected, out of a pious mind, a hospital for six poor men adjoining the churchyard and endowed it with 30 pounds worth of land yearly for their maintenance for ever”.
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The charming village of Monks Kirby is set in a nice shallow valley, with only about two hundred houses. It is small and picturesque. It is a historical hamlet with St. Edith’s church in the village going back to the 11th century, and this is the dominant architectural feature in the area with its large tower. The lanes around the village are ideal for cycling, they are quieter than you might think considering their proximity to the M6.
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Saint James Church is known as 'The Battlefield Church,' a title attributed to an aged wooden sign located in the garden across from the church. Tradition holds that Richard III conducted Mass here on the eve of the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. Within the church, numerous artifacts linked to Richard III are on display, including needlepoint kneelers crafted by members of the Richard III Society. Adjacent to the church stands an impressive row of 17th-century almshouses.
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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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Stoney Cove is a large flooded quarry that hosts the UK National Dive Centre. There is a heated pool for dive training, and the bed of the cove is described as an underwater adventure park! Above the surface, there is a pub/cafe and it's also a great spot to catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons/
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Unique place to visit, lots of diving takes place here, with a pub/cafe. Good place to stop and take a break.
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Sapcote offers a rich history with several notable sites. You can visit the 12th-century All Saints Parish Church, which features a Norman font and a medieval mass dial. The remains of Sapcote Castle and Moat, a former Norman motte-and-bailey castle, are also a scheduled Ancient Monument. Additionally, the Bath House, built in 1806 over the 'Golden Well,' reflects an attempt to establish Sapcote as a spa town.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Shenton Station – Battlefield Line Railway offers a glimpse into historical rail travel and is a great spot to see steam trains. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is a unique local landmark. For outdoor activities, Fosse Meadows provides wide paths, open grassy areas for picnics, and a permanent orienteering course. The Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby are also suitable for family cycling.
Sapcote is surrounded by routes perfect for outdoor activities. For cycling, explore the Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby, known for their quiet roads. You can find various cycling routes, including easy and moderate options, by checking the Cycling around Sapcote guide. For running, there are trails like the 'Running loop from Stoney Stanton' or the 'Sapcote Castle – Whitestone to Stoney Cove loop' available in the Running Trails around Sapcote guide.
You can explore Freeholt Wood, an area of medieval woodland located off Hinckley Road. Donkey Lane offers wide verges with lush vegetation and public footpaths extending into surrounding fields. Additionally, Fosse Meadows is a diverse natural haven with broadleaf woodlands and an extensive network of paths, perfect for enjoying nature.
Absolutely. Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a large disused quarry, hosts the UK National Dive Centre, offering an 'underwater adventure park' for divers. Above the surface, it's also an excellent spot for birdwatching, particularly for peregrine falcons.
For a convenient stop, the Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, offering good coffee, cakes, and pasties. Stoney Cove National Dive Centre also has a pub/cafe on site, making it a good place to take a break.
Yes, the area around Sapcote offers a variety of walking and hiking trails. You can find easy walks like the 'Coffee Van – Fosse Meadows loop' or more moderate options such as the 'Fosse Meadows – Coffee Van loop'. For a comprehensive list of routes, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, refer to the Hiking around Sapcote guide.
A section of the ancient Roman Fosse Way forms part of the parish boundary of Sapcote. This historic road offers a tangible link to the region's Roman past and can be explored as part of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical and natural sites. Many enjoy the quiet lanes around Monks Kirby for cycling and the unique experience of the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre. The traditional atmosphere of Shenton Station – Battlefield Line Railway is also a popular highlight, offering a nostalgic journey into rail history.
Beyond the prominent church and castle, Sapcote boasts several other historical architectural examples. These include charming thatched cottages, Park Farm (a timber-framed house from 1683), the Old School (built 1819), and the Stanley Burroughs Almshouses (erected 1847). The Methodist Church, a Grade II listed building from 1905, is also a fine example of the Arts and Crafts style.
Yes, in addition to the Roman Fosse Way, you can find Mere Hedge, an ancient boundary dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, alongside which a footpath runs. There is also an early 19th-century cast iron milepost at the corner of Grace Road and Leicester Road, a relic from the Turnpike Trust era.


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