Attractions and Places To See around Sileby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sileby include a variety of natural monuments, historical sites, and viewpoints. The region, located near Loughborough, offers diverse landscapes from rolling hills to reservoirs. Visitors can explore areas known for their natural beauty and historical significance, providing numerous things to do in Sileby and the surrounding area. These places offer opportunities for exploration and enjoying the outdoors.
Best attractions and places to see around Sileby
- The most popular attractions is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that is the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It offers spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley, and beyond.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Bradgate House, a historical site. This Tudor mansion, once home to Lady Jane Grey, was abandoned in the 1730s and is now a notable ruin.
- Visitors also love Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument. This folly stands at the highest point in Bradgate Park, offering extensive views and serving as a prominent landmark across Leicester and Leicestershire.
- Sileby is known for natural monuments, historical sites, and viewpoints. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, including family friendly activities Sileby.
- The attractions around Sileby are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 upvotes and over 150 photos shared.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Old John Tower, Bradgate Park
Highlight • Monument
The earliest recorded use of the name is on a map of 1754, which records a windmill on the site, some 30 years before the tower was built. The tower itself began life as a ruined folly, built in 1784, during the time of George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford. He got Thomas Sketchley of Anstey to build him the mock ruin, which had strong similarities to Mow Cop, Staffordshire. It was adapted in the mid-19th century by the seventh Earl to serve as an observation tower for the practice circuit he laid out for his horses, along with the building of a stable block lower down the hill.
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Beacon Hill Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Ruins of Bradgate House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bradgate Park
Highlight • Settlement
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Tips from the Community
Cycling is only permitted on the one route through the park, which gets busy with walkers, take it slow in the park. Cafe and toilets in the middle.
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park (for hunting) in the 12th Century. Herds of Red and Fallow Deer still roam freely across the Park's 800 acres today.The Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance as a wildlife habitat and its geological interest - the 600 million year old Precambrian rocks here are some of the oldest in England. Bradgate House, built around the year 1500, was one of the first unfortified, brick-built country houses in the country and was the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey and played an important role in the English Civil War. Abandoned in the 18th Century, the house is now an evocative ruin set in a landscape that has changed little since the house's heyday.
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Bradgate House is one of England's great 'lost country houses', a once-magnificent Tudor mansion and the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, the tragic 'Nine Days Queen'. The story of Bradgate House goes back long before Lady Jane's birth, however, and is intertwined with the history of Bradgate Park, a large country park in which the ruins stand. Bradgate Park began as a hunting ground in the early 13th century. It was enclosed by an earthwork bank and ditch, topped by oak timbers. In 1445 the park passed by marriage to the Grey family, who owned it for the next 5 centuries. The first grey owner was Edward Grey, whose son John married Elizabeth Woodville. After John's death at the Battle of St Albans in 1461 Elizabeth married King Edward IV. One of Elizabeth's sons by her first marriage was Sir Thomas Grey, the 1st Marquess of Dorset.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions for families around Sileby?
Many attractions around Sileby are family-friendly. You can explore the historical Ruins of Bradgate House and the iconic Old John Tower, Bradgate Park. The Bradgate Park Deer Park is also a great spot for families to see wildlife. For panoramic views, Beacon Hill Summit offers accessible paths and stunning scenery.
Where can I find historical sites near Sileby?
The region is rich in history. The Ruins of Bradgate House, once home to Lady Jane Grey, offer a glimpse into Tudor history. Nearby, Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a 18th-century folly, stands as a prominent landmark with historical significance.
Are there good places for walks and enjoying nature around Sileby?
Absolutely. Beacon Hill Summit provides excellent walking opportunities with 360-degree views of Charnwood Forest. The Bradgate Park Deer Park offers scenic routes through woodlands and by water, where you can often spot deer. Additionally, Swithland Reservoir is a beautiful spot for enjoying water views and local wildlife.
What outdoor activities can I do near Sileby's attractions?
Beyond exploring the attractions themselves, the area around Sileby is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. Popular options include loops around Swithland Reservoir or routes incorporating Beacon Hill.
Are there any cafes or refreshments near the walking areas?
Yes, if you're visiting Beacon Hill Summit, there is a cafe nearby offering cakes and ice cream, perfect for a break during your walk. Bradgate Park also has visitor facilities where you can find refreshments.
What are the best viewpoints in the Sileby area?
For breathtaking views, head to Beacon Hill Summit, which is the second highest peak in Leicestershire and offers spectacular panoramas of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. The Old John Tower, Bradgate Park also provides extensive views across Leicester and Leicestershire from its elevated position.
Can I bring my dog to attractions around Sileby?
Many of the natural outdoor spaces, such as Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill, are popular with dog walkers. While dogs are generally welcome, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife like the Bradgate Park Deer Park, and to check specific site rules for any restrictions.
Are there accessible attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
While some natural paths can be uneven, areas like Beacon Hill Summit offer superb accessibility for those seeking views with minimal effort, with parking available at both the top and bottom. Bradgate Park also has some accessible routes, though it's advisable to check specific trail conditions.
What is the best time of year to visit the nature reserves and parks?
The nature reserves and parks around Sileby are beautiful year-round. Spring brings new growth and wildlife, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer walks and outdoor activities. Even in winter, the landscapes can be dramatic, though paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Where can I find parking for attractions like Beacon Hill and Bradgate Park?
Both Beacon Hill Summit and Bradgate Park have dedicated car parks. For Beacon Hill, parking is available at both the top and bottom of the hill. Bradgate Park has several car parks, but it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as they can get very busy.
What are some unique natural features to see around Sileby?
Beyond the well-known peaks, the area boasts unique geological formations and water features. Swithland Reservoir, built in the late 19th century, offers impressive views and is divided by the historic Great Central Railway. The surrounding Charnwood Forest, visible from Beacon Hill, is known for its ancient volcanic rocks.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Sileby?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views from places like Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The historical significance of sites like the Ruins of Bradgate House and the chance to see deer in Bradgate Park are also highly appreciated. The overall natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available are consistently highlighted.
Most popular attractions around Sileby
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