Attractions and Places To See around Ashwell - Top 20

Ashwell is rich in history. You can visit the impressive 14th-century St Mary's Church, explore the 16th-century Town House which now houses the Ashwell Museum, or see the historic Village Lock-up. Other notable buildings include St. John's Guildhall and the Chantry House. Further insight into the village's past can be found at the Ashwell Medieval Settlement Remains and the Iron Age hill fort of Arbury Banks.

Yes, Ashwell boasts several significant natural features. The Ashwell Springs are the perennial source of the River Cam and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for their rare flatworm species. You can also find diverse chalk grassland species, including various orchids, at Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs. The surrounding open countryside offers wide views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

The area around Ashwell offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking or cycling along the Ashwell Street Byway, an unpaved trail suitable for various activities. For more structured routes, there are numerous easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling routes available, catering to different fitness levels.

Rutland Water is a large man-made lake offering a wide range of recreational activities. It's a hotspot for hiking, cycling, fishing, and watersports. You can cycle around the lake on the popular Rutland Water Cycle Route, or visit the iconic Normanton Church, which appears to float on the water.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Rutland Water is excellent for family outings with cycling and walking paths. The Wymondham Windmill, Tea Rooms & Windmill Wheels Bike Shop offers a pleasant stop with refreshments and a bike shop. Additionally, the Ashwell Springs are a popular recreational spot for all ages.

The best place to delve into Ashwell's local history is the Ashwell Museum. Housed in a 16th-century town house, it features artifacts, photographs, and documents detailing the village's past. You can also explore the medieval settlement remains and historic buildings throughout the village.

The open countryside around Ashwell is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards, as well as skylarks, partridge, hares, and occasionally fallow deer and muntjac deer. The Ashwell Springs and Ashwell Quarry are also important habitats for unique species like the stenothermic flatworm.

Ashwell hosts a couple of notable annual events. Ashwell at Home allows visitors to explore hidden gardens, exhibitions, and craft demonstrations. The Ashwell Show, held on August Bank Holiday, is a traditional country fair offering entertainment and supporting local causes.

Yes, The Lodge RSPB Nature Reserve is located nearby. It is the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire and is home to various important species, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, complete with a visitor center.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the extensive walking and cycling paths, especially around Rutland Water, and the historical charm of Ashwell village itself. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Barnsdale Bluebell Woodland offers a change of scenery from open views. This ancient woodland, part of the Rutland Water SSSI, provides a lovely natural environment for walks and is particularly beautiful when the bluebells are in bloom.

The Wymondham Windmill, Tea Rooms & Windmill Wheels Bike Shop is a popular spot for refreshments, offering indoor and outdoor seating. There are also various pubs and cafes within Ashwell village itself, providing options for a break.