Best attractions and places to see around Broughton And Old Dalby are found in the Melton district of Leicestershire, England, characterized by its undulating countryside. The area features a blend of natural landscapes, historic sites, and walking paths. Visitors can explore picturesque scenery, including woodlands and ancient carp ponds, alongside historic churches and listed buildings. The region offers opportunities for those interested in rural charm and local heritage.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Prestwold Hall, a Grade I listed country house, has been the seat of the Packe-Drury-Lowe family for nearly 400 years since its acquisition by Sir Christopher Packe in 1649. Rebuilt in the 1760s and extensively remodelled in the 1840s by architect William Burn in a neoclassical Italianate style, the hall features grand, opulent interiors and scenic 18th-century parkland. In the 20th century, the estate became a pioneer in opening historic homes for corporate entertainment and weddings.
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Great pit stop for coffee and cake. No indoor seating but plenty of outdoor seating round the back and covered seating with blankets and heaters round the front. Cake is TASTY!
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Great pit stop for coffee and cake. Loads of outdoor seating with some covered areas with blankets and heater. No indoor seating inside shop and cafe.
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Lovely cake and coffee with a covered seating porch to get out of the rain!
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The disused Grantham Canal passes through the village and there is a large basin adjacent to the main road. This would have facilitated loading and mooring when the canal was in use. The basin now attracts a substantial population of swans and ducks.
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A good place to take a breather and watch the boats. Cotes Road and South Street provide a nice, quiet north - south run avoiding the A6 on the other side of the river.
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Traffic lights both sides. Nasty little climb up towards the village that will take the wind out of your sails!
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Great spot on the river coming into Barrow via Broadway Meadow
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The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore various cycling routes, such as those found in the Cycling around Broughton And Old Dalby guide, which includes options like the 'Cotgrave Country Park Lake – Grantham Canal Path loop'. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Broughton And Old Dalby guide, offering routes like 'Asfordby to Hoby and Ashby Foville loop'. Runners can find trails in the Running Trails around Broughton And Old Dalby guide, including the 'Steep Hill on Wood Hill loop'.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Hickling Basin is a great stop along the Grantham Canal, offering a tea room and pub. Belvoir Hilltop Road provides an enjoyable cycle way with scenic views, and Barrow Bridge is a picturesque viewpoint over the River Soar, popular with walkers and boaters, with a traditional pub nearby. Racehub Lake offers open water swimming and a cafe.
The region is known for its undulating Leicestershire countryside. Belvoir Hilltop Road offers expansive views across the Vale. You can also enjoy the picturesque scenery around Dalby Brook and Marriott's Spinney. Ancient carp ponds in Old Dalby are another unique natural feature. The area's walking paths traverse crop fields, pasture fields, and woodlands, providing ample opportunities for scenic appreciation.
The area is rich in history. You can visit several historic churches, such as Nether Broughton Church, known for its 'Belvoir Angel' tombstones, and the Church of St John the Baptist. Old Dalby holds traces of a 12th-century Knights Hospitallers preceptory, complete with ancient carp ponds. Various listed buildings like The Old Hall, Debdale Farmhouse, and Manor Farmhouse offer glimpses into the area's architectural past.
Yes, the area is particularly well-suited for walkers. There are numerous established routes, including a 12.7 km looped trail connecting Nether Broughton, Queensway Old Dalby, and Upper Broughton. These walks allow you to immerse yourself in the countryside and discover local heritage, with attractive signs providing historical information around Nether Broughton village. Many routes are available in the Running Trails around Broughton And Old Dalby guide, which includes walking-friendly paths.
For a great pit stop, consider Love & Piste Coffee Shop, which is cycling-friendly and offers coffee, cake, and outdoor seating. Hickling Basin also has a tea room and a pub right next to the canal, perfect for a break. Additionally, Racehub Lake features a cafe with a selection of coffees, shakes, and delicious cakes.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Hickling Basin has a pub right by the canal. Near Barrow Bridge, the Soar Bridge Inn is a traditional pub popular with boaters and walkers. In Old Dalby, 'The Crown' is a refurbished ancient pub/restaurant that serves as a local gathering spot.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil countryside and the opportunities for walking and cycling. The scenic views from places like Belvoir Hilltop Road are highly rated. The welcoming cafes and pubs, such as the one at Hickling Basin, are also popular for a relaxing break.
Beyond the main highlights, the area offers charming historical details. The ancient carp ponds in Old Dalby, remnants of the Knights Hospitallers preceptory, are a unique historical natural feature. Exploring the various listed buildings and historic churches throughout the villages also provides a deeper insight into the local heritage away from more common tourist spots.
Yes, Racehub Lake offers open water swimming a few times a week. It's described as a lovely, clean lake with clearly marked laps, and it's not too deep, so it warms up nicely on a hot day.
While specific wildlife spotting locations aren't detailed, the region's diverse natural features, including woodlands, pasture fields, and areas around Dalby Brook and ancient carp ponds, provide habitats for various local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and aquatic life, especially along the walking paths and near water bodies.
Absolutely. Belvoir Hilltop Road is a dedicated cycle way offering great views. For more extensive cycling, the Cycling around Broughton And Old Dalby guide provides several routes, including easy and moderate options. Love & Piste Coffee Shop is also very cycling-friendly, with bike racks and a cafe.


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