Attractions and Places To See around Shepshed - Top 20

Shepshed and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the ancient Ruins of Bradgate House, a Tudor mansion once home to Lady Jane Grey. Another significant site is Mount St Bernard Abbey, England's only Trappist monastery, known for its impressive architecture and peaceful grounds. The Parish Church of St Botolph, dating back to the 11th century, and the restored Shepshed Water Mill, mentioned in the Domesday Book, also offer glimpses into the area's past.

Absolutely. The area boasts several natural attractions. Beacon Hill Summit is a must-visit, offering spectacular panoramic views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. You can also explore the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a beautiful natural area perfect for walking. Additionally, Old John Tower, Bradgate Park provides excellent views from its prominent position. Morley Quarry, a disused site transformed into a nature reserve, is notable for its 600-million-year-old Precambrian stone and local wildlife.

Many attractions cater to families. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is ideal for walks and has a cafe. Beacon Hill Summit is an accessible peak with a park and cafe, offering great views. The Ruins of Bradgate House and the wider Bradgate Park are excellent for exploration and spotting wild deer. For a unique experience, consider Stonehurst Family Farm and Museum, which combines farm animals with historical exhibits.

Shepshed is on the edge of Charnwood Forest, offering numerous walking opportunities. You can enjoy circular paths at Morley Quarry Nature Reserve or explore the tranquil woodlands around Grace Dieu Priory. For more structured routes, consider the 'Pop's Patch Dash – Butthole Lane loop from Shepshed' which is an easy 9.9 km cycling route that can also be walked. You can find more walking and hiking routes in the Attractions and Places To See around Shepshed guide.

Yes, the area around Shepshed is popular for cycling. There are various routes, including the 'Garendon Way – Grace Dieu Priory Ruins loop from Shepshed' which is a moderate 24.3 km ride. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the 'Shepshed Pump Track – Grace Dieu Trail loop from Griffydam' offers a moderate 36 km trail. You can discover more cycling and gravel biking routes in the Cycling around Shepshed guide and Gravel biking around Shepshed guide.

The spring and summer months (May to September) are generally ideal for visiting Shepshed, as the weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature reserves. The Shepshed Water Mill is also open to the public during this period. Autumn offers beautiful foliage in areas like Charnwood Forest, while winter can provide crisp, scenic walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Many of the natural outdoor areas around Shepshed are dog-friendly. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is welcoming to dogs. Bradgate Park, including the areas around Ruins of Bradgate House and Old John Tower, is also a popular spot for dog walkers. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding leads and access in certain areas.

Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the remnants of the Former Charnwood Forest Canal and Railway, which offer historical paths and a redundant viaduct at Grace Dieu. Butthole Lane Nature Reserve, developed by Shepshed Town Council on a former allotment site, provides a quiet spot to enjoy nature. The ancient ruins of Grace Dieu Priory, surrounded by pleasant woodlands, also offer a serene and less crowded experience.

The natural areas around Shepshed are home to diverse wildlife. In the Deer Park at Calke Abbey and Bradgate Park, you can often spot wild deer. Morley Quarry Nature Reserve is a good place to observe local wildlife, and the various woodlands and reservoirs like Blackbrook Reservoir support a range of bird species and other small animals.

Visitors frequently enjoy walking and exploring the natural landscapes. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is highly rated for walking, and Beacon Hill Summit is praised for its fantastic views and numerous routes. The historical sites like Ruins of Bradgate House and Mount St Bernard Abbey are also very popular for their unique blend of history and scenic surroundings.

Yes, Morley Quarry is a significant site for geology enthusiasts. It is a Regionally Important Geological Site (RIGS) known for exposing 600-million-year-old Precambrian stone, offering a unique opportunity to observe ancient geological formations.

Beyond Shepshed itself, you can easily reach several other notable attractions. The Great Central Railway in Loughborough offers nostalgic steam train journeys. For space enthusiasts, the National Space Centre in Leicester is a must-visit. Motorsport fans might enjoy Donington Park Racing Circuit, and Stonehurst Family Farm and Museum provides a delightful day out with farm animals and historical exhibits.