Attractions and Places To See around Claybrooke Magna - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Claybrooke Magna include a blend of historical charm, cultural sites, and opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside. This village, located in the Harborough district of Leicestershire, England, offers a variety of points of interest. Visitors can discover historical landmarks and enjoy the rural landscape. The area provides a mix of heritage and outdoor activities for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Claybrooke Magna
- The most popular attractions is Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby, a trail that offers quiet routes ideal for cycling. The charming village of Monks Kirby features St. Edith’s church, an 11th-century landmark with a large tower.
- Another must-see spot is Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a lake and former quarry. This site hosts the UK National Dive Centre and features an underwater adventure park.
- Visitors also love Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture, an other man-made attraction. This sculpture, carved from a felled tree, commemorates the area's mining history and the tree's former role as a village Christmas tree.
- Claybrooke Magna is known for historical sites, natural features, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to unique sculptures and scenic trails.
- The attractions around Claybrooke Magna are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 photos and 26 upvotes.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
St John the Baptist Church
Highlight • Historical Site
The chancel is built of a mixture of limestone and sandstone rubble patched with bricks and tiles and has a modern steep-pitched tiled roof, modern coping and cross finial, and rebuilt buttresses. It is lighted on the east by a modern window of three pointed lights with a hood-mould and head-stops. The south side has a central buttress, and west of it are two restored lancet windows with a narrow doorway between them. The lancet to the west is divided by a transom to form a low side window. The doorway has a restored pointed arch, the splay carried down the jambs. The north side has a central buttress and another butting against the aisle wall, with a restored lancet window between them. The south aisle is built of red sandstone ashlar with a plinth of one splay, stepped down to conform with the slope of the ground. The wall is diminished in thickness by a weathered offset at sill level. It has a low-pitched lead-covered roof with a plain low parapet, with a moulded coping projected on a moulded stringcourse. The east gable is lighted by a partly restored traceried window of three cinquefoil lights under a hollow-moulded four-centred head. The south wall has buttresses at the angles, two intermediately, and a porch towards the western end. It is lighted between the buttresses by three windows similar to the one in the east wall. The porch has been rebuilt in brick and stone with a tiled roof and the entrance blocked to form a vestry. The south door, which has a four-centred arch under a square head, has been mutilated. The west end is similar to the east, but the coping is carried up as a lean-to instead of a gable. The buttress at the angle is diagonal, splayed to a point. The north aisle is built of rubble similar to the chancel and has a lean-to roof covered with lead, a battlemented parapet with trefoil panelled pinnacles at each end and crocketed finials. Originally there were two intermediate pinnacles, of which only the bases remain. The north side has diagonal buttresses at the angles, one intermediate and, towards the west, a porch. It is lighted by two three-light traceried windows with splayed fourcentred heads, the centre light trefoiled, the two outer cinquefoil; by a similar window on the east; and on the west by a trefoiled single light with a square head. The porch is timber-framed with a tiled roof, and the entrance has been fitted with a pair of modern doors. On both sides the timbering has been concealed, externally with roughcast and internally with plaster. The front retains its timbering, the entrance having a heavy moulded frame and four-centred head, carved spandrels and lintel, and a timber-framed gable plastered between the timbers. The door has a moulded four-centred head, square hood-mould, carved spandrels, and trefoil-panelled soffit and reveals which have been badly mutilated. In the centre of the hood-mould there is a shield with three swords (for Clarke).
The tower is built of light-coloured sandstone ashlar with a moulded plinth and battlemented parapet on a coved string-course; at each angle there are bases for pinnacles. It rises in four stages, diminished at each stage by weathered offsets on the north and south, and on the east and west at the first and half-way up the third only. At the angles there are diagonal buttresses rising in five stages and splayed off to a sharp edge, except at the third stages on the west side which have gabled trefoiled niches. The west doorway, in a deep wave-moulded splay, is constructed of red sandstone and has a moulded four-centred arch under a square head, with carved spandrels. It is flanked by wall aracading in two tiers of trefoil-headed roll-moulded panels. Above the doorway is a tall pointed traceried window of three cinquefoil lights with a hood-mould, the tracery and mullions being modern, and in the second stage a clock dial. The tower staircase is in the south-west angle, with a loop-light to each stage and a square-headed doorway opening on to the aisle roof. The belfry is lighted on each face by pointed traceried windows of two trefoil lights, and the ringing chamber by similar windows on the north and south.
Internally the floor of modern tiles has been laid to a continuous fall from east to west, probably taking the place of a series of steps, as the bases of the arcade pillars and windows are stepped down following the slope. The walls, except the arcades and tower, are plastered, the plaster being finished round all the aisle windows with scalloped edges.
The chancel (28 ft. 4 in. by 15 ft. 6 in.) has four steps from the nave and three to the altar in addition to the slope of the floor. The east wall has a dado of modern coloured embossed tiles, and the window a segmental pointed rear-arch. At the east end of the south wall there is a shallow recess with a segmental pointed stop-chamfered head, probably a blocked piscina. The lancet windows have splayed recesses with square heads, and the doorway a segmental pointed rear-arch. The roof is a modern hammer-beam, its trusses supported on carved stone corbels. It is continued under the chancel arch with twin trusses, panelled between with pierced panels and supported on slender stone shafts with carved capitals and moulded bases resting on moulded corbels.
The nave (48 ft. 3 in. by 17 ft. 7 in.) has a modern open roof with curved trusses resting on moulded timber corbels. Both arcades consist of five bays of pointed arches, of two splayed orders, supported on lozenge-shaped roll-moulded pillars, the arch splays dying out on the mouldings, which terminate in splayed stops on plain lozenge-shaped pedestals. At the junction of the south arcade with the chancel there is a circular stair up to a square-headed doorway which gave access to a rood, and half-way up there is a pointed opening to the aisle. It is lighted from the east by a small square-headed two-light window. The chancel arch is a modern pointed one, of two splayed orders, dying out on the north wall and on the south resting on a floriated corbel. The tower has a pointed arch of two splays to the tower and three to the nave, the inner order supported on three-quarter-round responds with moulded capitals and bases. The arch is of red sandstone with capitals of a light-coloured stone, and on the tower side in the apex there is a carving of an angel. The south-west angle is corbelled out in three steps for the tower staircase, the upper step being trefoiled, and below it there is a square-headed doorway. The pulpit and reading desk, of stone, are modern.
The south aisle (49 ft. by 12 ft. 9 in.) has a lowpitched open roof of five bays with moulded members and carved bosses in the centres of the tie-beams. It probably dates from the early 16th century; the boarding and some rafters are modern. The trusses rest on stone corbels on the south wall, and on the north the outer roll mouldings of the arcade pillars are carried up with capitals in place of corbels. At the east end, the north-east angle is splayed to accommodate the staircase to the rood. The windows have hollowmoulded reveals with four-centred rear-arches, the window to the east having its arch extended eastwards and carried down to form a recess. The east wall has an offset at sill level with a chamfered stone capping, and the window reveals are carried down as a recess. In the east window there are some fragments of early coloured glass consisting of two chalices and parts of a canopy.
The north aisle (45 ft. 7 in. by 9 ft. 11 in.) has a lean-to roof of five bays, of which two retain some of their original moulded members, probably early-16thcentury. The trusses are supported on stone corbels on the north wall and on square blocks of stone as capitals to the outer roll moulding of the arcade pillars. Over the door there is a painted coat of arms of George IV. The font, with a lead-lined basin, is built into the west side of the north arcade pillar opposite the door. It is of stone, with an octagonal moulded basin with paterae, and octagonal stem and base which has been rendered in cement. It has been re-dressed but is probably contemporary with the arcade. Near the door there is a small 17th-century oak chest with three hasps and fitted with lifting rings at each end. In the centre and east windows there are a few fragments of early glass, including a peacock and portions of a castle.
The tower (15 ft. 10 in. by 13 ft.) has a window with widely splayed reveals, and a rear-arch of two splayed orders; the recess is carried down to include the doorway.
In the chancel and aisles there are a number of 18thand 19th-century wall memorials.
There are five bells, all of 1705, by Joseph Smith of Edgbaston.
The registers begin in 1558.
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Stoney Cove National Dive Centre
Highlight • Lake
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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Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby
Highlight • Trail
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Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna
Highlight • Historical Site
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 Stanton Quarryman Sculpture
Highlight • Structure
After consulting with residents in the area, it was decided that a sculpture of a quarryman would be made out of the trunk.
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Tips from the Community
The church isn't level inside! It's well worth popping in. The VE Day memorial is very well done and worth a closer look.
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The tree that was felled had been the village Christmas tree with lights etc for years, and this seemed a good way to commemorate both it and the mining in the area. Lots of quiet lanes round about and the old Fosse Way can be found nearby.
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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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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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After the tree was felled at Stoney Stanton, the parish council decided to do something with the remaining trunk. After consulting with residents in the area, it was decided that a sculpture of a quarryman would be made out of the trunk.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Claybrooke Magna?
Claybrooke Magna is rich in history. You can visit the historic St John the Baptist Church, which was rebuilt around the end of the 15th century and retains parts of its earlier chancel and north aisle walls. Another significant site is Claybrooke Mill, a historic watermill dating back to 1763, where milling has occurred for over 1000 years, with much of its original machinery still intact and in commercial operation.
Are there any unique cultural landmarks or monuments in the area?
Yes, a unique cultural landmark is the Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture. This impressive sculpture, carved from a felled tree, commemorates the area's mining history and the tree's former role as a village Christmas tree.
What outdoor activities are available around Claybrooke Magna?
The area around Claybrooke Magna offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on the quiet Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby, which are ideal for exploring the countryside. For more extensive routes, consider exploring the various cycling routes around Claybrooke Magna or even MTB trails.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Claybrooke Magna?
For families, Claybrooke Magna offers the Laurel Fields Children's Playground, which has recently replaced equipment and accessible pathways. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is also a fascinating stop for all ages, offering a glimpse into local history.
Where can I find a good pub or cafe in Claybrooke Magna?
In Claybrooke Magna, 'The Pig in Muck' (formerly The Bull's Head) is a popular country pub that opened its own brewery in 2013, offering cask-conditioned beers. For a cafe, the Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, with visitors praising its coffee, cakes, and pork cobs.
What kind of walking routes are available near Claybrooke Magna?
Claybrooke Magna is surrounded by beautiful countryside with numerous walking routes. You can explore quiet lanes, including sections of the old Fosse Way. For dedicated running, there are several running trails around Claybrooke Magna, offering various distances and moderate difficulty.
Is there anything unique for adventure sports enthusiasts?
Yes, just a short drive from Claybrooke Magna is the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre. This large flooded quarry hosts the UK National Dive Centre and features an underwater adventure park, making it a unique spot for diving enthusiasts.
What is the significance of Monks Kirby in relation to Claybrooke Magna?
The charming village of Monks Kirby, located near Claybrooke Magna, is known for its quiet cycling lanes and historical significance. It features St. Edith’s Church, an 11th-century landmark with a large tower, making it a dominant architectural feature in the area and a pleasant destination for a cycle ride.
Are there any other notable historic buildings besides the church and mill?
Beyond St John the Baptist Church and Claybrooke Mill, the village is home to several other Grade II listed buildings that contribute to its historical character. These include Claybrooke Mill House, Manor Farmhouse, Dairy Farmhouse (which features an early 17th-century stable), and Ashleigh.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Claybrooke Magna?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical charm and opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside. The quiet lanes, like those around Monks Kirby, are popular for cycling, and the historical sites such as St John the Baptist Church offer a glimpse into the past. The unique Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is also a point of interest, commemorating local heritage.
Can I find natural features or viewpoints in Claybrooke Magna?
While Claybrooke Magna itself is primarily characterized by its rural landscape and a brook to the west, the surrounding area offers opportunities to enjoy nature. The quiet lanes and sections of the old Fosse Way provide scenic routes for walking and cycling, allowing you to appreciate the local countryside.
Most popular routes around Claybrooke Magna
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