Attractions and Places To See around Swepstone - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Swepstone include a mix of natural beauty and historical sites in North West Leicestershire, England. The area features significant landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore a landscape shaped by both historical industry and natural regeneration, offering diverse points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Swepstone
- The most popular attractions is Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site located on the edge of a canal with accessible…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Moira Furnace and Canal
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Mount St Bernard Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
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Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
Highlight • Lake
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Ashby de la Zouch Castle
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Skills Area at Snibston Colliery Park
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Tips from the Community
A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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snibston trail great bike trail and skills area, old coal mining still can see some things check the photos.cafe car park and a park
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snibston colliery the old mining still got some things to view
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The canal is a lovely place for a walk, especially on a sunny day when the water reflects beautifully. There's a large forest area adjacent to the canal, with trails leading back to the path. You'll also find a museum, some small shops, and public restrooms. It's a great place for a day out, whether you're looking for adventure, walking the dog, fishing, or just grabbing a bite at the cafe!
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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check out the photos for signs for the trails and skills area
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check the photos there are some signs for the bike trail and skills area
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Swepstone?
You can discover the natural beauty of Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park. This area, part of the National Forest, offers short walks around the lake and through the woods, serving as a haven for wildlife. It's also a starting point for the National Forest Birthday walk.
Are there historical sites to visit near Swepstone?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit Moira Furnace and Canal, a significant historical site with a visitor centre and museum. Another notable site is Mount St Bernard Abbey, a Roman Catholic Trappist monastery known for its architecture and peaceful grounds. Further afield, you can explore the ruins of Ashby de la Zouch Castle, an imposing royalist stronghold.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Swepstone area?
Absolutely! Moira Furnace and Canal is a great option, featuring a visitor centre, museum, and a children's play area. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park provides easy walks suitable for families. Additionally, the Skills Area at Snibston Colliery Park offers a unique blend of historical context and outdoor activities, including bike trails.
Can I find walking or hiking trails around Swepstone?
Yes, there are several options for walking and hiking. Sence Valley Forest Park offers short walks around Horseshoe Lake and is a starting point for longer routes. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking routes around Swepstone, which include easy loops like the one from Normanton le Heath.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for everyone?
Yes, for easy walks, consider the trails around Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park. The footpaths around Moira Furnace and Canal are also easily accessible. You can find more easy options in the easy hikes guide for Swepstone, such as the Sence Valley Country Park to Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve loop.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Swepstone?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy road cycling. There are various road cycling routes around Swepstone, including moderate loops like the Whitemoors Tea Room – Shenton Village loop. The Skills Area at Snibston Colliery Park also provides mountain biking opportunities.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Swepstone?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture of Mount St Bernard Abbey are often highlighted. At Moira Furnace and Canal, the lovely walks along the canal, the adjacent forest area, and the facilities like the museum and cafe are popular. The regenerated landscape of Sence Valley Forest Park is also highly valued for its wildlife and walking opportunities.
Is there parking available at the main attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available. Moira Furnace and Canal has a car park. Sence Valley Forest Park also has a car park, though it's important to note that payment is typically by card or app only, as cash is not accepted.
Are there any cultural landmarks in Swepstone itself?
Within Swepstone village, you can find St Helen's Church, with parts dating back to 1474, and Swepstone House, a Grade II listed building featuring distinctive architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries.
What is the best time of year to visit Swepstone's outdoor attractions?
The milder months, from spring through early autumn, are generally ideal for enjoying the outdoor attractions and walking trails around Swepstone, such as Sence Valley Forest Park and the canal paths near Moira Furnace, when the weather is most pleasant for exploration.
Are there options for refreshments or cafes near the attractions?
Yes, Moira Furnace and Canal features a cafe where you can grab a bite. Additionally, Snibston Colliery Park also has a cafe, providing convenient options for visitors.
Most popular attractions around Swepstone
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