Attractions and Places To See around Anstey - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Anstey, primarily located in Leicestershire, England, offer a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage. The region features rugged landscapes, scenic reservoirs, and significant historical sites. Visitors can explore diverse natural features and discover structures with centuries of history.
Best attractions and places to see around Anstey
- The most popular attraction is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that is the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It offers spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Bradgate House, a historical site. This Tudor mansion, built in the early 1500s, was once home to Lady Jane Grey and now stands as a significant ruin within Bradgate Park.
- Visitors also love Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a man-made monument. This folly stands at the highest point in Bradgate Park, providing extensive views across Leicester and Leicestershire.
- Anstey is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions for those interested in exploring nature and historical structures.
- The attractions around Anstey are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 170 upvotes and 150 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Old John Tower, Bradgate Park
Highlight • Monument
The earliest recorded use of the name is on a map of 1754, which records a windmill on the site, some 30 years before the tower was built. The tower itself began life as a ruined folly, built in 1784, during the time of George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford. He got Thomas Sketchley of Anstey to build him the mock ruin, which had strong similarities to Mow Cop, Staffordshire. It was adapted in the mid-19th century by the seventh Earl to serve as an observation tower for the practice circuit he laid out for his horses, along with the building of a stable block lower down the hill.
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Beacon Hill Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Ruins of Bradgate House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bradgate Park
Highlight • Settlement
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Tips from the Community
Cycling is only permitted on the one route through the park, which gets busy with walkers, take it slow in the park. Cafe and toilets in the middle.
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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Bradgate Park was first enclosed as a deer park (for hunting) in the 12th Century. Herds of Red and Fallow Deer still roam freely across the Park's 800 acres today.The Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance as a wildlife habitat and its geological interest - the 600 million year old Precambrian rocks here are some of the oldest in England. Bradgate House, built around the year 1500, was one of the first unfortified, brick-built country houses in the country and was the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey and played an important role in the English Civil War. Abandoned in the 18th Century, the house is now an evocative ruin set in a landscape that has changed little since the house's heyday.
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Bradgate House is one of England's great 'lost country houses', a once-magnificent Tudor mansion and the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, the tragic 'Nine Days Queen'. The story of Bradgate House goes back long before Lady Jane's birth, however, and is intertwined with the history of Bradgate Park, a large country park in which the ruins stand. Bradgate Park began as a hunting ground in the early 13th century. It was enclosed by an earthwork bank and ditch, topped by oak timbers. In 1445 the park passed by marriage to the Grey family, who owned it for the next 5 centuries. The first grey owner was Edward Grey, whose son John married Elizabeth Woodville. After John's death at the Battle of St Albans in 1461 Elizabeth married King Edward IV. One of Elizabeth's sons by her first marriage was Sir Thomas Grey, the 1st Marquess of Dorset.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Anstey?
The area around Anstey, Leicestershire, is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Beacon Hill Summit, the second-highest peak in Leicestershire, offering spectacular views of Charnwood Forest. Another popular spot is Bradgate Park Deer Park, known for its wild deer and rugged landscapes. Additionally, Swithland Reservoir provides scenic beauty with woodlands and diverse water birds.
Are there historical sites to visit near Anstey, Leicestershire?
Yes, Anstey and its surroundings offer several historical sites. Within Bradgate Park, you can explore the Ruins of Bradgate House, a Tudor mansion once home to Lady Jane Grey. Also, the iconic Old John Tower, a folly built in 1784, stands on the highest hill in Bradgate Park. The village of Anstey itself features a 14th-Century Five-Arched Pack-Horse Bridge and a Parish Church with parts dating back to the 12th century.
What kind of outdoor activities and routes are available near Anstey?
Anstey is a great base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including easy and moderate options around Swithland Reservoir and Bradgate Park. For more details on cycling, check out the guides for Cycling around Anstey, Road Cycling Routes around Anstey, and Gravel biking around Anstey.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Anstey area?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Beacon Hill Summit offers accessible paths and great views, while Bradgate Park Deer Park is perfect for observing wildlife and enjoying open spaces. The Ruins of Bradgate House also provide an engaging historical experience for all ages.
Where can I find the best viewpoints around Anstey?
For panoramic views, head to Beacon Hill Summit, which offers spectacular vistas of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Another excellent viewpoint is from Old John Tower in Bradgate Park, providing extensive views across Leicester and Leicestershire.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Anstey?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from spots like Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The opportunity to see wild deer at Bradgate Park Deer Park is also a highlight, as is exploring the historical significance of the Ruins of Bradgate House. The natural beauty and accessibility for walks are consistently appreciated.
Are there any specific historical sites in Anstey, Hertfordshire?
Yes, if you are referring to Anstey in Hertfordshire, a significant historical site is the Anstey Motte and Bailey Castle. This well-documented Norman castle dates back to the 11th century and still features a large flat-topped motte surrounded by a water-filled ditch. The Church of St George, with origins in the 12th century and unique Norman features, is also notable.
Can I find dog-friendly walking routes near Anstey?
Many of the natural areas around Anstey, such as Bradgate Park and the trails around Swithland Reservoir, are popular for dog walking. However, it's always recommended to check specific park rules regarding dogs, especially in areas with wildlife like the deer park, where dogs may need to be on a lead.
What is the best time of year to visit Anstey for nature walks?
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for nature walks around Anstey, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings new growth and blooming flowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, but can be busier. Winter walks can be serene, especially around places like Bradgate Park, but require appropriate clothing.
Are there any unique cultural events or fairs in the Anstey area?
The nearby Oaks in Charnwood hosts an annual Oaks Spring Fair, a traditional country fair featuring various attractions, retail stalls, food, live music, and historical displays like Danelaw Vikings. This event also includes performances by the 'Anstey Royale Chalfont Morris Dancers'.
Are there any easy walks with parking near Anstey?
Yes, areas like Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill offer various parking facilities, and many of the trails are suitable for easy walks. For example, the routes around Beacon Hill Summit are known for superb accessibility, allowing visitors to enjoy fabulous views with minimal effort.
What are some of the historical architectural features in Anstey village?
Anstey village in Leicestershire is home to a charming 14th-Century Five-Arched Pack-Horse Bridge crossing the River Wreake. The local Parish Church, while rebuilt in 1846, incorporates older elements, possibly from the 12th century, and features a rare cross shaft in its churchyard. The village also boasts attractive Victorian and Edwardian houses.
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