Attractions and Places To See around Burton Overy - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Burton Overy include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and local amenities. This Leicestershire region features a rural setting with notable canal systems and reservoirs, offering opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities. The area provides diverse points of interest, from significant engineering marvels to tranquil natural habitats.
Best attractions and places to see around Burton Overy
- The most popular attractions is Foxton Locks Basin, a river basin that marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm. This spot is at the base of the 'staircase' of ten canal locks, built in the early 19th century.
- Another must-see spot is Café Ventoux, a family-friendly cafe. This cycling-themed cafe serves coffee and cake, and includes a boutique bike shop and memorabilia.
- Visitors also love Foxton Locks, a man-made monument and historical site. This site spans 34 acres of natural green spaces, offering opportunities for nature spotting and exploring the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift.
- Burton Overy is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and local cafes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including canal systems, reservoirs, and cycling-friendly stops.
- The attractions around Burton Overy are appreciated by the komoot community, with 23 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Foxton Locks
Highlight • Monument
Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat.
Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton:
Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust
Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only)
Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD
Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history
Guided walks, themed activities and events
Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing
Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read
Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61.
source: canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
Tip by
Foxton Locks Basin
Highlight • River
Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
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.
Tip by
Café Ventoux
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Sludge Hall Hill
Highlight • Climb
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Burton Overy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Things to do Foxton Locks sits in 34 acres of natural green spaces which make is great for nature spotting. Look out for herons, swans, swallows and kingfishers. Also located at the site are two pubs, two cafés, a museum and the chance to hire a day boat. Each year over 400,000 visitors experience the rich heritage of the site, which also includes the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift which is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. There is plenty to keep you busy at Foxton: Visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse run by the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust Take a boat trips on Vagabond II managed by Foxton Boats LTD (summer only) Hire a day boat and travel a little further -managed by Foxton Boats LTD Meet the team in the welcome station and learn about lock keeping and the site's unique history Guided walks, themed activities and events Summer events programme including paddle boarding and canoeing Pre-loved bookshop in the Top Lock Cottage for your favourite read Bring a picnic or recharge at one of the places to eat on site: Top Lock Cottage café – serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and locally produced ice cream, and Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61. source: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/foxton-locks-leicestershire
0
0
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.
0
0
The basin marks the convergence point of the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal and the Market Harborough arm, situated at the base of Foxton Locks. Foxton Locks is the 'staircase' of ten canal locks. This flight of locks was built in the early 19th century to enable canal boats to navigate the steep incline. The locks are arranged in two groups of five, allowing boats to ascend or descend the hill.
0
0
Bit of a challenging climb, measured up to 13% in places. Was even more challenging upon my first approached due to the cold, wind and sideways rain. Once you’re over the steepest part it’s not too bad. feels quite rewarding!
0
0
On the wonderfully named "Sludge Hall Hill", you will gain around 50m of elevation over an average gradient of around 7%. (Sludge Hall itself, despite the name is a rather lovely, private country house).
1
0
A lovely cycling-friendly cafe with a great cycling 'vibe' & memorabilia, spares & kit....and of course coffee and food. Ample space to park your car if you are using it as a starting point for a cycling tour of the local area.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Burton Overy?
You can visit Saddington Reservoir, a 47-acre biological site featuring wet willow, woodland, swamp, and open water habitats, home to various wildlife. Additionally, Foxton Locks offers 34 acres of natural green spaces, ideal for nature spotting, including herons, swans, and kingfishers.
What historical sites can I visit in the Burton Overy area?
The most prominent historical site is Foxton Locks, a man-made monument and historical site featuring the 'staircase' of ten canal locks built in the early 19th century. You can also explore the remains of the unique Inclined Boat Lift, listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and visit the historic Canal Museum located in the Boilerhouse.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Burton Overy?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Foxton Locks and Foxton Locks Basin are both family-friendly, offering boat trips, a museum, and green spaces for exploration. Café Ventoux is also a family-friendly cafe, and Saddington Reservoir provides a natural setting for families to appreciate wildlife.
Where can I find a good cafe or place to eat near the attractions?
For a unique cycling-themed experience, visit Café Ventoux, which serves coffee and cake and includes a boutique bike shop. Near Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs, two cafes (including Top Lock Cottage cafe), and the Foxton Locks Inn, Bridge 61, offering various dining options.
What outdoor activities are available near Burton Overy attractions?
The area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, with routes like the Wistow Church – Canal View loop, as detailed in the Easy hikes around Burton Overy guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the Foxton Swing Bridge – Foxton Locks loop, found in the Cycling around Burton Overy guide. For off-road adventures, explore gravel biking routes like the Gartree Road Crossroads – Foxton Swing Bridge loop, available in the Gravel biking around Burton Overy guide.
Are there easy walking trails around Burton Overy?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, you can find routes like the Wistow Church – Canal View loop from Newton Harcourt (4.2 km) or the Hiking loop from Leicester Airport (6.8 km). More options are available in the Easy hikes around Burton Overy guide, which provides details on various easy-grade trails.
Where can I find scenic views around Burton Overy?
For scenic views, consider visiting Foxton Locks, which offers picturesque canal scenery and natural green spaces. Additionally, Sludge Hall Hill provides a viewpoint after a challenging climb, offering rewarding vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Are there cycling-friendly spots or routes in the area?
Absolutely. Café Ventoux is a popular cycling-themed cafe with good bike storage and tools. The area also boasts numerous cycling routes, including the Foxton Swing Bridge – Foxton Locks loop (47.7 km) and the Gumley Wood loop (18.3 km). You can find more detailed routes in the Cycling around Burton Overy guide.
When is the best time to visit the attractions around Burton Overy?
The attractions around Burton Overy, particularly those involving outdoor activities like Foxton Locks and Saddington Reservoir, are enjoyable during warmer months for walking and boat trips. However, the historical sites and cafes like Café Ventoux are accessible year-round. The natural green spaces at Foxton Locks are great for nature spotting in spring and summer.
Are there any lesser-known spots or hidden gems to discover?
While not strictly 'hidden,' Saddington Reservoir is a significant biological site covering 47 acres, offering a tranquil spot to appreciate nature and wildlife, including scarce beetles. It's a perfect place to hydrate, stretch, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings away from more bustling attractions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Burton Overy?
Visitors particularly enjoy the rich heritage and natural beauty of Foxton Locks, with its unique canal locks and opportunities for nature spotting. The cycling community highly rates Café Ventoux for its quality coffee, food, and welcoming atmosphere, often including it in their route planning. The overall rural setting and diverse points of interest, from engineering marvels to tranquil natural habitats, are also highly appreciated.
Most popular routes around Burton Overy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
