Attractions and Places To See around Gilmorton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gilmorton include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor activity centers. This Leicestershire village and its surroundings offer opportunities to explore medieval earthworks, tranquil reservoirs, and dedicated cycling routes. The area features both cultural landmarks and natural points of interest for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Gilmorton
- The most popular attractions is Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby, a trail that offers quiet routes through scenic countryside. The charming village of Monks Kirby features the historic 11th-century St. Edith's church.
- Another must-see spot is Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a lake that is a large flooded quarry hosting the UK National Dive Centre. It provides a heated pool for dive training and is described as an "underwater adventure park."
- Visitors also love Saddington Reservoir, an important biological site covering 47 acres. This area provides a home for various wildlife, including beetles that are scarce in the UK.
- Gilmorton is known for historical landmarks, natural features, and outdoor activity centers. Visitors can explore medieval earthworks, tranquil reservoirs, and dedicated cycling routes.
- The attractions around Gilmorton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 35 upvotes and 3 photos shared.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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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Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen
Highlight • Cafe
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Tips from the Community
Top tip only park your bike on the left, (looking from the road) there is a sign to remind you when you arrive. Great service, nice little upstairs room when the weather isn’t so good, or sit outside side on warm sunny days, good value for money with the coffee and cake.
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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 and around Gilmorton?
Gilmorton and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. Within the village, you can visit All Saints' Church, known for its 14th and 15th-century tower and Saxon origins. Don't miss the earthwork remains of the medieval Gilmorton Motte, or the Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture, a unique piece carved from a felled village Christmas tree. Nearby, the charming village of Monks Kirby features the historic 11th-century St. Edith's church.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Gilmorton?
Yes, the lanes around the picturesque village of Monks Kirby are particularly well-suited for cycling, offering quiet routes through scenic countryside. This area is highlighted as Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby. You can find more cycling routes and inspiration in the broader Attractions and Places To See around Gilmorton guide.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife near Gilmorton?
For nature and wildlife, visit Saddington Reservoir, a 47-acre biological site with wet willow, woodland, swamp, and open water habitats, supporting various wildlife including rare beetles. Other natural spots include Stelle Way Meadow, which is being transformed into a wildflower meadow, Glenfield Arboretum with its variety of trees and a hidden lake, and the Rothley Brook Corridor, a linear park ideal for walks and enjoying nature.
What family-friendly attractions are available around Gilmorton?
Families can enjoy several attractions. The Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby are suitable for family bike rides. For a unique experience, consider visiting Wistow Maze, a popular seasonal maize maze, or Tropical Birdland, which houses over 250 birds, including free-flying parrots. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is also a point of interest for all ages.
Are there any unique or unusual attractions to visit?
Beyond the well-known spots, Gilmorton offers some unique finds. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture, carved from a tree trunk, is a distinctive local landmark. For an underwater adventure, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a large flooded quarry, is a renowned UK dive site. Additionally, the Gilmorton Motte and the Moated Site at Cotes de Val offer a glimpse into medieval settlement patterns.
Where can I find local amenities like shops or places to eat in Gilmorton?
In Gilmorton, you can find local amenities at the Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen, which serves as a community hub and offers good coffee and treats. For traditional hospitality, the village has pubs such as The Crown Inn, The Grey Goose, and Mortons (formerly The Red Lion).
What kind of walking trails are available near Gilmorton?
There are various walking trails near Gilmorton, ranging from easy to moderate. You can explore routes like the '1662 House loop from Bruntingthorpe' or the 'Kimcote Hall Farm Garden loop from Gilmorton'. The Rothley Brook Corridor also provides a linear park for walks. For more detailed options, refer to the Hiking around Gilmorton guide and the Easy hikes around Gilmorton guide.
Can I find places for water-based activities?
Yes, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre is a large flooded quarry that serves as the UK National Dive Centre, offering dive training and an 'underwater adventure park' experience. While Saddington Reservoir is a significant biological site, it is primarily for wildlife observation rather than recreational water sports.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gilmorton?
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique experiences offered, such as the 'underwater adventure park' at Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, which also has a pub/cafe. The quiet and scenic Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby are also highly appreciated for their peaceful routes and historical village setting. The natural beauty and wildlife at Saddington Reservoir are also a big draw.
Are there any running trails near Gilmorton?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find routes like the 'Lutterworth Town Centre – Sir Frank Whittle Memorial loop from Ashby Parva' or the 'Kimcote Hall Farm Garden loop from Gilmorton'. These trails offer moderate difficulty for runners. For more options, check the Running Trails around Gilmorton guide.
What are some lesser-known natural spots or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the main attractions, you can discover places like Stelle Way Meadow, which is being developed into a wildlife haven and wildflower meadow. Glenfield Arboretum is another hidden gem, a heavily wooded plot with a variety of trees and a small, secluded lake, perfect for wildlife spotting. Fishley Belt also offers an informal path through mature woodland.
Can I see Roman artifacts or learn about the Roman history of the area?
While Gilmorton itself has medieval origins, a significant Roman coin hoard dating to around AD 296 was discovered in farmland near the village in 2004. Some of these historical artifacts are now on display at the Lutterworth Museum, offering a glimpse into the area's Roman past.
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