Attractions and Places To See around Knaptoft - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Knaptoft include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and local facilities. The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, with numerous points of interest to explore. Visitors can discover a mix of man-made monuments, tranquil reservoirs, and local amenities within this Leicestershire region.
Best attractions and places to see around Knaptoft
- The most popular attraction is Foxton Locks Basin, a river that marks the convergence point of canal lines at the base of the historic Foxton Locks. This basin is part of a unique system of ten canal locks built in the early 19th century to navigate a steep incline.
- Another must-see spot is Foxton Locks, a man-made monument set within 34 acres of natural green spaces. This site features the historic canal locks, a museum, and opportunities for boat trips, making it a significant heritage location.
- Visitors also love Saddington Reservoir, a lake covering 47 acres. This reservoir is an important biological site, providing diverse habitats for wildlife including wet willow, woodland, and open water.
- Knaptoft is known for historical sites, natural reservoirs, and local facilities. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to canal systems and wildlife habitats.
- The attractions around Knaptoft are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: May 6, 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
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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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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.
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Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen
Highlight • Cafe
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Saddington Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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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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It's the perfect spot to hydrate, stretch, and simply appreciate nature before continuing to ride. Beware the thorns and sticks in spring time!
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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
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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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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.
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Good coffee and cakes, great spot to stop
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Great spot to grab a bite to eat. Good pasties and sweet treats. Filled up my water bottles too
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Covering 47 acres, Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site. The area comprises of wet willow, woodland, swamp, open water, and wetland habitats. It provides a home for various wildlife, such as beetles that have become scarce in the UK.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions for families around Knaptoft?
For a family day out, Foxton Locks is an excellent choice. It offers 34 acres of green space, a canal museum, boat trips, and opportunities for nature spotting. Another great option is Saddington Reservoir, which provides diverse habitats for wildlife and is a peaceful spot for all ages.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Knaptoft?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the unique system of ten canal locks at Foxton Locks, which also features a museum. Additionally, the Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna, dating primarily from the 14th and 15th centuries, offers a glimpse into local heritage with its fine carved woodwork.
What natural attractions can I explore around Knaptoft?
Nature lovers will enjoy Saddington Reservoir, a 47-acre biological site with wet willow, woodland, and open water habitats, perfect for wildlife observation. The green spaces surrounding Foxton Locks also provide opportunities for nature spotting, including herons, swans, and kingfishers.
Where can I find easy walking routes near Knaptoft?
Many of the areas around the reservoirs and canal systems offer relatively flat and easy walking paths. For specific routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Knaptoft guide, which includes routes like the 'Saddington Reservoir – Saddington Reservoir loop from Fleckney' that are suitable for a moderate walk.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, at Foxton Locks, you'll find two pubs, two cafés, and a Top Lock Cottage café serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and local ice cream. For a local stop, Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is known for good coffee, cakes, and pasties.
What outdoor activities are available near Knaptoft?
The area around Knaptoft is great for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, running, and mountain biking. Foxton Locks also offers summer events like paddleboarding and canoeing.
Are there any dog-friendly walks or facilities around Knaptoft?
Many of the natural areas and trails around Knaptoft are suitable for dog walking, especially around Saddington Reservoir and the green spaces at Foxton Locks. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife, and to check specific venue policies for indoor access.
What is the best time of year to visit Knaptoft for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities around Knaptoft, with warmer weather perfect for walking, cycling, and boat trips at Foxton Locks. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage, particularly around the reservoirs and canal paths.
Are there accessible trails for visitors with disabilities near Knaptoft?
While specific accessible trail information isn't detailed, many canal towpaths, such as those around Foxton Locks, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them more accessible than rugged terrain. It's recommended to check the specific conditions of paths before visiting.
What can I do near Knaptoft if the weather is bad?
If the weather turns, the Canal Museum at Foxton Locks, located in the Boilerhouse, offers an indoor activity where you can learn about the site's unique history. Local pubs and cafes, like the one at Gilmorton Post Office, also provide a cozy retreat.
Can I find circular walking trails around Knaptoft?
Yes, the area offers several circular routes. For instance, the Running Trails around Knaptoft guide includes a 'Saddington Reservoir – Saddington Reservoir loop from Fleckney' which is a moderate circular route. Many paths along the canals and around reservoirs naturally form loops.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Knaptoft?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area. The unique engineering marvel of Foxton Locks and its surrounding green spaces are highly rated for their historical significance and opportunities for nature spotting. The tranquility and wildlife at Saddington Reservoir are also frequently praised.
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