Attractions and Places To See around Osgathorpe - Top 20

Osgathorpe is rich in history. You can visit Mount St Bernard Abbey, a Trappist monastery with notable architecture. Within the village, explore St Mary the Virgin Church, dating back to the 14th century, and the historic Manor House Farm, a Tudor farmhouse from the late 16th century. Don't miss Osgathorpe Hall and The Thomas Harley Free School and Almshouses, both significant historical buildings. You can also follow the Osgathorpe Heritage Trail to discover various points of interest. For more details on the village's heritage, you can visit the Osgathorpe Heritage Group website.

Yes, the area offers several natural highlights and viewpoints. Beacon Hill Summit is a must-visit, offering spectacular 360-degree views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. You can also enjoy the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a beautiful natural area perfect for walking. Nearby, Staunton Harold Reservoir provides fine views over the water and surrounding woodlands, with abundant birdlife.

Osgathorpe is an excellent base for hiking. The area, part of the National Forest, features gentle inclines, open fields, and woodlands. Many footpaths connect natural features with historical sites, such as the ruins of Grace Dieu Priory and its Victorian viaduct. For specific routes, you can explore the Hiking around Osgathorpe guide, which includes trails like the View of Whitwick Monastery – Mount St Bernard Abbey loop.

Absolutely. The region offers numerous trails suitable for cycling and mountain biking. The National Forest area provides diverse landscapes for riders. You can find various routes, including those along the Charnwood Forest Canal remains. Check out the MTB Trails around Osgathorpe guide for options like the Cloud Trail – Staunton Harold Reservoir loop.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is great for walks and exploring nature. Beacon Hill Summit offers an accessible climb with rewarding views, and often has amenities like a park and ice cream van nearby. Staunton Harold Reservoir features a playground and cafe, making it a pleasant spot for families. Melbourne Pool is another peaceful spot with birdlife, close to local shops and cafes.

Osgathorpe's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with lush greenery and blooming landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in areas like Charnwood Forest. Even in winter, many historical sites and natural areas remain accessible, offering a different, often quieter, perspective. Always check specific opening times for indoor attractions or facilities.

Yes, there are several easy walking options. The area around Grace Dieu Priory Ruins and Woodland offers gentle paths. The Easy hikes around Osgathorpe guide lists routes such as the Grace Dieu Viaduct – Stream in Grace Dieu Wood loop, which is relatively short and easy. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey also provides accessible paths suitable for leisurely strolls.

While Osgathorpe itself is a small village, you'll find options nearby. The Storey Arms remains a public house in the village. For other attractions, Staunton Harold Reservoir has a cafe, and Calke Abbey also features a cafe within its grounds. Near Melbourne Pool, there are local shops and cafes within a minute's walk. For Beacon Hill, there's a cafe and often an ice-cream van.

Many of the natural areas and trails around Osgathorpe are dog-friendly. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is explicitly listed as dog-friendly, offering great walking opportunities. The numerous hiking and cycling routes through the National Forest, including those around Grace Dieu Priory and Beacon Hill, are generally suitable for dogs, though always check for local signage regarding leash requirements or restricted areas, especially near livestock.

Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the remains of the Charnwood Forest Canal along a footpath south of the village, offering a glimpse into industrial history. The Osgathorpe Ford, an historic crossing that may date back to Norman times, is another interesting, less-frequented spot. The Grace Dieu Priory Ruins, nestled in a beautiful woodland setting, also offer a serene and historically rich experience that feels a bit off the beaten path.

The terrain around Osgathorpe generally features gentle inclines, open fields, and woodlands, characteristic of the National Forest area. While some trails, like those leading to Beacon Hill Summit, involve a climb, they are typically well-maintained. Paths can range from paved sections to dirt tracks and grassy trails, especially in areas like the Deer Park at Calke Abbey or around Staunton Harold Reservoir. Appropriate footwear is recommended for varied surfaces.