Attractions and Places To See around Dunton Bassett - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Dunton Bassett include historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The village, located in Leicestershire, England, offers a mix of local points of interest and accessible regional attractions. Its landscape features green spaces, wildlife areas, and former industrial sites now recognized for their ecological or geological significance. The area provides opportunities for exploring local history and engaging with the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Dunton Bassett
- The most popular attractions is Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby, a trail that offers picturesque scenery and quieter routes. The charming village of Monks Kirby, with its 11th-century St. Edith’s church, provides a historical backdrop for cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a lake. This large flooded quarry serves as the UK National Dive Centre, featuring a heated pool for dive training and an underwater adventure park.
- Visitors also love Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture, an other man-made attraction. This sculpture, carved from a felled tree trunk, commemorates the area's mining history following consultation with local residents.
- Dunton Bassett is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and community-focused points of interest. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to wildlife habitats and local cultural hubs.
- The attractions around Dunton Bassett are appreciated by the komoot community, with 34 upvotes and 3 photos shared.
Last updated: May 4, 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/
Tip by
Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby
Highlight • Trail
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
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.
Tip by
Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Dunton Bassett.
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
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
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
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.
1
0
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/
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore around Dunton Bassett?
Dunton Bassett and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the All Saints Church, an early 13th-century landmark with a notable spire. Another significant historical feature is the Dunton Bassett Tunnel, part of the former Great Central Railway line, which closed in the 1960s but remains intact. Additionally, the Church of All Saints, Peatling Magna, primarily built during the 14th and 15th centuries, offers fine examples of carved woodwork.
Are there any unique natural features or wildlife areas to visit?
Yes, Dunton Bassett offers several natural features. The Stelle Way Meadow is being re-established as a wildflower meadow, and Glenfield Arboretum features a variety of species and a small hidden lake, making it a wildlife haven. The Rothley Brook Corridor provides a linear park experience along an old railway embankment, excellent for walks and wildlife spotting. The former Dunton Bassett Quarry is also recognized as a Local Wildlife Site and a Regionally Important Geological Site.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Dunton Bassett?
The area around Dunton Bassett is great for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on the picturesque Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby. For those interested in water activities, the Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a large flooded quarry, is the UK's National Dive Centre offering dive training and an underwater adventure park. You can also find numerous road cycling routes and running trails in the vicinity.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Absolutely. The Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby are considered family-friendly, offering quiet routes through charming scenery. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is an interesting man-made attraction that commemorates local history and can be enjoyed by families. Additionally, the natural green spaces and wildlife areas like Stelle Way Meadow and Glenfield Arboretum provide opportunities for family outings and nature exploration.
Where can I find good walking or hiking trails near Dunton Bassett?
There are several options for walking and hiking. The Rothley Brook Corridor offers a beautiful wildlife corridor ideal for walks. For more structured routes, you can explore easy hikes around Dunton Bassett, such as the 'Coffee Van – Fosse Meadows loop from Sharnford' or various loops from Narborough and Bruntingthorpe. These trails offer a chance to experience the local landscape.
What cultural sites or points of interest are there?
Beyond historical landmarks, Dunton Bassett has cultural points of interest. The Dunton Bassett Village Hall has historically served as the hub of the village's social life. The Dunton Bassett Cricket Club, established in 1870, is a local institution with an active junior section. The Stoney Stanton Quarryman Sculpture is a unique piece of local art commemorating the area's mining history.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments or a meal near the attractions?
Yes, you can find places to refuel. The Gilmorton Post Office, General Store and Delicatessen is a highly-rated spot for coffee, cakes, and snacks, with visitors praising their pork cobs and sweet treats. The Stoney Cove National Dive Centre also features a pub/cafe, making it a good place to stop for a break.
What is the best time of year to visit Dunton Bassett for outdoor activities?
The warmer months, typically late spring through early autumn (May to September), are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Dunton Bassett. During this time, the weather is more conducive for cycling, hiking, and exploring the natural features like the wildflower meadows and arboretum. However, historical sites and cultural points of interest can be visited year-round.
Can I spot any specific wildlife in the Dunton Bassett area?
The natural areas around Dunton Bassett are home to various wildlife. The Stelle Way Meadow and Glenfield Arboretum are maintained to support local flora and fauna. The Rothley Brook Corridor is a good spot for observing wildlife along the brook and wooded slopes. Above the surface at Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, you might even catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth discovering?
Beyond the main attractions, the Moated Site north of All Saints Church is a Scheduled Ancient Monument with well-defined moat arms and a small fishpond, offering a glimpse into ancient history. The Dunton Bassett Quarry, now a Local Wildlife Site, is a fascinating geological spot with Quaternary (Ice Age) deposits, often overlooked but significant for its natural history.
What makes the cycling routes around Monks Kirby special?
The Cycling Lanes Around Monks Kirby are particularly special due to their picturesque scenery and quieter routes. The charming village of Monks Kirby itself, with its 11th-century St. Edith’s church, provides a beautiful historical backdrop. Cyclists appreciate these lanes for being less trafficked, offering a more serene experience compared to busier roads.
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:
