Best attractions and places to see around Hungarton include a blend of 18th-century village architecture, historic sites, and natural features. This charming Leicestershire village offers a glimpse into its unique past, characterized by distinctive red-brick buildings and significant estates. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks and enjoy green spaces, making it a destination for those interested in history and the outdoors. The area provides a variety of points of interest, from historic halls to tranquil lakes.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Cossington Meadow, overseen by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, was once a gravel quarry during the 1980s and 90s. As part of the Leicestershire Round development, the pits were filled with inert waste, some areas were covered with soil and seeded with grass, and deep holes were intentionally left to create lakes. Interpretation boards across the site provide information about the diverse plant and animal life that has established itself in the reserve.
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Cafe, toilets, beautiful park, miniature railway. Cycle route through the patk
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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Hungarton is rich in history, featuring unique 18th-century village architecture, rebuilt for Sir Shuckborough Ashby of Quenby Hall. You can see buildings like the Manor House, Hope Farmhouse, and the War Memorial. The village is also home to the ancient Church of St John the Baptist, restored in 1851. Nearby, explore the historic Quenby Hall, a Grade I listed building, and Baggrave Hall, a Grade II* listed building. Don't miss Ingarsby Old Hall, a moated farmhouse with a chapel, also Grade II* listed.
Yes, Hungarton offers several natural features. The village's southern edge features a small stream crossed by a bridge, and adjacent to it is the Millennium Green, a pleasant green space. You'll also find several mature trees with Tree Preservation Orders throughout the village, contributing to its picturesque landscape. For a larger natural area, consider visiting John Merrick's Lake, part of Watermead Country Park, known for birdwatching and accessible paths.
The area around Hungarton is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for different activities. For mountain biking, explore trails like the "Watermead Country Park – John Merrick's Lake loop" or the "Rutland Water Dam – Normanton Church loop." Hikers can enjoy easy routes such as the "Footbridge Over the Ford loop from Gaddesby" or the "Burrough Hill Summit – Burrough Hill Iron Age Fort loop." Running trails are also available, including loops from Houghton on the Hill. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Hungarton, Easy hikes around Hungarton, and Running Trails around Hungarton guides.
Absolutely! Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park offers hard-surfaced paths perfect for walks with strollers or young children. Abbey Park, with its historical sites, cafe, toilets, and even a miniature railway, is another excellent family destination. Burrough Hill Country Park also provides diverse areas for visitors and is considered family-friendly.
For a historic pub experience, The Black Boy Public House marks an entrance to Hungarton village and has parts dating back to the 18th century. If you're looking for a cafe, Café Ventoux is a popular cycling-themed spot offering high-quality coffee, cake, and a unique atmosphere. Another option is the cafe at Racehub Lake, which also features a bike shop and open water swimming.
Yes, John Merrick's Lake is part of the "Red Route" in Watermead Country Park, which features hard-surfaced paths specifically designed to be wheelchair and pushchair accessible. These paths are also shared with cyclists, offering a pleasant outdoor experience for everyone.
Hungarton's architecture is particularly significant because the village was largely rebuilt between 1760 and 1770 for Sir Shuckborough Ashby of Quenby Hall. This resulted in a distinctive style, primarily red brick in Flemish bond with lighter headers, often retaining original Swithland slates. The deliberate layout with right-angle bends creates picturesque vistas, making the village itself a notable architectural attraction.
Yes, open water swimming is available at Racehub Lake. The lake is described as clean, with clearly marked laps, and not too deep, making it a pleasant spot for swimming, especially on warmer days. Swimming is typically offered a few times a week.
Burrough Hill Country Park is renowned for its significant and well-preserved Iron Age hill fort. Beyond its historical importance, the park provides diverse wildlife habitats and various areas for visitors to explore. It's located between Burrough on the Hill and Somerby, offering both historical insights and natural beauty.
Abbey Park, opened in 1882, is rich in history. It is bounded by medieval walls and includes archaeological sites of the former St Mary's Abbey. You can also explore the ruins of Cavendish House within the park. The River Soar flows through its center, adding to the scenic and historical appeal.
Cyclists will particularly enjoy Café Ventoux, a popular cycling-themed cafe that offers high-quality coffee, cake, a boutique bike shop, and cycling memorabilia. It's a great stop for a break during a ride. Additionally, Racehub Lake also features a bike shop and cafe, catering to the cycling community.


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