Attractions and Places To See around Cotes - Top 20

The Cotes area offers several natural highlights. You can visit Beacon Hill Summit, the second highest peak in Leicestershire, which provides tremendous views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Another notable spot is Bradgate Park Deer Park, an ancient parkland where you can observe deer. Additionally, Swithland Reservoir offers scenic views of water, woodland, and water birds, with the added charm of passing vintage steam trains.

Yes, Cotes is rich in historical and man-made monuments. Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, is an iconic folly standing at the highest point of Bradgate Park, offering good views and a glimpse into 18th-century architecture. You can also explore Mount St Bernard Abbey, a Roman Catholic Trappist monastery known for its fantastic architecture and peaceful grounds, and the only Trappist house in England.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Beacon Hill Summit, which offers 360-degree vistas across Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, also provides excellent views of the surrounding area and Leicester city centre on a clear day from its elevated position.

Absolutely. Many attractions in Cotes are suitable for families. Beacon Hill Summit is considered family-friendly, offering easy access to great views and amenities like a cafe and ice-cream van. Bradgate Park Deer Park is also a popular family spot, ideal for walks and observing wildlife. Mount St Bernard Abbey offers peaceful grounds for a family visit, and Swithland Reservoir provides scenic views that can be enjoyed by all ages.

The Cotes area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various routes for gravel biking, hiking, and easy hikes. For gravel biking adventures, explore options in the Gravel biking around Cotes guide. If you prefer walking, there are numerous trails for hiking around Cotes, including easy hikes suitable for all skill levels.

Yes, you can find hiking trails that incorporate or pass near some of the attractions. For instance, there are many routes around Beacon Hill Summit, and the area around Bradgate Park Deer Park is popular for walks. You can find detailed routes, including easy options, in the Hiking around Cotes and Easy hikes around Cotes guides.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, particularly from Beacon Hill Summit and Old John Tower. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture of Mount St Bernard Abbey are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities in Bradgate Park Deer Park and the scenic tranquility of Swithland Reservoir.

Yes, parking is generally available at the main attractions. For example, Beacon Hill Summit has parking at both the top and bottom of the hill. For Bradgate Park Deer Park, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as it can get very busy.

Yes, some attractions offer amenities for refreshments. Beacon Hill Summit has a cafe and an ice-cream van. Additionally, the monks at Mount St Bernard Abbey brew their own ale, which is available for visitors.

When cycling through Bradgate Park Deer Park, it's important to remember that cyclists do not have right of way, and you may be asked to dismount on very busy days. It's also crucial to stick to the tarmac paths, as cycling off-route can incur heavy fines.

Mount St Bernard Abbey holds historical significance as the first permanent monastery founded in England since the Reformation and is the sole Trappist house in the country. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, peaceful grounds, and for its monks who brew their own unique Trappist ale.

Yes, you might catch sight of steam trains, particularly when visiting Swithland Reservoir. The Great Central Railway divides the reservoir, and you can often see vintage trains passing on the viaduct from this scenic spot.