Attractions and Places To See around Cotes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cotes include a variety of natural landmarks and scenic trails. The region features prominent hills offering extensive views, alongside several reservoirs that provide tranquil settings. These areas are characterized by their natural beauty, including woodlands and open landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Cotes
- The most popular attractions is Beacon Hill Summit, a natural monument that serves as a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It offers…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Beacon Hill Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
Situated just 2 miles from …
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Cropston Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. …
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Native Tree Trail, Beacon Hill Country Park
Highlight • Trail
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Love & Piste Coffee Shop
Highlight • Cafe
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Tips from the Community
Great pit stop for coffee and cake. No indoor seating but plenty of outdoor seating round the back and covered seating with blankets and heaters round the front. Cake is TASTY!
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Great pit stop for coffee and cake. Loads of outdoor seating with some covered areas with blankets and heater. No indoor seating inside shop and cafe.
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Lovely cake and coffee with a covered seating porch to get out of the rain!
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beacon hill country park great views at the top looking over Loughborough, cafe ,park for children, horse riding ,maze,
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In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000. Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard. Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house. Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size. The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold. Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
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Beacon Hill Country Park, close to Woodhouse Eaves, is owned and managed by Leicestershire County Council. Rising to a height of 245m, Beacon Hill is one of the highest points in Leicestershire and boasts spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Covering 128ha, the Country Park consists of mixed woodland, grassland, open heathland, wetlands and rocky outcrops. It has a range of interesting features that await any visitor. The Country Park supports an important range of plants and animals, and is part of the 'Beacon Hill, Hangingstone and Outwoods' Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The management of the park aims to balance public access with the need to maintain and enhance the habitats for which the site is important. As a result, Beacon Hill Country Park was the recipient of the 1996 English Nature Award for Management.
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Beacon Hill is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire. It showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest, the Soar Valley and beyond. Situated just 2 miles from the M1 motorway and a stone's throw away from Loughborough, the peak offers superb accessibility for those seeking fabulous views with minimal effort.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I explore around Cotes?
The Cotes area is rich in natural landmarks. You can explore prominent hills like Beacon Hill Summit, which offers extensive views, and tranquil reservoirs such as Swithland Reservoir and Cropston Reservoir. The landscape features woodlands, open heathland, wetlands, and rocky outcrops.
Are there family-friendly activities available near Cotes?
Yes, many attractions are family-friendly. Beacon Hill Summit and Native Tree Trail, Beacon Hill Country Park are great for families, offering walks and open spaces. The reservoirs also provide scenic spots for gentle strolls and birdwatching, suitable for all ages.
What are the best walking trails in the Cotes area?
The Native Tree Trail within Beacon Hill Country Park is a popular choice, offering diverse landscapes including mixed woodland and grassland. Beacon Hill Summit itself has numerous routes up and down, providing fantastic 360-degree views. For more options, you can find various walking routes in the Attractions and Places To See around Cotes guide.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, for example, near Beacon Hill, there is a cafe offering great cakes and an ice-cream van. Additionally, Love & Piste Coffee Shop is a great pit stop for coffee and cake, with outdoor seating available.
Are the attractions around Cotes suitable for dog owners?
Many of the natural areas and trails around Cotes are suitable for dog walking. Beacon Hill is a popular spot for walks, and the surrounding country park offers plenty of space for dogs to enjoy. Always remember to keep dogs on a lead where required and clean up after them.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Cotes?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular 360-degree views from Beacon Hill Summit across Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. The tranquil settings of the reservoirs, with their surrounding woodland and water birds, are also highly appreciated. The diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails for walking are also a big draw.
Is there parking available at the main attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, Beacon Hill Summit has parking available both at the top and bottom of the hill. For Cropston Reservoir, toilets are available at the Bradgate Park car park nearby.
What are the difficulty levels of the trails and attractions?
The attractions around Cotes offer a range of difficulty levels. Climbing Beacon Hill Summit can be a busy trail but offers various routes. Many trails within Beacon Hill Country Park are accessible for general walking. For specific routes, you can check the difficulty ratings on individual tours within the Attractions and Places To See around Cotes guide.
What kind of wildlife or nature can I expect to see?
The area is home to a variety of plants and animals. At Beacon Hill Country Park, you'll find mixed woodland, grassland, open heathland, and wetlands, supporting diverse flora and fauna. The reservoirs, like Swithland Reservoir, are excellent for observing water birds.
Are there options for cycling or mountain biking near Cotes?
Absolutely! The Cotes area offers various routes for cycling and mountain biking. You can find guides for Gravel biking around Cotes, Cycling around Cotes, and MTB Trails around Cotes, featuring routes of varying difficulties.
What should I wear when hiking in the Cotes area?
When hiking in the Cotes area, it's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes or boots suitable for varied terrain, as trails can include woodland paths, grassland, and rocky sections. Layers are recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions, especially when ascending to viewpoints like Beacon Hill Summit where it can be windier.
Are there any unique viewpoints offering panoramic scenery?
Yes, Beacon Hill Summit is a tremendous viewpoint and the second highest peak in Leicestershire, offering spectacular 360-degree views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. The roads around Swithland Reservoir also provide great views over the water and surrounding scenery.
Most popular attractions around Cotes
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