Bradgate Country Park and Beacon Hill
19 people attending
11 places left
The route heads north from the edge of Bradgate Park, through Lingdale golf course to Beacon Hill (248 m, 814 ft). We circle the summit and take (packed) lunch at the Beacon Hill cafe. After lunch we head back through Woodhouse Eaves and Swithland Wood into Bradgate Park. The route takes us past Bradgate House (16th century) ruins for afternoon tea and cakes at Newtown Linford. From there we climb to the war memorial and Old John viewpoints (210 m, 690 ft) on the way back to the car park.
Bradgate Park is notable for Lady Jane Grey who was born at Bradgate House in 1537. In July 1553, at the age of fifteen, the Duke of Northumberland (her husband's father) proclaimed her Queen of England and Ireland, in opposition to Henry VIII's younger sister, Mary Tudor. However Mary had more support, and when the Lord Mayor of London proclaimed Mary queen, the Duke of Northumberland lost all support, and he, his son, and Lady Jane Grey, the Nine Days Queen, were beheaded for treason.
Dogs are welcome but owners must ensure they are kept under control at all times.
Want to keep in touch with what's going on in the Midlands / ODL Central Region? Join our Central Region Telegram Chat Group, or the more more local East Midlands Telegram Chat Group and bookmark our upcoming events list via the short link: https://outdoorlads.events/central
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Image Credits: All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
What to bring
Anyone new to walking may wish to draw from the following as required:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful.
Avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs.
A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack of 20 to 30-litre capacity, allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for any on-going ailments or conditions, such as hay-fever or diabetes.
Food & drink
Bring plenty of water and any preferred drinks, food and snacks to keep you going during the day.
Bring a packed lunch to eat about half way through the walk.