Top five county spots for an autumn stroll
News Reporter
AS the temperatures start to drop and nights draw in, the autumn leaves are beginning to crisp and those looking to embrace the season on a beautiful autumn walk in Leicestershire are in luck.
The county boasts some of the most idyllic parks and landscapes in England – and today we present five of the best, with a little help from TripAdvisor.
The travel site has come up with a list of the top parks in Leicestershire perfect for wrapping up warm and taking a stroll in.
The top five vary from popular sprawling rural, spaces such as Melton Country Park, to more urban parks, such as Abbey Park in Leicester.
Whether you want to truly escape into nature, or find out the most “Instagrammable” spots in the county, take a look below and be inspired by TripAdvisor’s top picks.
MELTON COUNTRY PARK
Melton, LE13 1HP
Melton County Park is number one on TripAdvisor’s list of the most popular parks in Leicestershire.
With a 140 acres of wildlife lakes, footpath trails and children’s play areas, there’s lots to explore.
The Scalford Brook Flood Storage Reservoir sits at the centre, making it the perfect spot for some bird watching.
There are also plenty of spaces where you can park for free and make the most of the crisp, autumn weather.
ABBEY PARK
Leicester, LE4 5AQ
Situated just a mile from Leicester City Centre, Abbey Park is ideal for a quick nature escape away from the bustling city.
It hugs the banks of the river soar and is steeped in local history.
Walkers can take a stroll around the remains of the twelfth century Leicester Abbey as well as the ruins of Cavendish House.
You can also meander through the Lavender Maze or Sensory Garden to truly immerse yourself in nature.
HICKS LODGE
Ashby, LE65 2UP
In the heart of the National Forest, Hicks Lodge is a former coal mining site that offers multiple walking and cycling trails.
With a cafe, bike hire and play area, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained.
The lakeside bird hide also allows you to soak up the beautiful scenery and spot some unique local wildlife like migratory sand martins.
BEACON HILL COUNTRY PARK
Woodhouse Eaves, LE12 8SP
At Beacon Hill Park, you can enjoy magnificent views, woodland walks and open heathland.
It contains a stunning rhododendron labyrinth and is strewn with unique wooden sculptures throughout.
The cafe is open every day from 10am till 4pm, where you can warm up from the cold with a hot drink. It’s another spot for the whole family, with its children’s play area that includes a hazel maze and log train.
BURBAGE COMMON AND WOODS
Hinckley, LE10 3DD
Burbage Common is Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s largest countryside site and is located on the edge of Hinckley, bordering Burbage and Elmesthorpe.
With its mix of woodland trails and acres of unspoilt grassland, it’s perfect for walkers and dog lovers. No cycling is allowed, though.
It offers free parking and an onsite cafe (where the homemade cakes are said to be delicious) and a visitor centre too.