Leicestershire A County Full Of Surprises

Leicester makes up part of the wheat basket of England, full of rolling countryside, villages and wonderful parish communities. the countryside lends itself to wonderful family bike rides. the county has invested heavily in turning old canal towpaths into proper paths suitable for biking or walking. The area is criss crossed by many canals through the area that used to make up the transportation network before rail arrived. the are does not raise dramatically in height, however at Foxton locks, a series of locks, their is the opportunity to marvel at this ancient technology still at work today.

For even more historical sightseeing, visit Belvoir Castle. The Castle is owned and operated by the Manners' families who have held residence there for five centuries. There are beautiful manicured lawns and gardens on the grounds of this estate. Over the years, some of the gardens have gone to ruin. The present Duchess is working to restore all of them. Belvoir Castle also offers some good outside fun, such as shooting, bicycling, and several events throughout the year. And for a little insight, the local residents actually call Belvoir Castle "Beaver" Castle. This goes back to when the castle was first established and the locals could not pronounce "Belvoir."

The art collector can find plenty to choose from at the Ferrers Centre for Arts and Crafts. This is a community set in the woodlands with picturesque lakes and meadows. The Centre offers workshops for those who love crafts, and there are studios galore with wildlife and landscape paintings, jewelry, and crafts of all types. Keep an eye out for the occasional entertainment offered here, also.

For the kid in all of us, enjoy a day at Twinlakes Park on Melton Spinney Road, a theme park with acres of roller coasters, slides, and rides of all kinds. Let the kids pedal off some of that energy in the pedal boats, or relax and sit and watch them play in some of the play centres. There is also an indoor ice skating ring to beat the heat. Or for something a little tamer, visit Gorse Hill City farm on Anstey Lane. This working farm will delight the children with the opportunity to see, pet, and feed some of the livestock, such as rabbits, goats, cows, and sheep.

Pubs are plentiful in Leicester. The Ale Wagon, located at 21 Rutland Street, Leicester, is still going strong over 300 years, now. This traditional pub offers some of Leicester's oldest brewing. The Barley Mow, at 149 Granby Street, Leicester, is another fine pub to visit. Sit down here and enjoy a televised game of rugby, have a meal, throw some darts, or shoot some billiards. For those who love quiz night, visit The Black Horse at 1 Foxton Street, Leicester on Wednesday and Sunday nights for some cranial stimulation.

For visitors to the area, the tourist board will be able to provide information on different East Midlands Hotels that are available, whether they be city or rual or just on a day excursion looking for the perfect restaurant in Leicester. Whatever the reason, we just know you will fall in love with the area.