For our August walk, twelve of us met at Hallgates Car Park, near Bradgate Park, Leicestershire, for a 6.5 mile walk led by Mandy James and Chris West. We were slightly depleted this month, due to the summer holidays and a National Trust Group outing clash!
We headed first across meadows towards the lovely Swithland Woods – ancient Charnwood Forest woodland and the site of old Swithland slate quarries. We meandered through the winding footpaths then crossed over into Bradgate Park, taking a route which involved a steady incline up to the well–known (to Leicestershire folk!) monument, Old John. The photo includes 3 Johns, who are sat on Old John!
There we took a well-earned rest and coffee break, taking time to enjoy the amazing views across many miles of Leicestershire countryside. We then went across to the rather exposed and windy war memorial for more panoramic views! From there, thankfully, it was gradually downhill all the way, past copses and through the ancient deer park to the Tudor remains of the Grey family home, where the shortest reigning English monarch, Lady Jane Grey, lived for most of her tragically short life. After a quick history lesson, we had our lunch down by the Deer Barn café, before heading off for the final leg of the walk, taking us by Cropston Reservoir, back to the car park.