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Parks #3 in Loughborough

Beacon Hill Country Park

4.7 · 1,403 reviews
Rugged and expansive
Beacon Hill Country Park, Beacon Rd, Woodhouse Eaves LE12 8SP, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park contains Precambrian rocks from the Charnian Supergroup, among the oldest exposed rocks in England.

2

The site features a sculpture trail integrated into the natural woodland landscape.

3

Highland cattle are purposefully kept on-site as part of a managed grazing program to maintain the heathland habitat.

4

The park's summit is the second-highest point in Leicestershire.

5

Remnants of historical dry stone walls and ancient hedgerows mark past agricultural boundaries within the park.

6

The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique geological features.

Overview

Beacon Hill Country Park is a 135-hectare site situated in the Charnwood Forest area of Leicestershire. It features some of the oldest volcanic rock formations in Britain, dating back approximately 600 million years. The landscape comprises a mix of native woodland, heathland, and scenic meadows. Visitors can observe free-roaming herds of Highland cattle and Hebridean sheep, which are used for conservation grazing. The park includes a dedicated wooden adventure playground located near the lower car park. A series of marked trails traverse the hilly terrain, reaching an elevation of 248 meters at the summit. The site is recognized for its historical significance, containing Bronze Age burial mounds. The park provides panoramic views across the Soar Valley towards the Peak District on clear days.

Photo spot

The trig point at the summit of Beacon Hill for a 360-degree panoramic view.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the paths can be steep and muddy depending on weather.

Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting local wildlife from the higher vantage points.

Check the park map at the entrance to choose a trail difficulty that matches your fitness level.

What to avoid

Attempting to walk the steepest trails without proper footwear or ignoring signage regarding livestock zones.

Etiquette

Keep dogs under close control around livestock, take all litter home, and do not climb on historical monuments.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in autumn for optimal light and migratory bird sightings.
Address
Beacon Hill Country Park, Beacon Rd, Woodhouse Eaves LE12 8SP, United Kingdom
52.728, -1.242
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasLimited natural shade in heathland areas; benches provided near the summit and playground.
Terrain typeSteep, uneven rocky paths and grassy meadow slopes.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in autumn for optimal light and migratory bird sightings..

The trig point at the summit of Beacon Hill for a 360-degree panoramic view.

Close by you'll find Beacon Hill, Leicestershire, Bradgate Park, National Trust - Stoneywell.