Leicestershire and the wider East Midlands is home to a number of areas of stunning natural beauty, perhaps none more so than Beacon Hill Park.
The country park, which is located a short distance from Loughborough, is one of the most popular attractions in the entire county.
While it is already a favourite destination for many, those who are not familiar with its charms might wonder what makes the park so special.
The answer to that question, and more, can be found below – because here at LeicestershireLive, we’ve put together our list of the top reasons to visit Beacon Hill Country Park.
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Stunning views
The park is easily accessible from both Loughborough and Leicester and makes for a perfect place to go for a breath of fresh countryside air.
It certainly doesn’t hurt that the views on offer are stunning too.
The 330 acre park has sweeping countryside views, and with plenty of elevation, you can see places that are a long way away – especially on a clear day.
All told, it is probably one of the most Instagrammable places in Leicestershire.
Beacon Hill Country Park (Image: Muhammed Talha)
So much room for activities
As mentioned above, Beacon Hill consists of over 330 acres of land.
It might be hard to visualise that, but it is safe to say that it is pretty big.
For families, it makes for a perfect place to kick a football, or throw a frisbee around.
Picnics, dog walking, horse riding and cycling are just some other things that you could get up to here.
The possibilities are endless.
Grab a drink and a bite to eat
For caffeine addicts, news that the park is home to Beacon Hill Cafe will be welcome news.
Located within the park, the cafe sells a range of hot and cold foods, and a number of beverage options.
At this time, it is operating as a takeaway only establishment – due to coronavirus restictions.
However, there are a number of park benches nearby, so if you can brave the winter weather, the option is still there.
Wood carvings and labyrinths
One of the most striking features found at Beacon Hill is a series of wood carvings.
Located along the main pathways in the park are a number of chainsaw carvings.
Some of the main attraction carvings can be found near the lower car park and near the summit of the hill.
Elsewhere in the park, there is even a labyrinth made out of Rhododendrons – which makes for a unique walk-through experience.
Rhododendron Labyrinth at Beacon Hill Country Park (Image: Chris Gordon)
Play areas galore
If you or your children like play areas, this is probably the place for you.
One of the play areas has been made out of natural timber, which was grown within the park itself – and now finds itself in the form of a log train, a hazel maze, log towers, and various sculptures.
Near to the barbecue and picnic site is a second play area, with a climbing frame and tower slide.
It certainly beats staying indoors playing video games.
Everything you need to know about the park, including directions, can be found online here.
