We are lucky enough to have the wonderful Bradgate Park right on our doorstep. I visited as a child and it’s still exactly as I remember it. Now it’s one of my favourite places to take my children. It doesn’t cost a fortune (free apart from a small car park charge which covers upkeep) and they absolutely love roaming around the fabulous grounds.

The park covers 830 acres and is steeped in history. Lady Jane Grey is said to have been born at Bradgate House, and you can still see the remains of the Grey ancestral home. For spectacular views across Leicestershire, I recommend a trek up the highest hill in the park to a prominent landmark called ‘Old John’.

We love to visit in the summer months and take a picnic. The River Lin runs through the park and there are lots of little waterfalls and streams to explore. You can easily find a nice, hidden spot to set up base for the day. And after much running around and when it’s time to head home, there’s the promise of an ice cream from the van in the car park!

Photo courtesy of TomEHook on Flickr.