24th February Market Bosworth to the Battlefield Visitor Centre app 6.5 miles.

Storm Doris made her presence felt yesterday, Thursday, leaving a trail of devastation behind her.

So we were very surprised to see the weather forecast for Friday was very favourable.

And it was when we set off for Market Bosworth for a walk along a couple of gated lanes and a quiet road down to the visitor centre.

At Bosworth Country Park car park we put on our walking boots and set off  towards the village.

Passing Market Bosworth Hall. 

For info: It is said that the hall is haunted by the ghost of Ann Dixie, the daughter of Sir Wolstan Dixie, who tragically killed his daughter in error when he set traps to ensnare her lover, the local gardener's son.

 After snowdrops the crocuses arrive.

On into the centre of Market Bosworth. 

For info: At the heart of the town is a small market square (circa 1285), where regular markets are still held. The surrounding streets are filled with pretty thatched cottages and Georgian houses.
  

This sleepy little market town lies deep in the heart of Leicestershire's rich countryside. The nearby Bosworth Field is renowned as the site for the decisive battle of the 'War of the Roses', between Richard III and Henry Tudor; who defeated Richard to become Henry VII of England.

Richard III stayed the night at the White Boar Inn in Market Bosworth, preceding the Battle of Bosworth, and hid £300 in a false bottom of his bed. As he was killed in battle the next day no one returned to collect it, so it remained undiscovered until the reign of Elizabeth l. The then landlord discovered the money and became rich, but ironically, following the landlord's death, his widow was then murdered on account of her wealth.

We came across some very skilled thatchers repairing a cottage roof.

Out into the countryside via a gated road.

 Storm Doris damage.

 Walking into the Battlefield Heritage Centre we headed for the Tithe Barn and a cup of tea/coffee.

 View from the lane to the Tithe Barn.

 Ready for a cuppa!




Outside the barn a falconry display was taking place.

Trying to tempt the wild life with tempting morsels.

On the way back before turning left into the lane towards Market Bosworth.

Amazing how the sky changes in such a short space of time.

Coming towards us was a cycling club out enjoying a very pleasant day.

 Across the country park and back to the cars.

Six and half miles, a very pleasant walk.

See you all next week.