Friday 28th May 2021 Bradgate Park Walk.

 

A stroll around the extremities of Bradgate Park.

Measured this walk at 4.2 Miles.

There is no entry charge to the park and the family friendly displays and information tell the stories of the Park, its origins, its history, its geology and the wildlife that live in and visit the Park. There are opportunities to have a close-up encounter with wildlife, hear from Lady Jane Grey about her story and learn how a nearby volcano  created the Bradgate Park landscape. The displays include artefacts, as well as plenty of background to the heritage of the Park and the people that have played a part in the history of the Estate. 

Happy fellow wearing his new hat - just in time for the sun.

On the map it looks flat enough but in reality starting at the carpark in Newtown Linford it's 107' above sea level rising to 212' at Old John.

We had a couple of breathers on the way up.

Old John Tower is on the path of the Leicester Round. Standing on a hill overlooking Bradgate Park, Old John Tower folly is a well known Leicestershire landmark. Built in 1784 as a folly, it has 2 rooms and a distinctive mug shape. It is also on the highest hill in Bradgate Park.

A couple of extra smiley faces.😀😎

On the downhill stretch with views of Cropston Reservoir you can just make out Anstey and the outskirts of Leicester. 

Heading on to the Visitor Centre and a welcome cuppa.

After a well deserved cuppa we set off on the short route back to the car park.

On the way back we came across a herd of fallow deer sunning themselves.

The Park supports, red and fallow deer, with a herd size of around 550 animals, of which three quarters are fallow deer. 

Great walk around the park, weather was exceptional, not like the previous week when we unfortunately had a casualty.

We can report that the lady is in fine spirits even though she needs to return to hospital next week to have a plate fitted in her broken wrist.  We all send her our best wishes for a very speedy recovery. 

She thanks everyone for the flowers, gift card, cake and the lovely card. She's also looking forward to rejoining our walks as soon as possible.