Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill, 21st January 2024

 Making extensive use of both the Leicestershire Round and the National Forest Way, Scott's 8-mile, hilly walk (ascent 313m) took us round the perimeter of Bradgate Park before heading across Lingdale Golf Course towards Broombriggs Country Park. Then, after entering Beacon Hill Country Park, we climbed up to Beacon Hill itself and dropped down to the South Car Park for lunch.  Ignoring a climb up to Windmill Hill, the route took us back through Woodhouse Eaves and past the slate quarries in Swithland Wood.

Scott briefs us in Swithland Wood

Entering Bradgate Park

Coffee stop after leaving the golf course

Distant view of Old John Tower

Man and Ram - one of many wooden sculptures in Beacon Hill Park

The Beacon - trig point just visible in the distance

Trig point (248m)

Workshop of Peter Leadbetter, local chainsaw artist in residence

Beacon Hill Cafe - lunch nearby

Approaching Woodhouse Eaves

Folly next to one of the many slate quarries in Swithland Wood, some dating back to Roman times