Bradgate Park is open to visitors from 8am and closes at sunset no later than 8.30pm in the summer, 365 days a year. During winter, the park’s opening hours change, with all car parks closing at 6pm from the 29th of October onwards. The park is accessible every day of the year using public footpaths, cycle, bus 120 or personal car.
Accessing Bradgate Park Before 8am
The park’s opening hours are regulated, but there are ways to enter the park before 8am. One way is to use the public footpaths that cross the site, which are unaffected when the Park is closed. These footpaths can be found on Google Maps or the Ordnance Survey website. However, parking may be a challenge, and the walk to the park’s entrance could be quite long.
Another way to enter the park before 8am is to use the open gates at the main carpark in New Town Linford or Hunts Hill Car Park. These entrances are usually open, and there is plenty of space to park on the road near Hunts Hill Car Park. This entry would work for those wanting to watch the sunrise from Old John hill, as it’s closest to this spot.
Bradgate Park Entrance Fees and Facilities
The park’s entrance fee is £6 per car, and the car park closes at sunset, but there is plenty of space to park on the road near Hunts Hill Car Park. The park’s world-class Visitor Centre provides exhibitions to tell the story of Bradgate and its fascinating natural and human history. Eateries on site include the Deer Barn tea room.
Seasonal Changes in Bradgate Park Hours
As mentioned earlier, the park’s opening hours change during the winter months. From the 29th of October onwards, all car parks in Bradgate Park close at 6pm. However, the park remains accessible via public footpaths, cycle, bus 120 or personal car throughout the year.
Exploring Bradgate Park’s Diverse Landscapes
Bradgate Park is a stunning natural haven, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a variety of landscapes. From the rugged, rocky outcrops of Old John hill to the lush, rolling meadows and ancient deer herds, the park is a true gem in the heart of Leicestershire.
One of the park’s most iconic features is the ruins of Bradgate House, the former home of Lady Jane Grey, the “Nine Days’ Queen” of England. Visitors can explore the remains of this historic structure and learn about the fascinating history of the site.
Enjoying the Outdoors at Bradgate Park
Bradgate Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities and amenities. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, and even horse riding through the park’s extensive network of trails and paths. The park also features a children’s play area, perfect for families looking to spend a day in the great outdoors.
Conclusion
Bradgate Park is a truly remarkable destination, offering visitors a chance to explore a stunning natural landscape steeped in history and culture. Whether you’re an early riser looking to catch the sunrise or a nature lover seeking to immerse yourself in the park’s diverse ecosystems, Bradgate Park is a must-visit destination in Leicestershire.
References:
– https://www.reddit.com/r/leicester/comments/t5yeji/bradgate_park/
– https://twitter.com/BradgatePark/status/1717987095002718546
– https://www.visitleicester.info/see-and-do/bradgate-park-p721211
– https://en.parkopedia.co.uk/parking/carpark/bradgate_park_newtown_linford/le6/newtown_linford/
– https://www.bradgatepark.org/opening-times