Bradgate Park, located in Leicestershire, England, is a historic and picturesque destination that offers a unique experience for state park touring enthusiasts. One of the park’s most distinctive features is the Bradgate Park Drive Through Scheme, which allows visitors to explore the park’s rugged landscape and ancient oak trees from the comfort of their own vehicles.
What is the Bradgate Park Drive Through?
The Bradgate Park Drive Through Scheme is a special program that operates on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings between April and October. During this time, visitors can hire an off-road Tramper, a specialized vehicle designed for navigating the park’s uneven terrain, and embark on a 3-hour journey through the park’s winding roads and scenic vistas.
Highlights of the Bradgate Park Drive Through
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Rugged Landscape: The Bradgate Park Drive Through offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s rugged and diverse landscape, including rolling hills, ancient oak trees, and the River Lin.
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Historic Attractions: As you drive through the park, you’ll have the chance to see the ruins of Lady Jane Grey’s childhood home, one of the earliest country houses built for royalty.
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Accessibility: The Bradgate Park Drive Through is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities, with features such as wheelchair-friendly picnic benches and a buggy shuttle service.
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Variety of Activities: In addition to the Drive Through Scheme, Bradgate Park offers a range of other activities and attractions, including hiking trails, a world-class Visitor Centre, and several eateries.
Planning Your Bradgate Park Drive Through Experience
To make the most of your Bradgate Park Drive Through experience, consider the following tips:
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Timing: The Drive Through Scheme operates on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Reservations: Advance reservations for the Tramper are recommended, as availability may be limited.
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Accessibility: If you have any special needs or requirements, be sure to check the park’s accessibility features and plan accordingly.
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Combine with Other Activities: Consider combining your Drive Through experience with other activities and attractions within the park, such as visiting the Visitor Centre or exploring the medieval deer park.
Exploring the Bradgate Park Landscape
The Bradgate Park Drive Through offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty and rich history. As you navigate the winding roads, you’ll be surrounded by the park’s rugged landscape, including rolling hills, ancient oak trees, and the picturesque River Lin.
One of the highlights of the Drive Through is the chance to see the ruins of Lady Jane Grey’s childhood home. This historic site provides a glimpse into the park’s connection to the 16th century Queen of England and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at Bradgate Park
Bradgate Park is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the park’s attractions and amenities. The Drive Through Scheme is designed with accessibility in mind, with features such as wheelchair-friendly picnic benches and a buggy shuttle service for outdoor performances.
In addition, the park offers designated dogs on/off lead areas, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with furry companions.
Combining the Drive Through with Other Activities
While the Bradgate Park Drive Through is a unique and memorable experience, it’s just one of the many attractions the park has to offer. Visitors can also explore the park’s world-class Visitor Centre, which provides exhibitions and information about the park’s natural and human history, or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site eateries, such as the Deer Barn tea room.
For those looking to further immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty, there are also several hiking trails and opportunities to see the park’s diverse wildlife, including the iconic red deer that roam the grounds.
Conclusion
Bradgate Park’s Drive Through Scheme is a must-visit experience for state park touring enthusiasts. With its rugged landscape, historic attractions, and commitment to accessibility, the park offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re exploring the park’s winding roads in a Tramper or discovering its other attractions, Bradgate Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
– Bradgate Park – Visit Leicester
– Bradgate Park Reviews – TripAdvisor
– Find Us – Bradgate Park
– Access – Bradgate Park