& Melton Mowbray
the Vale of Belvoir
Tourist Information Guide 2009
Contents
Exploring Ashby
Melton Mowbray 3
Map of Melton Mowbray 8
Vale of Belvoir & Around 9
Local Food & Drink 13
Places to Visit 19
Places to Eat & Drink 29
Events 33
Places to Stay 37
Useful Numbers 41
Area Map 42
About this guide
This guide is available at all of the local
attractions and accommodation providers and at
leaflet dispensers at Melton Train Station and the
Town Centre Management Office, 7 King Street,
Melton Mowbray, or by Calling 01664 502335.
Front cover: Main picture: Belvoir Castle.
Inset picture: Melton Mowbray Pork Pies,
Belvoir Ale & Stilton Cheese.
1 www.goleicestershire.com
Ashby de la Zouch
Exploring Ashby
Melton Market Belvoir Castle
Welcome to
Melton Mowbray
& the Vale of Belvoir
Melton Mowbray nestles in the north east of Leicestershire,
close to the picturesque Vale of Belvoir, which, literally translated,
means ‘beautiful view’. Steeped in rural tradition, this part of the
county is famous for its fine food and drink, including Melton
Mowbray Pork Pies, Stilton cheese and locally brewed ale.
Sample these specialities and others at local pubs and cafés,
or buy food direct from local producers and make your own picnic.
Explore the bustling market town of Melton Mowbray, with its
historic buildings and ancient markets selling everything from clocks
to cattle! Children will enjoy a trip to nearby Twinlakes, an exciting
family visitor attraction, or Burrough Hill Country Park - the perfect
place to fly a kite. Head over to the Vale of Belvoir to enjoy country
pastimes like walking, cycling and horse riding, and visit the
magnificent Belvoir Castle, high on a ridge commanding
spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.
This guide will give you an insight into what there is to see and
do around Melton Mowbray and the Vale of Belvoir. It provides
practical advice to help you plan your visit. We hope you enjoy
exploring the area.
More information can be found at
www.goleicestershire .com
i
and www.meltonbusiness .co.uk
Visitor Information Points can be found in Melton
Mowbray Market Place, Ye Old Pork Pie Shoppe, Samworth
Centre (Next to St Mary’s Church) and at Twinlakes.
www.goleicestershire.com 2
Melton Mowbray
Exploring Melton Mowbray
Market day
Historic Melton Mowbray is a quintessential English
market town, built on a strong tradition of farming
and fox hunting. Famous for its pork pies and
Stilton cheese, it is also well known for its busy
markets, which sell everything from fruit and
vegetables to cows, sheep and antiques.
Melton retains its rural charm, and, on market
day in particular, offers the visitor a real taste
of English country life.
Exploring Melton Mowbray
The heart of Melton clusters around the Market Place, where
markets have been held for over 1000 years. Take a walk around
here and also the High Street, Nottingham Street, and part of
King Street, which form the main pedestrian shopping area.
To the south of the Market Place, Church Street is a charming
narrow street leading to St Mary’s Church. This is one of the
most stunning churches in Leicestershire, with its 100ft tower
and 48 clerestory windows running the length of the building.
3 www.goleicestershire.com
Melton Mowbray
Exploring Melton Mowbray
A walk through St Mary’s churchyard will lead you on to Burton
Street, which has several buildings of note. The Anne of Cleves pub
(p29) is Melton’s oldest inn, named after one of the wives of King
Henry VIII. The house was part of the divorce settlement between
the two. Opposite here is the Bede House (or Maison Dieu), which
dates from the mid 17th century. More about the history of the
town can be found at the Melton Carnegie Museum (p24) at
Thorpe End, with its displays on fox hunting, local industries and
crafts. The museum reveals the origins of the phrase ‘painting the
town red’, which refers to an incident in 1837 when some drunken
aristocrats literally ran riot through Melton, painting doors and
buildings with red paint.
Melton Mowbray has several
parks close to the town centre,
which offer attractive walks,
open spaces and play areas.
The River Eye runs through
New Park, Play Close Park and
Egerton Park, and you can join
the riverside walk that takes you
out into the countryside west of
the town. A ten minute walk
north of the town centre will
take you to Melton Country
Park (p22), which includes
nature conservation, play and
picnic areas and a large lake.
If you’re looking for energetic
activities, then Leicester Road
St Mary’s Church
Sports Ground or Melton
Leisure Centre provide lots
of options, whilst Waterfield
Leisure Pools (p26) will keep
the kids occupied for hours!
Melton offers evening Melton
entertainment too - contact the
Regal Cinema or the Melton
History Trail
Theatre (p28) and find out Follow the Melton History
what’s on. Trail to find out more about
the history of the town and
its buildings.
www.goleicestershire.com 4
Melton Mowbray
Shopping
Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe
Shopping
Most of Melton’s shops can be found in the streets around the
Market Place and in The Bell Shopping Centre off Nottingham
Street. Nottingham Street is also the home of Ye Olde Pork Pie
Shoppe (p15), which sells the town’s famous speciality, as well
as Melton Hunt Cake and the other well known Melton export,
Stilton cheese. For an even wider range of local cheeses, visit the
Melton Cheeseboard (p15) on Windsor Street. This sells produce
made at the Long Clawson Dairy and also Belvoir Cordials and
Melton Red Beer, both of which are made and bottled locally.
Don’t forget that all the butchers in the town sell pork pies and
Stilton too. Take a trip down Church Street and visit the fabulous Café
Italia & Cafe Deli for traditional Italian cuisine of the highest standard.
Melton’s other big shopping attraction is its markets. Tuesday and
Saturday are the main market days when a street market is held
throughout the town centre, with a bric-a-brac and antique market
on Wednesdays. Cattle, farmers and antique markets are held at the
Cattle Market on Scalford Road on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with an
additional farmers market on Friday mornings. Horse Sales and Fur
& Feather auctions take place on the first and third Saturday of the
month at the Cattle Market site.
A full listing of all the shops in the Town can be found in the Melton
Shopping Guide, available online at www.meltonbusiness.co.uk or by
calling 01664 502335
5 www.goleicestershire.com
Melton Mowbray
Eating & Drinking
Eating &
Drinking
The Whyte, a small but stylish
coffee shop on Leicester Road is
also a delicatessen and serves
excellent coffee, whilst Off the
Beaten Path on Park Road is one
of the town’s most popular tea
rooms. 54a King Street is a
delightful café over three floors,
and the historic Anne of Cleves
pub on Burton Street has a lovely
Victorian garden. Café Italia & its
next door deli is a day bistro
specialising in risotto, pasta and Stilton cheese
ciabatta. Offers gluten free pasta
& cakes. Restaurants worth
visiting include La Torre (Italian),
Apurba (Indian), Jasmine House Don’t Miss…
(Chinese) and The Eating
House. More details on these
The cattle market on a
and other places to eat in Melton Tuesday morning
and the surrounding area can be
Buying Melton Mowbray
found on pages 29-30.
Pork Pies at Ye Olde
Pork Pie Shoppe
Parking
There are several long and A stroll around
short stay car parks in Melton St Mary’s Church and
Mowbray, all close to the town along Burton Street
centre. A small charge is payable.
A visit to the Melton
Carnegie Museum
Exploring Melton
Country Park
Shopmobility
If you need help getting around
the town centre, wheelchairs
are available to hire from
Melton Shopmobility,
St Mary’s Car Park
(01664 480677).
Melton Market
www.goleicestershire.com 6
Melton Mowbray Market
Melton Mowbray
Town Centre
t: 01664 566 953
e: enquiries@meltonmow-
braytownestate.co.uk
www.meltonmowbraytown
estate.co.uk
Why not visit Melton Mowbray’s wonderful Open:
traditional street market and explore the variety Tuesday & Saturday -
of exciting goods on offer and the bargins to be General Market, 10am-4pm
found. Its how a street market should be. Look Wednesday -
out for Speciality markets throughout the year Collectables & Crafts,
especially around Christmas and Easter. Located 10am-4pm
in the centre of the town just five minutes walk
Rail: Melton Mowbray 1/4 mile
from the railway station and with ample parking
nearby. Bus: Frequent
The Melton Cheeseboard
For the finest Stilton in the heart of
Melton Mowbray, look no further -
ours is specially matured and selected
from Long Clawson. We stock over
100 cheeses, including local
Farmhouse Leicester, and many other
locally produced foods. Come and try!
Winners of the ‘Best Customer
Services’ Awards 2008.
Open:
8 Windsor Street, Melton Mowbray Mon: 9am - 3pm
Leicestershire, LE13 1BU Tue & Fri: 8.30am - 5pm
t: 01664 562 257 Wed & Thu: 9am - 4pm
e: sales@meltoncheeseboard.co.uk Sat: 8.30am - 4pm
www.meltoncheeseboard.co.uk
Leicester Road Sports Ground
Leicester Road
Melton Mowbray
t: 01664 566 313
e: enquiries@meltonmow-
braytownestate.co.uk
www.meltonmowbraytown
estate.co.uk
Fun for all the family at the Leicester Road Sports Ground. Easy access into town
over the new bridge into the Town Parks. Just 5 minutes walk from the Town
Centre.
Brand new 5-a-side astro turf football pitch, tennis courts and from Easter crazy
golf, bouncy castle, miniture railway, small
boating lake & electric cars. Open:
Refreshments & Toilets. Free Car Parking. Daily 9am-5pm
Rail: Melton Mowbray 1/4 mile
7 www.goleicestershire.com
A606 to Nottingham B6047 To Twinlakes Park,
Belvoir Castle &
Key Grantham
P Parking Coach Parking
P Police Surgery
i Tourist Info Toilets
Railway Station
1 St Mary’s Church
2 Anne of Cleves
3 Bede House
4 Cattle Market
5 Regal Cinema
6 Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe
7 Melton Cheeseboard
8 Melton Carnegie Museum
9 The Bell Shopping Centre
10 Melton Theatre
11 Waterfield Leisure Pools
12 Leicester Road Sports Ground
13 Melton Leisure Centre
Map of Melton Mowbray
Melton Mowbray
To Market Harborough To Oakham
Vale of Belvoir & Around
Places to Visit
Belvoir Castle
The Vale of Belvoir (pronounced locally as ‘beaver’)
stretches to the north of Melton Mowbray, a pretty
expanse of pastureland, picturesque villages and
quiet rolling hills. This area, along with the open
uplands of High Leicestershire to the south of the
town, offers lots of opportunities for walking,
cycling and horse riding. Wooded valleys, thatched
cottages and peaceful country lanes combine to
create this largely undiscovered corner of England.
Places to Visit
High on a ridge in the Vale of Belvoir, the fairytale-like turrets of
Belvoir Castle (p23) can be seen from miles around, guarding the
valley below. Home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, the castle
boasts a fine collection of paintings and furniture, and its beautiful
grounds offer stunning views across the countryside. A few miles
away, discover another historic building with links to an interesting
past. The National Trust property, Woolsthorpe Manor (p23), is a
17th century farmhouse and the birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton.
9 www.goleicestershire.com
Vale of Belvoir & Around
Villages & Beauty Spots
To the east of Melton Mowbray,
Knipton
climb to the dizzy heights of
Wymondham Windmill (p23)
for great views, and then treat
yourself to a cream tea in the
tea rooms, whilst the kids enjoy
the play area and woodland
puzzle trail. Children will also
love the activities and
adventure play at Twinlakes
Park (p25), which features
exciting rides, two boating
lakes and an animal farm.
Meanwhile, at Crossroads
Farm Shop & Museum (p24)
near Eastwell, see the displays
of old farming memorabilia
and buy home grown produce.
There is also a tea room.
Villages & Beauty Spots
Melton is surrounded on all sides by beautiful countryside, and
many lovely villages. A short drive out of the town in any direction
will reveal picturesque scenes of rural tranquillity. Head north into
the Vale of Belvoir and take a stroll around villages like Waltham
on the Wolds, Eaton, Branston, Knipton and Croxton Kerrial with
their tawny ironstone cottages and pretty churches. These villages
and several others feature in the Framland Church Trail. Framland
is an old Danish name for what has now become the district of
Melton Mowbray.
Burrough Hill, to the south of
Melton, is another place to enjoy
amazing views. The site of an
Iron Age fort, this flat plateau
rises above the surrounding
fields, and is the perfect place to
take the kids and fly a kite. Enjoy
a picnic here or alternatively
follow the footpath to Somerby
and enjoy a ploughmans lunch
at one of the village pubs,
Burrough Hill washed down with a pint of
locally brewed beer.
www.goleicestershire.com 10
Vale of Belvoir & Around
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor Activities
Horse riding is one of the area’s most popular pursuits and
there are several places around that offer riding for all abilities.
The equestrian centre at Somerby is very good, but there are
several others too, all offering approved instructors (p28).
Enjoy exploring the miles of bridleways on horseback, and stop
off for a pub lunch along the way.
The Vale of Belvoir and surrounding area is criss crossed with
lots of cycle routes and footpaths. Discover beautiful walks along
the Grantham Canal, local parish walks in the Vale, and also the
Leicestershire Round, a circular walk around the entire county.
Stapleford Park boasts an astounding array of the most exclusive
leisure & relaxation facilities & outdoor pursuits. Why not try your
hand at archery, falconry, shooting, fishing or even off road driving,
then relax with a swim or game of croquet & giant chess. Mountain
Biking, horse riding and tennis are also available along with the use
of their technogym.
If you fancy something a little different, head to Langar Airfield
and try a parachute jump at the British Parachute School (p25),
or whiz around the indoor and outdoor tracks at Langar Karting
(p26). Those who like messing about on the water will enjoy a day
out at Rutland Water (p25) where you will find windsurfing and
sailing facilities. There are bikes for hire here too, with miles of cycle
paths to explore around the shoreline.
The Vale of Belvoir
11 www.goleicestershire.com
Vale of Belvoir & Around
Outdoor Activities
Pamper
Yourself!
If outdoor action all
sounds too much
like hard work,
then you might prefer
to be pampered at the
luxurious Ragdale Hall,
one of the top health Horse riding in the Vale
spas in the country.
Enjoy an unrivalled
range of therapies,
treatments and leisure
activities, all designed
to help you discover
the ‘new you’ (p26).
Sailing at Rutland Water
Don’t Miss…
The spectacular views
from Belvoir Castle
A walk to the top of
Burrough Hill
Quad biking at Langar
Kart & Quad Centre
Cycling along Grantham Canal
Exploring the villages
of the Vale of Belvoir
For more outdoor
A cream tea at
activities go to
Wymondham Windmill
www.goleicestershire.com
www.goleicestershire.com 12
Local Food & Drink
Melton Pork Pies & Hunt Cake
Melton Mowbray Pork Pies Belvoir Beer
It goes without saying that the name Melton
Mowbray is synonymous with pork pies, but
perhaps lesser known is its link with Stilton, the
king of English cheese. Add a slice of Melton Hunt
Cake, a loaf of Whissendine bread, a pint of local
beer or a fruit pressé drink from the Belvoir
Estate, and Melton provides you with all the
ingredients for a great picnic! Below is a little bit
more about these local specialities, followed by
listings of places that produce or sell them.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
& Melton Hunt Cake
Dickinson & Morris have been baking pork pies at Ye Olde Pork Pie
Shoppe in Melton since 1851 - the only place in the town that
produces truly authentic pies. They are unique because they are
‘hand raised’, which means the pastry is shaped by hand, and baked
without the support of a hoop or tin. They also have a higher meat
content than other pork pies. Dickinson and Morris also developed
the Melton Hunt Cake, a rich fruit cake spiced with Jamaican rum.
Both enjoyed success amongst the hunting fraternity, who carried
them as snacks in their saddlebags.
13 www.goleicestershire.com
Local Food & Drink
Stilton Cheese, Local Ale & Fruit Drinks
Stilton
Cheese
Stilton is so called because it
was sold in the village of Stilton
in Cambridgeshire (once a busy
staging post on the Great North
Road), but its true home has
always been in Melton and the
Vale of Belvoir, where almost all
Stilton is made. The fact that
Stilton cheese this area is home to a great
cheese as well as pork pies is no
coincidence, as pigs thrive on
whey, a by product of cheese-
making. Take a visit to The
Melton Cheeseboard for a wide
variety of local cheeses. All of
the local butchers in the town
sell cheese from the local dairies
as well as their own recipe pork
Belvoir fruit drinks pies and produce.
Great Pubs for
Local Ale & Real Ale
Fruit Drinks (CAMRA recommended)
Not only is Melton famous for
Anne of Cleves,
food, it also boasts some
Melton Mowbray
excellent beer, brewed by local
micro breweries. These include The Crown Inn,
Melton Red, a reference to the Melton Mowbray
local phrase ‘painting the town Sugar Loaf,
red’ (p4) and Baz’s Super Brew, Ab Kettleby
the strongest real ale on tap! Stilton Cheese,
Why not take a tour around the Somerby
Belvoir Brewery and finish with
Berkeley Arms,
lunch in the Sample Seller.
Wymondham
Tours by appointment. If you’re
after something non-alcoholic Black Horse,
however, then try a pressé Grimston
drink from Belvoir Fruit Farms, The Blue Dog,
diluted with spring water from Sewston
the limestone hills around
The Blue Bell,
Belvoir Castle. Frisby
www.goleicestershire.com 14
Local food & drink
Ye Olde Pork Long Clawson Dairy
Pie Shoppe West End, Long Clawson
8-10 Nottingham Street 01664 822 332
Melton Mowbray Producers of over 30 products
01664 562 341 including Blue Stilton, Blue
Melton’s oldest and only Shropshire and many blended
remaining bakery that produces cheeses. They sell a small
truly authentic Melton Mowbray amount of cheese from the
pork pies. Demonstrations are reception area. Please call
available - please call to book in first.www.clawson.co.uk
advance. Winner of ‘Local
Business Champion’ Award Kings Road Bakery
2008. www.porkpie.co.uk 21 Kings Road
Melton Mowbray
Melton Cheeseboard 01664 410 065
8 Windsor Street Producers of a wide variety of
Melton Mowbray hand-made breads from around
(and in the Melton the world, ranging from the
Farmers' Market) traditional loaf through to
01664 562 257 Russian black bread.
Cheeses sourced directly from www.kingsroadbakery.co.uk
Long Clawson Dairy with
Stilton as a speciality. Also sells Deli Italia
local ale, cordials, honey and 6-8 Church Street,
other produce. Winner of ‘Best Melton Mowbray.
Customer Service’ Award 2008. 01664 500132
www.meltoncheeseboard.co.uk Traditional Italian Deli
specializing in customized deli
Tuxford & Tebbutt platters & antipasta’s, gourmet
Thorpe End, Melton Mowbray sandwiches & Italian desserts.
01664 500 555 Winner of ‘Best Shop Front’
Have been making their Award 2008 and runner up for ‘Best
winning cheeses since 1780 Newcomer’ & ‘Best Eatery’
and is one of only seven 2008.
creameries able to produce Blue
Stilton Cheese – ‘The King of Paul’s Bakery
Cheeses’. Their cheese available (Soyfoods Ltd)
from Mark’s Family Butchers on 66 Snow Hill, Melton Mowbray
Sherrard Street. 01664 560 572
www.tuxfordandtebbutt.co.uk Producers of an interesting
array of loaves and rolls
Websters Dairy using flour mixes for special
Saxelbye, Melton Mowbray dietary requirements. Pre-order
01664 812 223 sales only. www.soyfoods.co.uk
One of the smallest of the Blue
Stilton makers, Websters have
been manufacturing the cheese
for over 90 years. The dairy is
open all year round and you
can buy Blue Stilton in half and
quarter sized cuts.
www.webstersdairy.co.uk
15 www.goleicestershire.com
Local Food & Drink
Bouverie Lodge The Parish Brewery
Nottingham Road 6 Main Street
Nether Broughton Burrough on the Hill
01664 822 114 01664 454 801
Local suppliers of bison and Producers of the strongest ale
venison meat (you can taste in the world (Baz's Super Brew
this at the Red House pub in at 23%) and the strongest ale
the village). See bison in the in England (Baz's Bonce Blower
fields, and visit the on-site at 12%). Supplied at numerous
farm shop. www.bisons.org pubs in the Borough. Tours by
appointment.
Belvoir Fruit Farms
Belvoir
01476 870 286
Producers of pure fruit cordials
and organic pressé drinks,
which are diluted with water
from the limestone hills around
Belvoir Castle. You can buy Why not visit the
these drinks from Ye Olde Pork
Pie Shoppe, the Melton Museum of Food
Cheeseboard, the Melton
Farmers’ Market and Crossroads
on the 2nd Floor
Farm Shop. at Deli Italia
www.belvoirfruitfarms.co.uk
Brewsters Brewing
Company Ltd
Stathern, Melton Mowbray Farmers’
01949 861 868
Producers of a range of cask
Markets
conditioned beers. Brewery
Farmers’ markets are
visits by prior arrangement.
Suppliers to several local pubs held on Tuesdays and
including The Marquis of Fridays at Scalford
Granby (Waltham on the Road Cattle Market.
Wolds) and The Red Lion and
The Plough (both in Stathern).
www.brewsters.co.uk Food Events
Belvoir Brewery Taste a whole range of
Nottingham Lane, Old Dalby delicious food and
01664 823 455 drink at some of
Producers of a range of quality
Melton’s key events –
cask conditioned and bottle
conditioned beers as well as British Pie Festival in
Melton Red Beer. Tours by April, Food & Drink
appointment. At the Sample Festival in October &
Cellar you can eat, shop and
Victorian Christmas
view brewing memorabilia.
Conference & Function facilities. Fair in December.
www.Belvoirbrewery.co.uk
www.goleicestershire.com 16
Belvoir Castle
Belvoir, Leicestershire. NG32 1PE
Follow Brown Signs from A1,
A46, A607 & A52.
t: 01476 871 002
e: info@belvoircastle.com
www.belvoircastle.com
The Duke & Duchess of Rutland very much hope you will come and visit their
home and enjoy a wonderful day out at Belvoir Castle. Our hilltop setting
commands stunning views over the Vale of Belvoir and with glorious gardens and
a fascinating magical castle to explore, there’s something for everyone at our
family home. Events take place in the castle and park every weekend during our
opening season, please see our website for details. Restaurant & Children’s
Playground.
Open: Daily 11am-5pm, Sat 11am-4pm.(Summer Season) Please call or see
website for off season opening times & special events.
Melton Carnegie Museum
Thorpe End
Melton Mowbray
LE13 1RB
t: 01664 569 946
e:meltonmuseum@leics.gov.uk
www.leics.gov.uk/meltonmuseum
The museum has displays showing the history of hunting and its opposition, and
includes displays featuring the history of Melton and the surrounding area. Explore
the history of Stilton Cheese and Pork Pies and saddle making, shoemaking and
tinsmithing and the impact they had on the town. Learn where the phase ‘Painting the
Town Red’ comes from. Free events all year round with various new temporary
exhibitions and interactive displays.
Note: The Museum is Closed for major building work until December 2009 with
full re-opening in Spring 2010. Museum events ongoing at Melton Library and
Samworth Centre - For more information please visit:
www.leics.gov.uk/meltonmuseum or www.leics.gov.uk/events.
Melton Country Park
Wymondham Way
Melton Mowbray
t: 01664 480 122 (Visitor Centre)
t: 01664 502 502
www.meltononline.co.uk
Ten minutes walk from the town centre, this 140 acres of parkland features a
visitor centre, cafe, picnic, nature and sculpture trails, lakes and an abundance of
wildlife. The park is based around a flood defence scheme and includes a large
lake and the disused branch line of the Great Northern and London North West
Joint railway (1879 to 1953). Areas of nature conservation, football pitches,
footpaths, children’s play areas and plenty of space to walk the dog, make it an
excellent place to visit. Guided walks and talks can be arranged and school parties
are always welcome.
Open: Visitors Centre and Cafe are open seasonally. Ring for details.
17 www.goleicestershire.com
Belvoir Brewery & Sample Cellar
Crown Park, Station Road
Old Dalby.
Leicestershire.LE14 3NQ
t: 01664 823 455
e:colin@belvoirbrewery.co.uk
www.belvoirbrewery.co.uk
Welcome to The Sample Cellar, a purpose-built brewery and visitor centre in the
heart of England. The Sample Cellar incorporating The Belvoir Brewery
(pronounced 'beaver') was originally set up in 1995. The brewery and visitor
centre is situated on the outskirts of Old Dalby, Leicestershire in the picturesque
Vale of Belvoir. The Sample Cellar has a friendly atmosphere - old fashioned bar
billiards table, seating at the bar to sample our fine food and drink.
Open: Mon-Sat, 12noon-10pm (Food 12.30pm-9.30pm). Sun, 12noon-4pm)
Tours of the Brewery by Appointment. Functions & catering facilities.
Melton Spinney Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 4SB
Tel: 01664 567777 • www.twinlakespark.co.uk
Waterfield Leisure Pools
Dalby Road
Melton Mowbray. LE13 0BG
t: 01664 563 550
e: waterfieldinfo@everyoneactive.com
www.everyoneactive.co.uk
Waterfield Leisure Pools overlooks the picturesque parkland close to Melton
Mowbray town centre, just of Dalby Road. The facility currently has a 25m main
pool, a 12m teaching pool and a leisure pool with a 40m flume. There are also two
fitness areas each with a range of cardio-vascular and resistance equipment, along
with a sauna and a steam room. Everyone Active manages Waterfield Leisure
Pools on behalf of Melton Borough Council. For more information about the
facilities and services available, as well as pool timetables, please visit
www.everyoneactive.co.uk
Open: Daily: 07.00 – 22.00. Please check times for public swim.
www.goleicestershire.com 18
Places to Visit
Days Out
Melton Mowbray and the Vale of Belvoir offer
much to see and do for the whole family. From
local beauty spots with spectacular views, to
horse riding, activity parks and parachuting, this
section of the guide will give you all you need to
plan your visit. Below we’ve suggested some days
out, and the listings that follow include further
details on these attractions, plus many more ideas.
animals in pets corner, whilst
Take the Kids adults can purchase some
award winning local produce.
Morning
Visit Twinlakes Park (p25),
where kids can enjoy everything
Food & Drink
from blasting cannonballs and
zip slides to water zapping Morning
bumper boats, mini karts and Visit Melton Mowbray on a
the animal farm. Rain or shine, Tuesday and enjoy the buzz of
there’s loads to do. (You can the street and cattle markets.
easily spend a whole day here). Buy a freshly baked pork pie
from Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe
Afternoon (p15) or some tasty Stilton from
Youngsters will enjoy splashing the Melton Cheeseboard (p15)
about on the water slide at or the farmers’ market.
Waterfield Leisure Pools (p26),
whilst adults can work out in Afternoon
the gym or relax in the sauna. Have lunch alfresco, (weather
permitting) at Café Italia on the
Other ideas picturesque Church Street and
• Why not have a bite to eat at visit the Deli Italia next door for
the child friendly 54a King some exquisite traditional Italian
Street Café and then check out produce. Don’t forget to visit the
the latest movies and catch a Museum of Food on the 2nd
matinee film at The Regal floor of the Deli which exhibits
Cinema opposite. food & drink through the ages
…. And its free admittance.
• Visit Leicester Road Sports
Ground and play 5-a-side Finish the day with a trip to the
football or a game of tennis. Crossroads Museum & Farm
From Easter throughout Shop for a delicious cream tea
Summer there is crazy golf, ride and more fantastic local produce
on the miniature train, bouncy to purchase.
castle, small boating lake &
electric cars. Café, toilets and Other ideas
free parking. • Take a picnic of local produce
out to Burrough Hill (p21) or
• Take a trip to Northfield Farm Melton Country Park (p22).
in Cold Overton and let the kids
pet the Shetland pony, piglets, • Enjoy a traditional ploughmans
calves and the numerous lunch at The Stilton Cheese Inn,
Somerby (pg 32)
19 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Visit
Days Out
• Turn to page 13 to find out
more about local food and drink Outdoors & Active
producers.
Morning
Jump on a quad bike or go
Heritage karting at Langar Karting (p26).
With indoor and outdoor tracks,
Morning it’s great whatever the weather.
See the fine interior of Belvoir Have lunch at the Red Lion at
Castle (p23), enjoy a walk around Stathern (Best Eating Experience
the grounds and statue gardens, 2008) and enjoy local ales and
and admire the spectacular view. dishes made with local produce.
Check out the Castle website for
special events. Either have lunch Afternoon
at the Castle itself or pop down Head over to Burrough Hill
to Knipton and visit The Manners Country Park (p21) and explore
Arms with its extensive gourmet this site of an Iron Age fort.
menu and carefully selected wine It’s the perfect place to fly a kite,
list. and offers beautiful views across
the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon
Stay in the picturesque Vale of Other ideas
Belvoir and take a walk around • Go skydiving with the British
the pretty villages of Eaton, Parachuting School (p25) at
Branston and Croxton Kerrial. Langar airfield.
Follow the Framland Church Trail • Visit one of the local equestrian
(p10). centres and go pony trekking
for the afternoon (p28).
Other ideas • Follow the walking trails
• Follow the Melton Mowbray around Melton Country Park
History Trail and visit the (p22).
beautiful St Mary’s Church.
• Enjoy a walk or bike ride along
• Visit Melton Carnegie Museum the Grantham Canal.
(p24) and find out more about
the local tradition of fox
hunting. For more places to
• Visit Wymondham Windmill visit go to
(p23) and climb to the top for
a fantastic view of the www.goleicestershire.com
surrounding area.
Grantham Canal
www.goleicestershire.com 20
Places to Visit
Gardens & Nature
Barnsdale Gardens Burrough Hill
Exton, Rutland Country Park
01572 813 200 Near Burrough on the Hill
Enjoy the fabulous gardens 0116 267 1944
created by much-loved The hill is one of the highest
television gardener, the late points in Leicestershire, reaching
Geoff Hamilton. Includes 210m (690 feet). A toposcope at
on-site specialist plant nursery, the site indicates landmarks that
gift and coffee shops. can be seen from the summit.
www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk The hill is crowned by an Iron
Age hill fort, with well-preserved
Brooksby Hall ramparts. Trails, walks and
& Plant Centre perfect for kite flying.
Brooksby, www.leics.gov.uk
Near Melton Mowbray
01664 855 262 Gates Nurseries
A beautiful 16th century manor Garden Centre
house and plant centre, Somerby Road, Cold Overton
offering delicious Sunday 01664 454 309
lunches and themed events. Set within a walled Victorian
Stroll around the extensive kitchen garden, the centre offers
gardens before visiting the everything from plants to garden
traditional nursery. furniture. Includes gift shop,
www.brooksbyhall.co.uk tearoom and a children’s play
area (p27). Serves light lunches
& home-made cakes.
www.gatesnurseries.co.uk
21 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Visit
The Grange
Asfordby Hill
Melton Mowbray
01664 812 012
A large garden centre, well
known for its Ski Lodge
restaurant, which brings a flavour
of the French Alps to Melton
Mowbray. See page 30. Ski
Centre, Farm Shop & Gift Shop.
www.grange-gardencentre.co.uk
Rutland Water Butterfly
Farm & Aquatic Centre
Sykes Lane, Empingham.
01780 460515
The largest tropical house in the
area, over 5,000 square feet of
Jungle paradise with free flying
beautifully coloured butterflies. Gates Nurseries
Also home to parrots and other
tropical birds, many other
animals are free to roam in the
lush vegetation, such as Iguana
Naturescape
lizards and Giant African Land Wildflower Farm
snails. Also featuring the Coach Gap Lane, Langar
Twilight Zone Insect cave. 01949 860 592
www.rutlandwaterbutterflyfarm. Set in over 44 acres of
co.uk wildflower fields, the farm sells
wildflower seeds, plants and
herbs. Includes an on-site
visitor centre, tearoom and
children’s play area with
picnic tables.
www.naturescape.co.uk
Melton Country Park
Wymondham Way
Melton Mowbray
01664 480 164
Ten minutes walk from the
town centre, this 140 acres
of parkland features a visitor
centre, picnic area, nature and
Melton Country Park sculpture trails, a large lake
and an abundance of wildlife.
To get to it from the town
centre, see the map on page 8.
For more places to
visit go to
www.goleicestershire.com
www.goleicestershire.com 22
Places to Visit
Belvoir Castle Gallery
History & Heritage
Belvoir Castle Oakham Castle
Belvoir Oakham, Rutland
01476 871 002 01572 758 440
The Leicestershire home of the One of the finest examples of
Duke and Duchess of Rutland domestic Norman architecture
commands spectacular views in the country. Unique display
across the Vale of Belvoir. of horseshoes given by visiting
Includes a fine collection of royalty and aristocracy over
paintings and furniture, as well the centuries.
as magnificent gardens. Special
events held throughout the Woolsthorpe Manor
year, including jousting and Newton Way
open-air concerts. See page 17. Woolsthorpe by Colsterworth
www.belvoircastle.com 01476 860 338
The birthplace of Sir Isaac
Belton House Newton, this National Trust
Near Grantham property dates back to the 17th
01476 566 116 century, with rooms reflecting
One of the finest Restoration life during the period.
houses in the country featuring
fine silver and furniture Wymondham Windmill
collections. There are also & Tearooms
formal gardens, a landscaped Butt Lane, Wymondham
park and a large adventure 01572 787 304
playground. Wymondham Windmill is a
countryside tourist attraction for
St Mary’s Church all the family. Built from local
Burton Street
ironstone, this five-storey
Melton Mowbray
windmill was built around 1814
01664 562 267
and offers superb views of the
Over 800 years old, this
surrounding countryside. It offers
impressive church houses a fine
a historic windmill, gift shops,
collection of stained glass as well
organic food shop, tearooms
as rare double-aisled transepts.
serving homemade cakes and
Don’t miss the fantastic
cream teas, and picturesque
Christmas Tree Festival in
woodland of British native trees.
December.
www.wymondhamwindmill.co.uk
23 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Visit
Museums
Crossroads Farm Shop Melton Carnegie
Museum & Tearoom Museum
Eastwell Thorpe End, Melton Mowbray
01949 860 242 01664 569 946
A 17th century barn, housing The museum has displays
a range of farming memorabilia showing the history of hunting
from Victorian times to the and its opposition, and includes
present day. Includes farm displays featuring the history of
shop, selling home-grown Melton and the surrounding
vegetables, eggs, cakes and area. Explore the history of
preserves etc. See page 27. Stilton Cheese and Pork Pies and
saddle making, shoemaking and
Melton Museum of Food tinsmithing and the impact they
2nd Floor Deli Italia, had on the town. Learn where
Church Street the phase ‘Painting the Town
Step back in time and see the Red’ comes from. Free events all
food and drink of old right year round with various new
through to present times. temporary exhibitions and
Displays and interpretation interactive displays. The
boards. Free Admittance Museum is Closed for major
building work until December
2009 with full re-opening in
Spring 2010. Museum events
ongoing at Melton Library and
Samworth Centre - For more
information please visit:
www.leics.gov.uk/meltonmuseum
or www.leics.gov.uk/events.
Rutland County Museum
Catmose Street, Oakham
Rutland
01572 758 440
Enjoy the ‘Welcome to Rutland’
gallery - a guide to the history
of the area which leads into
displays of local archaeology,
history and an extensive rural
life collection.
For more places to
visit go to
www.goleicestershire.com
Wymondham Windmill
www.goleicestershire.com 24
Places to visit
Activity Parks
Twinlakes Park
Melton Spinney Road
Melton Mowbray
01664 567 777
All-weather family fun
guaranteed! From bumper boats
and assault courses to adventure
indoor play, falconry and a farm,
there’s lots to keep the kids
occupied for hours. See page
18. www.twinlakespark.co.uk
Outdoor Activities
British Parachute Rutland Water
School Rutland. 01572 653 026
The Control Tower Spend a day at Rutland Water
Langar Airfield, Langar and enjoy a huge range of
01949 860 878 activities including sailing,
From one-off jumps to windsurfing, fishing and cycling
(equipment available to hire).
skydiving courses, enjoy an
Also boat cruises, a climbing
amazing and exhilarating
wall and high ropes course,
experience. Whatever you do,
Butterfly & Aquatic Centre and
it will be an adventure never Birdwatching Centre.
to be forgotten! www.rutlandwater.org.uk
www.bpslangar.co.uk
Six Hills Golf Club
Buckminster Six Hills (on A46)
Gliding Club 01509 881 225
Saltby Airfield Pay as you play 18-hole golf
01476 860 385 course, with a driving range,
Learn to glide over the Vale putting green and on-site bar.
Excellent restaurant. See page 32.
of Belvoir in a modern two-seat
training aircraft with a qualified
instructor.
Six Hills Jetski Centre
Six Hills (on A46)
Lakeview Fisheries 01664 434 080
Landyke Lane, Holwell RYA training services offered at
this 12 acre lake. Includes fully
07970 076 033
stocked showroom, workshop
Twelve well-stocked lakes
facilities, café, showers and
situated in the picturesque Vale
changing rooms.
of Belvoir. Provides a tranquil
haven for anglers of all abilities Stapleford Park Country
and ages. On site café. Hotel
Stapleford. 01572 787000
Great selection of outdoor
pursuits to include archery,
falconry, shooting, horse riding,
off-road driving and mountain
biking.
25 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Visit
Leisure
Leicester Road Melton Leisure Centre
Sports Ground Asfordby Road
Leicester Road Melton Mowbray
Melton Mowbray 01664 851 111
01664 566 313 Sports hall offering facilities for
Fun for all the family with a badminton, squash, five-a-side
brand new 5-a-side football pitch football, table tennis, netball,
and tennis courts. During the volleyball and basketball, plus a
summer crazy golf, miniature multigym, fitness suite, saunas,
railway, small boating lake, solarium, and three bars with
electric cars and bouncy castle. satellite TV.
Café serving refreshments. Open
daily, toilets & free car parking.
Langar Karting
Langar Airfield
www.meltonmowbraytownestate
Harby Road, Langar
.co.uk
01949 861 155
Indoor karting centre offering
Formula One
great fun whatever the weather.
Indoor Karting
Wymeswold Industrial Estate Melton Indoor
Burton on the Wolds
08712 205 050
Bowls Club
Leicester Road
Hop on a kart and race up to
Melton Mowbray
40mph on the 450 metre long
01664 410 159
track, which includes fantastic
Indoor bowling facilities with
new flyovers and bridges.
bar and value for money quality
Waterfield restaurant.
Leisure Pools
Dalby Road, Melton Mowbray
01664 563 550
Features a 25 metre main pool,
a teaching pool and a leisure
pool with flume and water
features. It also has a fitness
suite with a sauna, steam rooms
and two gymnasiums.
Ragdale Hall
Health Hydro
Ragdale
01664 434 831
Enjoy a day or longer break at
one of the most luxurious and
relaxing health spas in the
country. Experience holistic
therapy and beauty treatments
in the grandeur of this beautiful
historic house. Ragdale Hall
www.ragdalehall.co.uk
www.goleicestershire.com 26
Gates Nurseries Garden Centre
Somerby Road
Cold Overton
LE15 7QB
Follow Brown Signs from
A606 at Langham & A47
at Tilton on the Hill
t: 01664 454 309
www.gatesnurseries.co.uk
Set within a walled garden built in 1818, originally the kitchen garden of Cold
Overton Hall. Plants, trees, shrubs, ornaments, garden furniture. Giftware shop
selling silk flowers, ceramics, glassware, cards. Purpose-built tea shop featuring
oak beams and pine furniture, seating 150. Quality fayre including morning
coffee, light lunch, afternoon tea, home-made cakes. Children’s play area.
Open: Nursery: Mon-Sat, 8am-5.30pm. Sun, 10am-4pm. Tea shop: Mon-Sat,
10am-4.30pm. Sun, 10am-4.00pm. Closed Dec 25-28 inclusive and New Year’s Eve
& New Year’s Day. Parking: Over 2 acres of landscaped free car & coach parking.
Coaches by appointment. Disabled visitors: Special parking, full access,toilets.
Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe
Dickinson & Morris
8-10 Nottingham Street,
Melton Mowbray
LE13 1NW
t: 01664 562 341
Melton Mowbray’s oldest remaining bakery producing w: www.porkpie.co.uk
truly authentic Melton Mowbray Pork Pies. Learn
about the fascinating history of the shop and why
Melton Mowbray became the original home of the
pork pie industry. Watch demonstrations of hand Mon-Sat all year 8am-5pm.
raised pork pies (best to book), sample their unique Closed Sunday and most Bank
taste and also visit the Sausage Shop next door. Holidays
Crossroads Farm Northfield Farm Shop
Shop & Museum
Eastwell, Melton Mowbray. LE14 4EF Northfield Farm, Whissendine Lane,
t: 01949 860 242 Cold Overton, Rutland. LE15 7QF
e: jane@crossroadsfarm.co.uk t: 01664 474 271
A 17th century barn, housing a range of www.northfieldfarm.com
farming memorabilia from Victorian Award winning meats, home-made
times to the present day. Melton Mowbray Pork Pies,
Farm shop sells home reared beef, pork Sausage Rolls, Pasties. 28 day hung
& lamb, home-made meat pies & cakes beef. Full visitor access.
and other local produce. Tea rooms. Come see the fabulous wine shop,
Open: Tue-Thur: 9am-5pm, Fri: 9am- rare breed animals & our pets
7pm, Sat: 9am-4pm corner.
27 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Visit
Arts & Crafts
Finola Delamere Hollies Farm
Studio Pottery Handicrafts
Croxton Kerrial Little Dalby
01476 870 744 01664 454 553
Studio potter who has set up a Offering a fine selection of
workshop in the small village of handicrafts, with furniture
Croxton Kerrial. Adjoining the made to order and a restoration
workshop is Finola’s gallery service. There is also an on-site
where her work is exhibited. tearoom and occasional
www.finspottery.co.uk demonstrations by a wood turner.
Entertainment Tours
Melton Theatre Regal Cinema
Asfordby Road King Street, Melton Mowbray
Melton Mowbray 01664 562 251
01664 851 111 Melton’s single screen cinema
A whole host of productions offers a wide choice of UK
run throughout the year, releases in a traditional ‘picture
including drama, music and house’ atmosphere.
comedy events. A special www.regal-melton.co.uk
children’s programme takes
place in the summer holidays.
www.meltontheatre.co.uk
Horse Riding Centres
Brooksby Somerby Equestrian
Equestrian Centre Centre Limited
Brooksby, Melton Mowbray Newbold Lane, Somerby
01664 424 280 01664 454 838
Buckminster Lodge Vale View Equestrian
Sewstern, Grantham Centre
01572 787 544 Old Dalby.
01664 823739
School of National
Equitation Vale County Stables
Bunny Hill Top, Costock Hose, Melton Mowbray.
01509 852 366 0115 989 3804
Riverside Riding Centre
Riverside Road, Melton
01664 813 663
www.goleicestershire.com 28
Places to Eat & Drink
Melton Mowbray
Anne of Cleves
Melton Mowbray
Off the Beaten Path 54a King Street
Park Road 01664 480 234
01664 562 318 Attractive coffee shop over
Award-winning coffee shop three floors with a cosy
offering fine coffee and teas, atmosphere. The cellar is
fresh sandwiches, jacket potatoes, decorated with a music theme.
salads and mouth-watering Children well catered for.
home-baked cakes.
The Kitchen
Elms Café King Street
Sherrard Street 01664 501665
01664 562 050 Great home cooked food using
Friendly café serving fresh home local produce. Very popular café
cooked food using local produce for lunches and light snacks.
and fresh fish, freshly-cut chips
and fresh vegetables. The Whyte Coffee Shop
Market Place
01664 565 636
Coffee shop/deli with oriental
contemporary twist. Sells
freshly-filled continental breads
and other delicacies.
29 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Eat & Drink
Melton Mowbray
Anne of Cleves Bowls Club Restaurant
Burton Road Leicester Road
01664 481 336 01664 410 210
Historic 13th century pub with Great value food is served at
attractive Victorian garden this restaurant situated within
and home-made English food. Melton’s Indoor Bowls Club.
Full of character. 'Chef's specials'
are popular. Sysonby Knoll Hotel
Asfordby Road
The Cutting Room 01664 563 563
St Mary’s Way Popular colonial style restaurant
01664 560 315 serving informal lunches and
Large, modern pub/bar with a variety of evening menus.
high ceilings and wooden Award-winning hotel with fine
floors. Serves contemporary views over the River Eye.
food. Has a large screen for See page 44.
showing sporting events.
The Alpine Restaurant
La Torre at the Grange
Leicester Street
A6006 off Asfordby
01664 500 199
Roundabout
Popular exclusive Italian
01664 812 012
Restaurant serving fine food.
Alpine style, warm atmosphere
Ample portions and great service
with open log fire. Special
makes for a good night out.
lunch/dinner menus each week.
Jasmine House Alpine food also served.
Sherrard Street
The Eating House
01664 567 871
Sherrard Street
Quality Chinese Restaurant with
01664 563444
friendly and inviting atmosphere.
www.theeatinghouse.co.uk
Good value food and great
Fully licensed 68 seater
service.
restaurant offering a wide
selection of locally sourced
Apurba food. Light snacks and main
Leicester Street
meals at lunch time with full a
01664 410 554
la carte menu in the evening.
This Indian restaurant offers
a fun and friendly atmosphere
Café Italia & Deli Italia
with a good varied menu (not
Church Street
just Indian food). Children are
01664 561777
also very welcome.
Fine Italian day bistro
specializing in risotto, pasta,
Mamma Mia’s ciabatta and Italian desserts.
St Mary’s Way
Very child friendly.
01664 482233
Italian continental cuisine. Family
restaurant with many specials.
Visit The Polish Cake
Company on Sysonby
Check out Street for delicious
handcrafted cakes, pastries &
speciality cakes at breads from the heart
Coco’s on King Street of Europe
www.goleicestershire.com 30
Places to Eat & Drink
Villages
Villages
Ab Kettleby Long Clawson
Sugar Loaf The Crown & Plough
Nottingham Road East End
01664 822 473 01664 822322
Popular country pub with a A 17th century grade11 listed
dining conservatory and pub and barn. One of England’s
wood-burning fires. Serves local finest and most traditional inns,
produce and several cask ales. serving high quality modern
English & European cuisine.
Bottesford
Pauls Nether Broughton
Market Street Red House
01949 842 375 Main Street
A modern European restaurant 01664 822 429
using local produce to create The Red House has brought a
exciting cuisine. Lounge for pre Unique contemporary style to a
and post dinner drinks. traditional country Inn.
Excellent food prepared from
Knipton local sources including bison
The Manners Arms from the village farm.
Croxton Lane
01476 879 222 Old Dalby
A delightful country inn which The Crown
has been refurbished by the Debdale Hill
Duke & Duchess of Rutland. An 01664 823 134
extensive menu which is Traditional 16th century inn
enhanced by local produce and with beams and open fires.
a carefully selected wine list. Real ales from the cask and a
restaurant serving quality food
Langar from local producers.
Langar Hall
01949 860559 Scalford
The restaurant is a favourite The Kings Arms
meeting place for guests and King Street
locals to enjoy its ambience and 01664 444 208
superb valued menu and wine Tasty fresh food in a traditional
list, combined with providing pub. Bar meals, restaurant and
the best value meals in the area. tapas.
The Table D'Hote lunch menu
and A'La Carte dinner menu Six Hills
offer seasonal dishes using local Fairways
produce cooked to order in an Six Hills Road
English style. 01509 889 347
Excellent restaurant set in
For more places to the beautiful surroundings
eat out, go to of a premier golf course.
Local produce used. Al fresco
www.goleicestershire.com
dining during the summer.
31 www.goleicestershire.com
Places to Eat & Drink
Villages
Somerby Thorpe Satchville
The Stilton Cheese La Table d’Yves at The
High Street Fox Inn
01664 454 394 Main Street
16th Century Inn with an 01664 840257
excellent reputation for food & A unique restaurant and pub
drink, serving a wide choice of serving genuine regional French
traditional and unusual dishes. cuisine prepared from both
local produce and France.
Stapleford Traditional unpretentious
Stapleford Country Park cuisine accompanied by
Hotel fantastic wines.
01572 787 522
Set in 500 acres of woods, Woolsthorpe
parkland & gardens. Amazing Chequers
traditional English and Main Street
continental dishes. 01476 870 701
17th century pub in the grounds
Stathern of Belvoir Castle. Enjoy unique
nooks and crannies and six
Red Lion Inn open fires. Excellent cuisine
Red Lion Street
using fresh local produce.
01949 860 868
Great country pub serving
excellent food, fine wines Burrough on the
and real ales (specialises in Hill
local produce). Warm and
The Stag & Hounds
relaxing atmosphere.
Main Street
01664 452 141
17th Century inn set in beautiful
countryside. Food is sourced from
local producers and menus are
changed to accommodate the
best local produce.
Stapleford Park Hotel
www.goleicestershire.com 32
Events
6-7 March 26 April
Italian Market East Midlands
Melton Mowbray Town Centre International CiCLE
01664 502335 Classic Race
Italia in Piazza brings this truly Oakham to Melton
authentic Italian Market to 01572 787726
Melton Mowbray. Traditional This is possibly the most
Italian cuisine & products on attractive new one day race for
sale. many years to enter the
28 March international scene. Race starts in
Oakham at 11.00pm and finishes
Traditional Rare Breeds, in Melton from about 3.00pm
Poultry & Waterfowl
Sale 3-4 May
Cattle Market, Scalford Road, Leicestershire County
Melton Mowbray Show
07957 914322 Melton Airfield
Sale of graded traditional, pure 01509 646786
and rare breeds, poultry & A truly traditional country show
waterfowl. with acts and performances in the
main show ring throughout the
5-19 April
event plus Cattle, Heavy Horse,
Fun Fair Goat & Sheep, Driving, Horse &
Play Close Park, Melton Pony, Ploughing Matches and
Mowbray much more. Over 200 trade
01664 566953 stands. Fun for all the family.
All the fun of the fair. This annual
fun fair returns to Melton for the 16-17 May
Easter break. Rides and stalls to Steam Festival & Family
suit all ages. Show
10-15 April Belvoir Castle
01476 871002
Easter at Belvoir Old steam traction engines and
Belvoir Castle
vintage cars star alongside a
01476 871002
vibrant programme of arena
Great fun for all the family
entertainment, side shows, heavy
when the children take part in a
horses and rare breeds. There's
traditional Easter Egg Hunt
something at this show for all the
whilst you enjoy our in-house
family!
re-enactment of Easter 1825.
25 May
21 April
British Pie Awards Melton Show
Town Parks, Melton Mowbray
St Mary’s Church, Melton
Mowbray 01664 500335
01673 828764 One the Melton's Largest Events
The pie is one of the icons of attracting visitors & locals to see
British cuisine. Savoury or sweet, spectacular shows and unique
the British eat millions of them performances. A truly great day
every year. These Awards are a out for all the family.
national celebration of British
Pies in all their varieties. Winners
announced at 4.30pm.
33 www.goleicestershire.com
Events
13-14 June 8 August
Stapleford Steam Jools Holland in the Park
Stapleford Park, Nr Melton Belvoir Castle Grounds
Mowbray 01603 660444
01462 851711 Jools Holland returns with his
A great family day out for all Blues Orchestra for another night
ages. Traction engines, of pure boogie-woogie. There’s
Fairground Organs, Trade Stands, even a grand firework finale to
Miniature Engines, Vintage Cars round off what promises to be a
and Old Time Fairground Rides. magical night out at this most
glorious setting.
10 July
A Midsummer Nights 29-31 August
Dream 500th Anniversary
Belvoir Castle Celebrations at Belvoir
01476 871004 Belvoir Castle
This magical evening is simply 01476 871002
the best in family entertainment To celebrate 500 years of the
as flitting fairies and forest Manners family at Belvoir enjoy
bound lovers join to create the a Bank Holiday full of Family
perfect summer evening. Fun - Games, storytelling and
much more - a great day out for
23-24 July all of the family.
Melton By the Sea
Melton Town Centre 30-31 August
01664 502335 Stapleford Miniature
Melton Market Place will be Railway
transformed into a traditional Stapleford Park
seaside resort with sand, buckets 01664 851614
& spades, donkey rides, Melton Featuring the Stapleford Park
rock, cockles & mussels and 10.5” gauge Miniature Railway.
traditional fairground rides. Sand Stands, exhibits and fun for all the
castle competitions, mask making, family.
colouring competitions, face
painting, street entertainment 11-12 September
and music. Lots of prizes to give Traditional & Native
away and many FREE activities. Breeds Show
Cattle Market, Melton
24-26 July
Mowbray
The CLA Game Fair 01664 562971
Belvoir Castle A unique opportunity to see
01476 871002 endangered and rare breeds all
The world’s largest countryside under one roof. Pigs, cattle,
event covering all aspects of the sheep & poultry. Show on Friday
countryside from country sports and sale on Saturday.
to food, horses, dogs,
conservation, wildlife and 18-19 September
gardens, this 3 day extravaganza Beer Festival
has lots of events and features Market Tavern, Melton
for people of all ages to watch Mowbray
and participate in. 01664 562971
Over 50 traditional ales, lagers
& ciders with refreshments
throughout the event and
evening entertainment.
www.goleicestershire.com 34
Events
3-4 October 27 November 2008
East Midlands Food & Christmas Lights Switch
Drink Festival On
Melton Mowbray Melton Town Centre
01664 569388 01664 502335
www.eastmidlandsfoodfestival. Full day and evening of
co.uk entertainment for all the family.
The Uk’s largest regional food & Fun starts at 10am with live
drink festival. This hugely performances from local schools.
popular event returns with Santa and his live reindeer from
celebrity chefs, tastings and 4.00pm. Switch On at 6.45pm
entertainment. Visit the website followed by fantastic firework
for up to date information. finale. Christmas markets, late
night shopping and live bands.
21-23 October
Pork Pie Street Fair 27-28 November
Melton Town Centre Christmas Continental
01664 566953 Market
Back for the third year running Melton Market Place
this street fair will now host pork 01664 502335
pie rolling competitions and Christmas market selling produce
there will be an opportunity to and gifts from around Europe.
taste and vote on your favourite Open until 8.00pm on Friday and
pork pie. Traditional street fair 4.00pm on Saturday.
rides such as gallopers, helta-
skelta and coconut shy stalls. 8 December
6 November
Fat Stock Show
Cattle Market, Melton
Bonfire Spectacular Mowbray
Play Close, Melton Mowbray 01664 562971
01664 566953 A Christmas Show of pigs, sheep
Come and see a firework display and cattle. Prizes and awards for
and bonfire that will amaze the best of Melton’s produce
children and adults a like. including Pork Pies & Stilton
Refreshments and small rides. Cheese.
7 November 4-8 December
Firework Festival – St Mary’s Christmas Tree
Galactic Wars Festival
Twinlakes Park, Melton St Mary’s Church, Melton
Mowbray Mowbray
01664 567777 01664 851457
A festival of fireworks with live What is believed to be the largest
radio, bar, jazz, BBQ and live Christmas Tree Festival in the
sideshows. Bonfire lit at country with over 300 trees
6.00pm, Fireworks at 7.15pm decorated and themed by local
businesses, schools &
organisations.
35 www.goleicestershire.com
Events
6 December
Victorian Christmas Fair
Melton Mowbray Town Centre Events All
01664 822114
Hugely successful and popular Year Round
Victorian costumed Christmas
Fayre. Vast array of entertainment Belvoir Castle
for all ages, Sunday shopping & Events are held most
quality craft & produce stalls.
weekends throughout the
20 December summer, including jousting
Christmas Special and re-enactments (p17).
Vintage Car & Bike Meet
& Men’s Shopping Event. Melton Theatre
Melton Town Centre
Enjoy an evening of
01664 480234 / 502335 drama, dance, music or
A Christmas Special of unique comedy. (p28)
vintage cars & bikes. Men’s
Shopping event offers a free gift Melton Carnegie
wrapping service and free pints Museum
of beer. Shops open all day.
Talks, workshops and
Music & entertainment.
seasonal activities are held
24 December regularly at the museum
Christmas Eve Market (p24).
Melton Town Centre
01664 566953 Twinlakes Park
A last chance to get what you Enjoy themed seasonal
need for Christmas whether it be events and more (p18).
food, gifts or stocking fillers. Free
gift wrapping service, live
entertainment and music.
Speciality Markets:
run throughout the year in
1 January 2010 Melton. Visit
Annual Hunt Meet www.meltonbusiness.co.uk
Play Close, Melton Mowbray for details
01664 566953
The Belvoir Hunt meets on Play Live Music
Close at 11.00am Can be heard in many
town centre pubs
18-19 February 2010
Frost Fair
Melton Town Centre Vintage Car & Bike
01664 502335 Meet
Ice rink, Ice Queen, alpine held on the last Friday of
entertainment, husky dogs, Jack every month, April to Sept
Frost & Ice Maiden mask in the Market Place.
making, free face painting and
much more…..
visit
www.meltonbusiness.co.uk
www.goleicestershire.com
for all event information
www.goleicestershire.com 36
Plungar Redmile
The Old Wharf Greenman Cottage
Granby Lane, Plungar. Notts. NG13 0JJ 4 Church Corner, Redmile. Notts. NG13 0GB
t: 01949 860630 t: 01949 843 847
e: pellelaine@hotmail.com e: greenmancottage@hotmail.com
www.myweb.tiscali.co.uk/oldwharf/oldwharf www.goleicestershire.com/melton
Scalford Whissendine
Roberts Farm Caravan & Camping
Church Street, Scalford, Leics. LE14 4DL Greendale Farm, Pickwell Lane, Whissendine.
t: 01664 444730 t: 01664 474 516
e: Steve@robertsfarm.co.uk e: enq@rutlandgreendale.co.uk
www.goleicestershire.com/melton www.rutlandgreendale.co.uk
Waltham on the Wolds Harby
Bryrn Barn B&B Hill Farm
38 High Street, Waltham, Leics. LE14 4AH Harby, Melton Mowbray. Leics.
t: 01664 464 783 LE14 4DB
e: glenarowlands@onetel.com t: 01282 845 284
www.brynbarn.co.uk www.goleicestershire.com
Melton Mowbray Great Dalby
Quorn Lodge Hotel Laburnum House
46 Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray. 16 Top End, Great Dalby. Melton
t: 01664 566 660 Mowbray. Leics. LE14 2HA
e: quornlodge@aol.com t: 01664 569 369
www.quornlodge.co.uk www.goleicestershire.com/melton
Melton Mowbray Langar
Caravan Park Langar Hall Hotel
Asfordby Road Sports Ground. Melton Langar. Notts. NG13 9HG
t: 01664 567 846 t: 01949 860 559
e: enquiries@meltonmowbraytownestate.co.uk e: info@langarhall.co.uk
www.goleicestershire.com/melton www.langarhall.com
Upper Broughton Old Dalby
Best Western Lower Grange Farm
A46 Fosse Way, Upper Broughton. Leics Gibsons Lane, Old Dalby, Leics. LE14 3LH
t: 01664 823 212 t: 01664 823 640
e: reservations@inhotel.co.uk e: lgfarm@btinternet.com
www.bestwestern.co.uk www.goleicestershire.com
Long Clawson Eaton
Crown & Plough Mill House Cottages
3 East End, Long Clawson. Leics. NG14 4NG Old Mill House, Branston Road, Eaton.
t: 01664 822 322 Notts. NG32 1EU
e: crownand plough@btconnect.com t: 01476 870 797
www.crownandplough.co.uk www.millhouseholidaycottages.co.uk
Long Clawson Harby
Elms Farm New Farm Cottage
52 East End, Long Clawson. Leics. NG14 4NG Waltham Road, Harby, Melton
t: 01664 822 395 Mowbray. Leics. LE14 4DB
e: elmsfarm@whittard.net t: 01949 860 640
www.goleicestershire.com/melton www.goleicestershire.com
Eye Kettleby Melton Mowbray
Eye Kettleby Lakes Noel’s Arms
The Driveway, Eye Kettleby. Leics. LE14 2TD 31 Burton Street, Melton Mowbray.
t: 01664 565 900 Leics. LE13 1AE
e: info@eyekettlebylakes.com t: 01664 562 363
www.eyekettlebylakes.com www.goleicestershire.com
37 www.goleicestershire.com
Redmile Bottesford
Peacock Inn The Thatch
Church Corner, Main Street, Redmile. 26 High Street, Bottesford. Leics. NG13 0AA
Notts. NG13 0GA t: 01949 842 330
t: 01949 842 554 e: thethatch@btconnect.com
www.thepeacockinnredmile.co.uk www.thethatchbottesford.co.uk
Ragdale South Witham
Ragdale Hall Spa Travelodge
Ragdale, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 3PB A1 Northbound, South Witham.
t: 01664 433 000 Grantham. NG33 5LN
e: enquiries@ragdalehall.co.uk t: 01572 767 586
www.ragdalehall.co.uk www.travelodge.co.uk
Waltham on the Wolds
Waltham on the Wolds Ab Kettleby
Royal Horseshoes White Lodge Farm
Melton Road, Waltham. Leics. LE14 4AJ Nottingham Road, Ab Kettleby. Leics.
t: 01664 464 289 LE14 3JB
e: theroy.noble@btconnect.com t: 01664 822 286
www.goleicestershire.com www.goleicestershire.com/melton
Greetham Waltham on the Wolds
Caravan & Camping Old Lambing Shed
Rutland C&C, Park Lane, Greetham. 26a Melton Road,
Oakham. LE15 7FN Waltham on the
t: 01572 813 520 Wolds
www.rutlandcaravanandcamping.co.uk Melton Mowbray,
Leics. LE14 4AJ
Harby
t: 01664 464255
Sycamore Farm
e:awatchorn1314
Waltham Road, Harby, Melton Mowbray. @yahoo.com
Leics. LE14 4DB
t: 01949 860 640 Rooms & prices: S/C Unit £275 - £425
www.goleicestershire.com/melton pupw. Sleeps 4 (2 Double & 2 Bathrooms)
Plungar Barn conversion in rural
The Forge location in beautiful village
2 Granby Lane, Plungar. Leics. NG13 0JJ of Waltham on the Wolds,
t: 01949 861 355 close to Melton, Grantham
e: john.ridgway4@btopenworld.com and Vale of Belvoir.
www.plungarforge.com
Melton Mowbray
Old Guadaloupe Farmhouse & Cottage
Eye Kettleby, Melton Mowbray. Leics. LE14 2TS
t: 07989 960588 www.oldguadaloupecottage.co.uk
Rooms & prices: 3 Rooms in Farmhouse B&B. Double £50, Family £70, Single £30
Plus Self Contained Cottage. Sleeps 2-4. £200 - £450 pupw
These properties are next to Eye Kettleby Lakes with 7 lakes to fish from. 500
Year old Farmhouse on a working farm with lovely views over countryside. Self
Contained cottage has original beams and is finished to a high standard with
private patio, bbq & HOT TUB for your personal use. Plenty of parking space for
both properties set in half an acre of garden.
www.goleicestershire.com 38
Scalford Melton Mowbray
The Lodge Shoby Lodge
Melton Road, Scalford, Melton
Mowbray. Leics. LE14 4UB. Shoby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 3PF
t: 01664 444205 t: 01664 812 156
www.geocities.com/thelodgebandb Rooms & prices: 3 Rooms. Double /
Rooms & prices: 1 Double & Twin £60 - £70. Single Occupancy £35
1 SuperKing / Twin. £30-£40pp
A warm welcome awaits at this working
This picturesque Edwardian House is family farm. Relax in the spacious
set in the rolling countryside of the lounge with open log fire. The
Scalford Hall estate. Only 2 miles comfortable conservatory offers a
from Melton Mowbray and 1/2 mile beautiful view of the garden with the
from the village of Scalford. unspoilt countryside beyond. Excellent
pubs close by.
Melton Mowbray
Beckmill Guest House
44 Kings Road, Melton Mowbray. LE13 1QF
t: 01664 852 881
www.beckmill.co.uk
Rooms & prices: 4 Double/Twin en
suite £60
Beckmill has been decorated throughout
by an interior designer and has been
kept in keeping with its Victorian
heritage. Fantastic breakfasts are
available every morning which include
organic ingredients & homemade jams.
Barkestone-le-vale Thorpe Satchville
Belvoir B&B Walnut Tree Cottage
Woodside Farm, Long Lane, Barkestone-le- 9 Main Street, Thorpe Satchville
vale, Belvoir. Notts. NG13 0HQ Melton Mowbray. Leics. LE14 2DQ
t: 01476 870336
e: hickling-woodside@supanet.com t: 01664 840638
www.woodsidebandb.co.uk www.walnut-tree-cottage.co.uk
Prices & rooms: 3 rooms. Double from Rooms & prices: 1 S/C Cottage. £450
£65. Twin from £68. Single Occ. from £45 Winter, £575 Summer.
Award winning farmhouse retreat set This 4 star cottage is a modern stable
peacefully in unspoilt countryside
overlooked by Belvoir Castle. Smartly conversion set towards the back of an
appointed bedrooms, en suite available. acre of wooded garden, surrounded by
Delicious hearty breakfasts. Walking /
cycling. Ample secure parking. farmland. Walnut Tree Cottage offers a
Melton Mowbray 15 mins drive. peaceful rural setting. Sleeps 6-8 people.
39 www.goleicestershire.com
South Witham Knipton
The Blue Cow Inn The Manners Arms
South Witham, Lincolnshire, NG33 5QB Croxton Road, Knipton, Leics. NG32 1RH
t: 01572 768432 t: 01476 879222
e: enquiries@bluecowinn.co.uk www.mannersarms.com
Rooms & prices: Double/Twin en suite Rooms & prices: 10 Rooms. £55 - £120
£55, Single en suite £45
A quintessential country inn, beautifully
This thirteenth century Inn has charm refurbished and managed by the Duke
and history. The beamed ceilings, stone and Duchess of Rutland. Located in a
walls, open fire and flagstone floors will picturesque rural village in the Vale of
ensure you are surrounded in history Belvoir, a stones throw away from
and local folklore. Restaurant and own Belvoir Castle. Luxury accommodation
brewed ale. & superb Restaurant.
Nether Broughton Great Dalby
The Red House Diary Farm
23 Main Street, Nether Broughton. LE14 3HB 8 Burrough End, Great Dalby, Leics. LE14 2EW
t: 01664 822 429 t: 01664 562 783
www.the-redhouse.co.uk e: info@dairy-farm.co.uk
Rooms & prices: 8 Rooms £60-£70pppn www.dairy-farm.co.uk
Rooms & prices: 3 Rooms. Double /
This old coach house now hosts an
Twin en suite £50. Single Occupancy £30
award winning restaurant, a relaxing
bar, a beautiful courtyard, 3 AA Star Dairy Farm is a working dairy and beef
boutique hotel rooms with eight farm which offers comfortable rooms
individually designed suites and a and a friendly welcome. Located in this
marquee, set in beautiful gardens. pretty village just 3 miles from the
Locally sourced food & ale. market town of Melton Mowbray.
Burton Lazars Rearsby
Hillside House Manor Farm
27 Melton Road, Burton Lazars. Rearsby, Leicester. LE7 4YB
Melton Mowbray. Leics. LE14 2UR t: 01664 424239
t: 01664 566312 e: hillhs27@aol.com e: manorfarmb.b@hotmail.co.uk
www.hillside-house.co.uk Rooms & prices: 2 Rooms. Double/Twin
Rooms & prices: 3 Rooms. Double / en suite £60. Single Occupancy £40
Twin en suite £55. Single Occupancy £35 If you are looking for somewhere
Comfortable converted 19th century farm special then look no further - An
building, views over rolling countryside. attractive 18th century farmhouse and
Guests lounge, garden, car parking. 10% busy working arable farm, situated in
reduction minimum 3 nights stay (except the heart of this rural village. A warm
for special events). welcome awaits you.
www.goleicestershire.com 40
Key to Places to Visit
Gardens & Museums p24 32 Langar Karting
Nature p21 17 Melton Museum of 33 Indoor Bowls Club
1 Barnsdale Gardens Food 34 Waterfield Leisure
18 Crossroads Farm Pools
2 Brooksby Hall
Museum 35 Ragdale Hall
3 Burrough Hill
Country Park 19 Melton Carnegie
Museum Arts & Crafts p28
4 Gates Nurseries 36 Finola Delamere
& Garden Centre 20 Rutland County
Museum Studio Pottery
5 The Grange 37 Hollies Farm
6 Rutland Water Activity Parks p25 Handicrafts
Butterfly Farm & 21 Twinlakes Park
Aquatic Centre Entertainment p28
7 Stonehurst Family Outdoor 38 Melton Theatre
Farm Activities p25 39 Regal Cinema
8 Naturescape 22 British Parachute
Wildflower Farm School Horse Riding
9 Melton Country Centres p28
23 Buckminster Gliding 40 Brooksby Equestrian
Park Club
Centre
History & 24 Lakeview Fisheries
41 Buckminster Lodge
Heritage p23 25 Rutland Water
42 School of National
10 Belton House 26 Six Hills Golf Club Equitation
11 Belvoir Castle 27 Six Hills Jetski 43 Vale View
Centre
12 Oakham Castle 44 Riverside Riding
28 Stapleford Park Centre
13 St Mary’s Church
14 Woolsthorpe Manor Leisure p26 45 Somerby Equestrian
Centre
15 Wymondham 29 Leicester Road
Windmill Sports Ground
46 Vale Country
Stables
30 Formula One
Railways Indoor Karting
16 Great Central 31 Melton Leisure
Railway Centre
Useful Numbers
Tourist Information Council Pharmacies
Leicestershire Tourist Melton Borough Council Boots
Information Nottingham Road Cheapside, Melton
0906 294 1113 01664 502 502 01664 563 088
Calls are charged at 25p
per minute and will be Police Lloyds Pharmacy
answered Mon-Fri 9am- Leicestershire Sherrard Street, Melton
9pm and Sat-Sun Constabulary 01664 560 702
9am-6pm. 0116 2222 222
Superdrug
Visitor Information Points Sherrard Street, Melton
in Melton Mowbray at Hospital 01664 410 266
Market Place, Ye Old Pork (Accident & Emergency)
Pie Shop, Samworth Leicester Royal Infirmary Moss Pharmacy
Centre & Twinlakes Park Infirmary Square Sage Cross Street
Leicester Melton Mowbray
Town Centre 0116 254 1414 01664 560 306
Management Office
7 King Street, Melton Clubs
Medical Centre Roadhouse
Mowbray. 01664
Latham House Park Road, Melton
502335
Medical Practice 01664 481 480
Sage Cross Street
Melton Mowbray Tubes
01664 854 949 St Mary’s Way, Melton
01664 566 771
41 www.goleicestershire.com
Area Map
Major Roads
Local travel Information Minor Roads
Train: Melton Railway Station Lanes
is situated on Burton Street. Mainline Railway
Central Trains operate regular
Historic Railway
services to and from Leicester,
Peterborough and Cambridge. Leicestershire Boundary
Call 08457 48 49 50 for Canal
train times.
Bus: Most buses arrive at and
leave from St Mary’s Way and
Windsor Street. Regular services
run to Leicester, Nottingham and
32
Peterborough. For details on
services contact the traveline on
0870 608 2 608.
36
46
43
30
35 38 39
31 13 19
17 28
33
34 29
37
7
6
Melton Mowbray Sysonby Knoll Hotel
Asfordby Road, Melton
Mowbray. Leics. LE13 0HP
t: 01664 563563
e: info@sysonby.com
www.sysonby.com
This unique hotel and restaurant has been owned
and personally run by the same family since 1965.
Located on the edge of town with 30 bedrooms and
a lively relaxed restaurant offering a superb range Rooms & prices:
of freshly prepared dishes. Whether you are Double/Twin from £85.
travelling for business or pleasure, Sysonby Knoll Single from £69.
is perfect for your stay in Melton Mowbray. Superior/Executive & 4
See website for up to date special offers. Poster available
Melton Mowbray Stapleford Park Hotel
Stapleford, Nr Melton
Mowbray, Leics. LE14 2EF
t: 01572 787000
f: 01572 787001
e: reservations@stapleford.co.uk
www.staplefordpark.com
Stapleford Park is a relaxed 17th Century
home set in 500 acres of parkland, offering 55
individually designed bedrooms, an
18-hole golf course, a Spa, TechnoGym along
with an array of country pursuits. Rooms & prices:
Indulge in the 2 Rosette dining room or relax Room rates start from
in the more informal environment of the £199 - £831
Pavilion Restaurant.
www.goleicestershire.com 44
Rutland
1 Leicester City
2 Ashby de la Zouch & The National Forest
3 Loughborough & Charnwood
4 Melton Mowbray & the Vale of Belvoir
5 Market Harborough & Lutterworth
6 Hinckley & Market Bosworth
7 Blaby
8 Oadby & Wigston
Produced for
Disclaimer
All information in this guide was
compiled in good faith and was
believed to be correct at time of
going to print. Every effort has been
made to avoid errors and omissions.
Melton Promotions cannot accept
In partnership with responsibility for any inaccuracies or
subsequent changes made by
establishments themselves.
You are advised to telephone first
before you visit.
Photography
With thanks to Melton Borough
Council, Andy Ward, Roger Rixon
and all the establishments that
provided us with images to use.
www.goleicestershire .com
Printed by Prosign Print & Production e-mail: print@prosign-uk.com