Explore the Area

Looking for Inspiration

Test your driving skills on the four x four course at Forest Four Wheel Drive, take a leisurely boat trip on the Ashby Canal at Moira Furnace. Or visit one of our many well stocked fishing lakes to catch that elusive big one!

Fancy a short break with the family? There's lots to keep every member of the family entertained in the area. Conkers has a unique mix of indoor and outdoor experiences with discovery zones and interactive exhibits, boat trips at Moira Furnace a 19th century blast furnace and country park with a craft village and children's play area, Donington le Heath Manor House holds events all year round for all ages,and with an award winning zoo at Twycross just over the border there's something for everyone.

Donington le Heath Manor House

Perhaps your wife/girlfriend is doing a course at the sewing school in Ashby de la Zouch, or your partner is coming to one of our area's woodland craft course's or outdoor activity days, make a weekend of it! You could visit the brilliant fashion gallery or hear tales from ex miners at Snibston in Coalville or you could just mooch around the specialist shops in Ashby.

Canal at Moira

Many villages in North West Leicestershire and South Derbyshire still have evidence of their industrial heritage. Railway buildings, tramlines, bridges and cottages are just some of the sights still to be seen.

An Industrial Heritage Trail for North West Leicestershire and South Derbyshire is available from Ashby Tourist Information Centre. Follow one of the themed trails around the area and enjoy a day out searching and exploring. for more information

Moira Furnace

Inside Moira Furnace

Walkers If you’re researching your family tree, depending on where your family roots are, we can put you in touch with one of our local museums and heritage groups. They are really helpful and are happy to share their knowledge with you.

We’ve got some brilliant suggestions for some of the many walks in the National Forest which are short, medium or long distance. There are walks suitable for all abilities. Have you got a dog, wheelchair, push chair? We have something for everyone.

Staying self catering in one of our gorgeous converted barns or bringing your tent or camper van? You’ll need provisions! A Farmers Market is held in Ashby on the third Saturday of every month and Castle Donington on second Saturdayof every month. There is a superb farm shop and Pick your Own at Cattows Farm near Heather village, or try the organic produce at Manor Farm at Long Whatton.

We can help you find an unusual gift for a special occasion. How about a pamper day at a Spa, plant a tree to commemorate a special occasion or a loved one - a gift that grows into the National Forest contact the friendly team at Ashby Tourist Information Centre

or even tickets for a tribute night at the outdoor amphitheatre at Conkers, Moira.

We are frequently asked where the best tea shops, pubs and restaurants are, and there is a great choice.

For some more entertainment ideas

Contact the staff at Ashby Tourist Information Centre . Telephone 01530 411767 or email

ashby.tic@nwleicestershire.gov.uk