Explore England’s Newest National Nature Reserve in Leicestershire

By Ivan PetrenkoMay 21, 2024 07:30 AMNews
Share:
Leicestershire field under cloudy skies
Bradgate Park's historical landscapes offer rich exploration. Source: unsplash

Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood in Leicestershire have been designated as a new National Nature Reserve, offering travelers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This 439-hectare reserve will not only protect some of the world's rarest fossils but also provide a sanctuary for various species, including kingfishers and the rare ‘Charnwood spider’.

Located in the heart of Leicestershire, Bradgate Park is renowned for its Precambrian fossils, which date back over half a billion years. These fossils, known as the Ediacaran biota, are among the earliest evidence of complex life on Earth, making the park a must-visit for geology enthusiasts.

In addition to its geological wonders, the park holds historical charm as the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey. Visitors can explore the medieval parkland, dotted with ancient oak trees and home to fallow and red deer. The combination of rich history and natural beauty makes Bradgate Park a captivating destination.

The new National Nature Reserve was announced by Natural England on May 20, coinciding with the start of National Nature Reserves Week. This newest reserve, the 220th in England, adds to the country's impressive network of protected areas, covering over 109,000 hectares.

Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, highlighted the reserve’s importance for both nature recovery and public enjoyment, emphasizing its accessibility for residents of nearby Leicester. James Dymond, Director of Bradgate Park Trust, celebrated the recognition of the site’s conservation value and the efforts of the dedicated teams who made this achievement possible.

For those looking to connect with nature, Bradgate Park offers a variety of trails and outdoor activities. The park’s diverse habitats, including grasslands and heath, support a wide range of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Sir David Attenborough, who has fond memories of visiting Bradgate Park as a child, supported fundraising efforts for a new visitor center, enhancing the park's amenities for guests. His involvement underscores the park’s significance as both a natural and cultural treasure.

Bradgate Park is not only a destination for its scenic landscapes but also a key site for scientific research in Precambrian Palaeontology. The park is poised to play a significant role in the future plans for a UNESCO Global Geopark in Charnwood Forest, further cementing its status as a site of global importance.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
TransPennine Express train at a platform

Late-night trains added after Sam Fender gigs in Newcastle

Jun 14, 2025 22:36 PM
Crowded transit hub with travellers and departure boards

Traffic Warning for Edinburgh Flyers During Highland Show

Jun 14, 2025 20:49 PM

Cathay Group Expands to 100 Destinations, Opening New Travel Opportunities for Passengers

Jun 14, 2025 18:33 PM

Summer Rail Suspension in Sardinia to Affect Travel Between Key Towns

Jun 14, 2025 16:54 PM
Renovated hotel room with king-size bed and modern lighting

San Juan’s La Concha Returns with Major Changes After Long Closure

Jun 14, 2025 14:47 PM
SAS aircraft preparing to land under cloudy sky

Scandinavian and Vietnam Airlines to Link Northern Europe with Southeast Asia via New Codeshare

Jun 14, 2025 12:31 PM
Commercial airplane in flight against a clear sky

SAS Expands Aalborg-Winter Routes, Opening Easier Access to Nordic Ski Destinations

Jun 13, 2025 23:23 PM
Railway signal showing red light on quiet train tracks near Verona

Verona Train Routes Suspended 15 June Amid WWII Bomb Removal

Jun 13, 2025 21:49 PM
Construction workers repairing railway tracks on a city street

Norfolk Rail Disruption: Buses Replace Trains Between Norwich and Ely This July

Jun 13, 2025 19:37 PM

New direct route from Amsterdam brings Cairo closer for travellers

Jun 13, 2025 17:51 PM

Krabi’s Natural Sites Gain Quiet Spotlight After Jurassic World Filming

Jun 13, 2025 15:44 PM
Air India aircraft parked on the ground with boarding platform nearby

Air India Crash Near Ahmedabad Leaves Over 200 Dead Shortly After Takeoff

Jun 13, 2025 13:39 PM
Modern hotel room interior with wooden accents and cozy bed

New Resort in Crete Blends Comfort with Nature and Local Traditions

Jun 12, 2025 23:28 PM
View of an SAS aircraft wing during flight above the clouds

SAS and WestJet to Launch Easier Canada–Scandinavia Connections from Summer 2025

Jun 12, 2025 21:42 PM
Rail workers using heavy machinery to install large pipe sections on train tracks

Train Disruptions Near Naples Affect Summer Travel Plans

Jun 12, 2025 19:34 PM

Virgin Australia Opens New Travel Opportunities to Europe and Africa via Doha

Jun 12, 2025 17:29 PM

One-Month Train Halt in Northern Italy Alters Summer Travel Routes

Jun 12, 2025 12:43 PM
Lufthansa plane taking off from runway

New Flight Links via Rome Simplify Travel Between Europe and Distant Cities

Jun 12, 2025 02:35 AM
Train showing "Caerdydd C" arrives at quiet station

Concert Crowds Prompt Rail Changes Across Cardiff This Summer

Jun 11, 2025 23:24 PM
Emirates aircraft approaching landing with cityscape below

Emirates and Bahamasair Partnership Opens New Travel Routes to The Bahamas Through Florida

Jun 11, 2025 21:49 PM
Finnair aircraft taxiing on a runway surrounded by trees

Finnair Resumes Direct Flights from Helsinki to Toronto Starting in 2026 Expanding Travel Options

Jun 11, 2025 19:32 PM
Construction worker in safety gear at a railway maintenance site

Summer Train Closures in Northern Italy to Disrupt Access to Regional Destinations

Jun 11, 2025 17:26 PM

Air New Zealand Starts Domestic WiFi Trial on Selected Flights

Jun 11, 2025 16:48 PM

InterContinental Hotel to Open in Manchester Bringing New Options for Travellers

Jun 11, 2025 07:31 AM
Modern hotel room with large bed and warm lighting

Familiar Hotels in Unfamiliar Places: voco Reaches 100 Locations Worldwide

Jun 10, 2025 23:22 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 taking off into cloudy sky

Free Emirates Coach Now Available Between Manila and Clark

Jun 10, 2025 21:44 PM