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Country Parks & Nature Reserves in Leicester

If you want space to roam without spending a penny, Bradgate Park in Newtown Linford is the one people head for. It is 830 acres of free deer park, with a ruined house and Old John Tower to walk towards, plus toilets, parking and a cafe for when everyone flags. For something further out, there is a longer trip out to Ticknall for Calke Abbey, a 600 acre parkland estate with natural play and cycling trails, and a faded stately house to poke around when legs need a rest. Bradgate costs nothing and suits a morning with buggies or older kids who fancy a proper walk up to the tower. Calke Abbey has an entry charge from £4.25 but adds cycling trails and a house to explore, useful if you want to fill a whole day rather than an hour or two. Both are outdoor and dog friendly, so check the weather and bring wellies either way.

✓ 4 places✦ 3 free to visit