Melton Mowbray
Melton Mowbray is located in the county of Leicestershire, just a short distance from the beautiful Vale of Belvoir which when translated really does mean ‘beautiful view’. This is a part of the country with a strong rural tradition and close links to the land. It is perhaps this firm grounding in the rural tradition that has resulted in the town producing such famous produce as Melton Mowbray pork pies, but the excellence does not stop there as the region also produces excellent locally brewed ales and stilton cheese, all of which are must have items to include in your picnic basket when you venture out for the day. Melton Mowbray is still very much a market town and on market days you will find the place bustling with activity. There is also much to see and do in the surrounding area from treating the children to a day out at Twinlakes or heading out to Burrough Hill Country Park for some outdoor activities. The Vale of Belvoir is a haven for country pursuits such as horse riding, cycling and walking, and just part of the surrounding landscape in this part of Leicestershire.
Exploring the Town
The heart of the town really does lie in the market place where markets have been regularly held for the past one thousand years. The main shopping areas are pedestrianised and you will find all of the high street names that you recognise as well as some shops and stores unique to Melton Mowbray. The church of St Mary’s is widely regarded as being one of the most beautiful buildings in the county. It boasts a 100ft tower and almost fifty windows that run the length of the building. This is the part of the town where many of the oldest buildings are located, including the oldest inn in the town, the Anne of Cleves. It is so named as the building itself was actually part of the divorce settlement between Anne and Henry VIII. Much of the history of the town can be discovered at the Melton Carnegie Museum.
Things to See and Do
There are plenty of parks and green spaces in which the children can run off their excess energy and enjoy the outdoor play equipment. Head out of town a little and pay a visit to Belvoir Castle, its fairy tale like turrets can be spotted from several miles away. The castle is home to the Duke of Rutland and his family and houses a wonderful collection of art and antique furniture. The castle is surrounded by beautiful grounds and gardens that you can explore too. Woolsthorpe Manor is an old 17th century farmhouse and is the place where Sir Isaac Newton was born; it is now operated by the National Trust and makes for an interesting afternoon visit.
There are lots of little villages around Melton Mowbray which are worth exploring, and whichever direct you take out of town you will discover some beautiful countryside. Off to the east you will find Wymondham Windmill, which if you are feeling brave enough you can climb to the top of to appreciate the spectacular views that it offers.
