Shady Lane Arboretum, Leicester
A peaceful arboretum in Leicester with diverse trees, meadows, and historical charm, perfect for nature walks and quiet reflection.
Shady Lane Arboretum is a tranquil and expansive green space on Leicester's southern boundary, featuring over 500 species of trees, meadows, and a brook. It offers a peaceful walking environment with historical landmarks, diverse flora, and areas for picnics and dog walking, open year-round with no entrance fee.
A brief summary to Shady Lane Arboretum
- Shady Ln, Leicester, LE2 2FA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sturdy walking shoes as some paths are gravel and grass, which can be uneven after rain.
- Visit in autumn to experience the spectacular fall colors of the diverse tree species.
- Use the small gravel car park off Shady Lane but avoid leaving valuables visible in your vehicle.
- Ideal for dog walkers; dogs can enjoy off-lead areas and splash in the brook on warm days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Leicester City Council buses from the city center towards Evington or Stoneygate; the nearest stop is approximately 1.5 km from the arboretum. Expect a 20-30 minute journey with regular service. From the bus stop, a 20-minute walk on flat terrain leads to the arboretum entrance.
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Car
Drive via Shady Lane with parking available in a small gravel lot near the arboretum. Parking is free but limited to around 30 spaces. Travel time from Leicester city center is about 15 minutes. Be cautious of vehicle security; do not leave valuables visible.
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Walking
From nearby Evington Park, a pleasant 30-minute walk on mostly flat, well-maintained paths connects to Shady Lane Arboretum. The route passes residential areas and green spaces, suitable for most fitness levels but not wheelchair accessible.
Shady Lane Arboretum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Shady Lane Arboretum
A Living Collection of Trees and Nature
Shady Lane Arboretum, also known as Evington Arboretum, is a verdant sanctuary located on the southern edge of Leicester. It boasts a remarkable diversity with over 500 species of trees, making it a botanical treasure for nature lovers and tree enthusiasts. The arboretum’s landscape is a blend of woodland, grassland meadows, and a gently flowing brook that meanders through the site, creating a soothing natural soundtrack.Paths, Meadows, and Wildlife Habitats
Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained gravel and grass paths that wind through the arboretum, including a circular boundary trail that offers a full tour of the grounds. The southern section features meadow grassland managed to encourage wildflower diversity, attracting butterflies and birds. A fenced nature area planted with native trees and shrubs serves as a protected habitat for local wildlife, enhancing the ecological value of the site.Historical and Recreational Features
The arboretum is not only a natural haven but also contains historical landmarks and educational information boards that provide insights into its heritage and the various tree species. While there is no formal signage for every tree, the site’s historical context and tranquil setting make it a favored spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and dog walking.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Shady Lane Arboretum is open 24/7 year-round, offering a peaceful retreat at any time. A small gravel car park near Shady Lane provides convenient access, though visitors should take care with vehicle security. Seating areas and picnic spots are scattered throughout, inviting visitors to pause and soak in the serene environment. The terrain is mostly flat with some gentle undulations, suitable for most walkers but less accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.Seasonal Changes and Natural Beauty
The arboretum transforms beautifully with the seasons. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn showcases a spectacular display of colorful foliage. Winter visits reveal a quieter, more contemplative landscape, where the bare branches and crisp air offer a different kind of beauty.Community and Conservation
Managed by Leicester City Council, Shady Lane Arboretum is a cherished local green space that balances recreational use with conservation efforts. It encourages respect for nature and wildlife, making it a peaceful urban escape that supports biodiversity and community well-being.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
4.3 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
4.8 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
4.9 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
King Lear
7.3 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Museum Development East Midlands
8.8 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Earl Shilton Castle
16.2 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
23.6 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
28.0 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Westmorland Drive
30.4 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
31.4 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Old Trent Bridge
36.0 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Nottingham City of Literature
36.7 km
Explore Nottingham City of Literature, a UNESCO heritage site celebrating the joy of reading and the power of stories in a beautiful park setting.
National Trust - Woolsthorpe Manor
36.9 km
Discover Woolsthorpe Manor, the historical birthplace of Sir Isaac Newton, where science and history intertwine in an enchanting English countryside setting.
Sir Frank Whittle
37.2 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
37.3 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Unmissable attractions to see
Attenborough Arboretum
2.7 km
Discover Leicester’s Attenborough Arboretum, a living timeline of native trees and tranquil wildlife habitats in a historic urban green space.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
3.8 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Town Hall Square Fountain
4.3 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Leicester Market
4.4 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
The Clock Tower
4.5 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Veeno
4.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
4.6 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
The Newarke Houses Museum
4.7 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Highcross
4.7 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Cathedral
4.7 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Guildhall Museum
4.7 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Leicester Castle
4.8 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
4.9 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Abbey Park
5.3 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve
5.4 km
Leicester’s largest local nature reserve, a tranquil mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and canal-side paths rich in wildlife and history.
Essential places to dine
OGGI Italian Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
The White Peacock
4.2 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Casa Romana Restaurant
4.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
4.3 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
4.5 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
4.6 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
4.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
4.7 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
4.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
4.9 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
5.2 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
7.0 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
9.9 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
12.9 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nest
1.7 km
Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.
Valley Discount Store
2.8 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Prettiez
2.9 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Karma Corner Gifts
2.9 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
St George's Shopping Park
3.8 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
4.3 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Nim's Boutique ltd
4.3 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
4.5 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Urban Outfitters
4.5 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Just Fair Trade
4.6 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
4.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
4.6 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
4.6 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
4.7 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Set
4.7 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Babelas Continental Bar
2.9 km
A cozy, quirky bar in Leicester’s Clarendon Park serving continental beers, wines, and snacks in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
The Old Horse
2.9 km
A friendly, pet-welcoming Leicester pub with hearty roasts, unique charm, and a spacious garden for relaxed socializing.
The Loaded Dog
3.2 km
A lively Leicester pub buzzing with craft beers, live sports, and a student-friendly atmosphere on London Road.
The Marquis Wellington
3.3 km
A classic Leicester gastropub offering hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere with heated beer garden beach huts.
Brick & Beam
4.0 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
4.0 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
The Exchange Bar
4.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
The King's Head
4.2 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
4.2 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Distillery
4.3 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Duffy's Bar
4.4 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Firebug
4.4 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
4.5 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Inside No 9
4.5 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
The Blue Boar
4.5 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Helsinki
4.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
The Basement
4.2 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
4.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
4.4 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Motto Nightclub
4.6 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
The Fan Club
4.7 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Republic
4.7 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Corah Works
4.8 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Mosh
4.8 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
The 2Funky Lounge
5.0 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
19.6 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
Tubes
21.0 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
The Emporium
23.4 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Ciros Nightclub
30.4 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
37.4 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly