Old John Tower: Iconic Folly atop Bradgate Park's Highest Hill

A Landmark Crowned by History and Folly

Old John Tower stands proudly atop Old John Hill, the highest point in Bradgate Park at 212 meters (696 feet). This hill, located on the southern edge of Charnwood Forest, has long been a defining feature of the Leicestershire landscape. The earliest recorded mention of 'Old John' dates back to a 1754 map that showed a windmill on the site, predating the tower itself by about 30 years. The tower was built in 1784 by George Grey, 5th Earl of Stamford, as a folly—a decorative structure designed to appear as a romantic ruin rather than serve a practical purpose. Crafted from local granite, the tower was intended to enhance the picturesque quality of the parkland and reflect the 18th-century fashion for Gothic revival aesthetics.

The Tower’s Unique Shape and Architectural Features

Old John Tower is well known for its distinctive 'mug-shape,' a form that evolved over time as adjoining walls diminished, leaving what resembles a handle on the tower’s side. This curious silhouette has inspired local legends, including a fanciful tale about a beer-loving miller who died in a bonfire accident, but these stories are historically inaccurate. The tower’s design shares similarities with other follies such as Mow Cop in Staffordshire. Inside, visitors can find original 19th-century features including timber floors, slate fireplaces, shuttered windows, and a castellated roof, all preserved within this Grade II listed building. A narrow spiral staircase leads to the upper floor, accessible during guided walks in the park.

From Hunting Lodge to Public Heritage

In the mid-19th century, the tower was adapted by the seventh Earl of Stamford to serve as an observation point for horse training circuits laid out on the surrounding land. A stable block was also constructed lower on the hill to support these equestrian activities. Historically, Old John Tower was a meeting place for hunters with their foxhounds and a luncheon spot for shooting parties before Bradgate Park was donated for public use in 1928. Today, it stands as a symbol of the park’s transformation from aristocratic hunting grounds to a cherished public space.

Surrounding Landscape and Memorials

Adjacent to the tower is a toposcope installed in 1953, gifted by the people of Newtown Linford to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Lady Jane Grey’s proclamation as Queen of England. Nearby, the Leicestershire Yeomanry War Memorial honors local soldiers who fought in the Boer War and both World Wars. The tower and its hill offer sweeping panoramic views across Leicester, Leicestershire, and the surrounding countryside, making it a favored spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Bradgate Park: A Natural and Historical Treasure

Bradgate Park itself is an 830-acre medieval deer park, home to herds of red and fallow deer, ancient oak trees over 500 years old, and some of England’s oldest rocks. The park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, rich in biodiversity and geological significance. Visitors can explore the ruins of Bradgate House, the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, and enjoy the park’s visitor center, tearooms, and well-maintained walking paths. Old John Tower remains one of the park’s most iconic landmarks, embodying the blend of natural beauty and layered history that defines Bradgate.

Preservation and Cultural Significance

The Bradgate Park Trust manages the tower and parkland, ensuring the preservation of this historic site for future generations. In 2001, the Trust registered the tower’s design as a trademark to protect its image. The tower’s presence continues to inspire local artists and visitors, symbolizing both the romanticism of the past and the enduring appeal of Leicestershire’s heritage. Annual ceremonies at the site commemorate soldiers and celebrate the park’s rich history, reinforcing Old John Tower’s role as a cultural and historical beacon.