Old John Tower: Iconic Folly atop Bradgate Park's Highest Hill
Discover Old John Tower, an 18th-century folly atop Leicestershire’s highest hill offering stunning views and rich heritage in Bradgate Park.
Old John Tower, perched on the highest hill in Bradgate Park, Leicestershire, is a striking 18th-century folly built in 1784. Originally constructed to resemble a romantic ruin, the tower served as an observation point for horse training and hunting activities. Its distinctive 'mug-shape' silhouette and castellated roof make it a prominent landmark visible across Leicester and beyond. Surrounded by scenic parkland, it offers panoramic views and a glimpse into local heritage.
A brief summary to Old John Tower
- Bradgate Park, off Sharply Hill, Leicestershire, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Join one of Bradgate Park’s guided walks to access the tower’s interior and learn about its history.
- Visit the adjacent toposcope for panoramic views and historical context about Lady Jane Grey.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the climb up Old John Hill involves uneven paths and moderate elevation.
- Explore Bradgate Park’s visitor centre and tearooms to enrich your visit with local history and refreshments.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus route 120 from Leicester city center to Newtown Linford; the journey typically takes 30–40 minutes. From there, it is a 20-minute walk on well-marked paths to Old John Tower. Bus tickets cost approximately £3–£5 one way. Service frequency varies, so check the schedule in advance.
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Car
Driving from Leicester, the trip to Bradgate Park’s main car parks near Newtown Linford takes about 20 minutes. Pay & Display parking is available, with fees around £3–£5 for a day. From the car parks, expect a 15–25 minute uphill walk on uneven terrain to reach Old John Tower.
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Walking
For active visitors, hiking from Bradgate Park’s Visitor Centre to Old John Tower is a scenic 30–45 minute walk over varied terrain including some steep sections. Paths are mostly natural surfaces and may be slippery in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Old John Tower 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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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Old John Tower
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Museum Development East Midlands
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Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
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Leicester Roman West Gate site
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Welford Place
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Memorial Clock Tower
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King Lear
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Earl Shilton Castle
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Westmorland Drive
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Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Old Trent Bridge
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A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Camellia House
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Gazebo
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A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
The Hemlock Stone
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Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
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Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
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Experience the charm of Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem, one of England's oldest pubs, nestled at the foot of Nottingham Castle, offering history and hospitality.
Nottingham Castle
28.5 km
Discover Nottingham Castle, a historical landmark blending art, culture, and breathtaking views in the heart of England.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bradgate House
1.4 km
Explore the historic beauty of Bradgate House, the former home of Lady Jane Grey, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Bradgate Park
1.6 km
Explore Bradgate Park’s medieval deer park, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes in Leicestershire’s historic natural sanctuary.
National Trust - Stoneywell
2.8 km
Explore a charming Arts & Crafts cottage nestled in vibrant gardens and woodlands, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in heritage and natural beauty.
Beaumont Shopping Centre
5.1 km
A vibrant community hub in Leicester offering diverse shopping, dining, and weekend markets in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
6.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins and tranquil moated grounds of Kirby Muxloe Castle, a spectacular unfinished 15th-century brick fortress steeped in history.
The Blackbird
7.5 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
Blue Streak rocket
7.8 km
Discover the iconic Blue Streak rocket, Britain’s Cold War missile turned pioneering European space launcher, at Leicester’s National Space Centre.
Belgrave Hall
7.8 km
Explore the tranquil historic gardens and Georgian heritage of Belgrave Hall, a Grade II listed jewel in Leicester’s Belgrave Village.
National Space Centre
7.8 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Leicester Abbey
7.9 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
Abbey Park
8.1 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Tropical Birdland
8.7 km
Discover over 250 exotic birds in a lush 6.5-acre sanctuary with free-flying parrots, interactive feeding, and family-friendly amenities in Leicester.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
8.8 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Highcross
9.0 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
The Guildhall Museum
9.0 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Essential places to dine
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
3.5 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
John's House
6.6 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in a rustic farmhouse setting, blending local produce with refined culinary artistry.
Black Iron
8.5 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Restaurant263
8.8 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Cosy Club
8.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
8.9 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
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Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
9.0 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.
Merchant of Venice
9.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
The Frame
9.1 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
9.2 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Casa Romana Restaurant
9.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
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Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
9.6 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
10.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Watkinghams Gift & Homeware Store
1.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish homeware in a charming village shop celebrating local artistry near Bradgate Park.
Forget Me Knot Leicester Ltd
3.6 km
Anstey's beloved independent gift shop, where thoughtful curation meets genuine hospitality.
A Few Nice Things UK
6.4 km
Discover unique personalised gifts and local artisan treasures in Rothley’s charming boutique, A Few Nice Things UK.
The Range, Leicester
7.8 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Wheelers Luxury Gifts
8.2 km
Discover exquisite personalized luxury gifts and impeccable service at Wheelers Luxury Gifts in Loughborough’s Devonshire Square.
Winged Ape Vintage
8.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and timeless style at Winged Ape, Loughborough’s beloved family-run vintage shop since 2016.
The Source
8.8 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Menkind
8.9 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Set
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Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Niche Store
9.0 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Arciide
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Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
The Wardrobe
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Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
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Urban Outfitters
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Just Fair Trade
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Keepers Lodge
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The Crows Nest
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Tree, Leicester
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Queen of Bradgate
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A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
The Metal Monocle
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The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
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A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Gadabout
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A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
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An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Nine Bar
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A lively Leicester bar offering quality cocktails, craft beers, and delicious burgers in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Tønne Bar
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A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Inside No 9
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A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
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The Blue Boar
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A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
9.2 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
Firebug
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Echo's Night Club
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Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
Corah Works
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Club Republic
8.8 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Fan Club
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Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
8.9 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
The 2Funky Lounge
8.9 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Motto Nightclub
8.9 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Waikiki Nightclub
9.2 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
9.3 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
TRUTH Leicester
9.4 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The Basement
9.5 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
The Emporium
10.6 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Ciros Nightclub
17.5 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Tubes
24.0 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
The Attic Adult Club
27.4 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
