Two sections of the off-road path, between the Deer Barn Building and the middle wall, and between the Newtown Linford Gate and the middle wall, will be temporarily closed for improvements. 

Work Starts: 9 February 2026

Completion: June 2026

During this time, visitors are asked to follow the alternative route shown on the maps here. The rest of the park, including the tarmac carriageway, will remain open as usual.

Specialist contractors will restore approximately 1 km of track using locally sourced stone, with drainage improvements on both sides. The path is currently heavily worn and frequently becomes muddy, waterlogged, and rutted, making it difficult to use, especially in winter.

These improvements will help keep visitors on the designated path, protect surrounding habitats, and provide a more durable, year-round surface.

We know how much Bradgate Park means to so many people, and we’re pleased to be investing in improvements that protect its wildlife, ancient trees, and distinctive rural character for future generations.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while this work takes place.

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FAQ's

Why is the path being closed and how will it protect the park?

The off-road paths attract many visitors, and combined with damage from short, intense rainfall events, they are now heavily worn and often muddy. Wetter winters and hot summers are worsening drainage problems, accelerating wear and tear.

As a result, visitors sometimes walk around unusable sections, causing erosion and damaging the surrounding landscape, which is an important habitat for the park’s wildlife.

By improving the surface and keeping visitors on the defined path, the works will:

• Reduce disturbance to wildlife, including ground-nesting birds
• Allow damaged ground to revegetate naturally
• Improve drainage and help manage water flow to improve habitats
• Geotextile mats will be installed to protect ancient and veteran trees from soil compaction around their roots
• Reduce soil erosion, helping to prevent carbon loss from the soil and run-off into the river and reservoir.

Will parking, events or guided walks be affected?

All three Bradgate Park car parks will remain open throughout the works, and the café and visitor centre will operate as normal.

The rest of the park will also remain open to visitors, and none of our events or guided walks will be affected.

Bradgate House Ruins and Old John Tower will continue to be open to visitors between April and October as planned. You can find visiting times here: Old John Tower and the Ruins

For information on upcoming events, please visit: Events

Will routes for horse riders be affected?

All permissive horse tracks will remain open during repairs to the path between the Deer Barn Building and the middle wall. However, the bridle path between Newtown Linford Gate and the middle wall will be closed while repairs take place, which we expect to be between April and June.

Please plan to use alternative permitted routes during this time. Thank you for your cooperation.

Will it benefit wildlife?

Yes. When visitors walk off the path, new “desire lines” can form, fragmenting important habitats and allowing invasive plants to spread, which can outcompete native plants. This damages the ecosystem and increases the cost of future restoration. By keeping visitors on the defined track, the project protects habitats and supports more sustainable conservation work.

We are also creating many new features alongside the path to manage water flow. These new ditches and scrapes will capture run-off and direct it into areas of the landscape that we want to make wetter, benefiting wildlife that likes this sort of environment.

Will it benefit visitors?

Yes. Visitors will have a safer, more durable path available year-round. While it will still be a rugged route, the improvements will help preserve access to the upper park and maintain the calm, unspoilt character that makes it special.

What should visitors expect during the works?

Every effort has been made to minimise disruption to visitors during the works. Where possible, stone is being stored close to the work area, and deliveries are scheduled for early morning to reduce vehicle movement along the tarmac path.

Please follow the safety and information signage on site to help us keep everyone safe and ensure the work can be completed efficiently.

Will the new path be wheelchair or pushchair-friendly?

The path will be resurfaced with crushed stone, making it more stable and easier to use. However, it will remain a rugged off-road route and may not be suitable for all. Visitors are encouraged to assess the track to decide whether it is suitable for their all-terrain pushchairs, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs. This surface has been chosen to ensure maximum longevity and integration with the current landscape.

The Trust does have two all-terrain ‘tramper’ mobility scooters for visitors. For more information on using and booking these, please see: Accessibility

Will the works impact the visual look of the site or its heritage?

The improvements follow the existing path, which is already heavily used and has been widening due to high footfall. The works are designed to prevent further damage to the landscape and help preserve its condition.

An independent assessment of the site’s historic character and visual appearance concluded that the impact of the works is neutral or beneficial. This assessment has informed the design, including the choice of materials and drainage solutions.  We recognise that some work may look drastic at first, but it will quickly soften as plants re-grow in disturbed areas.

The route avoids designated areas, so the risk of uncovering historic artefacts is low. However, an archaeological watching brief will be carried out in partnership with the University of Leicester Archaeological Services to ensure any findings are recorded and investigated.

How long has the project been in development?

This project has been in development for over three years. Detailed surveys, independent impact assessments, and consultation with key partners have helped to shape a comprehensive, robust plan which has been approved by Charnwood Borough Council’s planning process.

Who is paying for this?

This project is funded through a combination of grants and Trust funds. We’re grateful for support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (Charnwood Forest Landscape Partnership Scheme), Tarmac Landfill Community Fund, Severn Trent Environmental Protection Scheme, and Midlands Quarry Products.

The Trust is also contributing from its own reserves, thanks to support from donations and visitor income from parking and the café.

   

Will other sections of the track be repaired?

The project has been developed following a detailed assessment of the park’s most well-used off-road path. The full planning application can be viewed here: Planning

At present, we only have plans to improve one additional section near Newtown Linford, which will begin once the first section is complete.

How can I stay updated?

We will share updates as the project progresses on this webpage, on-site notice boards, and via our social media channels.

If you have any further questions, please contact: [email protected]