Visitor Centre & Shop

The Visitor Centre opened in the Summer of 2016, following a redevelopment made possible as part of the Rotary Club of Leicester's centenary and grants from several local trusts and foundations. The official opening was performed by Sir David Attenborough, a lifelong visitor to Bradgate Park.

Normal Opening 2025:

	Opening Hours
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & School Holidays	11 am- 4 pm
Weekdays (outside of above)	Closed

Inside the Visitor Centre

There is no entry charge and the family-friendly displays tell the stories of the Park, its origins, history, geology, and the wildlife that live in and visit the Park. There are opportunities to have a close-up encounter with wildlife, hear from Lady Jane Grey about her story, and learn how a nearby volcano created the Bradgate Park landscape. The displays include artefacts, as well as plenty of background to the heritage of the Park and the people who have played a part in the history of the Estate.

The Visitor Centre also has a shop to purchase some lovely items, ranging from pens/pencils to beautiful glass decanters. It is also an outlet for venison sales and ice cream.

Latest

The Leat at Bradgate Park Walk

It’s the early 16th century. How can you get water to your new house at Bradgate, built well above the River Lin? Our walk through the park will explore the answer (which appears to flow uphill) and also some of the other ways water was used in the park. An opportunity for a ‘walk in the park’ whilst learning about one of its little-known features.
Bradgate Park Summer fayre 2026
Beneath the Bracken: The Archaeology of Bradgate Park 2026

Step back through 15,000 years of history with an exclusive archaeological walking tour of Bradgate Park.
Hare Willow Weaving Workshop

Create your own Willow Hare

Accessibility

Our access statement and support for visitors when visiting Bradgate Park.
Group Visits & Community Talks

Booking a group
Old John Tower and the Ruins

Guidance for those looking to go on a walk, talk or book a group visit.
Food & Drink

Details of the Deer Barn Café, the Visitor Centre shop, and the Deer Hut.
Memorial Wood

Celebrate someone special with a unique Bronze Memorial Oak Leaf at Memorial Wood in the heart of Bradgate Park.
Visit Bradgate Park

Bradgate Park is Leicestershire's only Medieval Deer Park to the north of Leicester City. Over 830 acres, steeped in history, teeming with wonderful wildlife, the UK's oldest fossils, 550 red and fallow deer and the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey. Rich in heritage, wildlife and amazing landscapes, Bradgate Park is Leicestershire's favourite day out with two tearoom and free-to-visit Visitor Centre.

Visit Bradgate Park

Bradgate Park is Leicestershire's only Medieval Deer Park to the north of Leicester City. Over 830 acres, steeped in history, teeming with wonderful wildlife, the UK's oldest fossils, 550 red and fallow deer and the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey. Rich in heritage, wildlife and amazing landscapes, Bradgate Park is Leicestershire's favourite day out with two tearoom and free-to-visit Visitor Centre.
Parking Charges

Parking charges apply at all car parks.
Opening Times

Visiting Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood: Opening times and parking details
Getting Here

Details of how to reach Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood, including postcodes, parking details and a map of visitor access areas
Opportunities

Vacancies across the Park.
Visit Swithland Wood

Swithland Wood is an attractive and atmospheric area of Ancient Woodland, covering 170 acres. Rich in history and wildlife, it is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The Wood is an important habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, with rocky outcrops and old quarries.
Food & Drink

Details of the Deer Barn Café, the Visitor Centre shop, and the Deer Hut.
Visitor Guidelines

When visiting Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood, it is important that certain rules are followed to ensure areas remain safe and clean for everyone to enjoy and protect the heritage in our care. Help us care for these spaces by following these guidelines.
Annual Parking Permits

For regular visitors a car park annual parking permit offers a low-cost option to pay and display parking when Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood.
Visitor Centre & Shop

Our free to visit Visitor Centre and shop is set in the heart of Bradgate Park. It tells the story of the rich geological, archaeological, social, built and natural heritage of Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood.