Week 1: 4-10 July
ALL SAINTS AND HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, LOUGHBOROUGH
Saturday 4th July: 10am – 12 noon
All Saints and Holy Trinity Church, Steeple Row, Loughborough LE11 1EE
A chance to visit Loughborough’s parish church, one of Leicestershire’s major churches. The existing fabric is mostly 14th century and later. The church will be open for visiting every Saturday throughout July. On Saturday 11th and 18th July Roger Willson, church archivist, will lead a guided tour of the church, including its history at 10.30am.
FREE, donations to the church appreciated. No booking needed. Light refreshments usually available.
DESFORD HERITAGE WALK
Saturday 4th July: 2pm
Meet at Desford Library, Main Street, Desford LE9 9JP
Join Desford Heritage for a gentle stroll around the village to learn about its rich heritage.
Tickets: £5 includes coffee/tea. Limit of 15 people, please book on 01455 823537 or patcrane33@gmail.com
BOSWORTH BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALK
Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July: 11.30am & 2pm
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney CV13 0AD
1¼ mile (2km) walk with one of Bosworth’s knowledgeable and experienced guides, bringing the events of the Battle of Bosworth to life. This walk is suitable for all ages and welcomes children & families.
Tickets: Adults £4.50; concession £4; children £3, Family Tickets available.
For more information call 01455 290429 or visit https://www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/whats-on/
CASTLE HILL AT 40 GUIDED WALK (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 7th July: 10am – 12.30pm
Meet at Beaumont Lodge Neighbourhood Centre, Astill Lodge Road, Leicester LE4 1EF
Discover the heritage and nature of Castle Hill Country Park, explore its archaeology and wildlife, learn about the area’s local history, enjoy scenic views, lead by expert tour guides.
Other dates: Friday 22nd May, Friday 12th June, Wednesday 16th September, Saturday 17th October.
For more information contact martin@e2online.co.uk
FREE, book a place here
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL & ST MARTINS CATHEDRAL
Tuesday 7th July: 11am
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Join Irene Turlington on a walking tour between St Martins Cathedral & Leicester Guildhall and explore the Herrick Family connection.
There has been historic links between the Guildhall and St Martins Church since around 1350. The religious Guild of Corpus Christi had their altar in the great south aisle in St Martins. The Town Library was moved from St Martins to the Chantry Priests Rooms in 1632 in the Guildhall. There are connections with the English Civil War and the Siege of Leicester, to name but a few.
On this tour we will be particularly concentrating on members of the Herrick Family – Robert Heyricke – the Alderman and Mayor of Leicester, and Sir William Herrick.
The tour will begin in the Cathedral and then continue in the Guildhall next door.
FREE , booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/event-details/?id=67876e07-e6d7-4d14-a3a0-ffea60afbba4
A TOUR OF MOWSLEY (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 7th July: 2pm
Details of where to meet will be sent to those replying
Join Bob Gale of the Oadby & Wigston Fieldworkers for a walk around the old village of Mowsley in south-east Leicestershire. You will have the opportunity to explore the original layout of the village including its church, and visit the site of the medieval Brabazon Manor and its fishponds.
Tickets: Adults £5. Booking essential – Contact Bob Gale via owfieldworkers@gmail.com
THE LEAT AT BRADGATE PARK WALK
Wednesday 8th July: 10am
Meet at the Newtown Linford car park , Bradgate Park , Leicestershire LE6 0HB
This walk offers you the opportunity to walk through the park whilst exploring one of its little-known features, still hidden in plain sight: how in the 16th century water was supplied to Bradgate House, situated well above the River Lin.
We will follow the course of the leat from the Lin to the lake behind the ruins and discuss the work necessary to get the water up from one to the other, then learn how this water was used. We end the tour at the Deer Meadow (next to the Deer Barn), where we learn how strictly controlled irrigation encouraged the lush grass which the deer still enjoy today.
The walk is about 1¼ miles, some of it over rough ground, some short gentle climbs. You will need to make your own way back from the Deer Meadow to the car park (1 mile).
Tickets: £7.50 plus parking charges. Booking via https://www.bradgatepark.org/Event/the-leat-at-bradgate-walk-july-2026
GUIDED TOUR OF ST HELEN’S CHURCH, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH
Wednesday 8th July: 2pm
Meet outside the Community Heritage Centre in St Helen’s Churchyard, Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1AB
Learn more about this Grade 1 listed 15th Century church, its history and some of its people. Find out about its close connections to royalty. Discover its links to the early Puritan movement in England. See the only 15th Century pilgrim memorial in England and a very rare finger pillory
FREE but donations welcome. Contact sthelensheritage@gmail.com for more information.
ARCHAEOLOGY AND NATURE IN COUNTRY CHURCHYARDS (NEW FOR 2026)
Wednesday 8th July: 7pm
St Mary’s Church, Far Street, Wymeswold LE12 6UF
We will commence at the north porch of St Mary’s Church, Wymeswold, and finish in the cemetery on Rempstone Road at 8.45pm. We’ll look at the form and use of the churchyards, memorials, and an eco-archaeology of plant use as a form of memorialisation over time.
FREE but donations to St Mary’s roof fund welcome. No booking neccessary
TOUR OF THE FORMER WALLED GARDEN OF BOSWORTH HALL
Thursday 9th July: 2pm – 4pm
Bosworth Hall Hotel, The Park, Market Bosworth CV13 0LP
The Walled Garden at Bosworth Hall, Market Bosworth, was in operation until the late 1980s and there is an opportunity to tour what remains of the garden, hear about its history and listen to the memories of the former head gardener who will be joining us. He actually lived with his family within the walls of the garden.
The tour will be followed by tea, coffee and biscuits in Bosworth Hall itself.
If you would like to attend please contact Robert Leake at robert@robertleake.com or on 01455 290020 to book a place.
Tickets: You will be asked for a £5 payment on the day to cover costs of refreshments. Car parking will be available at the Bosworth Hall Hotel where we will meet for the tour. Full details will be sent to participants beforehand.
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Thursday 9th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Friday 10th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
Week 2: 11-17 July
ALL SAINTS AND HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, LOUGHBOROUGH
Saturday 11th July: 10am – 12 noon
All Saints and Holy Trinity Church, Steeple Row, Loughborough LE11 1EE
A chance to visit Loughborough’s parish church, one of Leicestershire’s major churches. The existing fabric is mostly 14th century and later. The church will be open for visiting every Saturday throughout July. On Saturday 11th and 18th July Roger Willson, church archivist, will lead a guided tour of the church, including its history at 10.30am.
FREE, donations to the church appreciated. No booking needed. Light refreshments usually available.
BOSWORTH BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALK
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July: 11.30am & 2pm
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney CV13 0AD
1¼ mile (2km) walk with one of Bosworth’s knowledgeable and experienced guides, bringing the events of the Battle of Bosworth to life. This walk is suitable for all ages and welcomes children & families.
Tickets: Adults £4.50; concession £4; children £3, Family Tickets available.
For more information call 01455 290429 or visit https://www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/whats-on/
GUIDED TOUR OF ST HELEN’S CHURCHYARD, ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH
Saturday 11th July: 2pm
Meet outside the Community Heritage Centre in St Helen’s Churchyard, Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1AB
Hear about some of the Ashby personalities of centuries gone by buried in the churchyard. Learn from the grim report of the Board of Health Inspector in 1849. Listen to the tale of the body snatchers. Find out when the gravestones were laid flat, and why.
FREE but donations welcome. Contact sthelensheritage@gmail.com for more information.
EXPLORING ROMAN CONNECTIONS: A LEICESTER CATHEDRAL WALKING TOUR
Saturday 11th July: 2pm
Meet at the Welcome Desk, Leicester Cathedral, Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ
Join us for a fascinating walking tour from Leicester Cathedral to Leicester’s oldest church of St Nicholas, as we unearth a wealth of Roman connections. Led by knowledgeable guides, aside from taking in both sites you’ll learn about the city’s history and how the Romans influenced its development.
Tickets bookable at Eventbrite: £8.50 with accompanied children under 16 free.
A GUIDED WALK AROUND HUMBERSTONE (NEW FOR 2026)
Saturday 11th July: 2pm
Meet outside St Mary’s Church, Main St, Humberstone, Leicester LE5 1AE
Join guide David Mottram for a walk around Humberstone village and learn about the areas archaeology and history, from the Iron Age to present with a brief (optional) foray into prehistoric geology.
FREE, no booking necessary
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Sunday 12th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
HALLATON CASTLE – THE FINEST MOTTE AND BAILEY CASTLE IN LEICESTERSHIRE
Sunday 12th July: 12 noon & 2pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A chance to visit the site of Leicestershire’s finest Motte and Bailey Castle, guided by archaeologist Mathew Morris. This is rough agricultural land. Please wear stout footwear and absolutely no dogs.
Tickets: £7.50. Each tour limited to 12 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/
TOUR OF ST PETER’S, CHURCH LANGTON
Sunday 12th July: 1.30pm
St Peter’s Church, Church Lane, Church Langton, Market Harborough LE16 7SZ
Join our guided tour of the church. Find out why St Peter’s came to host the first performance of Handel’s Messiah in a parish church.
St Peter’s, the Mother Church of The Langtons, is of amazing proportions and has so much heritage of interest dating back 800 years. Victorian renovations resulted in the elaborate carvings on the pews and pulpit and a reredos in the chancel which is an alabaster representation of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci.
Tickets: Adults £5, children FREE. No booking required. Contact Roz on 01858 545160 or email r.folwell@btinternet.com for more information.
Cream Teas available to purchase afterwards.
A WALK AROUND WHITWICK
Sunday 12th July: 2pm
Meet at the Old Station, North Street, Whitwick LE67 5HA
A guided village walk which links significant historical sites in Whitwick and reveals some surprising stories. After the walk, there will be an opportunity to look around Whitwick Historical Group’s base at Whitwick’s Old Station. This is the only remaining building on the former Charnwood Forest Railway
Tickets: £4 (including tea and biscuits). To book a placed, email: whitwickhistoricalgroup83@gmail.com
THEN AND NOW – THE LEICESTER GUILDHALL RESTORATION TOUR (NEW FOR 2026)
Monday 13th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
We will look at the life of the Guildhall: how it all began and what happened to it over the years, and its life today.
Building began in 1343 and the great hall is reputed to have been completed in 1390. Further wings were added over the next 100 years. However, in 1876 the corporation met at the Guildhall for the last time, a new Town Hall had been built! The Guildhall was in a state of disrepair! The Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society petitioned the council to save the building and in 1922 a restoration programme began. On 19th May 1926 – after the restoration, the Guildhall was declared open as a museum. The council committee agreed that the museum and library committee should take over the future control of the building.
The most significant building in Leicester is delighted to be celebrating 100 years open as a museum! This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
JOHN WYCLIFFE AND LUTTERWORTH PARISH CHURCH
Tuesday 14th July: 2.30pm
St Mary’s Church, Church Gate, Lutterworth LE17 4AN
A talk on John Wycliffe, the 14th Century religious reformer who with his followers, completed the first translation of the bible into English whilst Rector of St Mary’s Church. This will be followed by a tour of the church, a fascinating listed building containing Wycliffe memorabilia and medieval wall paintings.
Tickets: £5 per person (children FREE). Please book via 01455-558797 or 07966 628527
A TOUR OF GUMLEY
Wednesday 15th July: 11am
Details of where to meet will be sent out to those replying
Join Bob Gale of the Oadby & Wigston Fieldworkers for a walk around the old village of Gumley in south-east Leicestershire. You will have the opportunity to explore its Mercian roots, as well as it Medieval and Georgian history.
Tickets: Adults £5. Booking essential – Contact Bob Gale via owfieldworkers@gmail.com.
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Wednesday 15th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
NANPANTAN – THE SURPRISING HISTORY OF A SMALL VILLAGE (NEW FOR 2026)
Thursday 16th July: 10.30am
Details of where to meet will be sent out to those replying
This guided walk by Leicestershire Victoria County History Trust will introduce the history of Nanpantan, a small village to the south of Loughborough, on the edge of Charnwood Forest. A wharf opened here in 1794 where coal was transferred from the Charnwood Forest canal to an early railway that would carry it to Loughborough.
From the 1820s Nanpantan became a favoured destination for early factory outings. Sunny weekends and bank holidays in the 1880s would see many hundreds of people congregate here, and a thriving hospitality business was born. Alongside this was a small community with a school and a church supporting its daily life.
FREE, but donations welcome. Booking essential via pjf7@le.ac.uk.
If you wish to extend your visit, Leicestershire Victoria County History Trust has also produced a self-guided walk along the former canal to the point where it was severed by the building of the M1 motorway. Details will be provided.
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Thursday 16th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
GUIDED WALK OF BREEDON HILL AND CHURCH
Friday 17th July: 2pm
Meet in the church car park on the top of Breedon Hill, DE73 8AJ
Breedon Hill has an Iron Age hillfort containing an Anglo-Saxon monastery which later became a medieval Augustinian priory and then a parish church. Archaeologists Peter Liddle and Rachel Askew will guide you around the priory church which boasts one of the best collections of Anglo-Saxon carvings in the country, as well as some fabulous Tudor tombs, and then walk around the surviving banks of the Iron Age hillfort.
Tickets: Adults £5, children FREE. No Booking Required
BENEATH THE BRACKEN – THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF BRADGATE PARK (NEW FOR 2026)
Friday 17th July: 6pm
Meet at the Park Gate in the Newtown Linford Car Park, Bradgate Road LE6 0HB
Step back through 15,000 years of history with an exclusive archaeological walking tour of Bradgate Park. Over five years, researchers from the University of Leicester uncovered remarkable evidence of human activity across this ancient landscape. Now, one of the project’s directors – Professor Richard Thomas – will guide you through the discoveries that reshaped our understanding of the park’s past.
This immersive tour will take you to key excavation sites, including:
- An Ice Age hunting camp, revealing the lives of some of the park’s earliest visitors
- An Iron Age enclosure, offering insights into prehistoric communities
- The medieval deer park and hunting lodge, central to Bradgate’s long aristocratic history
- Bradgate House (and the hidden house beneath it), and associated outbuildings
Stout footwear is strongly recommended
Tickets: £7.50. BOOKING ESSENTIAL via https://www.bradgatepark.org/Event/beneath-the-bracken-the-archaeology-of-bradgate-park-17-7-26
Week 3: 18-24 July
ALL SAINTS AND HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, LOUGHBOROUGH
Saturday 18th July: 10am – 12 noon
All Saints and Holy Trinity Church, Steeple Row, Loughborough LE11 1EE
A chance to visit Loughborough’s parish church, one of Leicestershire’s major churches. The existing fabric is mostly 14th century and later. The church will be open for visiting every Saturday throughout July. On Saturday 11th and 18th July Roger Willson, church archivist, will lead a guided tour of the church, including its history at 10.30am.
FREE, donations to the church appreciated. No booking needed. Light refreshments usually available.
BOSWORTH BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALK
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July: 11.30am & 2pm
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney CV13 0AD
1¼ mile (2km) walk with one of Bosworth’s knowledgeable and experienced guides, bringing the events of the Battle of Bosworth to life. This walk is suitable for all ages and welcomes children & families.
Tickets: Adults £4.50; concession £4; children £3, Family Tickets available.
For more information call 01455 290429 or visit https://www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/whats-on/
SHAKESPEARE AND LEICESTER GUILDHALL (NEW FOR 2026)
Sunday 19th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Celebrate 403 years of Shakespeare’s First Folio with a free guided tour like no other. Join us at the historic Guildhall for a captivating journey through time, where the world of William Shakespeare comes vividly to life.
This special anniversary event invites you to explore the rich and surprising connections between Shakespeare and Leicester-stories that blur the line between legend and legacy.
Wander through the atmospheric hall as our tour guide, Julie, reveals how Shakespeare is linked to Leicester Guildhall, uncovering the city’s hidden role in shaping some of his greatest works. Discover how echoes of Leicester can be found within the drama, intrigue, and characters of his plays. But the story doesn’t end there …
Hear the fascinating tale of the legendary King Lear and the enduring mystery of his supposed burial. Fact or folklore? You decide.
Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare enthusiast or simply curious, this unique tour promises an unforgettable encounter with one of the greatest storytellers of all time. Step into the story. Discover the connections. Celebrate the legacy.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
JOHN WYCLIFFE AND LUTTERWORTH PARISH CHURCH
Saturday 18th July: 2.30pm
St Mary’s Church, Church Gate, Lutterworth LE17 4AN
A talk on John Wycliffe, the 14th Century religious reformer who with his followers, completed the first translation of the bible into English whilst Rector of St Mary’s Church. This will be followed by a tour of the church, a fascinating listed building containing Wycliffe memorabilia and medieval wall paintings.
Tickets: £5 per person (children FREE). Please book via 01455-558797 or 07966 628527
RAMBLING AROUND THE RAMPARTS – A GUIDED WALK OF BURROUGH HILL IN ITS LANDSCAPE (NEW FOR 2026)
Sunday 19th July: 12 noon (for the 5 mile walk) or 2pm (for the ramparts only)
Meet in the car park at Burrough Hill Country Park, Somerby Road, Burrough on the Hill, LE14 2QZ
Burrough Hill is Leicestershire’s finest Iron Age hillfort located in spectacular High Leicestershire countryside. Join John Thomas & Andy Hyam (ULAS) and Karen Medhurst (Somerby Festival of Walking) for a 5-mile guided walk of the Burrough Hill landscape, finishing with a tour of the hillfort ramparts and description of the recent excavations by the University of Leicester, which John and Andy co-directed.
Departing from Burrough Hill Country Park Car Park, we will take footpaths, bridleways and quiet lanes to spiral around the hillfort, giving views from all sides, stopping along the way for John and Andy to talk about some of the landscape history around the hillfort.
If you would prefer not to join the 5 mile walk, and just join us for the hillfort ramparts at the end, you are welcome to do so, although we can only give an estimated time of arrival (est. 2pm), so you will need to be flexible about the start time of this last leg of the walk. When booking insert ‘Ramparts Only’ as your chosen walk.
There are no stiles on this route. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
FREE, but donations are gratefully received. BOOKING ESSENTIAL at https://www.somerbyfestivalofwalking.co.uk/book/
Car-parking charges apply up to £5.50 for over 3 hours. For information on parking charges and on the park www.leicscountryparks.org.uk/burrough-hill-country-park/
HALLATON CASTLE – THE FINEST MOTTE AND BAILEY CASTLE IN LEICESTERSHIRE
Sunday 19th July: 12 noon & 2pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A chance to visit the site of Leicestershire’s finest Motte and Bailey Castle. This is rough agricultural land. Please wear stout footwear and absolutely no dogs.
Tickets: £7.50. Each tour limited to 12 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/
A GUIDED WALK AROUND HOBY VILLAGE
Sunday 19th July: 2pm
Meet in All Saints Church, Main Street, Hoby LE14 3DT
Hoby is a beautiful Wreake Valley village that still retains much of its old and interesting architecture. The Hoby & District Local History Society offers a guided walk around Hoby lasting about 2 hours. The trail covers architecture and social history and is illustrated with photographs from the early part of the last century. Tea and cake, in aid of All Saints Church Hoby, available to purchase afterwards.
Tickets: Adults £5, children FREE. Booking required please contact Diane via 07529 220111 or secretary@hobyanddistricthistory.co.uk; www.hobyanddistricthistory.co.uk
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Monday 20th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
A GUIDED WALK OF OLD KIRBY MUXLOE (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 21st July: 2pm
Meet at Kirby Muxloe Castle LE9 2DH
Your guides, Val Knott and Leigh Picciano Moss of Kirby Muxloe History Group, will transport you back around 1,000 years to trace the beginnings of the village, taking a look at its history through its many interesting buildings including the Grade I listed castle. The walk will finish at 3.30 pm at The Royal Oak, 35 Main Street, LE9 2AN
The library on Station Road will be open for refreshments following this walk.
Tickets: £3 members, £5 guests. Cash payable on the day. Booking Essential by text/call 07833735254 with name and contact number.
A TOUR OF PIGGY’S HOLLOW
Tuesday 21st July: 7pm
Meet at St Denys Church Car Park, Church Lane, Evington LE5 6FA
Join Chris Hossack and Peter Liddle to hear about Evington’s medieval manorial site – the biggest medieval moat in Leicestershire – and its natural history as well as a visit to Evington parish church.
Tickets: Adults £5; children free. No booking needed.
NANPANTAN – THE SURPRISING HISTORY OF A SMALL VILLAGE (NEW FOR 2026)
Wednesday 22nd July: 10.30am
Details of where to meet will be sent out to those replying
This guided walk by Leicestershire Victoria County History Trust will introduce the history of Nanpantan, a small village to the south of Loughborough, on the edge of Charnwood Forest. A wharf opened here in 1794 where coal was transferred from the Charnwood Forest canal to an early railway that would carry it to Loughborough.
From the 1820s Nanpantan became a favoured destination for early factory outings. Sunny weekends and bank holidays in the 1880s would see many hundreds of people congregate here, and a thriving hospitality business was born. Alongside this was a small community with a school and a church supporting its daily life.
FREE, but donations welcome. Booking essential via pjf7@le.ac.uk.
If you wish to extend your visit, Leicestershire Victoria County History Trust has also produced a self-guided walk along the former canal to the point where it was severed by the building of the M1 motorway. Details will be provided.
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL & ST MARTINS CATHEDRAL
Wednesday 22nd July: 11am
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Join Irene Turlington on a walking tour between St Martins Cathedral & Leicester Guildhall and explore the Herrick Family connection.
There has been historic links between the Guildhall and St Martins Church since around 1350. The religious Guild of Corpus Christi had their altar in the great south aisle in St Martins. The Town Library was moved from St Martins to the Chantry Priests Rooms in 1632 in the Guildhall. There are connections with the English Civil War and the Siege of Leicester, to name but a few.
On this tour we will be particularly concentrating on members of the Herrick Family – Robert Heyricke – the Alderman and Mayor of Leicester, and Sir William Herrick.
The tour will begin in the Cathedral and then continue in the Guildhall next door.
FREE , booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/event-details/?id=67876e07-e6d7-4d14-a3a0-ffea60afbba4
HALLATON VILLAGE WALK
Wednesday 22nd July: 6pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A gentle walk of about 90 minutes around the Hallaton Heritage Trail. Starting at the museum and finishing at the Fox Inn. Limit of 20 people.
Tickets: £7.50. Tour limited to 20 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/
A GUIDED WALK OF KIRBY FIELDS (NEW FOR 2026)
Thursday 23rd July: 7pm
Meet at Kirby Muxloe Library and Community Hub, Station Road, Kirby Muxloe LE9 2EN
Your guides, Val Knott and Leigh Picciano Moss of Kirby Muxloe History Group, will take you on a leisurely stroll around Leicester’s ‘second Stoneygate’ – a leafy oasis from the dirt and noise of the town.
Tickets: £3 members, £5 guests. Cash payable on the day. Booking Essential by text/call 07833735254 with name and contact number.
Free parking is available in front of the library. The library will be open for refreshments following this walk.
Week 4: 25-31 July
BOSWORTH BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALK
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July: 11.30am & 2pm
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney CV13 0AD
1¼ mile (2km) walk with one of Bosworth’s knowledgeable and experienced guides, bringing the events of the Battle of Bosworth to life. This walk is suitable for all ages and welcomes children & families.
Tickets: Adults £4.50; concession £4; children £3, Family Tickets available.
For more information call 01455 290429 or visit https://www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/whats-on/
ALL SAINTS AND HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, LOUGHBOROUGH
Saturday 25th July: 10am – 12 noon
All Saints and Holy Trinity Church, Steeple Row, Loughborough LE11 1EE
A chance to visit Loughborough’s parish church, one of Leicestershire’s major churches. The existing fabric is mostly 14th century and later. The church will be open for visiting every Saturday throughout July. On Saturday 11th and 18th July Roger Willson, church archivist, will lead a guided tour of the church, including its history at 10.30am.
FREE, donations to the church appreciated. No booking needed. Light refreshments usually available.
MARKET BOSWORTH TOWN TRAIL GUIDED WALK
Saturday 25th July: 10am
Meet by the Memorial, Market Place, Market Bosworth CV13 0RH
You will be guided around the Medieval centre of Market Bosworth and beyond learning about its buildings and inhabitants as you go. The secret behind the White House, where the nail maker worked and the macabre story of Dr Robert Pull, who died in 1755 or did he? The walk is around 1 mile and 2 hours.
FREE, Booking essential via info@marketbosworthsociety.com
LAUNDE ABBEY GUIDED WALK
Saturday 25th July: 10am
Launde Abbey, near Loddington, LE7 9XB
Join archaeologist Peter Liddle on a walk around Launde Abbey, a very fine Jacobean mansion on the site of, and incorporating parts of, a medieval Augustinian Priory. The priory was granted to Henry VIII’s minister, Thomas Cromwell, in 1540 and was turned into a family home by his widow and son. Peter will be sharing the results of recent research into the site.
Launde does very fine lunches, which need to be booked on 01572 717254. Coffee or light lunches can be catered for without booking.
Tickets: Adults £5, children FREE. No need to book
PEOPLE OF THE PARISH OF ST MARTIN: A LEICESTER CATHEDRAL WALKING TOUR
Saturday 25th July: 2pm
Meet at the Welcome Desk, Leicester Cathedral, Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ
Amongst the 1,237 burials uncovered at Leicester Cathedral during the 2022 archaeological dig, just twelve could be named. This walking tour explores the lives of three of those found, all of whom lived within the parish boundaries in the 19th century. With each having a fascinating story to tell, this tour will interest history seekers of all ages.
Tickets bookable at Eventbrite: £8.50 with accompanied children under 16 free.
HERITAGE SUNDAY
Sunday 26th July: 11am – 3pm
Magazine Gateway, Leicester Castle Great Hall, St Mary de Castro Church, Leicester
A chance to visit a variety of historic sites around Leicester’s Old Town. Blue Badge guided tours lasting one hour will be at The Magazine Gateway at 11am, Leicester Castle Great Hall at 12.30pm and St Mary de Castro Church at 2pm.
Tickets: Adults £5. Book online or call Guildhall on 0116 454 4554.
For more information and online booking:
CRIME AND PUNISHMENT AT LEICESTER GUILDHALL TOUR
Sunday 19th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
A unique glimpse into Leicester’s first Police Force. Join Mark Collins, one of our wonderful tour guides for a special and unique look at the history of Leicester’s oldest medieval building from when it was home to Leicester’s first Police Force.
This tour will concentrate upon the theme of ‘Crime and Punishment’. Find out about the unsavoury characters who have passed through its historic doors.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
HALLATON CASTLE – THE FINEST MOTTE AND BAILEY CASTLE IN LEICESTERSHIRE
Sunday 26th July: 12 noon & 2pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A chance to visit the site of Leicestershire’s finest Motte and Bailey Castle, guided by archaeologist Mathew Morris. This is rough agricultural land. Please wear stout footwear and absolutely no dogs.
Tickets: £7.50. Each tour limited to 12 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/
TOUR OF LEICESTER GUILDHALL
Monday 27th July: 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
Leicester Guildhall, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Leicester Guildhall is a historic building and the oldest building still in use in the city. The Great Hall was built in about 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi. It is believed that Shakespeare performed here during Tudor times. Over the years it has had many uses, including housing one of the oldest public libraries and serving as the Town Hall. After restoration, the Guildhall was opened to the public as a museum in 1926.
Leicester is privileged to have one of the best-preserved timber framed halls in the country dating back 600 years. This is your opportunity to come and find out more regarding this unique and beautiful building with a free guided tour.
FREE – booking essential via https://www.leicestermuseums.org/leicester-guildhall/ or 0116 454 4554
TOUR OF WIGSTON FRAMEWORK KNITTERS MUSEUM
Monday 27th July: 2pm
Meet at the museum, Bushloe End, Wigston LE18 2BA, use nearby Council car parks
The site consists of a late 17th century Master Hosiers House and a Victorian Frameshop all situated round a cobbled yard. Visitors will be able to explore the delightful cottage garden. Light refreshments available at extra cost.
Booking advisable with Colin Towell: cftowell@aol.com or 07813 782899
Tickets: £5 on the day, proceeds to be split between the Museum and Leicestershire Fieldworkers
GRAVE MATTERS (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 28th July: 10.30am
St Mary’s Churchyard, Church Gate, Lutterworth LE17 4AN
Join Mike Southall for a look at some interesting graves at St Marys Church, Lutterworth, and find out about the stories behind them, including ones not there!
Tickets: £5 per person, proceeds to Lutterworth Museum. Prior booking on 01455 554124 or email michael.southall@mypostoffice.co.uk
A GUIDED WALK OF KIRBY FIELDS (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 28th July: 2pm
Meet at Kirby Muxloe Library and Community Hub, Station Road, Kirby Muxloe LE9 2EN
Your guides, Val Knott and Leigh Picciano Moss of Kirby Muxloe History Group, will take you on a leisurely stroll around Leicester’s ‘second Stoneygate’ – a leafy oasis from the dirt and noise of the town.
Tickets: £3 members, £5 guests. Cash payable on the day. Booking Essential by text/call 07833735254 with name and contact number.
Free parking is available in front of the library. The library will be open for refreshments following this walk.
GUIDED WALK EXPLORING THE HISTORY OF QUARRYING IN MARKFIELD (NEW FOR 2026)
Tuesday 28th July: 2pm & 7pm
Meet on The Upper Green, Markfield LE67 9WD (in front of St Michael’s Parish Church)
Learn about the history of the Markfield Hill and Cliffe Hill quarries, the significance and impact of quarrying for Markfield residents, the Ellis and Everard partnership, the famous wire ropeway, the granite, the links to Bardon Hill quarry, and much more! We will pass the former Quarryman’s Arms pub, see a row of quarry workers’ cottages, explore the old Markfield Hill quarry (now the Hill Hole quarry local nature reserve) with its impressive water-filled granite workings and look across to the surrounding area from our vantage point atop the hill.
The walk will take up to 90 minutes.
FREE, but donations are welcome. Advance booking is required, as places are limited. For further information, please see https://www.markfieldhistory.org/post/guided-walk-exploring-the-history-of-quarrying-in-markfield
HALLATON VILLAGE WALK
Wednesday 29th July: 6pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A gentle walk of about 90 minutes around the Hallaton Heritage Trail. Starting at the museum and finishing at the Fox Inn. Limit of 20 people.
Tickets: £7.50. Tour limited to 20 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/
BOUSKELL PARK ICE HOUSE TOUR (NEW FOR 2026)
Thursday 30th July: 10.30am
Meet at Bouskell Carpark, off Welford Rd, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4FT
The tour includes a guided walk across Bouskell Park, the site of Blaby Hall, with information given about the archaeological features. You will then have an opportunity to look inside the restored grade II listed Ice House and learn about how and when it was used.
Tickets: Adults £5.75, children FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL More information and booking via https://www.visitblaby.org.uk/heritage/bouskell-park-ice-house/
A GUIDED WALK OF OLD KIRBY MUXLOE (NEW FOR 2026)
Thursday 30th July: 7pm
Meet at Kirby Muxloe Castle LE9 2DH
Your guides, Val Knott and Leigh Picciano Moss of Kirby Muxloe History Group, will transport you back around 1,000 years to trace the beginnings of the village, taking a look at its history through its many interesting buildings including the Grade I listed castle. The walk will finish at 3.30 pm at The Royal Oak, 35 Main Street, LE9 2AN
The library on Station Road will be open for refreshments following this walk.
Tickets: £3 members, £5 guests. Cash payable on the day. Booking Essential by text/call 07833735254 with name and contact number.
Week 5: 1-2 August
BOSWORTH BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALK
Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August: 11.30am & 2pm
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney CV13 0AD
1¼ mile (2km) walk with one of Bosworth’s knowledgeable and experienced guides, bringing the events of the Battle of Bosworth to life. This walk is suitable for all ages and welcomes children & families.
Tickets: Adults £4.50; concession £4; children £3, Family Tickets available.
For more information call 01455 290429 or visit https://www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk/whats-on/
LAUNDE ABBEY GUIDED WALK
Saturday 1st August: 2pm
Launde Abbey, near Loddington, LE7 9XB
Join archaeologist Peter Liddle on a walk around Launde Abbey, a very fine Jacobean mansion on the site of, and incorporating parts of, a medieval Augustinian Priory. The priory was granted to Henry VIII’s minister, Thomas Cromwell, in 1540 and was turned into a family home by his widow and son. Peter will be sharing the results of recent research into the site.
Launde does very fine lunches, which need to be booked on 01572 717254. Coffee or light lunches can be catered for without booking.
Tickets: Adults £5, children FREE. No need to book
HALLATON CASTLE – THE FINEST MOTTE AND BAILEY CASTLE IN LEICESTERSHIRE
Sunday 3rd August: 12 noon & 2pm
Meet at Hallaton Museum, the Tin Tab, Churchgate, Hallaton LE16 8TY
A chance to visit the site of Leicestershire’s finest Motte and Bailey Castle. This is rough agricultural land. Please wear stout footwear and absolutely no dogs.
Tickets: £7.50. Each tour limited to 12 people. To guarantee a place please pre-book via https://hallaton-museum.co.uk/