Melbourne Lodge Plantation

Wood, Forest in Leicestershire North West Leicestershire

England

Melbourne Lodge Plantation

A42 about to bridge Melbourne Road Parapets reveal the bridge location. — A42 about to bridge Melbourne Road Credit: Peter Whatley

Melbourne Lodge Plantation is a stunning woodland located in Leicestershire, England. Nestled within the heart of the National Forest, this plantation is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The plantation covers an expansive area of land and is characterized by its dense and diverse woodland, making it an ideal destination for exploring and immersing oneself in the beauty of nature.

The plantation features a wide variety of tree species, including oak, birch, beech, and pine, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. The trees provide a picturesque backdrop, especially during the autumn months when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Numerous walking trails crisscross the plantation, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace. These trails cater to different levels of difficulty, ensuring that there is something for everyone, from casual strollers to avid hikers. Along the way, visitors can observe an array of wildlife, such as deer, squirrels, and various bird species, adding to the enchanting experience.

Melbourne Lodge Plantation also offers facilities for picnicking, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy a day out in nature. Additionally, the plantation hosts educational programs and guided walks, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the importance of conservation.

Overall, Melbourne Lodge Plantation is a captivating woodland that offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are seeking a peaceful stroll, a challenging hike, or simply a serene spot to connect with nature, this plantation is a must-visit destination in Leicestershire.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Melbourne Lodge Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.787483/-1.4340271 or Grid Reference SK3821. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A42 about to bridge Melbourne Road

Parapets reveal the bridge location.

Peter Whatley

Footpath to Worthington and a birch wood

The footpath runs up the field to a stile on the left edge of the wood but most walkers follow the field margin instead. The wood is quite new.

Ian Calderwood

Footpath junction heading for Worthington

At this point, a footpath is supposed to fork off to the left towards Worthington but it appears to be disused as there is no break in the crop.

Ian Calderwood

Calke Abbey

AJD

The garden at Calke

This is the ornamental garden at Calke. To the left and over the wall is the vegetable garden which, to me, is far more impressive.

Malcolm Neal

The ornamental garden

A view in the opposite direction from SK3722 : The garden at Calke.

Malcolm Neal

The vegetable garden at Calke

A very extensive and well tended garden, with a huge variety of different garden vegetables and fruit on show.

Malcolm Neal

The lavender path

With the lavender in full flower there were a lot of insects around including a Humming Bird Hawk Moth which is quite a rare insect.

Malcolm Neal

Fallow Deer at Calke

There were two small groups of Fallow Deer. This one with them all sitting down, the other group were all standing.

Malcolm Neal

Fallow Deer at Calke

There were two small groups of Fallow Deer. This one with them all standing grazing, the other group were all sitting in shade.

Malcolm Neal

The Ferrers Centre, Staunton Harold

The former stable block of Staunton Harold Hall now hosts a variety of craft shops, studios, and a café.

David Robinson

Staunton Harold Hall (Rear)

Grade I listed country house, current form from a rebuild in 1763. The house was built by the Shirley family, the Earls Ferrers, and remained in the family until 1955. Subsequently a care home, the house returned to private ownership as a family home in 2003. The grounds are open to the public (except for a private family area) and contain a grade I listed C17th church.

David Robinson

Staunton Harold Lake

David Robinson

Weir separating lakes at Staunton Harold

David Robinson

Bridge and gated entrance to Staunton Harold

David Robinson

Holy Trinity Chapel, Staunton Harold

Grade I listed church built 1653 in Gothic survival style, unusual in the austere Commonwealth era. The church was part of the Staunton Harold estate until it was gifted to the National Trust when the estate was put up for auction in the 1950s. Now a redundant church, it is occasionally open to the public.

David Robinson

Holy Trinity Chapel detail

Building detail on the front of Holy Trinity Chapel (Staunton Harold Church). The inscription reads: In the yeare 1653 When all things sacred were throughout ye nation Either demollisht or profaned Sir Robert Shirley Barronet founded this Church whose singular praise it is to have done ye best things in ye worst times And hoped them in the most callamitous. The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance.

David Robinson