Launde Park

Downs, Moorland in Leicestershire Harborough

England

Launde Park

Farmhouse at Oxey Farm Credit: Neil Theasby

Launde Park, located in Leicestershire, England, is a picturesque and expansive area that encompasses both downs and moorland landscapes. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, it offers visitors a diverse range of natural features and recreational opportunities.

The park boasts rolling downs that provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. These grassy hills are perfect for leisurely walks and picnics, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere of the area. Additionally, the downs are home to a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, hares, and various bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

In contrast to the downs, the park also features moorland areas, characterized by their unique vegetation and rocky outcrops. The moorland at Launde Park provides a more rugged and remote experience, with visitors having the opportunity to explore the wilderness and discover hidden treasures.

With its diverse landscapes, Launde Park offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park has several well-maintained walking trails, catering to different difficulty levels, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the natural beauty at their own pace. Additionally, the park offers opportunities for horse riding, cycling, and even orienteering, providing something for everyone.

Launde Park is also home to the historic Launde Abbey, originally a medieval priory and now a retreat center and hotel. The Abbey's stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make it worth a visit for those interested in history and culture.

Overall, Launde Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a diverse and captivating landscape that provides both relaxation and adventure in equal measure.

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Launde Park Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.630057/-0.82845749 or Grid Reference SK7904. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Farmhouse at Oxey Farm

Neil Theasby

Harvest time in the parish of Loddington

A tractor and trailer pursue a combine harvester ready to collect grain.

Neil Theasby

Road junction in Loddington

Neil Theasby

Launde Abbey

Built on the site of an Augustinian priory, this grand house is now a Christian retreat and conference centre.

Neil Theasby

Detail of a sculpture at Launde Abbey

Seen in the gardens behind the large country house that was built for Thomas Cromwell during the reign of King Henry VIII. The bronze statue is called "Welcoming Christ". It is 2.5m high and 2.5m wide. In 2019, it replaced an identical statue which dated back to the late 1950s. It was originally created as a bronze resin cast by Tita Maddon (née Dawson).

Neil Theasby

Launde Upper Reservoir

The highest of a series of three small reservoirs below Launde Abbey. Apparently they were originally fishponds for the Abbey. They are now badly affected by algae, probably due to the runoff from the Abbey's septic tank just above the top pond.

Stephen Craven

Launde Upper Reservoir - drawoff

A drawoff valve tower and footbridge. For context, see SK7904 : Launde Upper Reservoir.

Stephen Craven

Launde Upper Reservoir - overflow

The overflow consists of a stone-surfaced dip in the crest of the earth embankment. For context, see SK7904 : Launde Upper Reservoir.

Stephen Craven

Launde Middle Reservoir

The middle of a series of three small reservoirs below Launde Abbey. Apparently they were originally fishponds for the Abbey. They are now badly affected by algae, probably due to the runoff from the Abbey's septic tank just above the top pond. This view is from the earth embankment of the upper reservoir SK7904 : Launde Upper Reservoir - overflow.

Stephen Craven

Ice House at Launde Abbey

The brick-built ice house is no longer in use, but is situated adjacent to the upper reservoir SK7904 : Launde Upper Reservoir from which ice would have been taken in winter. It is listed grade 2 (list entry number 1177990).

Stephen Craven

Launde Abbey, front

The present house is built on the site of a medieval abbey, but is in fact a 17th century manor house with 19th century additions. It is listed grade 2* (list entry number 1074857). It is now used as an Anglican retreat centre. Since the first Geograph was submitted for this square in 2005 SK7904 : Launde Abbey, near Loddington, Leicestershire, the house has undergone extensive refurbishment (reopened in January 2011 by the Prince of Wales) with a new entrance and carpark on the south side, so the hardstanding in front of it is now longer used as a car park. Sheep continue to graze the field in front of the abbey.

Stephen Craven

Launde Abbey, front with pond

The present house is built on the site of a medieval abbey, but is in fact a 17th century manor house with 19th century additions. It is listed grade 2* (list entry number 1074857). It is now used as an Anglican retreat centre. Since the first Geograph was submitted for this square in 2005 SK7904 : Launde Abbey, near Loddington, Leicestershire, the retreat house has undergone extensive refurbishment (reopened in January 2011 by the Prince of Wales) with a new entrance and carpark on the south side, so the hardstanding in front of it is now longer used as a car park. This view is shortly before sunset and includes a pond in the middle distance.

Stephen Craven

Launde Abbey, pond

A pond adjacent to the public road through the grounds of Launde Abbey retreat house.

Stephen Craven

Cyclists passing Launde Abbey

Three cyclists on the public road through the grounds of the retreat house.

Stephen Craven

Signpost outside Launde Abbey

The sign points three ways: to Withcote and Brunston (left), Loddington and East Norton (right), and Owston and Halstead (towards the camera). The road beyond is the private drive to Launde Abbey.

Stephen Craven