Unique Experiences for a Charnwood Weekend Break

*this is a press trip review but all views are my own

As a mum, trips away often look very different to the spontaneous weekends I used to take pre-children. If you’re searching for a Charnwood weekend break, a UK short break for couples or a relaxed friends’ getaway in Leicestershire, this 48-hour itinerary shows exactly why Charnwood is such a brilliant choice. These days my time is precious, planning is essential and I want to know that every hour away from home is worth it (or at least I’m having a good enough time to forget about the pile of washing at home.)

That’s exactly why my recent 48-hour PR trip to Charnwood surprised me so much. It delivered the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, great food and experiences that work just as beautifully for couples or friends as they do for busy parents craving a reset. (I’d go again tonight if I could). Plus, being from Nottingham just down the road, I can’t believe how close everything is, yet there’s so much we haven’t explored yet.

Here’s how I spent 48 hours discovering Charnwood and why it’s now firmly on my list for a return visit.

Day One: Market Towns, Heritage & A Proper Switch-Off

Loughborough Bellfoundry: History That Stops You in Your Tracks

First stop was the Loughborough Bellfoundry, home to the UK’s last working bell foundry. I’ll admit, it wasn’t somewhere I’d ever thought of visiting before, but it was fascinating. Seeing bells that have travelled the world and hearing the stories behind them. It felt grounding and surprisingly emotional. A reminder of how quickly things change and that nothing beats skill and craftsmanship. This is the kind of attraction that sparks conversation which makes it ideal for a thoughtful date or a slower-paced friend trip. You can book a tour online, I recommend opting for the casting tour as you’ll see more action.

Exploring Loughborough Market & Town Centre

Next, we explored Loughborough’s historic market, one of the oldest in the country (over 800 years!). In recent years, the market has had significant local investment which has funded 69 new robust market stalls with colourful canopies and better weather protection, so even on rainy days some pitches will still be trading. The market runs its traditional retail street markets every Thursday and Saturday, plus a growing programme of specialist and one-off events throughout the year which you can find out about here. Wandering past stalls selling fresh produce and local crafts reminded me how much I love market towns. Why does bread always look so good in markets? If you’re visiting the markets, Queen’s Park is just a short walk away and well worth a visit, especially for the Carillon Tower and museum.

Lunch at Goodliffes

Lunch at Goodliffes was a real highlight. As a mum, I don’t often get to enjoy an unhurried lunch out and this felt indulgent in the best way. Independent, stylish but not stuffy, it’s perfect for a catch-up with friends or a daytime date where good food and conversation are the main event. There is a kids menu (don’t panic) which was good to see. It’s in the heart of Loughborough’s town centre, located on Churchgate just a short walk from the Market Square. The Crispy Potato Hash from their lighter lunch menu is 10/10.

Golden Hour at Bradgate Park

Later in the afternoon, we headed to Bradgate Park. Honestly, this alone is worth the trip to Charnwood. Wrapped up with a hot chocolate in hand, we explored the huge deer park as the evening set it. There’s something incredibly calming about this place and it felt like pressing pause. Because of the cold, it was quieter than usual but apparently in summer it can be very, very busy. Bradgate Park is considered one the top visitor attractions in the UK because it combines rare natural beauty, history, and accessibility in one place.

The park is also home to the ruins of Bradgate House, birthplace of Lady Jane Grey which adds even more interest. Free entry, walking and cycling routes, family-friendly facilities (hello café and visitors centre) make it exceptionally popular with visitors of all ages.

For couples, it’s romantic without trying too hard. For friends, it’s the kind of walk where deep chats naturally happen. And for mums? It’s a reminder of how restorative fresh air and space can be. Let them kid run to their hearts’ content.

Evening Wind-Down at Burleigh Court Hotel & Spa

We checked into Burleigh Court Hotel & Spa, set on the edge of Loughborough University campus. The rooms were modern and comfortable, and the spa facilities were exactly what you might need after a full day. Use of the pool, sauna and steam room is included in your stay. Maybe it’s a mum thing, but it’s the little things I notice. Such as the incredible fragrance as you walked through the reception. The fact all the artwork in the hotel is done by local students and the robe plus slippers in the room all added a little luxury. Also, the hotel is easily accessible by local transport or car because of it’s location.

We had drinks at the hotels cocktail bar Carney & Scott’s named in honour of England Lioness football legends and Loughborough alumni Karen Carney and Jill Scott. It’s super stylish, relaxed and a great social space. One thing you must try is a drink from their ‘sustainable sipping” menu. Cocktails crafted from up‑cycled ingredients from the hotels restaurant. I had the Cauliflower Colada which was surprising different (in a good way!)

A Stylish Dinner at 50 The Street

We had dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, 50 The Street, which was another standout. But just to note, although it’s the hotels restaurant, it’s also a stand-alone restaurant in itself, taking its own bookings and you don’t have to be a hotel guest to visit.

The venue has a plant-forward menu, with at least 50% plant-based dishes featured across starters, mains and desserts. But there is something for everyone. (Yes, it has a kids menu too). This would make a fantastic date-night spot because it’s so relaxed but feels ultra special. The entire aesthetic was beautiful. I’d quite happily take it all and pop it in my front room. Super stylish but made to feel welcoming and comfortable.

I had the Pan-roasted Hake which on the menu said ‘Delicate hake served with a velvety celeriac purée, crisp pickled apple and coastal sea herbs finished with a mussel cream and a drizzle of chive oil’. Even thinking about it now makes my mouth water. Fab food, amazing service and the décor of dreams.

Day Two: Steam Trains, Stylish Pubs & A Touch of Magic

A Slow Morning (Every Mum’s Dream)

After breakfast, we had some downtime which is something that rarely happens at home. Whether you spend it in the spa, reading with a coffee or just enjoying the quiet, Burleigh Court is ideal for slowing the pace.

Stepping Back in Time on the Great Central Railway

Late morning, we headed to the Great Central Railway. One of my favourite places ever. I even took my mum for the afternoon tea experience for her 70^th and was one of the best memories we’ve made as a family. Plus, I just founf out they do a savoury afternoon tea… so guess who’s signing up for that?

As Britain’s only double-track mainline heritage steam railway, GCR is an experience in itself. There’s something undeniably romantic about steam trains and it’s a full sensory experience. The short journey to Rothley Station was charming and scenic. Every station felt like being on a film set. It’s a brilliant activity for couples or friends who love experiences with a story behind them. Run by amazing volunteers who are always happy to share their knowledge and experiences, they really make the entire experience too.

GCR have a huge timetable of fun things all year around as well as their special dinner services and general running timetable. You can find out more here.

Lunch at The Blacksmiths Arms 1753

Lunch at The Blacksmiths Arms in Barrow upon Soar was, quite simply, exceptional. Historic on the outside and bold on the inside, it’s the kind of gastropub that makes you not want to leave (the open fire helped with that too). The food was hearty and yummy and the atmosphere effortlessly cool. I had the amazing fish and chips which was big enough to share.

If you’re planning a child-free trip, this is the place for a long lunch with friends or a relaxed but impressive date.

Stonehurst Farm: Optional but Wholesome

In the afternoon, we visited Stonehurst Farm. While it’s more family-focused, it was still lovely to experience and it reminded me that Charnwood really does cater to every stage of life. If you’re visiting with children, this would be a must. (I’m taking the boys there in the school holidays, purely for the pigs along). Stonehurst is a real, working family farm run by the Duffin family, open to the public with a variety of things to see and do.

There’s an interesting motor museum on site with a collection of vintage and classic cars and motorcycles, built up by the family over decades which is all included with admission. Plus, the farm shop and bakery will entice you (Trust me – the cheese and pork pies were a must-buy). But, if you’re looking for a unique date night, you can have a wonder around the farm and then head for dinner on the same farm site to Leicestershire’s only Michelin‑starred restaurant John’s House for a unique farm‑to‑table fine dining experience.

Light Night & A Final Feast

That weekend that we visited, Loughborough’s Queen’s Park came alive with Loughborough Light Night an illuminated art trail that transformed the space into something magical. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances we couldn’t visit the opening night. But hopefully if it returns next year so I can take the boys. A highlight of Light Night is the light trail weaving through Queen’s Park, with glowing artworks, colourful projections and illuminated spaces to explore after dark, plus so much more. It’s also free entry.

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We ended the trip with dinner at Khazana, a refined Indian restaurant in Loughborough. The food was outstanding with bold flavours, beautifully presented, and large portions. It was a really welcoming environment with comfortable seating and lots of space. They also have some unique items on the menu such as their Khazana Red Leicester cheese naan, which if course we had to try. It was the perfect way to finish 48 hours of exploring Charnwood.