On the morning of 22 August 1485 the open country between Shenton and Sutton Cheney echoed to the thunder of hooves, the ring of sword on sword and the shouts and screams of battle. The Battle of Bosworth proved a decisive end to the Wars of the Roses; King Richard III was killed and Henry VII took over the throne. The Visitor Centre here explains how the battle was fought and won, and there are trails to follow around the battlefield. Nearby, enjoy a steam train trip to Shackerstone and back on the Battlefield Railway or hop aboard a boat for a peaceful ride along the Ashby Canal with The Ashby Trip.

At Hinckley itself, the thatched and half-timbered Atkins Cottages, where knitters’ frames once clattered away, have been transformed into a fascinating museum celebrating the local hosiery industry. Pride of place goes to a 1740 stocking frame.

Just outside Hinckley, discover the pleasant, natural grassland of Burbage Common and nationally important ground flora in Burbage Woods. Take a walk around the historic town of Market Bosworth, or explore its attractive country park, which has an adventure playground to entertain the kids. Youngsters will also love the delights of nearby Twycross Zoo, with its fifty acres of parkland housing wildlife from across the world. Decades ago it became famous as the place chosen to film the PG Tips chimps advertisements, but more recently it has been conserving some of the planet’s most threatened animals, such as chocolate chimpanzees.

Markets
Hinckley market is held every Monday, Friday and Saturday. The traditional market at Market Bosworth is open every Wednesday.

Coach Parking
Coaches may drop off at stand 5 in Hinckley Bus Station, and then park in the space backing on to the Brunel Road car park (there is room for 2 coaches). There is no charge for coach parking at present. For more information contact Alan Ottey at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council on 01455 238141.