Coalville City Guide

About Coalville – History and Culture

Coalville is a town in North West Leicestershire, England, with a history deeply rooted in coal mining. The town developed rapidly after the opening of the Whitwick Colliery in the 1820s, attracting workers from across the Midlands. For over a century, coal extraction defined the local economy and community, shaping the town's identity. The last deep mine closed in 1986, marking the end of an era, but the resilient community has since diversified into light industry, logistics, and tourism.

Today, Coalville is known for its industrial heritage, preserved in sites like the Snibston Discovery Museum and the remains of the old colliery. The town embraces its past while looking forward, with new housing developments and green spaces. Culturally, Coalville celebrates its working-class roots with events like the Coalville Carnival and music festivals. The nearby National Forest is a symbol of regeneration, transforming former mining land into woodland.

Coalville's place in literature and media includes references in local author works and occasional TV features. The community is proud of its heritage, with a strong sense of identity. Historic buildings like the Holy Trinity Church and the Market Hall add character. The town's culture is a blend of traditional English values and modern multicultural influences, with a friendly community spirit.

• Snibston Discovery Museum – a family-friendly science and heritage centre.
• Whitwick Colliery memorial – commemorating the mine that started it all.
• Coalville Market – a traditional market held weekly in the town centre.
• Holy Trinity Church – a Victorian Gothic building with a notable spire.
• Bardon Hill – a former volcanic hill offering panoramic views.
• Coalville Town Hall – an Edwardian building used for civic events.
• The former Co-operative store – an Art Deco building on the high street.
• Coalville Park – a green space with a bandstand and war memorial.
• Charnwood Museum (in Loughborough) – nearby museum covering regional history.
• National Forest – a vast area of reclaimed woodland with trails and visitor centres.

Did You Know? – Facts about Coalville

Coalville is a town with fascinating facts that capture its uniqueness. From its origins as a mining settlement to its current role as a green hub, here are some surprising truths. The town's name directly references its primary industry, a rare example of a place named after its economic engine. The surrounding geology is ancient, with Charnwood Forest containing some of the oldest fossils in the UK.

Coalville is part of the National Forest, an area of 200 square miles being transformed into a forested landscape. The town has hosted celebrities and even royalty – Princess Anne visited in 2009. Despite its small size, Coalville has a rich sporting heritage, with local teams in rugby and football. The town's location makes it a strategic crossroads in the East Midlands, with easy access to major cities.

• Coalville was originally a collection of hamlets before mining boomed.
• At its peak, the local mines produced over 1 million tons of coal per year.
• The town's football club, Coalville Town F.C., was founded in 1906.
• Beacon Hill, near Coalville, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
• The National Forest was launched in 1995 and now covers over 200 square miles.
• Coalville has a twin town in France – Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny.
• The town's market has been operating since 1840.
• Coalville is home to the UK's first 'eco-town' development at Bardon Hill.
• Local quarries provide granite used in construction across the UK.
• The town has a strong carnival tradition, dating back to the 1920s.
• Coalville is mentioned in the song 'The Miner's Dream' by folk singer Jez Lowe.
• The nearby Donington Park racing circuit hosts major motorsport events.
• Coalville's bus station is a hub for routes to Leicester, Loughborough, and Burton.

Geography and Climate of Coalville

Coalville is located in North West Leicestershire, in the East Midlands region of England. It sits about 15 miles north-west of Leicester and 10 miles south of Derby. The town lies on the edge of Charnwood Forest, an area of ancient volcanic rock and rolling hills. The landscape is a mix of urban settlement, reclaimed mining land, and new woodlands. The geographical coordinates are approximately 52.72°N, 1.37°W.

The climate is temperate maritime, typical of the British Isles. Winters are cool and damp, with occasional frost and snow. Summers are mild, with average highs around 21°C (70°F). Rainfall is moderate, spread throughout the year. The area is slightly elevated, so it can be breezy on higher ground. The region is known for its 'forest microclimate' in parts of the National Forest, with slightly cooler temperatures than the city.

• Coalville is in the National Forest, a mix of ancient and new woodland.
• Charnwood Forest contains outcrops of Precambrian rock – over 600 million years old.
• The town is on the River Sence, a tributary of the River Soar.
• Nearby hills include Bardon Hill (248 m) and Beacon Hill (245 m).
• The area has several reservoirs, including Thornton Reservoir and Blackbrook.
• Average annual rainfall is around 700 mm, lower than the UK average.
• Snowfall occurs about 10 days per year, typically light.
• The town sits on coal measures and granite bedrock.

Things to Do in Coalville

Coalville offers a surprising range of activities for visitors and residents. From industrial heritage sites to outdoor adventures in the National Forest, there's something for everyone. The town is a gateway to exploring Leicestershire's natural beauty and history. Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, or discovering museums, Coalville will keep you entertained.

Food & Dining

The local food scene in Coalville reflects its community spirit. Traditional English pubs serve hearty fare like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and steak and ale pie. The town also has a growing number of curry houses and takeaways catering to diverse tastes. For a quick bite, the market offers fresh produce and street food.

Fine dining is limited but the surrounding villages have award-winning gastropubs. The 'Beacon Hill' area has a restaurant with views over the forest. Many cafes in town offer homemade cakes and afternoon tea. Food festivals occur seasonally, celebrating local produce like Leicestershire cheese and pork pies.

• The Wheatsheaf Inn – traditional pub with a carvery.
• Spice Merchant – popular Indian restaurant in town.
• Coalville Fish Bar – award-winning fish and chips.
• Morrisons Cafe – budget-friendly family meals.
• The Cricketers Arms – gastro pub with a garden.
• Coalville Market – for fresh fruit, veg, and street food.
• Bake & Brew – cosy coffee shop with homemade cakes.
• The National Forest Tavern – a JD Wetherspoon with value meals.
• Olivia's Deli – sandwiches and salads to go.
• Pizza Hut and Domino's – familiar chain options.
• Local cheesemakers – Leicestershire Red Leicester and Stilton.
• Real ale trails – several pubs offer local brews.
• Seasonal food fairs at Snibston.

Festivals & Events

Coalville's events calendar is anchored by the annual Coalville Carnival, a highlight since the 1920s. The carnival features a parade, floats, live music, and fairground rides. It takes place in July and draws thousands of people. The town also hosts a Christmas market with local crafts and Santa's grotto.

Other events include the Snibston Science Festival, showcasing STEM activities. The National Forest holds events like the Forest Live music series. Local churches host summer fetes and beer festivals. The Coalville Running Festival includes a 10k and half marathon through the forest.

• Coalville Carnival (July)
• Snibston Science Festival (May)
• Christmas Market (December)
• Forest Live concerts (summer)
• Coalville Half Marathon (April)
• Charnwood Artisan Market (monthly)
• Heritage Open Days (September)
• Coalville Beer Festival (October)
• Plaza Theatre shows – local drama and music.
• Remembrance Day parade (November)

Cultural Attractions

The main cultural attraction is the Snibston Discovery Museum, housed in a former colliery. It features interactive science exhibits, a historic mine tour, and a fashion gallery. The museum is family-friendly and educational. Another site is the Bardon Hill quarry, which offers industrial tourism views (by appointment).

For art, the Coalville Youth Theatre performs at the Century Theatre. Local artists display work at the town hall. The library hosts author readings. Nearby Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle is a ruined medieval fortress worth a visit. The National Forest offers sculpture trails and art installations.

• Snibston Discovery Museum
• Bardon Hill quarry tours
• Century Theatre (in nearby Snibston)
• Coalville Library
• Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle (5 miles)
• Conkers Discovery Centre (Moira, 4 miles)
• Charnwood Museum (Loughborough, 8 miles)
• Twycross Zoo (10 miles)
• Donington Park Grand Prix Collection (10 miles)
• Foremark Reservoir sculpture trail (7 miles)

Outdoor Activities

Coalville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The National Forest offers hundreds of miles of walking and cycling trails. Beacon Hill Country Park is a popular spot for hill walking with panoramic views. Bradgate Park, with its deer herd and historic ruins, is only a short drive away.

Cyclists enjoy the National Forest Cycle Routes and the Cloud Trail along the former railway line. Fishing is available at Thornton and Blackbrook reservoirs. Golfers can play at the nearby Charnwood Forest Golf Club. For adrenaline seekers, there's mountain biking at Cannock Chase or water sports at Rutland Water.

• Beacon Hill Country Park
• Bradgate Park
• National Forest walks
• Cloud Trail (Derby to Ashby)
• Thornton Reservoir fishing and walking
• Blackbrook Reservoir
• Charnwood Forest Golf Club
• Donington Park (motorsport events)
• Bardon Hill quarry climb
• Coalville Park (bandstand and playground)
• Hicks Lodge Cycle Centre (National Forest)
• Rutland Water (30 minutes drive)
• Peak District (45 minutes)
• Local orienteering events
• Horse riding at nearby stables

Economy and Key Industries

Coalville's economy has transitioned from coal mining to a diverse base of light manufacturing, logistics, and services. The town is part of the North West Leicestershire district, which has seen growth in distribution centers due to its proximity to the M1 and M42 motorways. Major employers include Amazon, which has a large warehouse, and local engineering firms.

The National Forest has boosted tourism and recreation, creating jobs in hospitality and visitor services. Retail remains a key sector, with a mix of independent shops and national chains. The land around Bardon Hill is a major source of granite for construction. The town also has a growing technology hub with small IT firms.

Unemployment in Coalville is slightly above the national average, but job opportunities are improving. The local council supports regeneration projects. New housing developments attract workers commuting to Leicester, Derby, and Nottingham. The future includes a focus on green industries and sustainability.

• Amazon fulfillment centre
• Aggregate Industries (quarrying and construction)
• Samworth Brothers (food manufacturing – nearby)
• Taylor Wimpey (housebuilding)
• Engineering firms (e.g., Alstom in Loughborough)
• Logistics companies along A511 corridor
• Tourism in the National Forest
• Retail sector (Morrisons, ALDI, Co-op)
• Healthcare (local GP practices and community hospital)
• Education (primary schools, college campuses)
• Professional services (accountants, lawyers)

Where to Live in Coalville

Coalville offers a range of residential areas, from the town centre to leafy suburbs. The town has seen new housing estates built on former colliery sites, such as the Bardon Hill development. Older Victorian terraces are common near the centre, while larger detached houses can be found in the outskirts like Whitwick and Hugglescote.

The village of Whitwick is an attractive option, with a historic centre and local shops. Hugglescote offers modern homes and good schools. Ellistown is a quiet residential area with access to the forest. The town centre has flats and apartments above shops, suitable for young professionals.

Choosing where to live depends on budget and lifestyle. Families often prefer the estates with gardens and parks. Commuters value proximity to the A511 for quick access to the motorway. The housing market is relatively affordable compared to the East Midlands average, making Coalville popular with first-time buyers.

• Whitwick – historic village with a separate character
• Hugglescote – popular for families, good schools
• Ellistown – quieter, closer to forest
• Bardon Hill – new eco-homes with modern design
• Coalville Town Centre – flats for young professionals
• Greenhill – established residential area
• Lount – village just outside, countryside living
• Peggs Green – affordable housing estate
• Snibston area – near the museum, older homes
• Thringstone – village with rural feel

Formalities and Visas in Coalville

Coalville is in the UK, so visa rules are set by the Home Office. For non-UK nationals, entry requires a visa depending on nationality and purpose. Tourists from many countries can visit for up to 6 months without a visa, but must not work. For work, study, or family settlement, a visa application is necessary.

The nearest visa application centre is in Leicester or Birmingham. The process generally involves an online application, biometrics, and supporting documents. Work visas like the Skilled Worker visa require a job offer from an approved sponsor. Student visas are for full-time courses at recognized institutions, such as Stephenson College

After arriving, new residents must register with a GP and open a bank account. For EU citizens, the EU Settlement Scheme (for those already in UK) is closed now; new arrivals need a visa. The British citizenship route requires residency. It's advisable to consult official UK government sources or an immigration lawyer.

• Standard Visitor Visa – for short stays, tourism, business.
• Skilled Worker Visa – requires a job offer from a Home Office approved sponsor.
• Student Visa – for courses at Stephenson College or other UK institutions.
• Family Visa – to join a partner or relative who is a British citizen or settled.
• Health and Care Worker Visa – for medical professionals.
• Youth Mobility Scheme – for young people from certain countries.
• Indefinite Leave to Remain – after 5 years residency, often needed for citizenship.
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) – required for many visa holders.
• Register with local police – only required for certain nationalities.
• NI number – needed for work; apply after arrival.
• EU Settlement Scheme – closed; no longer applicable for new arrivals.
• Sponsorship license needed for employers.

Working in Coalville

The job market in Coalville is varied, with opportunities in logistics, retail, manufacturing, and services. Major employers like Amazon offer warehouse and management roles. The construction sector is strong due to new housing and infrastructure projects. Teaching jobs are available at local schools. There is also demand for healthcare workers at the community hospital and GP surgeries.

Salaries in Coalville are slightly below the UK average, but the cost of living is lower. Many residents commute to Leicester or Derby for higher-paying jobs. The professional culture is friendly and informal. Working hours are typically 9-5, but shift work is common in logistics and retail. Part-time work is available.

To get a job, it helps to register with local agencies like Pertemps or Manpower. Networking through community groups is effective. The Coalville Jobcentre Plus provides support. Self-employment is an option, especially in trades. Work culture emphasises a good work-life balance, with many taking advantage of the nearby countryside.

• Logistics and warehousing – Amazon, DPD, Hermes.
• Manufacturing – engineering firms in the area.
• Retail – supermarkets and shops in town centre.
• Health care – Coalville Community Hospital, GP practices.
• Education – Stephenson College, primary and secondary schools.
• Construction – housebuilding and civil engineering.
• Hospitality – pubs, hotels, cafes in the National Forest.
• Administration – local council and businesses.
• IT and technology – small tech firms.
• Agriculture – some farming, though limited.
• Working remotely – common in creative and digital fields.
• Zero-hour contracts – present in retail and hospitality.

Studying in Coalville

Coalville offers education from nursery to college. Stephenson College is the main further education provider, offering A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships. The college has modern facilities and a focus on engineering and business. For university, students often commute to Leicester, Loughborough, or Derby.

Primary schools in Coalville include All Saints CE Primary and Broom Leys Primary. Secondary schools include the Castle Rock High School and the Newbridge High School. The area has a good Ofsted record. For international students, Stephenson College accepts some visa students for full-time courses.

Student life in Coalville is quieter than in big cities, but there are social activities. The college has a student union and clubs. Accommodation is affordable. Part-time jobs are available in the town. Libraries and community centres provide study spaces.

• Stephenson College – offers a wide range of courses.
• Castle Rock High School – secondary school with sports focus.
• Newbridge High School – secondary school with arts.
• All Saints CE Primary School – outstanding rating.
• Broom Leys Primary School – good with early years.
• Warren Hills Community Primary School.
• St Clare's Catholic Primary School.
• Leicester University – 15 miles away, commutable.
• Loughborough University – 8 miles, renowned for engineering.
• De Montfort University (Leicester) – 14 miles.
• University of Derby – 10 miles.
• Adult education at Coalville Library.
• Apprenticeships in local businesses.
• English language courses at Stephenson College.
• Student accommodation – private rentals, some halls at college.

Finance and Banks in Coalville

Coalville has a good range of banking options. High street banks include Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, and NatWest, all with branches in the town centre. Building societies like Nationwide are also present. Most offer current accounts, savings, mortgages, and loans. Online banking is widely used.

Digital payments are common – contactless cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay. ATMs are available around town; some free, some charging fees. Currency exchange services are limited; best to go to Leicester for better rates. Tax rules are standard for the UK; income tax is deducted automatically (PAYE). Self-employed must file annual tax returns.

• Barclays – 11 High Street.
• Lloyds Bank – 7 High Street.
• HSBC – 24 High Street.
• NatWest – 1 High Street (recently limited hours).
• Nationwide Building Society – 16 High Street.
• Santander – not in Coalville, nearest in Loughborough.
• Post Office – banking services for many accounts.
• MoneyGram and Western Union – at local shops.
• Credit unions – Leicestershire Credit Union.
• Financial advisors – independent firms in town.
• Tax – HMRC online portal.
• Mortgage brokers – several in town.

Health Care in Coalville

Healthcare in Coalville is provided by the NHS. There are several GP surgeries, including Coalville Health Centre, Whitwick Health Centre, and the Broom Leys Surgery. They offer general medical services, vaccinations, and minor procedures. The Coalville Community Hospital has a minor injuries unit and some inpatient beds. For emergencies, the nearest A&E is at Leicester Royal Infirmary or Queen's Hospital Burton.

Dental services are available at practices like Coalville Dental Care and Bupa Dental Care. Opticians include Specsavers and independent ones. Pharmacies are located in supermarkets and on the high street. For specialist care, referrals go to hospitals in Leicester, Loughborough, or Derby.

• Coalville Health Centre – offers various clinics.
• Whitwick Health Centre – GP with a pharmacy.
• Broom Leys Surgery – doctor's practice.
• Coalville Community Hospital – minor injuries, rehabilitation.
• Leicester Royal Infirmary – A&E, 40 minutes by bus.
• Queen's Hospital Burton – A&E, 20 minutes drive.
• Loughborough Hospital – some outpatients.
• Coalville Dental Care – 23 High Street.
• Bupa Dental Care – Belvoir Road.
• Specsavers Opticians – 36 High Street.
• Boots Pharmacy – 3 High Street.
• Lloyds Pharmacy – inside Morrisons.
• NHS 111 – for non-emergency advice.
• Private healthcare – options in Leicester.

Accommodation in Coalville

Accommodation in Coalville ranges from flats to detached houses. The rental market is active, with average rents lower than the national average. A one-bedroom flat costs around £550-650 pcm; a three-bedroom house around £800-1000. Buying a property is affordable: average house prices are about £180,000, with terraces from £120,000.

Short-term accommodation includes a few hotels like the Priority Inn near the A511 and B&Bs in the surrounding countryside. Airbnb options are limited but available. New developments offer modern homes with energy efficiency. Students usually rent rooms in shared houses.

• Rental: check Rightmove, Zoopla, local agents like Newton Fallowell.
• Buying: properties through Connells, Your Move, etc.
• Student housing: near Stephenson College, often shared.
• Priority Inn – budget hotel on Stephenson Way.
• B&Bs: The Old Vicarage in Whitwick.
• Social housing: through North West Leicestershire Council.

Planning Your Move to Coalville

Relocating to Coalville requires some preparation. First, arrange a visa if needed. Then, find accommodation – either temporary or long-term. It's useful to visit first to explore neighbourhoods. Budget for moving costs, deposits, and initial expenses. Set up utilities: water, electricity, gas, internet. The main providers are British Gas, E.ON, and BT.

Register with a GP as soon as possible after arriving. Open a bank account – most require proof of address and ID. Get a National Insurance number if you plan to work. Familiarise yourself with the transport routes, including bus times to Leicester or Derby. Join local social media groups to connect with the community.

• Check UK government visa website for latest rules.
• Arrange accommodation before arrival – short-term let recommended.
• Transfer funds using wise or similar to avoid high fees.
• Phone: get a SIM from providers like Vodafone, O2, EE.
• Utilities: compare prices on comparison sites.
• Register with a GP: list of surgeries online.
• NI number application – call Department for Work and Pensions.
• Bank account: Monzo, Starling or high street banks.
• Council tax: register with North West Leicestershire Council.
• Register to vote – ability to vote in local elections.
• Transport: buy a bus pass or consider buying a car.
• Schools: contact the council for school admissions.
• Pet relocation: if bringing pets, check rabies/vaccination rules.

Leisure in Coalville

Leisure in Coalville is varied. The town has a leisure centre with a swimming pool, gym, and fitness classes. There are cinemas nearby: Showcase in Loughborough or Odeon in Leicester. For nightlife, there are traditional pubs, a couple of bars, and a social club. The Plaza Theatre hosts live performances. Shopping is centred on the High Street, with supermarkets and small retailers.

For more entertainment, Loughborough offers restaurants and a theatre. The National Forest provides outdoor concerts and events. The local library runs book clubs. Sporting clubs include rugby, football, and cricket. Many residents enjoy walking and cycling in the countryside.

• The Hermitage Leisure Centre – pool, gym, classes.
• Plaza Theatre – community productions, films.
• Coalville Working Men's Club – social events.
• The Swan Inn – historic pub with live music.
• High Street – shops include Boots, Wilko, Poundland.
• Loughborough: The Rushes shopping centre, cinema.
• Snibston Discovery Museum – also hosts evening events.
• Coalville Park – walking, tennis courts.
• Beacon Hill – popular picnic spot.

Transportation Options in Coalville

Coalville is well-served by road, but public transport is limited. The A511 runs through the town, connecting to M1 (junction 22) and M42 (junction 12) – a key advantage for commuters. Buses are the main form of public transport. Services run to Leicester, Loughborough, Burton, and Ashby. The bus station is central. There is no railway station; the nearest are in Loughborough or East Midlands Parkway.

Cycling is promoted with dedicated routes in the National Forest. Walking is feasible for local errands. Taxis are available. For air travel, East Midlands Airport is about 15 minutes by car. London is about 2.5 hours by train from Loughborough or Derby.

• Buses: Arriva and Kinchbus serve the town. Key routes: 29 to Leicester, 9 to Loughborough.
• Coalville Bus Station – located on Belvoir Road.
• By car: A511 dual carriageway – quick access to M1/M42.
• Nearest airports: East Midlands Airport (EMA) – 12 miles.
• Rail: Loughborough station (8 miles) – trains to London St Pancras in 1h20.
• Rail: East Midlands Parkway (10 miles) – direct trains to London.
• Cycling: National Cycle Network Route 63 passes through.
• Taxis: Coalville Taxis, A2B Cars.
• Car rental: Enterprise in Loughborough.
• Community transport: Dial-a-Ride for elderly.

Everyday Life in Coalville

Everyday life in Coalville is relaxed and community-oriented. The town is safe, with low crime rates compared to nearby cities. People are friendly, though typical reserve is common. The town centre can be quiet at times, but markets and events bring vibrancy. Essential amenities are within walking distance for most residents.

The pace of life is slower than in Leicester. Many people commute outside for work. Children walk to local schools. The local library, post office, and community centres are hubs. There are a few places of worship – Christian, Muslim, and other faiths represented. The weekly market on Fridays and Saturdays is a focal point.

• Safety: Coalville is generally safe; occasional petty crime.
• Neighbourhood watch active in some areas.
• Schools: drop-off times create traffic, but manageable.
• Supermarkets: Morrisons, ALDI, Co-op, Iceland – daily needs.
• Post Office: on High Street, open long hours.
• Libraries: Coalville Library on High Street.
• Places of worship: All Saints Church, St John's Church, local mosque.
• Weather: carries an umbrella – typical British drizzle.
• Weekend activities: walking, gardening, football matches.

Cost of Living in Coalville

Coalville is affordable compared to many UK towns. Housing is the biggest expense but costs about 30% less than the national average. Rent for a one-bedroom flat is around £600 pcm. Utilities are typical for the UK: £150-200 pcm for electricity, gas, water, and internet. Council tax is band A to D, around £100-200 per month.

Groceries are average; local markets offer cheaper fresh produce. Eating out is reasonable – pub meals around £12-15. Transport costs are lower if you commute by car, but petrol prices are in line with national rates. Bus fares to Leicester are about £5 return. Overall, a single person can live comfortably on £20,000-£25,000 per year.

• Rent (1-bed in town centre): £550-650 pcm.
• Rent (3-bed house): £800-1000 pcm.
• Buying a house: average £1800-£2000 per sqm.
• Utilities (basic): £150 pcm.
• Internet: £30-50 pcm for fibre.
• Council tax: band B typical £120 pcm.
• Groceries: £200-300 pcm per person.
• Dinner out: £12-20 per head.
• Bus pass: monthly around £60.
• Petrol: £1.45 per litre (current).
• Gym membership: £20-30 pcm at Hermitage.
• Childcare: £800-1000 pcm full-time nursery.

Places to Visit in Coalville

Coalville and its surroundings offer many attractions. The Snibston Discovery Museum is the top family destination, with hands-on exhibits and a mine tour. Beacon Hill Country Park provides stunning views and walks. Bradgate Park is a must-see for history and nature. The National Forest has visitor centres like Conkers.

The town of Ashby-de-la-Zouch has a magnificent castle and boasts a historic high street. Loughborough is known for its bellfoundry and university. Donington Park offers motorsport action. For a tranquil escape, Foremark Reservoir has walking trails and birdwatching. The Charnwood Forest area has many ancient woodlands.

Further afield, Leicester has the King Richard III Visitor Centre and the National Space Centre. Derby has the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. The Peak District is 45 minutes away. Nottingham is also accessible. Overall, Coalville is a convenient base for exploring central England.

Within the town itself, the Coalville Park and the Market Hall are central. The former Co-op building is an art deco gem. The Bell Foundry in Loughborough is unique. Conkers in Moira offers a treetop walk. Twycross Zoo is one of the UK's best for primates. Each place adds to the region's appeal.

• Snibston Discovery Museum – interactive science and heritage.
• Beacon Hill Country Park – 360-degree views.
• Bradgate Park – deer and ruins.
• Conkers Discovery Centre – adventure playground, treetop walk.
• Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle – medieval fortress.
• Donington Park – racing circuit and museum.
• Foremark Reservoir – walking, birdwatching.
• Loughborough – bellfoundry, university, shopping.
• Leicester – National Space Centre, King Richard III.
• Derby – cathedral, Derby County FC, museums.