Canal Boating Article: Market Harborough
Visit Market Harborough from the following marina(s)
Dating back to 1203 the pretty town of Market Harborough is surrounded by the rolling landscapes of Leicestershire. Market Harborough is located in an area which was formerly a part of the Rockingham Forest which was once a royal hunting forest used by the medieval monarchs.
Market Harborough figured largely in the English Civil War and was used as the headquarters of the Kings Army. The King decided to confront Parliamentary forces who were camped near Naseby and the Battle of Naseby proved a decisive victory for Parliament led by Oliver Cromwell.
Foxton locks are a flight of staircase locks on the on the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal just a few miles west of Market Harborough. Visit the museum to learn more about the locks and how they were built. Stay and have a pint in one of the pubs located close to the canal or enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake at the tea shop. Buy the Foxton Locks Trail Map from the teashop and take follow the directions answering the quiz as you go.
Take the children to Wistow Maize Maze and try to find your way around a themed maze. Follow the fun Quiz Trail and collect hidden clues whilst you wander through eight acres of this living maize crop. The maze also has over 3 miles of paths with high level bridges and viewing towers which give visitors a stunning 3D panoramic views of the maze and the surrounding countryside.
Rockingham Castle overlooks the picturesque village of Rockingham whose main street is lined with thatched and slated cottages. The castle was built on the orders of William the Conqueror on a commanding hill site and it became a popular retreat for royalty owing to its fine position in the heart of Rockingham Forest hunting country. Take a guided tour of the Castle which is made fun for even the youngest members of your family that can use one of the eye spy books to hunt for objects.
In the grounds there is a quiz featuring Wentworth the Gallant Guardian of Rockingham Castle whose hopeless servant has lost his gold the quiz will help him locate the lost treasure. The tearooms are situated in Walkers House in the Courtyard and offer truly historic surroundings in which to enjoy a hearty lunch or a light snack.
Visit the towns museum where one of the most significant Iron Age finds in Britain the Hallaton Treasure is on display. Learn about the towns history of boot and shoemaking and view a reconstruction of a local bootmakers workshop.
An unusual landmark in the centre of Market Harborough is The Old Grammar School. This 17th century timber framed building is standing on massive oak pillars which pedestrians can walk beneath.
Wicksteed Park is one of the biggest and best playgrounds in Europe where the park features a playground area, a fairground area, the fun palace arcade and a lakeside area with water themed rides. The grounds and gardens of Wicksteed Park cover 147 acres and is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. Explore Wicksteed Park on the narrow gauge railway which will carry you around the park to the shores of the lake.
Browse around the many independent shops selling handmade jewellery, handbags, designer clothing and antiques. A market is held every Tuesday and on a Sunday there is an antique and collectors market in the Market Hall. Market Harborough has a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs to relax in after a day spent exploring the town.
