Things To Do
in Coalville
Coalville is a market town in north-west Leicestershire with a rich coal-mining heritage that shaped its industrial roots. Today it blends practical town-center amenities with independent shops, pubs, and a growing array of eateries, all set against easy access to the surrounding countryside. The town sits near the M1 and offers a convenient base for exploring Charnwood Forest, the National Forest, and the wider East Midlands region.
With affordable stays and a friendly, unfussy vibe, Coalville serves as a solid gateway for countryside adventures and day trips to nearby Leicester and Nottingham.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Coalville Heritage Centre, where you can learn about the town's fascinating mining history. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the lives of coal miners and the impact of mining on the local community. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Memorial Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
In the afternoon, head over to the nearby Snibston Discovery Museum, where you can explore the interactive science and technology exhibits. Don't miss the opportunity to see the stunning collections of local artifacts and vintage vehicles. Enjoy a packed lunch in the museum's café, surrounded by the fascinating displays.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a local pub, savoring traditional British fare while engaging with friendly locals. After dinner, take a walk along the scenic paths of the Coalville Greenway, which offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the rich history you've experienced.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk at the nearby Bardon Hill, the highest point in Leicestershire, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The trails are well-marked, making it easy to explore the various paths and appreciate the local flora and fauna. Bring along your binoculars for some birdwatching, as this area is home to a variety of species.
After your hike, visit the nearby Bradgate Park, where you can spot herds of deer roaming freely in a stunning natural landscape. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, admiring the historic ruins of Bradgate House and the picturesque gardens. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy knolls or at one of the park's designated picnic areas.
As twilight descends, find a tranquil spot in Bradgate Park to watch the sunset, casting a golden hue over the landscape. Head back to Coalville for dinner at a charming restaurant, where you can indulge in seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Finish off your evening with a relaxing walk around the town center, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍺Pint of beer in pub | $4-7 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction admission | $6-12 |
| 🚗Taxi or rideshare (short ride) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and good value for money
- Access to countryside and green spaces
- Friendly locals and easy town navigation
- Close to Leicester and major routes
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be changeable and wet
- Some attractions require driving to reach
- Public transport within the town can be limited
Places to Visit in Coalville
Visit one of these nice places.
Broad, open views across Leicestershire with a distinctive stone obelisk on the summit; ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Calm waters and woodland surroundings provide reflections and moody skies for landscape photography.
Historic center scenery with daily life activity; strong options for street photography and architectural detail.
Dramatic horizons, rolling hills, and deer-spotting opportunities—classic countryside photography near Newtown Linford.
Food in Coalville
Coalville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic pork pie from nearby Melton Mowbray; widely available in local shops and pubs across Leicestershire.
Must-Try!
Traditional pub fare featuring roast meat with crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and gravy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh produce, meat, bakery items, and occasional street food stalls.
Short trips to Leicester, Loughborough, and other towns offer varied street food scenes, from curries to kebabs and international snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British norms of orderly queuing and respecting personal space; wait your turn in lines and at public transport.
A simple hello or please/thank you goes a long way; keep conversations courteous and avoid loud behavior in residential areas late at night.
Be mindful of pub closing times and quiet hours; modest dress and behavior in more traditional venues are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Coalville
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and casual eateries, tipping is discretionary; rounding up is common. In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included.
Cash is accepted in many places, but card and contactless payments are widely used. Mobile payments are increasingly common, and some venues may add a service charge for larger groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with plenty of sunshine and milder evenings; occasional showers. Best for outdoor walks, hill climbs, and sunset photography.
Amber and gold foliage along forests and parkland; misty mornings create atmospheric photos and cooler daytime hikes.
Colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours; great for cozy pub evenings and crisp, stark landscape photos after a dusting of frost.
Wildflowers and fresh greenery emerge; ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and early riser photography.
Coalville at Night
Hiking in Coalville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular loop around Beacon Hill with varied terrain and scenic viewpoints; suitable for most ability levels.
Waterfront and woodland circuit offering peaceful landscapes and good photo opportunities.
Expansive hills and open heathland near Newtown Linford, with deer and long-distance views.
Airports
How to reach Coalville by plane.
Approximately 25-30 miles east; accessible by road or rail via nearby towns, with a range of domestic and European flights.
About 70-90 miles southwest; provides a wide selection of international flights and good rail connections via the Midlands network.
Roughly 90-110 miles north; a major mix of domestic and international flights accessible by road and rail with longer transfer times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and newcomers; family-friendly housing and schools in surrounding areas.
Many commute to nearby Leicester or Nottingham; attracted by affordable living and access to countryside.
A steady presence in the town with active community groups and local clubs.
Proximity to colleges and universities in the region supports a student population and continuous learning.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed with local clubs and community pitches; matches and fan culture common in pubs and stadiums across the region.
Summer sport with local clubs and ground facilities; often played in parks and village greens.
Rugby union is enjoyed in nearby towns and community clubs; fixtures and training sessions are common in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coalville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafés; look for meat-free mains, veggie burgers, curries, and seasonal salads. Many places can adapt dishes—ask for vegetarian versions or lighter options if needed.