The Magical World Of Foxton Locks

There is a hidden gem deep in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, full of history, beauty and excitement. This gem is Foxton Locks. One of my all time favourite places to visit, the magical world of Foxton Locks has simply never worn off! Situated a few miles away from the historic town of Market Harborough, this gem is well and truly worth a visit.

I visit at least once or twice a month, as it is open all year round. It's the perfect location to take my Labrador, Lola. With the stunning canal side walks along the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal, and Foxton Locks itself is an extremely dog friendly location, with plenty of dog bowls full of fresh water for any thirsty pooch. Just keep your fur baby on its lead for its own safety by the Locks.

Beautiful Leicestershire

Lola and I walk to Foxton Locks along the canal footpath from our village around three miles away, approximately an hour walk. There are two pay and display car parks, which are free after five PM. But to enter Foxton Locks itself is free! Yes, free!

There you will find the Foxton Canal Museum, small fee to enter, but well worth it! It is fascinating to learn the history of the locks and about the lives of the canal workers. If you love history you'll be like a kid in a candy store!

I always go in the Canal Side Shop, it's mandatory Lola and I get a flapjack each! Or, if there are none in stock, we opt for a muffin each! Which we then eat overlooking the canal. The shop is a lovely little shop of gifts, souvenirs, food and drinks. Cosy and pleasant.

There are two pubs–so fear not, you shall have a drink! The Foxton Locks Inn and Bridge 61, both dog friendly. My personal favourite is the Foxton Locks Inn, which has a fantastic menu of food. I love eating in their beer garden overlooking the canal; just perfection.

Heritage Site

Hugely popular for walkers, the footpaths are all clearly sign posted. It's like stepping back in time, not much has changed over the centuries. The peace, beauty, and stillness of the Leicestershire countryside fills my heart, and soul, with joy. Such a relaxing area.

Building work began on the locks in 1810. The locks are Grade II Listed. The sight of them really is breathtaking. This famous flight of ten locks is the largest flight staircase on the English Canal system, and is recognized as one of the most important heritage sites in Europe. Staircase locks are used where a canal needs to climb a steep hill, which transports the boats up and down.

The view from the Top lock is stunning, and it's always a joy to see the barges traveling up or down the staircase of ten locks, which takes around 45 minutes to complete. Those locks do get busy during the Summer months, they are manned from Easter to October. At the top lock is the Top Lock Coffee Shop, I fully recommend their coffee! So why not grab a coffee and a bite to eat, and watch in amazement as the barges travel the staircase.

Historical Bliss

Just to wander around Foxton Locks is fun, taking it all in. The relaxing atmosphere, friendly faces. Most people there are on their holidays, so soak up that holiday vibe. It's fully worthy of the Top Tourist Attraction label, a place like no other. Unique, unchanged, popular, something for all age groups.

You can even enjoy a boat trip along the canal. Or if you're in a walking mood check out the local village of Foxton. Such a pretty, picture postcard English village. Don't worry, you'll find a pub there too!

To fully make the most of your visit to Foxton Locks download the Foxton Discovery App.