Bradgate Park Dog Walk: Deer Park, Old John Folly and the River Lin
Newtown Linford, Leicestershire
One of the oldest enclosed deer parks in England, Bradgate was established in the 13th century and the landscape has barely changed since. The path from the Newtown Linford gate follows the River Lin through the valley floor, where dogs can wade into the shallow stony banks at several points along the way, before climbing through rough heathland and exposed granite outcrops toward Old John, an 18th-century stone tower on the park’s highest ridge with views stretching across the Charnwood Forest. The ruined walls of Bradgate House, home of Lady Jane Grey, stand in the valley below. Dogs are off lead across around three-quarters of the park, including the full upper section and the climb to Old John, but the strip between the River Lin and the Middle Wall is on-lead at all times. The 550 red and fallow deer that roam the estate are the reason: a single chase incident is a serious enforcement matter under a Public Space Protection Order. The park cafe at the Newtown Linford entrance takes dogs outside with water bowls. On summer weekends the car park fills before 10am.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs be off lead at Bradgate Park?
Yes, across approximately three-quarters of the park. Dogs are permitted off lead in the upper park provided they are under effective control - in sight at all times and returning immediately when called. The lower section between the River Lin and the Middle Wall requires dogs on leads at all times. This zone is clearly signed on the ground. A Public Space Protection Order is in force; fines of up to £100 apply for non-compliance.
Are there deer at Bradgate Park - is it safe to take my dog?
Yes, approximately 550 red and fallow deer roam Bradgate Park year-round. The Bradgate Park Trust states clearly that any deer chase is potentially fatal to the deer and can result in prosecution under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act. Dogs must be under reliable recall at all times in the upper park where the herd is present. During the autumn deer rut (October-November) stags become unpredictable and aggressive; keep dogs on lead or at immediate recall when the herd is visible. Dogs without solid recall should remain on lead throughout the visit.
How much does parking cost at Bradgate Park?
Parking at the Newtown Linford car park (LE6 0HB) costs £4 for up to 3 hours on weekdays and £5 on weekends; full day £5 weekday, £6 weekend. An early bird rate of £1 (weekday) or £2 (weekend) applies if you arrive before 9am. The car park uses an ANPR cashless system - there are no pay machines; register your number plate on arrival via mobile. The Hunt’s Hill car park (LE6 0AH) carries the same tariff and is closer to Old John with slightly less congestion.
What is Old John at Bradgate Park?
Old John is an 18th-century stone folly tower on the highest ridge of Bradgate Park, at approximately 220 metres above sea level. The views from the top take in Charnwood Forest in most directions and, on clear days, extend towards Shropshire. The tower is one of Leicestershire’s most photographed landmarks and is the natural destination for the standard Bradgate Park circular walk from Newtown Linford. The climb to Old John from the valley involves a steady rocky ascent over granite outcrops; most dogs handle it comfortably.
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