Castle Donington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in the charming town of Castle Donington located in East Midlands, England.


Introduction to Castle Donington

Castle Donington is a picturesque market town situated in the county of Leicestershire, located in the heart of East Midlands in England. This small town, with a population of just over 7,000, has a rich history and boasts many notable landmarks and attractions that are worth exploring.

Due to its close proximity to major transport links such as East Midlands Airport, Donington Park Racing Circuit, and the M1 motorway, Castle Donington has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to nearby attractions and towns. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the town’s must-visit places and offer some tips to help you make the most of your visit to this charming English town.

List of Places to Visit in Castle Donington

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, there is always something to see and do in Castle Donington. Here are the must-visit places that you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Edward’s Church: This medieval church dates back to the 12th century and is located in the heart of the town. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a top attraction for visitors.

  • Donington Grand Prix Collection: This museum houses a collection of over 130 exhibits showcasing race cars and motorsport history from the 1900s to the present day. It is a must-visit place for any Formula One fan.

  • Donington Castle: Although mostly ruined, the remains of this Norman castle hold a lot of historical interest for visitors.

Natural Attractions of Castle Donington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Donington Park: This motor racing circuit hosts national and international events throughout the year. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the park offers plenty of green spaces for picnics and walks.

  • Castle Donington Conservation Area: This idyllic area boasts a network of footpaths and walks for outdoor enthusiasts. There are also several ponds to spot some wildlife and fauna.

  • Breedon Hill: This hill offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside as well as historical interests like the ancient quarry and Iron Age fort.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Castle Donington

For those who enjoy spending time in nature, there are several hiking and biking routes to explore in Castle Donington. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The East Midlands Gateway Walking and Cycle Route: This route connects Castle Donington with East Midlands Airport and offers some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The Donington Trail: This 7.5 miles trail goes through the town and nearby rural areas, and provides some lovely views of the local countryside.

  • Breedon Hill Walk: This hill’s summit can be reached via several paths and offers fabulous views of the town, church and surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Castle Donington: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do, here are some of the best activities and tours that you can indulge in whilst in Castle Donington:

  • Donington Park Racing Circuit Tour: This tour takes you behind the scenes, where you can see the race circuit and pit lane facilities. You’d also get to experience the winners’ podium at the end.

  • The Donington Grand Prix Collection Museum Tour: This guided tour includes an insight into the museums collection and the exhibits, leaving no stone unturned.

  • Boat Trips on the River Trent: Are you in for a scenic boat tour? You can explore the beautiful Trent River by boat during spring, summer, and autumn.

Week-Long Itinerary for Castle Donington

If you plan to spend a week in Castle Donington and its surrounding areas, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1 - Arrive in Castle Donington and check in at your accommodation. Take an evening stroll through the town and its charming streets.
Day 2 - Explore the Donington Grand Prix Collection Museum after breakfast, visit St. Edward’s Church, and have lunch at a local café. Go for a walk in the Castle Donington Conservation Area in the evening.
Day 3 - Enjoy some outdoor adventure at Donington Park. You can choose between the racing circuit tour or the driving experiences. Bask in the vast green spaces on offer here before returning to your accommodation.
Day 4 - Rent a bike and ride the Donington Trail. Steps Cafe and Marco’s New York Italian are both excellent options for lunch in town!
Day 5 - Explore the beautiful Breedon Hill. Don’t forget your camera as you take a scenic walk and soak in the magnificent views of the town and countryside. Return to the town and take a stroll around the vibrant town markets.
Day 6 - Head to the Trent River and enjoy a boat tour of the beautiful River Trent. End your day with some fine dining experiences at Marco Pierre White’s and head back to your accommodation.
Day 7 - Visit the ancient castle ruins of Donington Castle to finish off your week on a high.

Food and Drink Scene of Castle Donington

Castle Donington has a rich food culture that encompasses everything from traditional English pubs to fine dining restaurants. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stilton Cheese: Originating from Leicestershire, the world-famous Stilton cheese is a must-try dish in Castle Donington.

  • Melton Mowbray Pork Pie: This deliciously baked pork and pastry dish hails from Leicestershire, and it’s a must-try local delicacy.

  • Game Pie: This locally sourced dish is a popular option for food enthusiasts.

Local Beverages

  • Burton Ale: A highly carbonated, dark brown ale with a strong hoppy taste, originating from Burton upon Trent.

  • Charnwood Brewery: A local ale brewery that offers some great-tasting beers like Salvation, American Pale Ale and Vixen.

Where to Stay in Castle Donington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Castle Donington has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are some of the best options:

  • Donington Manor Hotel: A four-star hotel with impressive grounds and beautiful rooms for a comfortable stay.

  • Holiday Inn Express East Midlands Airport: A budget-friendly hotel located just a few minutes from the East Midlands Airport.

  • The Queens Head Hotel: A traditional British Inn situated in the heart of Castle Donington with 13 comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Castle Donington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, Castle Donington has an array of locally made products that make excellent gifts:

  • Stilton cheese: You can purchase this world-renowned cheese in Castle Donington’s local markets.

  • Handmade crafts: You can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs from the monthly farmers’ markets and craft fairs.

  • Local ale and beer: Take home a bottle (or two!) of Burton Ale or Charnwood Brewery’s award-winning beers.

Local Culture and Customs of Castle Donington

Being a small town, Castle Donington has a well-knit community where people are friendly and welcoming. Visitors are expected to show respect for the town’s history and culture, such as refraining from littering in public places and adhering to local customs in places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Castle Donington

The best time to visit Castle Donington is during the spring and summer months, between April and September, where you can enjoy outdoor activities and the countryside’s lush greenery. The weather tends to be milder, and it’s the perfect time to explore the town’s diverse attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Castle Donington

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do during your visit to Castle Donington:

Do:

  • Take a stroll through the town’s historic streets and enjoy its beautiful architecture.

  • Try some of the local delicacies like Stilton cheese and Melton Mowbray pork pie.

  • Take some walks in the beautiful countryside and enjoy nature.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places like parks and riversides.

  • Ignore public etiquettes and customs in places of worship.

  • Disturb the peace and tranquillity of the town.

Safety and Health

Here’s a brief overview of safety and health in Castle Donington:

Safety in Castle Donington

Castle Donington is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended in public spaces like parks and markets.

Health in Castle Donington

Castle Donington has a couple of medical practices, including Castle Donington Surgery and The Castle Donington Medical Centre, for your medical needs, including first aid services.

Getting to Castle Donington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Castle Donington is easily accessible by several modes of transport. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Castle Donington

  • East Midlands Airport: Located about 5 kilometres from the town centre, East Midlands Airport is the closest airport to Castle Donington.

  • Birmingham Airport: Located roughly 52 miles away, it’s around a 50-minute drive to Castle Donington from Birmingham airport.

Bus Stations Near Castle Donington

Castle Donington is well-connected to regional and national bus services, with regular services from companies like Stagecoach and Skylink Express.

Other Options

You can also hire a rental car or take a taxi from nearby towns and cities like Leicester or Derby to reach Castle Donington.

How to Get Around in Castle Donington

Castle Donington is a small town that can be covered on foot in a day. Bikes are also available for hire from places like Donington Roof Box Hire.

Where to Go Next from Castle Donington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve enjoyed your stay in Castle Donington, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you may want to explore:

  • Nottingham: Explore the history and legend of Robin Hood in this vibrant city located just 22 miles away from Castle Donington.

  • Derby: A vibrant city, with a rich heritage and architecture located just 14 miles from Castle Donington.

  • Melbourne: A small market town, with beautiful local parks and historic architecture located just six miles southeast of Castle Donington.

Conclusion

Castle Donington is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat to explore the English countryside’s natural beauty and history. This comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to make the most of your visit, from must-visit places to the food and drinks scene, and transportation options. With its array of attractions and surrounding destinations, Castle Donington is the perfect place for a memorable getaway. We hope you enjoy your stay!