Market Harborough Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Market Harborough, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety, health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Market Harborough

Market Harborough is a picturesque market town located in the county of Leicestershire, in the East Midlands region of England. This charming town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the rolling hills of the Welland Valley and the Grand Union Canal. With its historic buildings, quaint shops, and bustling markets, Market Harborough is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates traditional English charm.

List of Places to Visit in Market Harborough

If you’re wondering what to do in Market Harborough, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the must-visit places in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Harborough Museum: This museum showcases the history of Market Harborough and the surrounding area, with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era.
  • Old Grammar School: This historic building was established in 1614 and now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the school and the town.
  • Rockingham Castle: This stunning castle is located just outside of Market Harborough and dates back to the 11th century. It boasts impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.

Natural Attractions of Market Harborough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Foxton Locks: This impressive flight of locks is located on the Grand Union Canal, and is a popular spot for boating, walking, and picnicking.
  • Welland Park: This 20-acre park is located in the heart of Market Harborough and features beautiful gardens, a lake, and a playground.
  • The Brampton Valley Way: This former railway line has been converted into a beautiful walking and cycling trail that stretches for 14 miles through the countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Market Harborough

Market Harborough is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes in the area:

  • The Welland Viaduct Trail: This route takes you along the Welland Valley and over the famous Welland Viaduct. It’s a challenging hike, but the views are well worth the effort.
  • The Jurassic Way: This 88-mile trail runs through Market Harborough and takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the Northamptonshire countryside.
  • The Brampton Valley Way: As mentioned, this former railway line is now a popular walking and cycling trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Market Harborough: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in Market Harborough. Here are some of the best activities and tours in the area:

  • The Harborough Theatre: This charming theatre is located in the heart of Market Harborough and hosts a variety of shows, from plays and musicals to comedy acts and concerts.
  • The Harborough Leisure Centre: This modern facility offers a range of activities, including swimming, fitness classes, and indoor sports.
  • The Food Trail: Market Harborough is known for its excellent food and drink scene, and the Food Trail is a self-guided tour that takes you to some of the best restaurants, cafes, and specialty food shops in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Market Harborough

If you’re planning to stay in Market Harborough for a week, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit Harborough Museum and the Old Grammar School
2 Explore Foxton Locks and the surrounding countryside
3 Take a day trip to Rockingham Castle
4 Hike the Welland Viaduct Trail
5 Take a leisurely stroll through Welland Park and the town center
6 Cycle the Brampton Valley Way
7 Go on a food tour of Market Harborough’s best restaurants and specialty shops

Food and Drink Scene of Market Harborough

Market Harborough has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of excellent restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops to choose from. Here are some of the highlights:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Melton Mowbray Pork Pie: This famous pork pie is a local specialty, and is made with seasoned pork and a flaky pastry crust.
  • Stilton Cheese: Produced in the nearby town of Melton Mowbray, Stilton cheese is a delicious and iconic British cheese.
  • Bakewell Tart: This sweet tart is made with a almond filling and sometimes has a layer of jam on top.

Local Beverages

  • Everards Tiger: This locally brewed beer is a must-try for beer enthusiasts, with its rich, malty flavor and balanced hops.
  • Rutland Water Wine: This award-winning winery is located just a short drive from Market Harborough, and produces a range of delicious wines using grapes grown in their own vineyard.
  • Burroughs Bitter: This locally-brewed ale is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts, and is known for its deep, earthy flavor.

Where to Stay in Market Harborough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Market Harborough offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top-rated options:

  • The Angel Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Market Harborough and offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Travelodge Market Harborough Hotel: This modern hotel is located just outside of the town center and offers affordable, comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  • The Three Swans Hotel: This charming hotel dates back to the 16th century and offers beautifully appointed rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

What to Buy in Market Harborough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Market Harborough is known for its excellent shopping scene, with plenty of unique boutiques, specialty shops, and markets to explore. Here are some of the best places to find souvenirs and local products:

  • Harborough Indoor Market: This bustling market offers a wide range of products, from fresh produce and baked goods to clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
  • The Oat Hill Market: This outdoor market takes place on Tuesdays and offers a range of products, from fresh flowers and plants to clothing and accessories.
  • The Little Birdie Gallery: This charming boutique offers locally-made gifts, crafts, and artwork, including jewelry, pottery, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Market Harborough

Market Harborough has a rich cultural heritage that is still celebrated today. The town is known for its traditional events and festivals, including the Harborough Carnival, the Foxton Locks Festival, and the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. Visitors are encouraged to participate in these events and experience the town’s unique traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Market Harborough

Market Harborough is a year-round destination, with something to see and do in every season. However, the most popular time to visit is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny and the town is bustling with activity. Fall (September-November) is also a great time to visit, with the stunning colors of the countryside foliage creating a beautiful backdrop for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Market Harborough

As with any destination, there are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Market Harborough:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, including pork pies, Stilton cheese, and locally-brewed beer and ale.
  • Explore the beautiful countryside and take advantage of the excellent hiking and biking trails.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and participate in local events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the local environment in any way.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions, or behave in a way that is culturally insensitive.
  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.

Safety and Health

Market Harborough is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates and friendly, welcoming locals. However, visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys and unfamiliar areas at night, and locking their valuables in a safe place. In terms of health, visitors should ensure that they have up-to-date vaccinations and travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Market Harborough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Market Harborough is easily accessible by a range of transportation options. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Market Harborough:

Airports Near Market Harborough

  • East Midlands Airport (EMA): This is the closest major airport to Market Harborough, located about 32 miles away.
  • Birmingham Airport (BHX): This airport is located about 46 miles away from Market Harborough.

Bus Stations Near Market Harborough

  • Market Harborough Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Market Harborough, offering regular services to nearby towns and cities.
  • Leicester Bus Station: This station is located about 16 miles away from Market Harborough, and offers services to a wider range of destinations.

Other Options

  • Train: Market Harborough has a train station with regular services to London and other major cities.
  • Car: Market Harborough is located just off the A6 and A14, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Market Harborough

Market Harborough is a compact town that is easy to navigate on foot. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding countryside may want to consider renting a car or bicycle. There are also bus services that run throughout the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Market Harborough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Market Harborough is located in a beautiful part of England, with plenty of nearby destinations and attractions to explore. Here are some of the top-rated nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Rutland Water: This beautiful reservoir is located just a short drive from Market Harborough and offers a range of activities, including sailing, fishing, and bird watching.
  • Leicester: This vibrant city is located about 16 miles away from Market Harborough and offers a range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.
  • The Peak District: This stunning national park is located about 60 miles away from Market Harborough and offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the UK.

Conclusion

Market Harborough is a charming market town with plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the beautiful countryside, sample some delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and unwind, Market Harborough is the perfect destination. Plan your trip today and experience the best that this wonderful town has to offer!