Sunday 29 September 2013

Sunday in the park with the family

Leicester has a reputation for being an unappealing, concrete city. As all cities this can't help but be true in part but thankfully there is so much more to see and to enjoy here.
The city's parks are magnificent and as Max and I live in one of the older city areas, Clarendon Park, we have a natural expanse of parkland right on our doorstep, a leafy barrier that separates us from the city itself.
But when we feel the need to get in touch with our wilder side, then Leicester is exceptionally well provided.
Bradgate Park is located north of the city. Part of Charnwood Forest, Bradgate was once a medieval deer park. The unfortunate Lady Jane Grey lived her early life here and much later when the Grey family bequeathed Bradgate to be enjoyed by the people of Leicester, it was here that David Attenborough failed to find fossils. It's also where Max and I come to unwind.
When the family comes around a park is an obvious place to visit; whatever the weather and whatever the season the park always has something to offer. And as you can see, we're not the only ones to love it :-)

Lizzy enjoys a last burst of summer sunshine in Bradgate Park.