Hungarton

Three small woodlands wrap around this quiet Leicestershire village like protective arms. Watson's Spinney, Hungarton Spinneys and Diamond Spinney create a lovely green buffer between the settlement and the surrounding farmland, making this feel more secluded than many villages this close to Leicester.

Hungarton sits in proper countryside, about eight miles east of Leicester. The village itself is small and unassuming - a handful of cottages, a church, and little else. But that's rather the point. This is where you come to escape, not to tick off tourist attractions.

Walking is the main draw here. The three spinneys offer gentle woodland rambles, while the footpaths threading between them connect to the wider network crossing the Leicestershire countryside. You're looking at rolling fields, mature hedgerows, and the kind of peaceful landscape that makes you wonder why you don't do this more often.

A short drive brings you to more substantial attractions. Scraptoft Golf Club lies nearby if you fancy a round, while Leicester's museums, restaurants and shops are easily reached for rainy day alternatives. The A47 provides straightforward access from most directions.

Staying at one of the local holiday parks makes perfect sense for exploring this corner of Leicestershire. Village Farm Getaway sits right in Hungarton itself, while several other sites like Fox's Furrow and Emily's Cut Camping are scattered around the immediate area. You get the countryside peace you came for, plus easy access to Leicester when you want a bit more action. Eye Kettleby Lakes, a bit further out, offers lakeside pitches if you prefer water views with your morning coffee.