Anstey Royale Chalfont		Everards Brewery Anstey Morrismen

Situated four miles North West of Leicester, Bradgate Park is an ancient deer park that was give to the people of Leicestershire by Charles Bennion for their "quiet recreation" (however the rutting of stags, the wheezing of Melodeons and the jingling of Morris bells can all put an end to that!).

Extending over some 850 acres, Bradgate is a beautiful area of rolling bracken-covered hills, walled spinneys and small craggy outcrops of slate and granite. Over the Millenia the River Lin has carved it's way through these rocks. It now forms the main feeder into Cropston Reservoir, an important source of local drinking water.

The Park contains the ruins of Bradgate House, where the Lady Jane Grey, Queen of England for 9 days in 1553 lived for most of her life. There are many ancient hollow Oak trees within the Park, reputedly topped after her execution. The area also abounds with wildlife. If you get bored with the dancing or simply fancy exploring there is plenty to see.

On top of the Park's highest hill is the distinctive beer-mug shaped folly of Old John. Nearby is the War Memorial and below that the sloping crags of slatey rock contain the fossil Charniodiscus. At 600 million years old they even make some Morris Dancers appear young! There is a tea shop and a pub close at hand and the older parts of Newtown Linford, a short stroll from the park, are also worth a visit.

Bradgate Park is one of Leicestershire's most popular visitor centres, particularly on a Sunday. We should therefore be able to attract a reasonable audience. We think it is the ideal place to round off our weekend of dance.