The Top Things To Do In Loughborough | Student Guide
Loughborough is a quaint town in the East Midlands famous for having the world’s largest bell foundry, being home to the number 1 university in the world for sport-related subjects as well as for its convenient location offering great transport links across the country.
For those who want to make the most of all that Loughborough has to offer, we’re here to help you out with the list of all the top things to do.
Whether you’re heading to your new university destination come September, or a current student wanting to make new memories, there’s activities in this town to suit everyone!
1. Walk Around Queens Park
Queens Park is a historic and picturesque greenspace in the heart of Loughborough.
Covering four hectares, it’s the perfect place to put a spring in your step and take your mind off things, make the most of wonderful views or even enjoy a picnic with your friends.
Whilst you’re there, you can also stop off at Queen’s Park Cafe, their seasonal menu offers an array of hot and cold food and drinks.
During the summertime, there’s even bandstand concerts which take place so you can listen to some live music and relish in the sunshine.
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Address: 54 Frederick St, Loughborough LE11 3BJ
2. Visit Charnwood Museum
Loughborough is crammed with unmissable things to do, and for those wanting to learn more about its history and culture, Charnwood Museum is your best bet.
Housed in an old Victorian swimming baths inside Queens Park, this local history museum displays an array of different exhibits on the history, geology, archaeology and industries of Charnwood.
Due to its small size, the museum takes around an hour to visit, but it’s free entry so it’s absolutely worth visiting whilst studying here!
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Address: Granby St, Loughborough LE11 3DU
3. Explore Loughborough Markets
Boasting an award winning status, the Loughborough Markets have taken place in the heart of the town centre for over 800 years.
Today, there are around 40 stalls each offering something different from antiques to books to clothing to fresh produce to household goods, you really never know what you’re going to find.
This bustling retail market takes place every Thursday and Sunday, and on Friday’s there’s a Vintage Market, so you can take a stroll around with your friends to see what’s on offer.
You may find something nice to purchase and you’ll be supporting the town’s local traders whilst doing so!
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Address: Market Pl, Loughborough LE11 3EB
4. Discover Beacon Hill Country Park
If you’re living in Loughborough and love nature, we urge you to take a trip to Beacon Hill Country Park.
Rising to a height of 800 feet, Beacon Hill is the second highest point in Leicestershire offering panoramic views across the county.
This area of natural beauty is also home to wildlife like grazing sheep, cattle and alpaca, and is a must-visit no matter if it’s rain or shine.
Offering a breath of fresh air, you can escape to the countryside and take your mind off studying for a few hours.
There’s even a cafe which serves hot drinks, cakes, pastries and more if you’re feeling peck-ish after your walk!
The park is located a short drive from the town centre, or is accessible by public transport.
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Address: Beacon Rd, Woodhouse Eaves LE12 8SP
5. Watch A Show At Loughborough Town Hall
If you like the idea of watching live music shows, art exhibitions, musicals or comedy shows, then Loughborough Town Hall is a top recommendation.
This vibrant performing arts theatre fronts onto Market Place, hosting a variety of performances and shows throughout the year to entertain everyone.
A few upcoming events for 2023 include The Shawshank Redemption, The Little Mermaid, The Phantom Of The Opera, Mania: The ABBA Tribute, and the Magic Of Motown.
We don’t know about you, but there’s definitely some shows to get excited about!
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Address: Hsbc Bank, 39-40, Market Pl, Loughborough LE11 3EB
6. Take On A Challenge At Break Escape
For those seeking out adrenaline-filled things to do in Loughborough, Break Escape is a must.
What can you expect? With multiple different escape rooms, you can get involved in a challenge by cracking codes, solving riddles and uncovering hidden puzzles, all within a 60 minute time frame.
If you’re wanting to do something fun with your friends, this venue has been voted Leicestershire’s Top Rated escape room on TripAdvisor.
So, make sure to head on down to see if you can beat the clock and break free!
They even offer a 10% student discount with a valid ID card.
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Address: 58, 59 Baxter Gate, Loughborough LE11 1TH
7. Make Memories At The Jam Garden
Situated in a funky venue on Bedford Square, The Jam Garden is the ultimate student hangout.
It’s home to arguably the best beer garden in Loughborough with plenty of seating and cute lighting, perfect for those pending summer months.
Their fantastic food menu offers artisan pizzas with a 2 for 1 deal on Monday’s, seriously tasty small plates and sharers ideal for splitting with your mates as well as delicious New York Style bagels, juicy burgers and more – it’s all so tempting!
If you’re wanting to cheer to the good times over a few tipples, they have a great selection of cocktails, beers, bubbles, liqueur coffee, wine and other drinks to choose from.
Head down between 5pm-10pm Monday to Friday to get two cocktails for £10 – there’s nowhere better to become your local pub!
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Address: Bedford Sq, Loughborough LE11 2TP
8. Whatton House Gardens
Whatton House is a private historic home with a stunning 15 acre garden which is open to the public.
This peaceful English garden within the Leicestershire countryside dates back to the 19th century and features an abundance of vibrant flowers and plants, woodland paths, ponds, statues and more to explore.
Their courtyard area also hosts events within the Spring and Summer months, where you can fill yourself up with some delicious treats, relax and unwind within the garden area, share a few drinks or enjoy the live music on offer.
It’s definitely worth keeping an eye on their socials to see what events are taking place, you won’t want to miss out!
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Address: Whatton House, Loughborough LE12 5BG
Loughborough is a diverse town offering plenty of things to do and see to keep everyone booked and busy this year.
Whether it’s heading to historical landmarks, delving into the town’s culture, exploring the vibrant greenspaces or even enjoying some food and drink at the bustling bars, you’re sure to find something here to tickle your fancy!
The good news is, when you choose to stay at our student accommodation in Loughborough, you’ll be within easy reach of all of these things to do.
If you’re a foodie wanting to discover the best food hubs, check out The Best Takeaways For Students In Loughborough.