The historic ruins of Bradgate House are set to reopen to the public this week, offering visitors a chance to explore the site and witness ongoing restoration efforts.
The site will welcome visitors again from Wednesday, 1 April, with opening hours between 11am and 3pm. The reopening marks another milestone in a long-term project aimed at conserving and preserving one of Leicestershire’s most significant historic landmarks.
Picture credit: Bradgate Park Trust
Visitors will be able to see first-hand the progress made so far, including extensive structural repairs using more than 7,000 handmade bricks. The conservation work has focused on stabilising the fragile remains of the house while maintaining its historic character.
One of the most visible developments is the removal of scaffolding from two of the towers. This has revealed a distinctive patchwork of new and old brickwork – a feature conservationists say will gradually blend over time as the materials weather naturally.
Work has also begun on restoring the formal garden walls, signalling the next phase of the project.
Despite the progress, conservation efforts are still ongoing, and some areas of the site will continue to be carefully managed. However, officials have confirmed that the ruins will remain accessible during this period.
Project leaders have thanked the public for their patience and continued support, describing the restoration as an “incredible project” aimed at safeguarding the site for future generations.
The reopening offers a rare opportunity for visitors to experience both the history of Bradgate House and the craftsmanship involved in its preservation.
The house is believed to have been the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, the nine-day queen, whose rule was cut short after she was overthrown by Mary I. Lady Grey and her father were executed in 1554, and the estate passed to the Crown.
