Conkers, miners and a gunpowder plotter
You might have guessed from the name that Coalville is a former mining town. While the former collieries have long since gone, you still get a sense of the town's industrial past here, with its miners' cottages and monuments. Situated between Leicester and Ashby de la Zouch, Coalville is just 4 miles from the M1 and a 15-minute drive from East Midlands Airport.
Travel back to a 1620s house and garden
Donington le Heath Manor House Museum is a fine example of a family home built around 700 years ago that was updated in the 1620s. It was once owned by Sir Everard Digby, who was involved in the infamous Gunpowder Plot. Step back in time to see how people lived back then, and wander round the 17th-century-style gardens, complete with herb plot and maze.
Explore the National Forest
Coalville lies in the vast National Forest that covers much of central England. Within it are discovery centres, stately homes, cycling routes and wildlife havens, so you're certainly not short of things to do here. Conkers is a fabulous mix of indoor and outdoor fun, with activity trails, interactive exhibits, rope adventure courses and a new 4D cinema experience. Around Coalville, the Grange Walk links historic houses, former coal mines and new woodlands. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Coalville? Both Travelodge Leicester Markfield and Travelodge Nottingham EM Airport hotels are conveniently placed just off the M1.