Barrow upon Soar

What does Barrow upon Soar offer?

Nestled within the picturesque Charnwood borough of Leicestershire, Barrow upon Soar is a charming village full of character and history. With a thriving community, this delightful location offers a perfect balance between idyllic countryside living and convenient access to modern amenities. The village is steeped in history, with the beautiful 12th-century Holy Trinity Church at its heart, and is surrounded by an array of enchanting period architecture that showcases the rich heritage of the area. Barrow upon Soar boasts a wealth of amenities for residents and visitors alike, including an excellent range of shops, pubs, and eateries to suit all tastes. The village is renowned for its community spirit, hosting a variety of events and activities throughout the year, such as the popular Barrow Open Gardens and the festive Christmas lights switch-on. With its tranquil canal-side walks, the picturesque River Soar, and miles of stunning countryside to explore, Barrow upon Soar offers a delightful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its convenient location, just a stone's throw from the bustling towns of Loughborough and Leicester, ensures that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – a peaceful village setting with easy access to urban attractions.

Top attractions in Barrow upon Soar

1. St. Bartholomew's Church: This historic church features stunning architecture and is nestled in the heart of Barrow upon Soar. Visitors can explore its rich heritage, beautiful stained-glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere.

2. Barrow Boating: Experience the picturesque River Soar by renting a boat, kayak, or canoe. Barrow Boating offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the surrounding countryside, spot wildlife, and take part in a fun and relaxing outdoor activity.

3. Millennium Park: A beautiful green space located near the centre of the village, perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and family outings. The park boasts a children's play area, skate park, and well-maintained paths for walking and cycling.

4. The Great Central Railway: Just a short distance from Barrow upon Soar, this heritage railway offers steam train rides through the stunning Leicestershire countryside. Although not located directly in the village, the railway is a must-visit attraction for visitors to the area.

5. Barrow Heritage Trail: A self-guided walking tour showcasing the unique history and significant landmarks of Barrow upon Soar. The trail covers various points of interest, such as the Old School Room, the Roundhouse, and the War Memorial.

Best areas to live in Barrow upon Soar

1. High Street: A bustling area at the heart of the village, High Street is lined with charming period properties, local shops, and eateries. Living here, you'll find everything you need just a short walk away.

2. Beveridge Street: This quiet, residential street features an array of spacious family homes with beautiful gardens. Situated close to the village centre, residents can easily access local amenities and schools.

3. Cotes Road: Known for its picturesque views of the River Soar, Cotes Road offers a tranquil environment with a mix of characterful properties, including quaint cottages and modern townhouses.

4. Mill Lane: Nestled along the banks of the River Soar, Mill Lane boasts a selection of stunning riverside properties, many with private moorings. Perfect for those who enjoy living close to nature and spending time on the water.

5. Melton Road: A popular choice for families, Melton Road is home to a range of spacious, well-maintained properties that benefit from easy access to nearby schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

6. Willow Road: Situated in a peaceful residential area, Willow Road features a range of attractive bungalows and detached houses, with many homes enjoying green views of the surrounding countryside.

7. Paudy Lane: Offering a more rural setting, Paudy Lane is surrounded by picturesque countryside and farmland. Here, you'll find a mix of charming cottages and larger family homes, perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace of life.

8. Orchard Road: A family-friendly residential area, Orchard Road is home to a variety of well-presented semi-detached and detached properties, many with sizable gardens that are perfect for outdoor living.

9. The Banks: Located close to the village centre, The Banks offers a selection of terraced and semi-detached homes, providing easy access to local amenities and the beautiful Barrow Upon Soar Marina.

10. Holbourne Close: A quiet cul-de-sac, Holbourne Close is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, featuring a range of modern, spacious homes that are perfect for families and retirees alike.

Best things about living in Barrow upon Soar

1. Scenic Surroundings: Barrow upon Soar is a picturesque village situated along the River Soar, offering stunning landscapes and beautiful natural settings. Residents enjoy riverside walks, relaxing picnics, and an array of wildlife, making it the perfect location for nature lovers.

2. Rich History and Heritage: The village boasts a rich history with its 13th-century church, Holy Trinity, and Barrow's archaeological past, including the Barrow Kipper – a rare artefact dating back to the Bronze Age. This charming locale provides a fascinating journey through time for history enthusiasts.

3. Excellent Transport Links: Barrow upon Soar benefits from excellent transport links, including its own railway station, connecting residents to nearby cities of Leicester and Loughborough within minutes. The village's strategic location near the A6 offers easy access to Nottingham and Derby, making it an ideal base for work and leisure.

4. Thriving Community Life: The community spirit in Barrow upon Soar is second to none, with numerous clubs, societies, and local events for all ages. The village hosts an annual arts festival, sporting events, and various cultural activities, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for its residents.

5. Outstanding Educational Facilities: Barrow upon Soar offers exceptional educational opportunities, with highly-regarded primary and secondary schools in the area. The village is also in close proximity to renowned universities in Leicester, Loughborough, and Nottingham, providing excellent options for higher education.

Drawbacks to living in Barrow upon Soar

1. Limited amenities: Barrow upon Soar is a small village, which means that the range of facilities and services may not be as extensive as what you would find in larger towns or cities. Residents might need to travel to nearby areas such as Loughborough or Leicester for a wider selection of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

2. Limited public transport: While the village does have a train station, there aren't many bus services running through the area. This can make public transport somewhat inconvenient for residents who rely on it for their daily commute or for accessing other nearby areas.

3. Lower employment opportunities: As a small village, Barrow upon Soar may not offer as many job opportunities as larger towns or cities. Residents may need to commute to nearby areas for work, which could add to their daily travel time and costs.

4. Lack of diversity: Being a small, predominantly British village, Barrow upon Soar may not offer the same level of cultural diversity as more cosmopolitan areas. This could be a drawback for those who enjoy experiencing a wide range of cultural influences, cuisines, and traditions.

5. Potential for flooding: Barrow upon Soar is situated on the banks of the River Soar, which can be prone to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. This may result in disruption to local roads and services, as well as posing a risk to properties located near the river.

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