Discover Melton Mowbray | A Visitor's Introduction to Melton Mowbray

Why is Melton Mowbray Worth a Visit?

Melton Mowbray is worth visiting for its rich food heritage, charming character, and longstanding reputation as the "Rural Capital of Food." Few towns in the UK can claim such a strong culinary identity, and the town celebrates its specialities proudly with festivals, guided food tours, and artisan producers throughout the year.

Beyond its gastronomic appeal, Melton Mowbray is a historic market town with centuries-old buildings, a grand church, and strong ties to fox hunting and rural traditions. It’s a place where old and new coexist comfortably — where you can stroll through medieval streets, visit independent shops, and enjoy some of the best local produce in the country. Whether you’re coming for the pies, the market, or a relaxed wander, Melton Mowbray delivers a hearty and memorable experience.

Melton Mowbray Highlights: Things to See and Do in Melton Mowbray

Melton Mowbray Market

Held twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, Melton Mowbray’s market is one of the largest and most diverse in the region. It's been in operation since the 11th century and remains the town’s beating heart. Alongside fresh produce, crafts, and antiques, the Cattle Market is a unique experience, showcasing livestock sales and rural traditions that have stood the test of time. There's also a Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays, ideal for sampling cheeses, meats, and local chutneys.

Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe

No visit to Melton Mowbray would be complete without sampling its most iconic delicacy — the traditional hand-raised pork pie. Visit Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, home of Dickinson & Morris, where you can see how these famous pies are made and, of course, taste one fresh from the oven. The shop itself is housed in a Grade II listed building and doubles as a small museum of local baking history.

St Mary’s Church

Dominating the town centre is the impressive St Mary’s Church, one of the finest parish churches in the Midlands. With parts dating back to the 13th century, the church boasts a stunning blend of architectural styles, including Perpendicular Gothic and Norman elements. Its soaring tower, intricate stonework, and peaceful interior make it a worthwhile stop for history and architecture lovers.

Melton Carnegie Museum

Set within a historic Carnegie library building, this museum tells the story of Melton Mowbray and the surrounding area. It’s a treasure trove of local history, covering topics like rural life, cheese and pork pie production, and the town’s links to fox hunting. It’s family-friendly, interactive, and free to enter — ideal for a rainy day or anyone curious about the town’s past.

Twinlakes Park

For families, Twinlakes Park just outside the town is a major attraction. This theme park and farm park hybrid features rollercoasters, water slides, animal encounters, and indoor play areas, making it great for children of all ages. With seasonal events throughout the year, it’s a top pick for visitors with kids.

The Regal Cinema

This beautifully restored 1930s cinema is a real gem. Independently run, The Regal blends Art Deco charm with a modern cinema experience, screening both new releases and classic films. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and its bar and café make it a cosy spot even if you're not catching a film.

Melton Country Park

Located just a short walk from the town centre, Melton Country Park is a peaceful green space ideal for walking, cycling, or a relaxed picnic. There’s a lovely lake, children’s play areas, and plenty of wildlife, including ducks and herons. It’s a refreshing contrast to the busy market days and a good spot for a breather.

Brooksby Hall

Just outside Melton, Brooksby Hall is a stunning 16th-century manor house set in picturesque parkland. While it functions as a conference and wedding venue today, the surrounding grounds and gardens are sometimes open for public events and seasonal tours. It’s a great glimpse into the area’s aristocratic past.

Food and Drink Festivals

Melton is home to several top-tier food festivals throughout the year. The Melton Mowbray Food Festival each October is one of the UK’s largest regional food events, with tastings, cookery demonstrations, and hundreds of stalls. The East Midlands Chilli Festival and PieFest are also annual favourites, celebrating everything from artisan chilli sauces to traditional British baking.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Melton Mowbray is centrally located in Leicestershire, around 20 miles northeast of Leicester and about the same distance from Nottingham. It’s easily accessed by car via the A607, A606, and A1. The town also has a railway station with direct services to Leicester, Peterborough, and Birmingham. From London, the journey takes about two hours with a change at Leicester.

Parking

There are several convenient car parks around the town, including St Mary’s Way, Wilton Road, and Scalford Road. These are pay-and-display, but generally inexpensive and close to the main attractions. On market days, parking can be in higher demand, so arriving early is a good idea.

Dining

Melton Mowbray offers an excellent range of dining options that showcase the best of local produce. The Cutting Room is a relaxed bistro-style venue great for brunch or dinner, while Amici offers delicious Italian cuisine in a cosy setting. For traditional pub fare, The Anne of Cleves, housed in a 14th-century timber-framed building once owned by Henry VIII, is a must-visit — history and hearty meals combined. Don’t miss the chance to try local Stilton or a warm pork pie from the market with English mustard.

Shopping

As a traditional market town, Melton has a wide range of independent shops and specialist food retailers. Visit The Melton Cheeseboard for local cheeses, Dickinson & Morris for pies, and More Coffee Co. for locally roasted beans and gifts. The Antique and Collectors Market held regularly at the Cattle Market is a treasure trove for vintage finds.

When to Visit

Melton Mowbray is great to visit year-round, but the food festivals in spring, summer, and early autumn offer a particularly lively atmosphere. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the best days to catch the market in full swing. The Christmas season also brings a magical touch, with lights, markets, and seasonal food treats.

Local Events

In addition to the major food festivals, the town hosts the Melton Mowbray Vintage Festival, Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church, and the quirky British Pie Awards, where judges from across the country come to celebrate and crown the UK’s best pies. There are also regular rural shows, dog events, and live performances at local venues.

Exploring Beyond Melton Mowbray

Melton is ideally placed for exploring more of Leicestershire and the East Midlands. Belvoir Castle, just 20 minutes away, is a majestic stately home with incredible views, gardens, and regular events. The Vale of Belvoir offers idyllic walking and cycling routes. For more cheese heritage, the village of Colston Bassett (a Stilton PDO producer) is a short drive and a cheese lover’s delight. Also nearby are the market towns of Oakham and Uppingham, full of charm and antique shops.