Moira Furnace

The National Forest is transforming the Midlands landscape of former coal mines from black to green and Moira Furnace, in north-west Leicestershire, is a great example of fascinating industrial heritage nestled within lush woodland and parkland.  

The museum of iron making and social history brings to life a vital industry of the industrial revolution and the lives of people who worked in it. Children will love trying on traditional clothing and hunting for the museum mouse and the whole family will enjoy stepping into the post-war living room, complete with television showing examples of programmes from the era. The nearby Ashby canal was the vital transport route to and from the furnace and you can enjoy it today, appreciating a slower pace of life with a trip on the 100-year-old narrow boat, the Joseph Wilkes. 

Surrounding the museum and canal are 14 hectares of country park, rich with trees and wildlife. Open all year round, it is a great place for picnics, dog walking, woodland walks and cycling. The programme of special events throughout the year includes Easter egg hunts, craft and food fairs.  

A visit to Moira Furnace museum and country park is the perfect opportunity to learn about the site’s fascinating industrial heritage and enjoy a relaxing walk in the large country park.  In the summer do not miss the opportunity to take a ride along the Ashby Canal on the museum’s 100-year-old narrow boat, the Joseph Wilkes. From Moira Furnace it is only a short distance to Hicks Lodge and Conkers, two other fun and fascinating places to visit.  

• Baby changing facilities 
• Children’s play area 
• Conference room  
• Craft village  
• Disabled parking 
• Disabled toilets 
• Educational activities 
• Free parking for cars and coaches 
• Gift shop 
• Outdoor picnic areas 
• Tea room 
• Toilets 
• Walking trails 

• Car park open: 9am-7pm  
• Country park - open all year round 
• Museum open: 10-4pm
• Museum entry fees apply