July is a lovely time to explore Leicestershire, with agricultural shows, outdoor theatre, family activities, historic gardens and countryside festivals taking place across the county.
Whether you are planning a family day out, a summer date or a weekend with friends, here are some of the best countryside events and National Trust places to visit in Leicestershire this July.
Anything Goes at Kilworth House Theatre
Throughout July until Sunday 2nd August
Set within a secluded woodland glade in North Kilworth, Kilworth House Theatre is one of Leicestershire’s most memorable places to watch a summer performance.
This year’s main production is Cole Porter’s classic musical Anything Goes. The show promises comedy, romance and energetic musical numbers, all performed beneath the canopy of Kilworth’s open-air theatre. Pre-theatre dining can also be booked for anyone looking to turn the evening into a special occasion.
Best for: Couples, groups of friends, musical theatre fans and anyone planning a special summer evening.
The Great Rempstone Steam and Country Show
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July
The Great Rempstone Steam and Country Show returns to Turn Post Farm near Wymeswold for a full weekend celebrating traditional rural and industrial heritage.
Visitors can expect traction engines, vintage vehicles, agricultural machinery, demonstrations and displays. The show runs from 10am until 5pm on both days.
Best for: Families, farming enthusiasts, vintage vehicle fans and grandparents looking for a traditional country day out.
Ashby Show
Sunday 12th July
Held at Cattows Farm in Heather, Ashby Show is one of the leading one-day agricultural events in the Midlands.
The show combines traditional farming displays with livestock classes, countryside attractions, rural businesses, trade stands and family entertainment. The showground is open from 8.30am, giving visitors plenty of time to explore.
Best for: Families, couples, farmers, countryside enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys supporting rural and independent businesses.
Summer of Play at Stoneywell
On selected days from Friday 10th July
Stoneywell is a National Trust Arts and Crafts cottage tucked away in the woodland of Charnwood Forest.
During its Summer of Play, the garden and woodland become a natural playground with outdoor activities, woodland adventures and space for children to explore. Normal admission applies, but the activities themselves are included. Visitors should check Stoneywell’s opening dates before travelling.
Best for: Families with children, National Trust members and anyone who prefers a peaceful countryside day out.
Heritage Crafts Day at the 1620s House and Garden
Saturday 18th July
The 1620s House and Garden in Donington le Heath will be celebrating traditional skills with demonstrations presented by its volunteers.
Visitors can learn more about the crafts and techniques that would once have formed part of everyday life in a 17th-century household. The event runs from 10.30am until 4.30pm.
Best for: Couples, families with older children, history enthusiasts and anyone interested in traditional crafts.
Wild Weather Hunt at the 1620s House and Garden
Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th July and Thursday 30th to Friday 31st July
Younger visitors can explore the historic house and gardens while searching for ten different weather patterns that have been hidden around the site.
It offers children something interactive to complete while adults discover the furnished house and its recreated 17th-century gardens. The hunt runs from 10.30am until 4.30pm on the listed dates.
Best for: Families with younger children and anyone looking for a relaxed daytime activity.
Plant Hunter’s Fair
Sunday 26th July
Specialist plant nurseries will gather at the 1620s House and Garden for one of the venue’s most popular annual events.
Visitors can browse a varied selection of plants while also exploring the historic house and its carefully recreated gardens. The fair runs from 10am until 4pm.
Best for: Couples, keen gardeners, homeowners and anyone looking for a peaceful Sunday outing.
Pinocchio Outdoor Theatre
Friday 31st July
July ends with an outdoor production of Pinocchio in the grounds of the 1620s House and Garden.
Presented by Illyria, the musical show brings the classic coming-of-age story to life in a historic outdoor setting. The performance runs from 6pm until 8pm, making it a lovely way to spend a summer evening.
Best for: Families, couples who enjoy outdoor theatre and anyone looking for something different to do on a Friday evening.
Visit Staunton Harold Church
For a quieter National Trust visit, Staunton Harold Church can be found near Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
Built in 1653, the church overlooks the lake and surrounding hills of north-west Leicestershire. Inside are historic oak box pews, local oak panelling and a striking 17th-century interior. The church only opens on selected dates, so check the National Trust opening calendar before making a special journey.
Best for: Couples, history lovers, photographers and visitors looking for a peaceful countryside afternoon.
Enjoy July in Leicestershire
From the traditional agricultural atmosphere of Ashby Show to an evening of musical theatre at Kilworth House, there are plenty of reasons to explore the Leicestershire countryside this July.
Dates, times and availability can occasionally change, so check directly with the venue or organiser before travelling.