HOMES

Home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland and their five children, Belvoir Castle in the lush countryside of Leicestershire in the UK, is one of the most stunning examples of Regency architecture in the country. This particular castle is the fourth that has stood on the property, the first built in 1067. Past structures were destroyed by wars. The current castle was built between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. The castle has been featured in the television series, The Crown, as well as movies like The Da Vinci Code and Young Victoria. You can choose from 14 exquisitely appointed rooms at Belvoir, including the King’s rooms used by Royal Family members such as George IV, Edward VII and Queen Victoria.

Would it not be the grandest place to ring in 2025 with more than 25 family members and friends? They can all accompany you at a stay in one of the UK’s most opulent castles and be flown in via helicopter since the castle has a helipad.

While you are there enjoying all the castle itself has to offer, you might want to experience some of Leicestershire by the way of entertainment and dining. We have amassed some information to make it seamless for you to choose your itinerary:

Experiences

TeamSport Indoor Karting Leicester

Get into the spirit of the race and earn your place on the podium at TeamSport Leicester! You and your children will love this activity since you’ll be able to race against each other. With adrenaline-boosting competition guaranteed, this will be one great family day out for everyone. TeamSport Leicester welcomes drivers as young as eight years old. The kids can take on the thrilling 500-meter track in cadet karts, specially designed for children to up 12. Two levels, packed with awesome features, like bends, long straights and ramps await. Never tried karting before? Don’t worry, no experience is necessary. The friendly team will give you guidance if you need it. You’ll be in a safe and controlled environment, so you can let your hair down and enjoy a great time racing around the track. Unit 8a, 2 New Star Rd, Leicester.

National Space Centre

If any member of your family has ever dreamt of becoming an astronaut then they’re going to love the award-winning National Space Centre! Whether your children have a deep curiosity for alien life, are spacecraft fanatics or love all things planets, this space centre will completely mesmerize them. Not only does the National Space Centre have the largest planetarium in the UK but there are lots of fascinating interactive galleries as well. Exploring astronomy and space are truly magical experiences for children. Take one giant leap for your family, and visit this otherworldly attraction! Exploration Drive, Leicester.

The Climbing Station

The Climbing Station is an 800-square-meter world class bouldering facility with thrilling and supportive kids' sessions available. Bouldering is a type of rock climbing at low level, usually above crash mats. It's not just for beginners by any means but it is an excellent place to start. The kids' club class will provide a great introduction to climbing and teach basic climbing skills and knowledge in a fun environment. Children will get an introduction to the climbing class environment. An advanced technique class is for children with previous climbing experience. So whatever level the kids are at they’ve got support and scope for progression. There are a whole range of additional intricacies ideal for adults and the advanced kids as well. Empress Road, Off Moor Lane, Loughborough, Leicestershire.

Belvoir Castle

Belvoir Castle indeed provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience of pageantry, and pomp, especially around the festive season. Belvoir dazzles in 19th century splendor. Meander around, indulging in the endless prestige of the State dining room, multiple libraries, and art galleries. The most refined expressions of Rococo and baroque ornamentation grace the saloon and ballroom. Divine frescos adorn soaring ceilings adorned with gold gilded moldings. An unparalleled collection of one-of-a-kind period pieces and objet d'arts fill the interiors, each artifact reflecting the majesty of "the empire on which the sun never set." Fourteen regal bedrooms present the pinnacle of old-world opulence, accommodating 28 discerning guests Brimming with artwork rivaling the most celebrated museums, Belvoir flaunts treasures dating back to medieval times. This breathtaking luxury castle rental is equipped with an additional chapel, billiards, and a private drawing room. Belvoir Castle provides an unmatched ambiance to throw your magical New Year’s Eve soirée.

Wining and Dining

Should you decide to stay at this magnificent, stately castle to ring in 2025, here are three fine dining establishments close by to enjoy a sumptuous dinner:

The Stag & Hounds

It’s an easy 25-minute drive from Leicester to Burrough Hill in Melton Mowbray where you will find the award-winning Stag & Hounds. The 16th century pub has been a staple of the community for generations and owners Dom (a Michelin Bib Gourmand) and Antonia continue to provide a warm welcome and lovely food on menus that change weekly. Some beers featured at the pub are brewed right next door at the award-winning Parish Brewery. They also have guest beers from around the area.

To try: Feather blade of beef with carrot king oyster mushrooms and smoked bone marrow sauce; garden gnocchi with roasted root vegetables, house pickles and caper butter sauce. You might choose to end your meal with vanilla panna cotta accompanied by pink grapefruit and blood orange or a hazelnut choux bun with clotted cream ice cream. Caramelized cauliflower soup with maple syrup and pecans.

The Joiners

Tiled floors and beamed ceilings are giveaways this charming village inn has been in existence for a while; in fact, since the 17th century. Owners have brought it into the 21st century with designer wallpaper and fresh florals everywhere giving the space a chic ambiance. Owned and run by Stephen and Tracy Fitzpatrick since 2002, The Joiners has been recognized in the Michelin Guide as an Inspired Pub – known for its good food and hospitality. The Joiners’ menu reflects its commitment to quality with an emphasis on local and well-sourced ingredients, cooked with care, creativity and full of flavor.

To try: For starters, the grilled goat’s cheese, beetroot and orange salad is a favorite. For the entrée, you might try the roasted salmon with leeks, peas, and asparagus in a mustard grain sauce or if you’re pretty famished, the 35-day-aged sirloin with peppercorn sauce and chips might hit the spot!

John’s House

It’s only about a 10-minute drive from Leicestershire to Mountsorrel, home of the Michelin-starred John’s House. The restaurant sits on the 4,000-acre Duffin family farm. The 16th century farmhouse is where all the cooking magic happens – cuisine that is literally “farm-to-plate.” Dishes are fashioned from herbs, vegetables, fruits, and meat sourced from the farm. Chef John Duffin returned to open the restaurant after having worked at the country’s top Michelin-starred establishments. Now, John’s House is the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Leicestershire. There is a seven course tasting menu if you want to experience the full depth of John’s culinary talents.

To try: The seven-course tasting menu featuring dishes such as truffled custard on toast; cream of Porthilly oyster with horseradish and seaweed; and roast Gressingham duck with walnuts, savoy cabbage and hen of the woods.

For a truly wonderful place to welcome a brand new year, Belvoir Castle is unrivaled. Just say the word and LVH will arrange it all for you in a heartbeat. We invite you to reach out to one of our client relations professionals who will begin planning a trip for you befitting royalty. During your stay you will have full services and around-the-clock support. LVH will also create an exclusive itinerary for you replete with moments designed to make you smile from ear-to-ear. You will be elated to have chosen this incredible castle to start 2025 in style.