Discover Sproxton

Sproxton brings together an Anglo-Scandinavian cross, traces of medieval settlement and geological evidence. If you are interested not only in historic buildings but also in earlier settlement patterns and the history of the Earth, you can explore the place from several perspectives. When choosing a holiday cottage, it helps to first consider which of these themes you want to shape your stay.

An early medieval cross

The Anglo-Scandinavian cross in Sproxton is the only known early medieval cross in Leicestershire whose complete cross-head remains attached to the shaft. It probably dates from the 11th century; the shaft and cross-head were carved from a single block of stone. At 2.35 metres high, the monument’s dimensions are also clearly established. Its construction makes the connection between shaft and head clear: both parts were carved from the same block, rather than joined together as separate pieces. The cross thus combines a remarkable state of preservation with a distinctive craftsmanship solution. For travellers interested in medieval stone carving, its appeal lies precisely in this combination of date, material and construction.

Churchyard, farmhouses and settlement history

A Viking cross stands in the churchyard of St Bartholomew’s in Sproxton. It is considered the only fully preserved, upright example in Leicestershire dating from before the Norman Conquest. West of The Green and along Main Street are five imposing, stone-built Grade II listed farmhouses: Bank House, Middle Farm, 11 Main Street, Beech Tree Farm and Greengates Farm. The Conservation Area also contains an open, attractive space with several tree-lined lawns. Together, these features give a historical picture that ranges from a church monument through individual farmhouses to open green spaces.

Bescaby, one of the best-preserved medieval deserted villages in the uplands of Leicestershire, lies within the parish of Sproxton. Its extensive earthworks and associated water-management system draw attention to an entire settlement pattern rather than a single building. This broadens the perspective on crosses and farmhouses to include how a village and its management of water form part of the landscape. If you are interested in settlement history, Bescaby offers a different focus from the individual buildings in the village.

Geology and the character of the village

Sproxton Quarry is designated as an SSSI and is also a Local Geological Site (LGS). The quarry is a geological reference exposure; the formation formerly exposed there is probably now covered. Its geological significance adds a distinct perspective on a formation and its former exposure to the historical themes. Sproxton therefore brings together individual monuments, traces of a wider settlement landscape and a geological perspective.

Getting there and choosing a holiday cottage

A timetable overview, prepared on 28 August 2026, lists School Hill Sproxton (N) as a stop on the Melton Mowbray – Bukminster – Croxton Kerrial – Knipton – Harlaxton – Grantham route. Check the connection before you travel. If travelling by bus is important to your plans, include this timetable information in your preparations.

When looking for a holiday cottage in Sproxton, you can use its historical and geological themes to help plan your stay. Match the location of your accommodation to the activities that matter most to you. This connects your choice of where to stay with your preferred focus—whether you are mainly interested in the cross, traces of medieval settlement or geology.

Discover more destinations: Sibson, Hinckley, Harby, Orton, Great Easton, Sutton Cheney, Great Glen, Kegworth

For the main travel guide: Leicestershire.