Area guides

Barrow Upon Soar

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A Guide to Barrow Upon Soar

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Barrow Upon Soar
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Barrow Upon Soar has put down its roots over the course of a long maritime history and the Ocean City is making huge strides towards being a weekend stay destination of the future.

Barrow Upon Soar

Nestled in the heart of Charnwood, Barrow Upon Soar is one of the area’s most sought-after villages – perfectly positioned between the vibrant market town of Loughborough and the rolling Leicestershire countryside, offering residents the ideal balance of rural charm and modern convenience.

A Village with a Story to Tell

Barrow is famous for the skeleton of a plesiosaur, unearthed in the 1850s from a local lime pit. This fascinating piece of history is proudly reflected on the village roundabout and even on Barrow Town Football Club’s kit – a true emblem of local pride.

A High Street full of Life

The village High Street has a wonderful mix of independent shops and cafes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a quick coffee catch-up. You’ll find a gift shop, clothing boutiques, beauty salons, hairdressers, and a handy supermarket all within walking distance. When it comes to food, there’s no shortage of choice — from the popular Istanbul takeaway and traditional fish and chips to delicious pizzas, your weekend favourites are well covered.

Great food, pubs, and places to unwind

The Blacksmiths Restaurant, complete with its gift shop and deli, is a local favourite, while the village’s welcoming pubs and inns offer fantastic food and a friendly atmosphere. The Fox Cub, a new and vibrant micropub that is part of the Charnwood Brewery stable, converted from an old hairdressers and a beautiful outdoor seating area. Some are set right on the River Soar, making them the perfect spot to sit back, enjoy a drink, and soak up the sunshine on a summer’s day.

Homes for Everyone

Barrow offers a wide range of property styles to suit all tastes. You’ll find modern family homes on the village outskirts, and in the centre, charming period cottages and limestone terraces brimming with character.

Riverside Leisure and Living

Set along the River Soar, Barrow is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents and visitors alike enjoy paddleboarding, narrow boating, pedalos, and scenic riverside walks. Watching boats pass through the locks on a peaceful afternoon is a simple pleasure that never gets old.

Excellent Schools and Family Facilities

Families are well catered for, with two local schools rated Good by Ofsted:

  • Hall Orchard C of E Primary School
  • Humphrey Perkins Secondary School

You’ll also find several preschools, nurseries, and playgroups, making the village ideal for families with children of all ages.

Convenient Transport Links

Barrow’s excellent location makes commuting a breeze. The A6 provides easy access to the A46 and M1, linking you to Loughborough, Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby. The local train station connects directly to Loughborough and Leicester, with onward routes to Birmingham, London, and beyond. For international travel, East Midlands Airport and Birmingham International are both within an hour’s drive.

Thinking of Making the Move?

Whether you’re looking to move to Barrow Upon Soar, relocate within the village, or sell your current home, we’d love to help make your next move a smooth and successful one.