Hallaton
Hallaton is a very picturesque village in Leicestershire, hidden away in the folds of what is known as High Leicestershire. The nearest towns are Market Harborough and Uppingham.
The village is particularly famous for the annual Bottle Kicking and Hare Pie Scramble, an ancient custom that takes place in the streets and fields on Easter Monday, between large teams of indeterminate numbers representing Hallaton and the neighbouring village of Medbourne.
The early 12th century church of St. Michael and All Angels is kept open. It has an interesting tympanum showing St. Michael defeating a dragon, a Green Man and an unusual set of chimes. It was associated in the Middle Ages with the cult of St. Morrell.
Hallaton was the centre of a Royal estate during the Anglo-Saxon period.
The tiny Village Green is, like most of the village, very picturesque, with its conical Butter Cross and War Memorial. In previous centuries a weekly market was held here.
Just outside the village are the extensive earthworks of the 12th century Hallaton Castle.
Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Hallaton for groups.