Loughborough
Loughborough is a market town in Leicestershire, England. It is the administrative headquarters of Charnwood Borough Council and a large part of the town falls within the boundaries of Charnwood Forest, an area of countryside popular with walkers, cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts. The 44 hectares Medieval Park provides a peaceful oasis in this largely urbanised borough.
One major landmark is St Peter's Church, which is located on top of the highest point in the town. It has stood for over 900 years and can be seen from miles around, including as far away as Belvoir Castle 20 miles to the south.
The town's most notable association is with its traditional industries of shoemaking and footwear - particularly sports shoes - which have been exported all over the world.
A motte-and-bailey castle was built around 1086, and a priory in 1114. The current St Peter's Church is the third church on the site: the first was built in Saxon times, the second in Norman times - which itself replaced a wooden Anglo-Saxon church.
Loughborough University
The University was established in 1891 as a teacher training college. It has since developed into a major centre for higher education, with over 14,000 students.