#old john tower

[redheadonaroadtrip]

Old John Tower - Bradgate Park

[archaicwonder]

Old John Tower by Bruce Stokes on Flickr.

Also known as Folly Tower, Old John Tower in Bradgate Park near Leicester England was built in 1784, by the Grey family of Groby, and was originally an observation tower built to give the ladies a view of a race course which circled the top of the hill. It is well known for its "mug-shape", the 'handle' of which was added later, supposedly in memory of a beer-loving family retainer.

Near the tower are the remains of Bradgate House, begun in 1490 by Sir John Grey, 7th Baron Ferrers of Groby. The house was the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey, later Queen, ruling for a mere 9 days before being overthrown by Mary I

[hauntingreveries]

(via Old John 3 - Bradgate Park | Flickr - Photo Sharing!)