Private Tour · Leicestershire Countryside
Launde Abbey & Melton Mowbray — Thomas Cromwell Private Tour
Thomas Cromwell thought it the closest thing to heaven on earth. Hidden in breathtaking Leicestershire countryside, ending with a free drink in the pub he once called home.
✉ Enquire & Book NowTake the train from London St Pancras to Oakham or Melton Mowbray — your guide will meet you at the station at 11am, or at your hotel if you’re staying locally. Train tickets are not included and must be booked via National Rail.
For Fans of Wolf Hall & Tudor History
Thomas Cromwell dreamed of retiring here — and you can see exactly why
Launde Abbey is one of England’s most hidden and beautiful places — tucked away in utterly peaceful Leicestershire countryside, just a few miles from Oakham and Melton Mowbray, yet feeling like a world entirely its own. Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s most powerful minister, loved it so deeply that he planned to spend his final years here. He never got the chance.
Now a retreat house and nunnery, we are permitted to explore the beautiful estate and its atmospheric walled garden. And if you’re happy to attend the short midday service, we can visit the old chapel — where Cromwell’s son Gregory, who did eventually live here as his father had wished, lies buried.
Launde Abbey — hidden in the Leicestershire countryside
The chapel where Gregory Cromwell is buried
Then Into Town
A 15-minute drive brings us to Melton Mowbray — and some of the finest food in England
After Launde we head to the glorious market town of Melton Mowbray — the self-styled rural capital of food, and with very good reason. This is the home of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie and Stilton Cheese, both with Protected Designation of Origin status, meaning only pies and cheese made here can use those famous names.
We’ll wander the historic streets and lanes before arriving at the centrepiece of the tour — the magnificent Anne of Cleves House, once home to Thomas Cromwell himself and now one of the finest pubs in the county. A complimentary drink is included, and you’re very welcome to stay on for a meal or to explore the town’s legendary food shops.
Historic Melton Mowbray — the rural capital of food
The Anne of Cleves — where we end with a complimentary drink
Pricing
Per Person — Includes Entry Fees & One Drink
Complimentary drink at the Anne of Cleves pub included. Child prices available on request.
Train fare not included — book via National Rail.
Book by email or use the booking calendar below.
✉ Email to BookAfter the tour you’re very welcome to stay on in Melton Mowbray to explore further — hunt down a legendary pork pie or a wedge of proper Stilton before catching your train home.
Frequently Asked Questions for our Launde Abbey Private Tour
Meeting Time: 11 am
Location: Launde Abbey and Melton Mowbray
Duration of Tour: 3 hours Approx
Meeting Point: Oakham or Melton Mowbray Railway Station. Otherwise we can meet you at your hotel in Oakham/Melton Mowbray or a mutually convenient location.
How to book Thomas Cromwell Launde Abbey & ‘Royal’ Melton Mowbray Tour
Standard Adult Prices per person includes any entry fees (child prices available upon request).
1 Adult = £160
2 Adults = £120
3 Adults = £80
