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Ashby's History & Heritage

Learn about the history of Ashby.

History & Heritage

Ashby De La Zouch lies deep in the heart of the National Forest. A historic market town with a population of approximately 16,000, it sits in a pleasant corner of North West Leicestershire offering a range of urban and rural amenities.

A TOWN RICH IN HISTORY AND OPPORTUNITY

There have always been arguments over the name of Ashby. Some say the Vikings created ‘Ascebi’ (meaning Ash Trees) or it was derived from the Danes ‘Aski’ (personal name) and (-by) a settlement then in 1086 the Normans first recorded our lovely town. Along came Alan la Zouch in 1160 which gave Ashby its ‘de-la-Zouch’ ending that we have now.

Ashby - History and Now

The town provides a unique offer in many ways, with it being at the centre of one of the boldest environmental projects over the last 25 years and its desire to be a ‘Forest Town’ and its heritage, perhaps best represented by the Castle. It combines a town centre that comprises of a permanent market, a range of high street and independent businesses offering shopping, food and drink. Alongside this you have the wider business parks and commercial areas. It also includes a museum, small theatre and library as well as an active business, local and public sector community which ensures that there are a range of exciting events from the traditional Ashby Statutes to the glamorous Ashby FABulous event.

Where did it start?

There have always been arguments over the name of Ashby. Some say the Vikings created ‘Ascebi’ (meaning Ash Trees) or it was derived from the Danes ‘Aski’ (personal name) and (-by) a settlement then in 1086 the Normans first recorded our lovely town. Along came Alan la Zouch in 1160 which gave Ashby its ‘de-la-Zouch’ ending that we have now.

The Ashby we know and love today started back in 1219 when Roger la Zouch acquired the rights to hold an annual fair. 2019 celebrated the 800-year anniversary of that fair, known locally as ‘The Ashby Statutes’, and it’s been held every year since 1219 - what a statement!

Ashby has its own Medieval Castle, built by William Hastings. It was hit hard in the English Civil War so now only ruins remain and are looked after by English Heritage. Many events are held throughout the year including regular re-enactments.
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Where is Ashby today?

Stepping forward to today, our town is filled with an abundance of independent shops, from specialist deli’s, unique clothing boutiques to beautiful gift shops and award-winning restaurants. Our traders work really hard to make sure visitors to the town have a great shopping experience with a smile, personal service and a wide range to offer. 

Maybe a splash in the pool is what you’re looking for? If so, Ashby has something unique to Leicestershire…a Lido. Our pool is a great attraction for the town and is open from May to September.

Ashby is blessed with many open spaces which provide the backdrop for a rich events line-up throughout the year. The Arts Festival each May, uses the town as its canvas, with events and public artworks. More permanent fixtures are the parks and skate park, so that children of all ages are catered for. Sports are also a strong feature, with Cricket, Bowling & Tennis Clubs well established in the town. The Cricket Club was founded in 1831 and still goes strong today with the Bowling Club not far behind in 1889 - both are located on The Bath Grounds, a wonderful open space for the public to enjoy.


With walks and local bike tracks a plenty, heritage trails and a museum, there really is something for everyone in Ashby from young to old. 


And when darkness falls, the town transforms into an abundance of nightlife, great pubs and restaurants. The 17th-century Coaching Inn The White Hart even has a bear in the cellar. This is due to the landlord keeping a bear in the cellar to control rowdy customers back in the old days. Thankfully today the bear isn’t real!