Visitor experience improvement programme Moira Furnace – Winter/Spring 2026
What is Moira Furnace and why is it important?
Moira Furnace is one of the best-preserved blast furnaces in the country. It was constructed in 1804 and was relatively unsuccessful as a blast furnace, ceasing blast operations in 1811 and the foundry remaining in use until after 1844.
In the 1970s Moira Furnace was scheduled as an ancient monument, identifying it as a nationally important archaeological site. Scheduling is the oldest form of heritage protection.
Who looks after Moira Furnace?
North West Leicestershire District Council became the custodian of the furnace in 1981. Today the council works in partnership with Moira Furnace Museum Trust to preserve and operate the site.
What is happening at the furnace?
New signage and interpretation information is being installed in and around Moira Furnace Country Park.
This work includes:
- New entrance sign
- Car park signage
- Information and interpretation boards
- Finger posts
- Fact boards
- Replacement furniture (gates, bollards etc.)
How will this impact your visit to the site?
Signs and interpretation boards installation
New signs and interpretation boards will be installed across the site, the works are scheduled for February and March 2026.
Access
Access to the site some of the paths on site will have restricted access, however you will still be able to visit the site to walk, cycle, run and horse ride, you might just have to make a small diversion to your normal route.
Parking
Parking on site during weekdays, there is likely to be more demand on the car parks due to construction staff being on site.
Businesses
Businesses (craft units and café) will be open as usual during this time. If you are a regular customer, you might want to allow a little extra time when next visiting.
Museum and boat trips
Access to the museum and boat trips will not be affected and services will operate as normal. Please check the Moira Furnace Museum Trust website Moira Furnace Museum & Country Park and Facebook site Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park | Moira | Facebook for upto date information regarding opening hours and event delivery.
Events
Events on site will still go ahead as planned and will not be impacted by this phase of works. Events — Moira Furnace Museum & Country Park.
What other works are planned this spring?
The National Forest Company will be completing the paths improvement works (specifically the stretch of footpath alongside the canal next to the main furnace building.
During this time there may be some temporary footpath closures or short diversions in place.
Last updated: Fri 9 January, 2026 @ 12:08