Thurmaston

Thurmaston is a charming village and suburban area located to the northeast of Leicester, in the county of Leicestershire. Traditionally a rural village, Thurmaston has evolved over the years into a vibrant residential area while still maintaining much of its village charm. With a mix of modern housing, good local amenities, and a strong community spirit, Thurmaston offers an excellent place to live for families, young professionals, and those looking for a quieter life with easy access to Leicester city center.

This area guide explores what life is like in Thurmaston, covering housing, transport, schools, amenities, and the local community.

Location and Transport Links

Thurmaston is well-positioned for commuters, located about 4 miles to the northeast of Leicester city center. The area benefits from excellent road and public transport links that make it easy to get into Leicester as well as nearby towns and villages.

By Road: Thurmaston is easily accessible via the A607 (Melton Road), which connects the village to Leicester and the surrounding areas. The A46 (Western Bypass) is also close by, providing quick access to the M1 motorway and other regional routes. The area is well-positioned for those who need to travel into Leicester for work or leisure.
Public Transport: The village is served by a number of bus routes, providing good connections to Leicester city center and surrounding areas. The Melton Road corridor is the main bus route, offering frequent services into Leicester. Thurmaston is also close to Leicester Railway Station (around 4 miles away), which offers direct train services to London, Birmingham, Nottingham, and other cities.
Cycling and Walking: For those who prefer active transport, Thurmaston is well-connected by cycling paths and walking routes, making it easy to get around without a car. There are also pedestrian-friendly routes along the River Soar, which runs near the village.

Demographics and Community

Thurmaston has a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere, with a mix of long-standing residents and newcomers. The community is diverse, with a variety of housing options that cater to different age groups and lifestyles. As a village that has grown into a more suburban area, Thurmaston offers a quieter, more relaxed living environment than Leicester city center, making it especially appealing to families and retirees.

The area has an active local community, with residents often involved in local events, clubs, and societies. There are also several churches, sports clubs, and community organizations that help foster a strong sense of connection and pride within the village. Thurmaston is known for its good community spirit and its welcoming, neighbourly vibe.

Housing

Housing in Thurmaston is diverse, offering a variety of properties to suit different budgets and tastes. The area includes traditional village homes, post-war houses, and newer developments, as well as some modern housing estates on the edges of the village.

Traditional Village Homes: Thurmaston is home to many period properties, including charming cottages, semi-detached homes, and Victorian terraces. These properties often feature larger gardens and offer a more spacious living environment, making them ideal for families.
Post-War and 20th Century Housing: Much of Thurmaston’s housing stock consists of 20th-century properties, including semi-detached homes, terraced houses, and bungalows. These properties are often well-maintained and provide a good level of space for growing families.
Modern Housing Estates: In recent years, Thurmaston has seen the development of new housing estates, particularly to the east of the village. These estates feature modern homes with open-plan living spaces, contemporary finishes, and smaller, more manageable gardens. Many of these homes are popular with first-time buyers and young families.
Flats and Apartments: There are also some apartment complexes in Thurmaston, mainly catering to individuals or couples looking for lower-maintenance living. These properties are often more affordable and suitable for those looking for a smaller home or a rental property.

House prices in Thurmaston tend to be more affordable compared to central Leicester, making it a great option for those looking to buy their first home or upgrade from a smaller property. The area offers good value for money, particularly for larger family homes.

Schools and Education

Thurmaston is well-served by a number of good schools, both primary and secondary, which makes it an attractive area for families with children. There are also several schools in the surrounding areas of Leicester, ensuring a broad choice for parents.

Primary Schools: Some of the most well-regarded primary schools in the area include Thurmaston Infant School, Thurmaston Junior School, and St. John the Baptist Catholic Primary School. These schools have a strong reputation for providing high-quality education and a caring environment for younger children.
Secondary Schools: Thurmaston is served by a number of secondary schools in the surrounding areas, including Bishop Ellis Catholic Primary School and Rushey Mead Academy. Both schools offer a range of academic and extracurricular activities and have good results at GCSE and A-levels.
Specialist Education: For families with children who have additional educational needs, there are a number of specialist schools and resources available in Leicester city center and surrounding areas.

In terms of higher education, Thurmaston is within easy reach of Leicester College and De Montfort University, both of which offer a wide range of vocational and academic courses. Leicester University is also accessible for students pursuing higher education.

Green Spaces and Recreation

One of Thurmaston’s standout features is its access to green spaces, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities and family life. The village is surrounded by countryside and has several local parks, as well as easy access to the nearby River Soar and Watermead Country Park.

Watermead Country Park: Just a short distance from Thurmaston, Watermead Country Park is a large, picturesque park with lakes, nature trails, and picnic areas. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Thurmaston Park: Located in the heart of the village, Thurmaston Park is a popular green space with play areas, sports fields, and walking paths. The park is well-maintained and offers a peaceful spot for residents to enjoy nature or engage in sports.
River Soar: The River Soar runs near Thurmaston, providing opportunities for riverside walks, fishing, and boating activities. The riverside is a lovely place to relax or enjoy a leisurely stroll.

There are also sports clubs and leisure facilities in the area, including a local tennis club, cricket club, and sports hall. Thurmaston residents enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, from team sports to nature walks.

Shops and Amenities

Thurmaston offers a range of shops and amenities that provide everything you need for day-to-day living. The village has a mix of independent retailers and chain stores, and there are also several supermarkets in the area.

Local Shops: Thurmaston has a selection of local shops, including newsagents, hairdressers, and convenience stores. There is also a post office, pharmacy, and a variety of takeaway restaurants and cafes.
Supermarkets: There are several larger supermarkets in Thurmaston, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, providing residents with easy access to groceries and everyday essentials. For more extensive shopping, Fosse Park and Highcross Shopping Centre in Leicester city center are just a short drive away.
Healthcare: Thurmaston has a health center, Thurmaston Health Centre, providing GP services, as well as several dental practices and pharmacies. There are also more specialized medical services in the surrounding areas of Leicester.

For shopping, dining, and entertainment, Leicester city center is easily accessible, offering a wide range of retail options, restaurants, theaters, and cultural attractions.

Dining and Nightlife

While Thurmaston itself is a quieter village, there are still a number of dining options and local pubs where residents can enjoy a relaxed meal or drink. The village has several takeaways, cafes, and small restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines.

The Thurmaston Mill: A popular local pub offering traditional pub food and drinks in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Local Cafes and Takeaways: There are a number of independent cafes, sandwich shops, and takeaway spots in the village, offering everything from coffee and cake to Indian, Chinese, and pizza takeaways.

For more vibrant nightlife, residents can head into Leicester city center, where they’ll find a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The city center offers a broader range of dining and nightlife options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.

Local Events and Community Life

Thurmaston is known for its strong sense of community, with various events and activities taking place throughout the year. The village hosts community fairs, charity events, and seasonal celebrations that bring residents together.

Thurmaston Carnival: A popular annual event that includes a parade, live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. It’s a highlight of the year for many local residents.
Village Markets: Regular farmers’ markets and local produce markets are held in the village, offering fresh produce and handmade goods.
Community Clubs: Thurmaston is home to a number of community groups and clubs, such as gardening clubs, youth clubs, and social groups, which encourage local engagement and participation.

Final Thoughts

Thurmaston is a fantastic place to live for those who want a balance of village charm and suburban convenience. With its range of housing options, good schools, green spaces, and local amenities, the village is ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. It offers a friendly, community-focused environment, with easy access to Leicester for work, shopping, and leisure activities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet family home or a peaceful place to retire, Thurmaston is a welcoming and attractive area to call home.