Appleby Magna Village Profile
GENERAL
Appleby Magna is a thriving village with a fantastic sense of community which is reflected in the rich and varied activities organised in the village. The Appleby Magna website gives a great insight into the cultural and sporting life of the village The village sits on the outskirts of The National Forest and is bordered by the Historic Gopsall Park Estate.
The Ashby-De-La-Zouch Canal passes within a mile of the village, as do the M42 and A444. The proximity of the M42 Junction makes it possible to commute to Birmingham, Leicester, Derby or Nottingham.
HISTORY
Historically Appleby was one of the largest and wealthiest Parishes in Leicestershire, which the size of church is testament to.
The original name Aeppel-by refers to apple trees, the by suggesting a Danish settlement. The village lies on the edge of the ancient boundary between the Kingdoms Mercia and the Danelaw. This delightful and historic village of lovely old houses is notable for its Grammar School founded in 1697 by Sir John Moore. He was a local boy who made his fortune in the East India Company and became Lord Mayor of London. The original plans for the Grammar School were drawn up by Sir Christopher Wren and it is believed to be the only school this great architect ever designed. However, the work was eventually carried out by Sir William Wilson, who modified Wren's design. He also carved a full length portrait of Sir John Moore which still stands in a niche in the school hall. The school buildings are now used as a primary school. The buildings also include a heritage centre and cultural events are regularly held.
A Tudor timber framed Moat House stands on the site of the original Manor House, which was the home of the de Appleby family from the 12th to 16th century. A stone gatehouse and three sides of the moat remain undisturbed from medieval days.
SCHOOLS
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Dixie Grammar Junior School, is the pre-preparatory department for children aged 4-11 years .
Dixie Grammar School 11years to 18 years
Twycross School, a co-educational independent school for children in the prepreparatory school from 4 to 8 years and in the main school from 8 to 18 years.
SPORTS CLUBS
LOCAL AUTHORITES
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