Beacon Hill Country Park

Leicestershire's second-highest point and the classic Charnwood outcrop: ancient Precambrian volcanic rock breaking through the grass to give one of the widest views in the county — the Soar valley, Charnwood Forest and, on a clear day, Lincoln Cathedral and the Peak's fringe. The tumbled crags and boulders make excellent foreground for low orbits, and the upper car park puts you within a few minutes of the summit tors. Be straight about access, though: this is a Leicestershire County Council country park, and council parks can restrict or require permission for drone use under their byelaws — there's no confirmed blanket ban here but signage and policy should be checked on the day, and this is not the place to push it if staff object. If you do fly, use the quieter upper outcrops early, keep well clear of the busy picnic areas and the many families, and stay sub-250g. Paid parking (upper car park LE12 8SP). Nearest controlled airspace is East Midlands Airport about 13km north-west — outside its FRZ but worth noting. Best at dawn before crowds.