Freemen's Holt

History & Background

Freemen originate from the merchant guilds set up in the 11th century for merchants, craftsmen and their apprentices. The title of “Freeman” first came into use during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

Men were made “Free” by virtue of inheritance, apprenticeship to a Freeman, or at one time the Freedom could be purchased. Being “Free” allowed the person to carry out their trade or craft within the city, and was in fact a form of trade protection.

Until 1835 the Freemen formed the local government of the borough, but with the enactment of first the Enclosure Act in 1804 and later the Municipal Act in 1835 the role and status of the Freemen changed dramatically. Prior to the Enclosure Act Freemen enjoyed grazing rights on common land in and around the city which in 1630 were recorded as approximately 2800 acres. 614 acres were in the “South Field” which is the triangular area running out from the city along London Road to Oadby, then across country to the old Dunlop factory at St Mary’s Mill then back to the city following the river Soar. The Freemen were given various parcels of land in compensation for the loss of their grazing rights and much of this land was within the South Field.

After 1835 the Freemen’s involvement with the running of the borough was restricted to being involved only in the administration of the city, and to this day they continue to enrich civic occasions by being present and wearing their Gild regalia.

One of the parcels of land given to the Freemen was 70 acres known as Freemen’s Common and here in 1856 the first cottages were built to accommodate aged needy Freemen and Freemen’s widows. These were not separate cottages but were all contained within one building.

By 1968 the Freemen had sold and disposed of all their lands and purchased 7.5 acres at Aylestone known as the Holt on which they have had constructed a small estate comprising of 36 bungalows, a community hall, an estate office and allotments. Now let’s take a look at the Holt or as it is now known “Freemen’s Holt”.

The bungalows that have been constructed here are for occupancy by elderly or needy Freemen and their wives or widows. They replaced the Victorian cottages previously referred to which are now used as the University Health Centre.

All of the bungalows and the estate generally are designed to be disabled friendly. The bungalows are unfurnished, double glazed, central heated and each has it’s own private patio garden. Each bungalow consists of a double bedroom, lounge, kitchen and bathroom. A long term plan is currently underway to convert a small number of bungalows by the addition of a second double bedroom.

All bungalows are fitted with smoke alarms and emergency call equipment monitored 24 hours a day by the office staff during working hours and the Leicester Housing Association at other times.

During the year there are various social activities and outings arranged with inputs from the Residents Social Committee. Most of the social activities take place in the community centre which is also used for Board and Committee meetings by the Deputies.

The inside of the bungalows are light and airy and they can be adapted to almost any style. The traditional and modern are both suitable.

Grounds men maintain the landscaping of the Holt which is being continuously improved and enhanced. There is a patio area with seating and views along the river, a small fishing stage for any would be “compleat” anglers, a wildlife meadow and a pond again with seating.

There are a small number of allotments on site and these are available to any Freeman or Freeman’s widow resident or non-resident who would like to garden.

Above the estate office we have furnished accommodation that is available at a very modest charge for visitors to the Holt wishing to stay overnight.

Within easy walking distance of the gates of the Holt are a wide range of shops, a post office and an excellent bus service into the city.

The doctors surgery and chemist are also within easy walking access and a choice of other surgeries covering the area may considered as an option by residents

Summing up the Holt is a very pleasant and peaceful place to live situated behind St Andrews church it is private and secure. Living at the Holt means that you have security, peace of mind and the freedom to lead your own life.

The wild flower meadow was re-seeded in March 2007 and is shown above in bloom during July 2007

This information is an provided by the Board of Deputies and there is an ever open invitation for you to visit the Holt and see for yourself what is on offer.

For further information regarding visiting the Holt, availability of bungalows, allotments, possible use of the community centre or overnight accommodation please contact the Clerk at the estate office at:-

32 Freemen’s Holt
Old Church Street
Aylestone
Leicester LE2 8NH

Telephone: 0116 283 4017
email: leicester.freemen@ntlworld.com