Oadby is a small town located in the East Midlands region of England, United Kingdom. Situated approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) southeast of Leicester city centre, Oadby forms part of the wider Leicester Urban Area.
Administratively, Oadby falls within the county of Leicestershire. It is part of the Oadby and Wigston Borough, a local government district that also includes the neighbouring town of Wigston and the village of South Wigston. This borough is one of seven districts in Leicestershire and operates under a two-tier system of local government, with services divided between the borough council and Leicestershire County Council.
Geographically, Oadby sits on relatively flat terrain, typical of the East Midlands landscape. The town is situated on a slight rise above the Washbrook, a small stream that runs through the area before joining the River Sence to the south. While not particularly hilly, the land does gently slope upwards from west to east.
Oadby is divided into several wards for electoral purposes, including Oadby Uplands, Oadby Grange, and Oadby St. Peter’s. These divisions reflect different neighbourhoods within the town, each with its own characteristics.
The town’s postcode district is LE2, which it shares with parts of southern Leicester. Specific postcode areas within Oadby include:
LE2 4: Covering central Oadby and areas to the north
LE2 5: Encompassing southern parts of Oadby and extending towards Wigston
Notable areas and neighbourhoods in Oadby include:
Oadby Town Centre: The commercial heart of the town, featuring shops, restaurants, and local amenities.
Oadby Grange: A residential area in the eastern part of town, known for its mix of housing styles.
Uplands: An area in the north of Oadby, home to some of the town’s larger properties.
Launde: A neighbourhood in the southwest of Oadby, bordering Knighton to the west.
Oadby boasts several green spaces and areas of natural beauty, contributing to its suburban charm:
Brocks Hill Country Park: A 67-acre park featuring woodlands, meadows, and ponds, as well as an environment centre.
Coombe Park: A popular local park with sports facilities and a children’s play area.
Uplands Park: A green space in the north of the town, offering recreational facilities.
University of Leicester Botanic Garden: While technically just outside Oadby’s boundaries, this 16-acre garden is a significant local attraction.
Surrounding towns and villages include Wigston to the southwest, Stoneygate to the northwest, and Evington to the north. The proximity to Leicester means that Oadby is well-connected to a larger urban centre while maintaining its own distinct identity.
Historically, Oadby was a small agricultural village that grew significantly in the 20th century, largely as a result of suburban expansion from Leicester. This growth has shaped the town’s geography, with newer residential developments expanding outwards from the historic core.
The presence of the University of Leicester’s Oadby Student Village in the north of the town has also influenced its character, bringing a student population and associated facilities to the area.
In summary, Oadby is a suburban town with a mix of residential areas, local amenities, and green spaces. Its proximity to Leicester, coupled with its own distinct identity and administrative structure, makes it an integral part of the wider Leicester Urban Area while maintaining its individual character within the Leicestershire landscape.
