Leicester

What you need to know before you go

    The East Midlands city of Leicester is famed for Leicester Cathedral, the final resting place of King Richard III, and the ruins of Leicester Castle and Castle Gardens. The castle, cathedral and gardens all lie near the scenic River Soar, and the exhibits on display at these 3 spots showcase the life and history of one of England’s great kings. The King Richard III Visitor Centre brings them together with hands-on interactive exhibits. Ashby de la Zouch Castle allows you to explore medieval ruins with audio tour accompaniment.

    Leicester is also home to the National Space Centre with its wealth of exhibits and artefacts – some hands-on – related to the history of space exploration. For cultural and natural history exhibits, the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery offers hundreds of wondrous displays, ephemera, artefacts and artworks. Bradgate Park provides 336 hectares of unspoiled green space to escape from the crowds and hustle, as well as the historic home of Lady Jane Grey.

    What to see & do in Leicester

    Featured stories & fun stuff

    • 10 Best Things to Do in Leicester

      The city of Leicester is most famous for its culturally diverse scene and world-class universities. Arts and culture thrive in the aptly named Cultural Quarter, where you can find dozens of galleries, museums, and theatres putting on a wide range of events. Leicester is also known for being the burial place of King Richard III, whose tomb rests in...

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    Where to shop & what to buy in Leicester

    • 7 Best Places to Go Shopping in Leicester

      Leicester has enough shops and stalls to suit every budget, with highlights including an open-air market where vendors sell handmade and imported goods. The city has a very vibrant arts scene, resulting in a high concentration of quirky boutiques, art galleries, antique stores, and gift shops. Leicester city centre is where you can find shopping malls that have world...

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    Where to go & what to do at night in Leicester

    • 10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Leicester

      The best things to do after dinner in Leicester include edgy stand-up comedy and intimate live music venues. The city is known for its arts and culture, so you’ll catch a show by among Britain's most popular bands and emerging talent. You can find cosmopolitan bars, rustic pubs, and student hangouts, especially in areas surrounding the city’s top educational...

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