Leicester, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to uncover Leicester's hidden gems? This city, the 10th largest in the UK, is vibrant. It's filled with history, cultural gems, and beautiful places. From the intriguing Richard III Visitor Centre to walks beside the Grand Union Canal, there's much to explore. Beyond these well-known spots lie hidden treasures. Prepare to be amazed as we reveal the best things to do in Leicester.

Key Takeaways

• Leicester is a city rich in history, with attractions like the Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral
• The city boasts a diverse cultural scene, including the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery and the Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre
• Visitors can immerse themselves in Leicester's natural beauty, exploring the Grand Union Canal and the University of Leicester Botanic Garden
• The city's vibrant entertainment scene includes a thriving live music scene and a renowned local market
• Leicester's neighborhoods, such as Belgrave Road and Clarendon Park, offer unique dining, shopping, and community experiences

Explore Leicester's Rich History

Leicester's history goes way back to its beginning as a Roman town called Ratae Corieltauvorum. It is known for the Richard III Visitor Centre. This centre stands near where King Richard III, the last English king to fall in battle, was found in 2012.

Richard III Visitor Centre

Right across from the visitor centre is Leicester Cathedral. This was where Richard III was put to rest again in 2015. The cathedral is very old, from 1089. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and stunning interiors.

Leicester Cathedral

The Newark Houses Museum and Gardens tells Leicester's military story. It has the history of the Royal Leicestershire Regiment and a real World War I trench. The Leicester Guildhall, built from timber in 1390, has been a city hall and more.

Newark Houses Museum and Gardens

The historic Leicester Guildhall, a timber building from the 1390s, has served as a city hall, meeting place, and courtroom over the centuries.

Leicester Guildhall

Discover Leicester's Cultural Attractions

Leicester is filled with cultural gems for everyone. It has amazing museums and theaters. The city's cultural scene is lively and diverse, waiting for you to explore.

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery

The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery started in 1849. It's the city's oldest museum, featuring a wealth of cultural wonders. You can see everything from dinosaur fossils to Egyptian relics and art from around the world.

Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre

The Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre is perfect for art lovers. It hosts indie films, creative performances, and cool exhibitions. You can also hang out in the café bar, enjoying this unique cultural space.

Belgrave Hall and Gardens

Belgrave Hall is an 18th-century house turned museum. It gives a peek into life centuries ago. You can wander its gardens and explore inside. Legend says it's haunted, attracting both ghost fans and history buffs.

Experience Leicester's Vibrant Entertainment Scene

Leicester is famous for its deep history and cultural sites. But it's also lively with modern entertainment. Visit Leicester to dive into its exciting live music scene at various music venues.

Live Music Venues

Leicester's music spots welcome all kinds of music lovers. They host local talents and big stars. One key place is the De Montfort Hall, open for more than a century. Here, famous names have performed, making it a must-visit for music enthusiasts.

Want to enjoy acoustic tunes, rock music, or jazz vibes? Leicester's live music venues have you covered. They range from big concert halls to small pubs. Everyone can find their favorite music spot and enjoy the city's diverse entertainment scene.

Immerse Yourself in Leicester's Natural Beauty

Although not by the sea, Leicester is full of chances to enjoy nature and lush green spaces. The

Grand Union Canal

cuts through Leicester, offering a peaceful place to see the city. You can take a quiet boat ride or walk along its banks.

The

University of Leicester Botanic Garden

is great for those who love nature. It's a large garden founded in 1947. Here, you'll find rare plants, lovely statues, and get to see beautiful old buildings nearby. If you're looking for more green spaces, the Attenborough Arboretum is not far, giving you a break from city life.

There are many ways to enjoy Leicester's natural beauty. You can walk by the Grand Union Canal, relax in the University of Leicester Botanic Garden, or explore the wild areas around the city. Leicester makes it easy to love the great outdoors.

Leicester, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Leicester, England has so much to offer. It's a place where you can dive into history or enjoy art and nature. The Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral show the city's past well.

The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery are great for art lovers. Movie fans will love the Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre. And those into architecture won't want to miss Belgrave Hall and Gardens.

If you love nature, visit the Grand Union Canal and the University of Leicester Botanic Garden. For a taste of local life, check out Leicester’s lively music scene and its special market.

Shop at Leicester's Iconic Market

The Leicester Market is hailed as Europe's biggest covered outdoor market. It's the perfect spot for anyone who wants an authentic shopping experience. You can find more than 270 stalls there, selling everything from fresh Leicester markets, fruits, and veggies to books, jewelry, clothes, and flowers.

For over 700 years, the Leicester Market has been a key part of the city's shopping scene. Some say it's even older, at more than 800 years. It remains a vital and lively area for buying local and special handcrafted goods. And if you're looking to dive into Leicester's spirit, you can't miss this market on your visit.

Explore Leicester's Surrounding Areas

There's lots to see within Leicester. But, visitors should also check out the areas around it.

One popular spot is the

Wistow Maze

, which is among the biggest mazes in the UK. It's a fun and tough activity outdoors. Another spot is the

Belvoir Castle

. It's the home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. People can see its lovely gardens and old rooms. Nearby, there are the

Foxton Locks

. These are 10 canal locks on the Grand Union Canal. They show old engineering skills. Plus, it's a quiet place for walking.

The Wistow Maze is not far from Leicester. It’s loved by both locals and guests. The maze is big and has a detailed design. It’s a great challenge for anyone seeking outdoor fun. This maze is a top choice for visitors of any age.

The Belvoir Castle is also a key place to visit. It's where the Duke and Duchess of Rutland live. It has beautiful gardens and is full of history. This castle's stunning look and its location make it a standout day trip from Leicester.

Don’t miss the Foxton Locks, a set of 10 canal locks. They are a wonder from the 18th century. It’s amazing to see how they work. The place is calm for walking and watching boats go by.

Discover Leicester's Diverse Neighborhoods

Leicester has many diverse neighborhoods. Each one has its own special feel and attractions. Visit Belgrave Road, Clarendon Park, and Stoneygate to see this for yourself. You'll find plenty of local culture and great spots to explore.

Belgrave Road

Belgrave Road is famous for its Indian roots. It has colorful fashion shops, spice markets, and places to buy jewelry. The area is known for having the biggest Diwali celebration outside India. It's a true reflection of Leicester's mix of cultures.

Clarendon Park

Clarendon Park is a green part of town with lots of places to shop and eat along Queens Road. It's full of local dining spots, bars, and shops. When you visit, you'll feel the warm spirit and support for local business and community life.

Stoneygate

Stoneygate is a peaceful part of Leicester, with cafes, places for brunch, beauty spots, and little stores to browse. It's a great place to take a break from the city's rush. Here, you can enjoy a calm atmosphere and the local shopping and eating scene.

Indulge in Leicester's Coffee Culture

Leicester has really embraced its coffee culture lately. It's filled with unique cafes and coffee shops just waiting to be explored. These places are perfect for anyone who loves their daily dose of caffeine. You can find everything from cozy spots in the neighborhoods to hip roasters that specialize in unique flavors.

Looking for a quick coffee in the morning, or maybe something to keep you going in the afternoon? Leicester's coffee culture has just what you need. It's not just about the coffee; the people behind it are passionate about making each cup special. This passion shines through in the variety and quality of the Leicester cafes and coffee shops.

Take time to explore the independent cafes scattered across Leicester's lively streets. Each one is filled with the sweet scent of freshly brewed coffee. They are perfect places to enjoy a quiet moment. Here, you'll find hidden treasures offering unique blends and creative brewing styles. Plus, their cozy atmospheres are great for both relaxing and socializing with friends.

Are you an avid coffee lover or just someone who enjoys a nice cup every now and then? Either way, Leicester's coffee culture will charm you. It's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more of the city's exceptional coffee treats.

Savor Leicester's Brunch Scene

Leicester is known for its great Leicester coffee culture. It's also famous for its varied Leicester brunch scene. Whether you want a traditional experience or something new, Leicester has choices for you.

You can find fluffy Leicester restaurants serving up pancakes. Or, visit cafes with creative avocado toast. Leicester's cafes offer something for everyone's taste. They are perfect for starting your day or enjoying a weekend meal.

If you want a fancier brunch, Leicester has places with drinks. You can enjoy a cocktail or champagne with your meal. No matter your taste, Leicester's food scene has dishes to make you happy.

Ready to enjoy Leicester’s food scene? Don’t miss the diverse Leicester brunch spots. They offer a range of flavors and experiences that will please and inspire you.

Experience Leicester's Nightlife

Leicester's entertainment scene is lively all day and night. It offers a wide array of bars, pubs, and nightclubs. You can find everything from small local spots to fancy cocktail bars. This city's after-dark vibe lets you enjoy craft beers, live music, or fancy cocktails.

For a top pick in Leicester, check out The Globe on Belgrave Gate. It's a historic spot famous for friendly vibes and lots of ales. Music lovers, head to The Musician for live local and touring bands. If you’re up for fancy drinks, 33 Cank Street offers unique cocktails in a chic atmosphere.

Leicester's nightclubs are great for dancing. Try Vaults in the city center for electronic beats. Or Manhattan34, which plays a mix of indie, pop, and chart hits.

Leicester’s entertainment scene has something for everyone. From dancing all night to enjoying craft brews in a quiet bar. The city's bars, pubs, and nightclubs promise a good time, no matter what you enjoy.

Conclusion

Leicester, England blends its history, culture, and modern living beautifully. This makes it a top pick for visitors. You can visit iconic spots like the Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral. Or enjoy the city's lively art and entertainment spots. Leicester has something for everyone.

Outside the city, there's natural beauty and charming neighborhoods. These areas add to Leicester's special vibe. You can explore history, culture, or enjoy the outdoors here. Leicester offers a memorable travel experience for all.

When it comes to attractions, sightseeing, and tourist destinations, Leicester has a lot to offer. Whether you're looking for a city tour or want to see the top landmarks, this city is perfect. It's a great vacation spot and ideal for day trips.