Leicester
Why we love Leicester
From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to celebrations of multicultural modern life, Leicester has got it all. Explore its rich history through museums and architecture, before journeying to the present day with Europe’s tallest street art. Tour Leicester City’s King Power Stadium or head to the Golden Mile to absorb rich cultural diversity. Take your pick from cycle routes, climbing walls, kayaking and everything in-between. With big events throughout the year, including Diwali, Leicester Pride and Download Festival, the central heart of England is calling.
King Richard III Visitor centre
Experience the journey from Bosworth Battlefield to Kind Richard III’s final resting place, discovered under a car park 527 years later in the city centre of Leicester. Through detective work, modern science and sheer determination, the team behind this historic find bring to life the story of finding Kind Richard III and the events surrounding his death.
Leicester street art
Did you know that Leicester is home to the tallest piece of street art in Europe? Not only used as an expression of art, it’s also informative, with many projects offering directions. Get your hands on a street art guide and set out to see these celebrations of local culture. Look out for the bi-annual ‘Bring the Paint’ festival as well, which invites artists from all over the world to make their mark on the city.
Download Festival
Rock fans, listen up. Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Metalica and Kiss are just some of the big names in the world of Rock to grace the stage at Download Festival. Taking place in June, book a day ticket or stay for the duration with a five night camping package. You can even glam-up your stay with an RIP package, including luxury Bedouin tents through to hotel options.
The Golden Mile
Home to the largest Diwali celebrations outside of Asia, Leicester’s multi-cultural society shines bright along this street adorned with Indian gold jewellery stores, Punjabi suit stores, saree boutiques, and restaurants bursting with flavour.
National Space Centre
Head to the multi-award-winning National Space Centre for an out of this world experience. Through six galleries and the UK’s largest domed planetarium, explore all things space related, including a rocket tower, satellites, meteorites and more.
Things to do in Leicester
Choosing an option from the dropdown will automatically update the map listing results to filter by your selection.
Featured things to do
Steam into spring
Experience the 'magic of the golden age of steam' on a vintage steam train journey from Leicester North station to Loughborough Central. Watch as the Leicestershire countryside, towns and villages pass by your window. Look out for the 1940's Wartime Weekends and family themed events.
Take a ride on the Great Central Railway
On your bike
Found in the heart of the National Forest, hit the trails at this former coal mining site. Hire a bike at the visitor centre and explore tracks suitable for every level, including toddlers right through to adults.
Cycle in the heart of the National Forest
Proud to celebrate
Starting at the Curve Theatre before marching through the city centre and culminating in Abbey Park, take part in the fun with live music, dancing and colourful fireworks at Leicester Pride.
March along with Leicester Pride
Lighting up the city
One of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India, experience the magic of this multi-cultural city with Diwali events including the lights switch on, Wheel of Light and Diwali Day.
Take part in the Diwali celebrationsPlaces to stay in Leicester
From big hotel brands to B&B’s, serviced apartments and everything in between, Leicester and its surrounding towns, villages and countryside has you covered.
Leicester city centre
Leicester city centre has a plethora of boutique hotels, each with its own luxury interior. International hotel chains and serviced apartments help cater to all budgets.
Country houses and spa breaks
Nestled within the Leicestershire countryside is a wide selection of country house hotels, offering luxury set within historic surroundings. Some of which also offer relaxing spa breaks.
Camping and caravan holidays
Offering a variety of amenities and activities, book a stay at one of Leicestershire’s many camp-sites, set deep within natural surroundings.
Explore nearby
Getting to Leicester
Birmingham Airport is around 40 miles (64 kilometers) south west of Leicester and receives international flights from around the world. The free ‘Air-Rail Link’ connects the airport with Birmingham city centre. Direct train services to Leicester run from Birmingham New Street station.
East Midlands Airport is also 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Leicester and has connections to more than 60 European destinations. The East Midlands Railway (EMR) provides regular services into the city centre.
Leicester is just over 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of London. A direct EMR train from London St Pancras International to Leicester takes around 1 hour 10 minutes.
National Express, Mega Bus and Flixbus offer coach options, taking anywhere from 1 hour 50 minutes to around 3 hours.
By bus
Bus companies arriva, First Bus, Centrebus and others link the city with nearby towns and villages. See the Leicester Buses journey planner to help book your trip.
By bike
Cycle maps can help you to explore the city and surrounding towns and villages by bike, as well as cycling clubs and guided rides.
By foot
Discover Leicester’s main city centre attractions by exploring on foot. Guided walks and walking maps are available to help.
Want to know more?
Head to Visit Leicester for insider tips from those in the know