An inspiring mix of cultures and traditions
Cosmopolitan and cultured, historic but futuristic, buzzing yet relaxed. Unusual shops, fine restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and a strong cultural diversity have all contributed to Leicester's recent style revolution.
“It was great to see what’s on offer in Leicester, we were so impressed with the wonderful new Highcross development that we’ve already booked a return visit for our group in November, staying at the Holiday Inn in Leicester city centre.”
Gordon Price from Elgar Coaches
The city has many fine buildings to discover, ranging from the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery - home to a fine collection of German Expressionist art, through to the ancient Roman ruins at the Jewry Wall Museum, one of the largest pieces of Roman architecture in Britain. A visit to the Castle Park area of the city is also a must. Here you can explore the beautiful buildings, churches and gateways of old Leicester and of course the haunted medieval Guildhall and St. Mary de Castro church where Geoffrey Chaucer was married.
For inspiration of a different kind, pay a visit to the awe-inspiring National Space Centre. With interactive challenges and the most advanced space theatre in the world, you’re guaranteed to be taken where you’ve never been before. For animal lovers, a visit to Twycross Zoo in nearby Atherstone is a must. Or keep the kids’ minds engaged throughout the summer months at spectacular annual family events like The Spark children’s arts festival taking place in May/June.
The choice of places to eat in Leicester includes stylish, contemporary restaurants with modern interiors and imaginative menus, such as the exceptionally chic Maiyango and The Quarter restaurants in the city centre.
Officially the Curry Capital of Britain, Leicester is the home to some of the best Asian curry houses in Britain, mainly along the famous Belgrave Road, also known as ‘The Golden Mile’. Notable Indian cuisine restaurants include Feast India restaurant which features six open theatre kitchen or, for a good old fashioned tandoori, head for The Curry House located in the city centre.
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| Shop till you drop at Highcross Leicester. Click here for shopping themed short break offers . | Experience fine cuisine and cocktails at Leicester’s award-winning boutique restaurant, Maiyango. Click here for city culture themed short break offers . |
| Explore the infinity and beyond at the National Space Centre. Click here for details of the Stay, Play, Explore family short break offer. | Watch a show at the city stunning, state-of-the-art Curve theatre. Click here for city culture themed short break offers . |
| Discover one of the largest pieces of Roman architecture at Jewry Wall Museum . | Watch a live rock gig at The Charlotte. |
| View an eminent dinosaur collection and German expressionist art at Leicester’s oldest museum, New Walk Museum and Art Gallery . |
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Leicester also happens to have the best Indian shopping experience this side of the Punjab. Known locally as ‘The Golden Mile’, the area north of the city is the home to fabulous saree and silk boutiques, glitzy jewellery shops and sweet marts selling exceedingly good Indian treats.
Leicester and Leicestershire are also home to some of the country's best sports teams and venues, including the word-famous Leicester Tigers, Leicestershire County Cricket Club and Leicester City Football Club, based at the famous Walkers Stadium. You can also watch motor sports at the superb Donington Park, soon to be the new home of the British Grand Prix.
There are many things to see and do in Leicester, so don’t waste you time in queues – buy your travel and attraction tickets online! For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Shop .