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Leicester

The river through Abbey Park, Leicester

Leicester

Unlock over 2,000 years of history and a vibrant cultural scene in Leicester, visit now for fascinating heritage and a wealth of diversity.

Leicester at a glance

  • Delve into the history of King Richard III and follow his extraordinary 500-year journey from battlefield, to city car park, to his final resting place.
     
  • For an out-of-this-world experience, voyage to the award-winning National Space Centre – known as the UK’s space city, Leicester has been leading the way on space research for over 60 years.
     
  • Take a tour of Leicester’s Guildhall – built in 1390 as a meeting place and banquet hall for the Guild of Corpus Christi - it's now a landmark performance venue.
     
  • From Abbey Park along the banks of the River Soar, to the last remaining enclosed medieval deer park in the East Midlands – there’s nature for everyone to discover.
     
  • Uncover lost worlds as you explore the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery’s dinosaur gallery and the industrial, technological and scientific heritage of Leicester at Abbey Pumping Station.
     
  • The city has many entertainment venues, from spectacular state-of-the-art Curve theatre in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Cultural Quarter through to music venues such as The Musician and O2 Academy.
     
  • Head to Visit Leicester to discover more attractions, events and tours.
The Great Central Railway © Leicester City Council
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History and heritage are at the heart of Leicester – from Roman ruins to traditional Tudor landmarks, there's plenty to discover. Explore Leicester’s Old Town, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, and wander the ancient quarter, chronicling some of the city’s most intriguing stories. Be dazzled by Leicester’s Golden Mile, known for its bustling businesses and vibrant culture, which also plays host to the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India. For foodies, indulge in authentic tastes of England (and beyond), with a food scene that is as diverse as its people. For family-fun try crazy golf, or get adventurous in the great outdoors. 

Things to do in Leicester

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Where is Leicester?

Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, Leicester is less than 20 miles from East Midlands Airport (just over 30 minutes by car) and under an hour away from Birmingham Airport. Direct bus services from Luton and Heathrow airports are also available, with train journeys from central London taking just over an hour to reach the city.

Getting around Leicester

Leicester's central location makes it easily accessible from every corner of the UK. And once you’re there, getting around is easy.

With many central pedestrianised areas, cycle lanes, ample car parking, free motorcycle spaces, a local train network and connected bus routes, the city’s public transport network can help you make the most of your visit.

BY FOOT

Leicester is best explored on foot, and both the central bus terminal and train station are just a short walk to the city centre.

BY BIKE

Leicester is home to the UK’s largest electric bike sharing scheme, with 500 e-bikes available across 50 stations. Leicester City Council also has a range of maps to help you navigate the city and county cycle lane system.

BY BUS

Leicester has several frequent and affordable bus routes running across the city and county, with three Park and Ride locations at Enderby, Birstall and Meynell’s Gorse providing regular services to the city centre.