Did you know that Leicester is home to one of history’s most remarkable archaeological discoveries? In 2012, the remains of King Richard III were found beneath a city car park, over 500 years after his death at the Battle of Bosworth. This extraordinary find put Leicester firmly on the global tourism map, but this vibrant East Midlands city offers far more than just royal remains. From Roman ruins to space exploration, multicultural festivals to sporting triumphs, Leicester blends 2,000 years of history with modern attractions that make it an unexpectedly captivating destination.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Leicester sits at the heart of England, making it easily accessible from major cities. Located just 160 km (99 miles) north of London, the city serves as an excellent base for exploring the East Midlands.
Leicester’s city center blends historic architecture with modern developments
By Air
The closest airport is East Midlands Airport, located 32 km (20 miles) north of Leicester. Regular shuttle buses connect the airport to Leicester city center. Birmingham Airport is another option, located 64 km (40 miles) southwest with direct train connections to Leicester.
By Train
Leicester has excellent rail connections. Direct trains from London St Pancras take approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. There are also frequent services from Birmingham, Sheffield, and Nottingham.
By Car
Leicester is easily accessible via the M1 motorway, which runs north-south through England. The city is located near Junction 21.
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Best Time to Visit Leicester & Weather Tips
Leicester experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, though the weather can be unpredictable.
Abbey Park is particularly beautiful during the summer months
Recommended Seasons
Summer (June-August)
The most popular time to visit with temperatures averaging 15-23°C (59-73°F). Leicester’s parks are in full bloom, and numerous outdoor festivals take place, including the Caribbean Carnival in August.
Spring (March-May)
A lovely time to visit with temperatures ranging from 8-17°C (46-63°F). The city’s parks and gardens come to life, and there are fewer tourists than in summer.
Autumn (September-November)
Temperatures range from 6-18°C (43-64°F). The city’s parks display beautiful fall colors, and the annual Diwali celebrations (typically in October/November) are spectacular.
Winter (December-February)
Temperatures typically range from 1-7°C (34-45°F). While colder, winter offers Christmas markets and fewer crowds at attractions.
Seasons to Avoid
There’s no bad time to visit Leicester, but January and February can be cold and gray with occasional snow. If you dislike crowds, you might want to avoid the city during major events like the Diwali celebrations or Leicester Caribbean Carnival.
Getting Around Locally
Leicester is a compact city with many attractions within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city center.
Leicester’s pedestrianized city center makes exploring on foot easy and pleasant
Public Transportation
Leicester has an extensive bus network operated by Arriva and First Bus. Day tickets offer good value if you plan to make multiple journeys. The main bus stations are St Margaret’s Bus Station and Haymarket Bus Station.
Cycling
Leicester is a cycle-friendly city with dedicated cycle lanes and paths. Santander Cycles Leicester offers bike rentals from docking stations around the city.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like Uber. Black cabs can be found at designated taxi ranks throughout the city center.
Where to Stay in Leicester
Leicester offers accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Leicester offers a range of accommodation options from historic boutique hotels to modern chains
City Center
Staying in Leicester’s city center puts you within walking distance of major attractions like the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral, and the Curve Theatre. Options range from international hotel chains to boutique properties like The Belmont Hotel and Hotel Maiyango.
Cultural Quarter
Leicester’s Cultural Quarter is ideal for those interested in arts and nightlife. This area is home to the Curve Theatre and numerous galleries, restaurants, and bars.
University Area
The area around the University of Leicester and De Montfort University offers budget-friendly options and is well-connected to the city center by public transport.
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Dining & Local Cuisine
Leicester’s diverse population has created one of the UK’s most exciting culinary scenes, particularly known for its outstanding Indian restaurants.
Leicester’s Golden Mile is renowned for its authentic Indian restaurants
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Melton Mowbray Pork Pies – Leicester is close to Melton Mowbray, the home of these famous pork pies
- Red Leicester Cheese – A nutty, slightly sweet cheese that’s been produced in the area since the 17th century
- Curry – Leicester’s large South Asian community has created some of the UK’s best Indian restaurants
- Samosas – Leicester’s version often combines Indian flavors with East African influences
- Afternoon Tea – Many of Leicester’s historic buildings offer traditional afternoon tea
Dining Districts
The Golden Mile
Belgrave Road, known as the Golden Mile, is famous for its Indian restaurants, sweet shops, and jewelry stores. It’s the heart of Leicester’s South Asian community and the place to go for authentic Indian cuisine.
St. Martin’s Square
This charming area in the city center is home to independent restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s a great place to find unique dining experiences in historic surroundings.
Food Markets
Leicester Market, dating back over 800 years, is one of Europe’s largest covered markets. It’s an excellent place to find fresh local produce, cheeses, and specialty foods. The market is open Monday to Saturday.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Leicester offers a fascinating mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, and modern entertainment venues.
The King Richard III Visitor Centre tells the remarkable story of the king’s discovery
Historical Attractions
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Discover the fascinating story of how King Richard III’s remains were found under a Leicester car park in 2012. The center features interactive displays about the king’s life, death, and rediscovery.
Leicester Cathedral
Home to King Richard III’s tomb, this beautiful cathedral dates back over 900 years. The modern tomb is a striking piece of contemporary design within the historic setting.
Leicester Guildhall
One of the best-preserved timber-framed halls in England, dating from the 14th century. Once the meeting place of the Guild of Corpus Christi, it now houses exhibitions on Leicester’s history.
Museums and Science
The National Space Centre’s 42m rocket tower is an impressive sight
National Space Centre
The UK’s largest attraction dedicated to space exploration and astronomy. Features include the 42m-high Rocket Tower, the UK’s largest planetarium, and interactive galleries.
New Walk Museum and Art Gallery
Leicester’s original museum houses diverse collections including dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and fine art. The Victorian Art Gallery and Arts and Crafts Gallery are particularly notable.
Abbey Pumping Station
This museum of science and technology is housed in a Victorian sewage pumping station. It features four working steam-powered beam engines and exhibitions on Leicester’s industrial heritage.
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Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Leicester’s rich cultural scene reflects its diverse population and long history.
Leicester hosts the largest Diwali celebrations outside India
Cultural Districts
The Cultural Quarter
Centered around the Curve Theatre, this area is home to galleries, studios, and creative businesses housed in converted Victorian factories. The LCB Depot and Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre are notable venues here.
The Golden Mile
Belgrave Road is the heart of Leicester’s South Asian community, lined with jewelry shops, sari stores, and restaurants. It’s particularly spectacular during Diwali and Navratri celebrations.
Major Festivals
Diwali
Leicester hosts the largest Diwali celebrations outside India. The festival typically takes place in October or November, with spectacular lights along the Golden Mile and a program of events.
Caribbean Carnival
Held in August, this vibrant celebration features a colorful parade through the city center and a festival in Victoria Park with music, dance, and food.
Leicester Comedy Festival
The UK’s longest-running comedy festival takes place each February, featuring hundreds of shows across the city from big names to emerging talent.
Theaters and Performance Venues
The Curve Theatre’s innovative design features a stage visible from the street
Curve Theatre
This award-winning theater opened in 2008 with an innovative design that has no traditional backstage area. Instead, the production areas are visible to the public. It hosts a mix of touring productions and in-house shows.
De Montfort Hall
Leicester’s largest entertainment venue hosts classical concerts, comedy, ballet, opera, and popular music. The hall opened in 1913 and has excellent acoustics.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Leicester offers plenty of opportunities for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Leicester City’s King Power Stadium became world-famous after the team’s unlikely Premier League title win in 2016
Sports
Leicester City Football Club
The 2016 Premier League champions play at the King Power Stadium. Stadium tours are available on non-match days, offering behind-the-scenes access to areas including the changing rooms and tunnel.
Leicester Tigers Rugby Club
One of England’s most successful rugby teams plays at Welford Road Stadium. Matches offer an exciting atmosphere, and stadium tours are available.
Parks and Nature
Bradgate Park is home to herds of wild deer and the ruins of Lady Jane Grey’s childhood home
Bradgate Park
Located just outside Leicester, this 340-hectare (850-acre) park features dramatic rocky outcrops, ancient ruins, and herds of deer. It was once the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, the “Nine Days Queen.”
Abbey Park
This beautiful park near the city center is divided by the River Soar. It features the ruins of Leicester Abbey, formal gardens, a boating lake, and a pet corner.
Foxton Locks
Located about 30 minutes from Leicester, this flight of 10 locks on the Grand Union Canal is the longest staircase lock in the UK. It’s a picturesque spot for walking and watching narrowboats navigate the locks.
Outdoor Activities
Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre offers activities including kayaking, climbing, and archery. The Great Central Railway, the UK’s only double track mainline heritage railway, offers scenic steam train rides through the Leicestershire countryside.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Leicester is generally a safe city for visitors, but as with any urban area, it’s wise to take standard precautions.
Leicester’s multicultural community creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors
Safety Tips
- Leicester is generally safe, but take normal precautions with valuables, especially in crowded areas
- The city center is well-lit and has CCTV coverage, but some outlying areas may be best avoided late at night
- Use licensed taxis, especially after dark
- The emergency number in the UK is 999 (or 112)
Local Etiquette
Leicester is one of the UK’s most diverse cities, with large South Asian, African, and Caribbean communities. This multiculturalism is reflected in the city’s festivals, cuisine, and daily life.
- When visiting religious sites like Leicester Cathedral or local temples, dress modestly and follow any specific guidelines
- Queuing (standing in line) is taken seriously in the UK – always join the end of any queue
- Tipping is not as extensive as in some countries. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard if service isn’t included
- When using public transport, it’s customary to thank the driver when leaving a bus
Visitor Comments About Leicester
“The King Richard III Visitor Centre was absolutely fascinating. Standing over the exact spot where they found his remains gave me goosebumps. It’s a must-visit for any history buff.”
“We were blown away by the National Space Centre. Our kids spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits, and the planetarium show was spectacular. Well worth planning at least half a day for this attraction.”
“Don’t miss the Diwali celebrations if you’re visiting in autumn. The lights along the Golden Mile were breathtaking, and the atmosphere was so joyful and welcoming. It’s unlike anything I’ve experienced elsewhere in the UK.”
“Bradgate Park was the highlight of our trip. The wild deer came quite close, and the ruins were fascinating. Pack a picnic and make a day of it if the weather’s good.”
Practical Travel Tips
Leicester Market is Europe’s largest covered market and a great place to buy fresh produce
Money
- The currency is the British Pound (£). ATMs are widely available throughout the city
- Major credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller shops and market stalls
- Many places now accept contactless payments, including public transport
Language
English is the main language spoken in Leicester. However, due to the city’s diverse population, you may also hear Gujarati, Punjabi, and other languages. All official information and signage is in English.
Opening Hours
- Most shops open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM Monday to Saturday, with reduced hours on Sunday (typically 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
- Museums and attractions generally open around 10:00 AM and close between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM
- Restaurants typically serve lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Pubs usually open from 11:00 AM until 11:00 PM or midnight
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces throughout Leicester. The city center has good 4G coverage from all major UK mobile networks.
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Conclusion
Leicester may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a UK trip, but its unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions makes it a rewarding destination. From walking in the footsteps of Richard III to exploring the cosmos at the National Space Centre, from savoring authentic Indian cuisine to watching world-class sports, Leicester offers experiences that will surprise and delight visitors. The city’s multicultural character creates a welcoming atmosphere, while its compact size makes it easy to explore. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, a sports fan, or simply looking to discover a less-traveled corner of England, Leicester deserves a place on your travel itinerary.
The above is subject to change.
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