[2025 Leicester Attraction] Travel Guide for King Richard III Visitor Centre (Updated Jul)

Leicester may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a UK trip, but after spending a day there, I realized it’s one of England’s best-kept secrets. I started my morning at the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where history came alive. It was fascinating to learn how the long-lost king’s remains were discovered beneath a parking lot! Right across the street stands Leicester Cathedral, peaceful and beautiful, where the king now rests. From history to culture, I headed next to the New Walk Museum, where I explored Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs, and fine art—all for free! The museum is located along the charming New Walk, a leafy pedestrian path that feels like a secret garden running through the city. Lunch was at the Leicester Market, one of the largest in Europe. I tried local cheese and a hot samosa from one of the many multicultural food stalls. Leicester’s diversity truly shines in its food! In the afternoon, I visited the National Space Centre, a must-see for any science lover. Standing beneath a towering rocket and watching a planetarium show was an out-of-this-world experience. Before catching my train, I took a short stroll around Victoria Park, where students and families relaxed in the evening sun. From medieval kings to modern science, Leicester offers a surprising mix of old and new. It’s a city with stories—and foxes—around every corner.

Leicester, one of England’s oldest cities, blends Roman heritage, medieval charm, and a vibrant multicultural spirit. Begin your journey at **Leicester Cathedral**, where King Richard III was reinterred in 2015 after his remains were discovered beneath a nearby car park. Adjacent, the **King Richard III Visitor Centre** tells this remarkable story with engaging exhibits. Stroll through **Guildhall**, a timber-framed medieval building with creaky floors and ghost stories, then head to the **Jewry Wall Museum**, home to Roman baths and mosaics, showcasing Leicester’s ancient past. The **New Walk Museum and Art Gallery**, set along a pedestrian Georgian promenade, offers everything from dinosaurs to Victorian paintings. For a shift to the contemporary, **Highcross Leicester** provides modern shopping, while **St. Martin's Square** features quirky cafes and local boutiques. To explore Leicester’s diversity, walk through the **Golden Mile** on Belgrave Road, famed for its Indian cuisine, colourful saris, and gold jewellery. In the evening, catch a performance at the **Curve Theatre**, a sleek modern venue in the Cultural Quarter. For some greenery, relax at **Abbey Park**, where you can row a boat, admire the ruins of Leicester Abbey, or stroll riverside paths. Leicester’s compact layout makes it ideal for walking. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or foodie, the city offers a rich, authentic experience with a welcoming atmosphere.

Explore Leicester: a city where ancient history, diverse culture, and natural beauty intertwine! Uncover Roman roots at the Jewry Wall and delve into medieval times at the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where the last Plantagenet king's story is brought to life. Marvel at the stunning Leicester Cathedral and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Golden Mile. Just a stone's throw away, escape to the breathtaking landscapes of Bradgate Park. This expansive deer park offers rugged ancient woodlands, stunning views from Old John, and the serene ruins of Bradgate House, the birthplace of Lady Jane Grey. It's the perfect natural complement to Leicester's urban charm, offering walking, wildlife, and tranquility. Leicester is a city of surprising discoveries, blending heritage with modern energy and beautiful escapes! #thingstodo #travel #naturalwonders #bradgatepark #leicester

Leicester is a diverse and historic city in England’s East Midlands, known for its rich multicultural atmosphere and welcoming spirit. It beautifully blends ancient heritage with modern life — from the impressive Leicester Cathedral and King Richard III Visitor Centre to lively shopping areas like Highcross. The city celebrates cultural festivals year-round, including one of the largest Diwali festivals outside India. With a strong South Asian influence, the food scene is vibrant and flavorful. Leicester is also a proud sports city, home to Leicester City FC’s unforgettable Premier League win in 2016. #LeicesterUK

#manchestertrips Looking for a charming escape from Manchester? Just under 2 hours by train, Leicester offers a rich blend of history, heritage, and hidden gems that make it perfect for a fulfilling day trip. 🏰 Walk Through History Start at the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where cutting-edge exhibits tell the fascinating story of the last Plantagenet king. Just steps away is Leicester Cathedral, his final resting place — a peaceful stop that blends Gothic architecture with modern reverence. 🎨 Art & Curiosities Wander over to New Walk, a picturesque pedestrian route leading to the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. It’s free and packed with everything from dinosaurs to classic and contemporary art. ⛲ Snap a Moment at Town Hall Square Don’t miss the elegant Town Hall Fountain — one of Leicester’s most photogenic spots. Set in a beautifully landscaped square, the ornate Victorian fountain is a great pause for photos or just to sit and enjoy the surroundings. 🍛 Global Eats Hungry? Leicester’s food scene is legendary for Indian cuisine. Head to the Belgrave Road area, known as the Golden Mile, for mouthwatering curries and sweet treats like jalebi and kulfi. 🛍️ Shop Local Stroll through Leicester Market, one of Europe’s largest covered markets. It’s a great place to pick up fresh produce, street snacks, or unique handmade gifts. 🚉 Getting There & Tips Train: Direct services from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester, ~1 hr 50 mins. Walkable City: The main attractions are within 15 minutes of the train station. Best Time to Go: Spring and summer for outdoor fountain photos and park strolls.

#manchestertrips Hop on a train from Manchester and in just under 2 hours, you’ll arrive in Leicester — a historic city bursting with heritage, science, and flavors from around the globe. Ideal for a relaxed city day trip with a dash of curiosity and culinary delight. 🏰 What to Explore ⚰️ King Richard III Visitor Centre Step into England’s royal past and discover the remarkable story behind the king’s remains, found beneath a city car park! 🌌 National Space Centre Blast off into one of the UK’s most exciting museums, packed with interactive exhibits and an iconic Rocket Tower 🚀. 🕌 Golden Mile Walk through Belgrave Road to experience Leicester’s vibrant Indian community. Shop for colorful saris and treat yourself to authentic street food and sweets 🍛🍬. 🌿 Abbey Park Stroll through landscaped gardens and river views at this peaceful green retreat — perfect for a midday pause. 🖼️ New Walk Museum & Art Gallery Explore dinosaurs, Egyptian relics, and fine art in a charming Victorian setting along the leafy New Walk pedestrian path. 🚉 Travel Tips Train Time: Around 1hr 45min from Manchester Piccadilly Getting Around: Leicester is compact and walkable Lunch Tip: Don’t miss a thali or samosa chaat on the Golden Mile

Leicester, located in the East Midlands of England, is a vibrant city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Known for its diverse community, it offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions. **Getting There:** Leicester is well-connected by train, with regular services from London (approximately 1.5 hours), Birmingham, and Nottingham. The city is also accessible via major motorways, including the M1 and M69. **Top Attractions:** 1. **King Richard III Visitor Centre:** Discover the story of King Richard III, whose remains were famously discovered under a car park in Leicester in 2012. The visitor centre offers an engaging insight into his life, death, and the subsequent historical impact. 2. **Leicester Cathedral:** Adjacent to the King Richard III Visitor Centre, the cathedral is the final resting place of the king. The beautiful Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit. 3. **National Space Centre:** A great destination for families and space enthusiasts, the centre features interactive exhibits, the UK's largest planetarium, and real space rockets. 4. **Newarke Houses Museum & Gardens:** Explore Leicester's social history, from Tudor times to the present day. The museum is set in two historic houses and includes exhibits on the city’s industrial past and the impact of World War II. 5. **Leicester Market:** One of the largest outdoor covered markets in Europe, it offers fresh produce, clothing, and a vibrant atmosphere. The market has been a city staple for over 700 years. **Cultural Highlights:** - **Diwali Celebrations:** Leicester hosts one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India, with spectacular lights, fireworks, and cultural events. - **Leicester Caribbean Carnival:** A colorful and lively event celebrating Caribbean culture with parades, music, and food. **Dining:** Leicester's multicultural makeup is reflected in its diverse culinary scene. The Golden Mile on Belgrave Road is famous for its Indian cuisine, offering a variety of restaurants, sweet shops, and sari stores. Additionally, the city boasts a range of international dining options, from Italian to Caribbean. **Shopping:** For shopping enthusiasts, Highcross Leicester offers a modern shopping experience with high-street brands, designer stores, and a variety of dining options. The Lanes, a network of narrow streets, is perfect for discovering independent boutiques and unique shops. **Accommodation:** Leicester has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels like The Grand Hotel to budget-friendly options like Premier Inn. **Conclusion:** Leicester is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply exploring a new place, Leicester has something to offer every traveler.

Leicester has a beautiful and well kept old parts of city around castle motte and Leicester Cathedral. I highly recommend a walk around in the evening not on weekends as isn’t just not so noisy and you can enjoy the old town at night, you can also enjoy a drink or something to eat as there is plenty of lovely small cafes and bars around the cathedral area. I enjoy sitting that part of town since 15 years I live here and it gets more and more human friendly every year with plenty of space to enjoy the moment as the town invests in the infrastructure regularly. #leicester#king Richard III #castle Motte#leicester Canal#gooutside #king