Leicester: A Hub of History, Culture and Shopping
From the birthplace of Walkers Crisps to being the final resting place of King Richard III, Leicester is a city that boasts a diverse and rich heritage that is ripe for discovering. Along with its historic influences, an array of contemporary shops, trendy restaurants, and major festivals throughout the year ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to Leicester.
Historical Foundation
As one of the oldest cities in the UK, Leicester is home to a varied choice of attractions that pay homage to its heritage. With a history dating back some 900 years and being the final resting place of King Richard III, Leicester Cathedral provides a stunning piece of traditional architecture in the heart of the city. Speaking of King Richard III, you can find out more information about the miraculous discovery of his remains in a local car park via the highly regarded King Richard III Visitor Centre. Further central landmarks include the 600-year old Leicester Guildhall and Newarke Houses Museum, the latter of which tells the story of the city’s social history. Furthermore, and while staying in one of the various hotels in the city centre means all of the aforementioned points of interest are within short walking distance, venturing further afield will also reveal historic and acclaimed attractions such as Belvoir Castle and the Abbey Pumping Station.
Contemporary Sights & Shops
Although its history is a major selling point, this doesn’t mean that Leicester is without temptations for the more modern traveller. Ranging from independent boutique stores in St. Martins Square to the Highcross shopping centre that features an abundance of high street retailers, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to purchasing gifts and treats for yourself. In particular, the Leicester Market – which has garnered the reputation of being the biggest outdoor covered market in all of Europe – provides a place where an array of goods can be bought at bargain prices. Take a break from shopping and you can visit the National Space Centre where interactive activities blend with enlightening scientific information, while catching a show at the Curve Theatre is also highly recommended. King Power Stadium is home to Leicester City Football Club – a team that, when facing odds of 5000/1, completed arguably the biggest upset in Premier League history when they went from relegation candidates to being crowned champions in just two seasons! And to visit an area of seclusion that is away from the usual frenetic pace of the city centre, Abbey Park offers a picturesque and relaxing setting in the heart of Leicester.
Year-Round Festival Fun
Ranging from major music shows to community celebrations, Leicester regularly boasts some of the biggest and diverse selection of festivals and events in the East Midlands. The annual Leicester Comedy Festival kicks off early in the year, with numerous events taking place over more than two weeks of laughter-filled fun. In the following months, activities for all the family can be enjoyed at both the Leicester Riverside Festival and St. George’s Festival. To close out the year – and to give families an incentive to get out of their house during those cold winter months – various forms of festive entertainment are presented during the Christmas season. Moreover, and in celebration of its multicultural status, other yearly festivals represent Diwali, Black History Month and the Caribbean Carnival. Just keep in mind: hotel prices in Leicester can be more expensive depending on what festivals are taking place at the time!
Dining & Drinking
No multicultural city is without an assortment of dining and drinking options, and Leicester is no exception. Esteemed fine dining establishments such as The White Peacock and Lilu Cuisine populate the city centre. Although if you are looking for more budget-friendly options, locals and travellers alike rave about the quality of food served at places like Crafty Burger and the Stonebaked Pizza Co. To round off your culinary adventure, make sure to head over to the Gelato Village where you will be momentarily whisked away to Italy as you tuck into a varied choice of traditional – and delicious – Italian deserts. For a relaxing late-night drink or to party until the early hours of the morning, Leicester is a lively nightlife city thanks in part to its student population and thriving music scene. Regular live entertainment and a large drinks menu are staples at a Leicester institution in the form of The Orange Tree, which is conveniently located on the high street. In addition, the Braunstone Gate area of the city offers a range of popular bars to suit all tastes such as The Looking Glass, Sumo, and Natterjacks.