16 fun things to do in Leicester

Leicester, located in the East Midlands region of England, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. From its Roman past to its multicultural present, Leicester offers visitors a range of experiences that are not to be missed.

One of the highlights of a visit to Leicester is exploring its history. The city was founded by the Romans, and you can still see evidence of their influence in the ruins of the Roman baths and the Jewry Wall. However, the most famous historical figure associated with Leicester is King Richard III. After his death in the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, he was buried in Leicester’s Greyfriars Church. In 2012, his remains were discovered beneath a car park in the city, and now you can visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre to learn more about his life and legacy.

Leicester’s cultural diversity is also a major draw for visitors. The city has a significant Indian population, and the Belgrave Road area – also known as the Golden Mile – is a hub of Indian culture and cuisine. Here, you can sample delicious curries, browse colourful sari shops, and take part in cultural events such as Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

For art lovers, Leicester has plenty to offer as well. The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in the UK, with collections that span the centuries. You can admire paintings by Old Masters such as Rubens and Gainsborough, as well as contemporary art and artefacts from around the world.

Leicester is also a great destination for sports fans. The city is home to Leicester City Football Club, which won the Premier League in 2016 in one of the greatest upsets in football history. You can catch a game at the King Power Stadium or take a tour of the club’s training ground to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the team operates.

In conclusion, Leicester is a city with something for everyone – whether you’re interested in history, culture, art, or sports. From the Roman baths to the Indian restaurants on Belgrave Road, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic and diverse city.

Here are some fun things to do in Leicester

Explore the Old Town – start your visit with a walk around Leicester’s Old Town. Here, you’ll find historic buildings, cobbled streets, and a variety of independent shops and cafes.
Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre – this museum offers an immersive experience of the life and death of King Richard III, one of England’s most famous monarchs. Learn about his rise to power, his controversial reign, and the discovery of his remains.
Enjoy the Cultural Quarter – Leicester’s Cultural Quarter is home to a range of theatres, galleries, and live music venues. Check out the program of events to see what’s on during your visit.
Discover the Leicester Cathedral – this stunning building is one of Leicester’s most famous landmarks. Visit the tomb of King Richard III, see the medieval stained glass, and take in the beautiful architecture.
Experience the food scene – Leicester is known for its diverse food scene, with cuisine from all over the world available in the city. Try some authentic Indian food in the famous Golden Mile, sample some local cheeses at the Leicester Market, or enjoy a pint at a traditional English pub.
Enjoy the great outdoors – Leicester is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including Bradgate Park and the National Forest. Take a walk, go cycling, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s many parks.
Shop ’til you drop – Leicester has a range of shopping options, from high street stores to independent boutiques. Visit the Highcross shopping centre, the Haymarket shopping district, or the Lanes for a unique shopping experience.
Take a tour – there are a variety of tours available in Leicester, from walking tours of the Old Town to ghost tours and food tours. Choose a tour that interests you and learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Attend a festival or event – Leicester hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, from the famous Diwali celebrations to the Leicester Comedy Festival. Check out the events calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
Experience the nightlife – Leicester has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Enjoy a drink, see a show, or dance the night away in one of the city’s many venues.