Museum Development East Midlands at County Hall, Leicester
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Museum Development East Midlands (MDEM) is a regional support organisation based at County Hall, Leicester, dedicated to enhancing and sustaining museums and heritage sites across the East Midlands. It provides expert guidance, training, grants, and networking opportunities to help museums meet accreditation standards and improve their collections, visitor engagement, and organisational resilience.
A brief summary to Museum Development East Midlands
- Museum Development East Midlands County Hall, Leicester, Glenfield, LE3 8RL, GB
- +441163053118
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check MDEM’s website for upcoming workshops and grant application deadlines to maximize support opportunities.
- Engage with the Market Town Museums Network to connect with smaller local museums and share resources.
- Explore MDEM’s training sessions focused on Museum Accreditation to strengthen your museum’s policies and procedures.
- Look out for special projects supporting young people in heritage to discover educational and career pathways.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Leicester city centre to County Hall in Glenfield, with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently during weekdays, with fares approximately £2-£4. Note that weekend services are limited.
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Car
Driving from Leicester city centre to County Hall takes about 10-15 minutes via main roads. Limited on-site parking is available; visitors should check parking availability in advance. No charge applies for parking at County Hall.
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Taxi
Taxi rides from Leicester city centre to County Hall typically take 10 minutes, costing around £8-£12. This option offers direct and flexible access, especially outside public transport hours.
Museum Development East Midlands location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Museum Development East Midlands
A Hub for Museum Sustainability and Growth
Museum Development East Midlands (MDEM) operates from County Hall in Leicester, serving as a vital resource for museums and heritage organisations throughout the East Midlands region. Hosted by Leicestershire County Council, MDEM focuses on supporting museums to improve their sustainability, governance, and audience engagement through a variety of targeted programmes and initiatives.Empowering Museums Through Training and Grants
MDEM offers a wide range of training workshops, including Accreditation refresher sessions that help museums develop robust documentation policies and meet national standards. These workshops are interactive and designed to increase confidence in applying for or maintaining Museum Accreditation. Additionally, MDEM administers grant schemes such as Collections Access Grants, Small Grants, and Reboot & Recovery Grants, which provide crucial funding for projects that improve collections care, enhance visitor experiences, and support recovery from challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.Collaborative Networks and Sector Development
The organisation fosters collaboration through networks such as the Market Town Museums Network, which connects smaller museums to share resources and best practices. MDEM also partners with national bodies like Arts Council England and the Arts Marketing Association to deliver programmes aimed at helping museums become more audience-focused and resilient. This collaborative approach strengthens the regional museum sector and promotes cultural heritage across communities.Supporting Young People and Future Heritage Professionals
MDEM is actively involved in projects that create progression opportunities for young people interested in heritage careers. Collaborations with organisations like Norfolk Museums Service and Leicester YMCA help nurture the next generation of museum professionals, ensuring the long-term vitality of the sector.Strategic Role in Regional Cultural Landscape
By hosting and managing the Museum Development programme, Leicestershire County Council and MDEM play a strategic role in shaping the cultural landscape of the East Midlands. Their work supports the preservation and promotion of local heritage, enhances museum services, and contributes to regional tourism and community identity.Facilities and Location Context
Situated within County Hall in Glenfield, Leicester, MDEM benefits from a central administrative location with access to local government resources. The venue is accessible during standard office hours, providing a professional setting for meetings, workshops, and consultations with museum professionals across the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Museum Development East Midlands
0.0 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
4.0 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
4.0 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Welford Place
4.5 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
King Lear
6.7 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
11.7 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
14.8 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
25.7 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
28.1 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Old Trent Bridge
31.5 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Camellia House
32.4 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Gazebo
32.5 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
The Hemlock Stone
32.7 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Mortimer’s hole
32.7 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
32.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Cliff of Nottingham Castle, a top tourist attraction in Nottingham, UK.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Blackbird
2.9 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
3.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins and tranquil moated grounds of Kirby Muxloe Castle, a spectacular unfinished 15th-century brick fortress steeped in history.
Leicester Abbey
3.5 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
Abbey Park
3.7 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Bradgate Park
3.8 km
Explore Bradgate Park’s medieval deer park, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes in Leicestershire’s historic natural sanctuary.
Bradgate House
3.8 km
Explore the historic beauty of Bradgate House, the former home of Lady Jane Grey, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Blue Streak rocket
3.8 km
Discover the iconic Blue Streak rocket, Britain’s Cold War missile turned pioneering European space launcher, at Leicester’s National Space Centre.
National Space Centre
3.8 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
3.9 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Leicester Castle
4.1 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
The Guildhall Museum
4.1 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Highcross
4.1 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Cathedral
4.2 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
4.2 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
The Newarke Houses Museum
4.2 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Essential places to dine
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
1.9 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Black Iron
3.5 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
3.9 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Restaurant263
4.0 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Cosy Club
4.0 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
4.1 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Merchant of Venice
4.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
The Frame
4.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
4.4 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Casa Romana Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
4.6 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
The White Peacock
4.6 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
John's House
9.0 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in a rustic farmhouse setting, blending local produce with refined culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Forget Me Knot Leicester Ltd
1.9 km
Anstey's beloved independent gift shop, where thoughtful curation meets genuine hospitality.
The Range, Leicester
3.3 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Watkinghams Gift & Homeware Store
4.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish homeware in a charming village shop celebrating local artistry near Bradgate Park.
The Source
4.1 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Menkind
4.1 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Set
4.1 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Niche Store
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Arciide
4.2 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Very Bazaar Leicester
4.2 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
The Wardrobe
4.2 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Just Fair Trade
4.2 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Urban Outfitters
4.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
4.3 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Nim's Boutique ltd
4.5 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
4.5 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Keepers Lodge
1.8 km
A friendly community pub in Leicester offering great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crows Nest
3.4 km
A lively Leicester pub with great food, live music, family events, and a welcoming pirate-themed atmosphere.
The Metal Monocle
3.9 km
A vibrant steampunk haven in Leicester where rock and metal music meet inventive drinks and immersive atmosphere.
Nine Bar
4.0 km
A lively Leicester bar offering quality cocktails, craft beers, and delicious burgers in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Tree, Leicester
4.1 km
A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Queen of Bradgate
4.1 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
The Gadabout
4.2 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
4.2 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
4.2 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Tønne Bar
4.3 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Inside No 9
4.3 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
4.4 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
Knight & Garter
4.4 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Blue Boar
4.4 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Firebug
4.4 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The 2Funky Lounge
3.9 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
4.0 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Corah Works
4.1 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Club Republic
4.1 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Fan Club
4.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Motto Nightclub
4.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Waikiki Nightclub
4.4 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
TRUTH Leicester
4.6 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The Basement
4.6 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Helsinki
4.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Echo's Night Club
13.1 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
14.6 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Ciros Nightclub
21.6 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Tubes
23.7 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
The Attic Adult Club
32.5 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Educational
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly