Leicestershire · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Leicestershire: The Heart of England's Charm

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicestershire, nestled in the heart of England, is a county that seamlessly blends rich history with captivating landscapes. From its bustling market towns to its lush countryside, Leicestershire offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler. The county seat, Leicester, is a vibrant city known for its multicultural vibe, historical landmarks, and the discovery of King Richard III's remains. Don't miss the Leicester Cathedral and the King Richard III Visitor Centre for a deep dive into England's royal past. Venture beyond the city to explore the picturesque villages and rolling hills that define Leicestershire's countryside. Bradgate Park is a must-visit, offering sprawling parkland and the ruins of Bradgate House, the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey. For nature enthusiasts, the National Forest and the scenic canals provide perfect settings for walking, cycling, and boating. Food lovers will delight in Leicestershire's culinary offerings. The county is the birthplace of the world-famous Melton Mowbray pork pie and Stilton cheese. Visit local markets and traditional pubs to savor these delicacies. The annual Melton Mowbray Food Festival is a highlight for any foodie. Leicestershire's charm also lies in its vibrant culture and events. From the Leicester Comedy Festival to the historic re-enactments at Bosworth Battlefield, there's always something to see and do. The county's blend of history, nature, and culture ensures an unforgettable visit.

Leicester

Bradgate Park

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Derby

National Trust - Calke Abbey

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

National Space Centre

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Abbey Park

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Tropical Birdland

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Highcross

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Ashby-de-la-Zouch

Ashby de la Zouch Castle

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Fosse Park

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Matlock

High Peak Trail

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Oakham

Normanton Church

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Markfield

National Trust - Stoneywell

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Kirby Muxloe Castle

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

The Guildhall Museum

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Oakham

Oakham Castle

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Lyddington Bede House

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Wistow Maze

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

The Newarke Houses Museum

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Coalville

Grace Dieu Priory

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Town Hall Square Fountain

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Beaumont Shopping Centre

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Windmill Farm Park

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Shady Lane Arboretum

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Melton Mowbray

Burrough Hill - Iron Age Hillfort

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Leicester Abbey

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Belgrave Hall

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Oakham

All Saints Church : Oakham

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

The Blackbird

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Veeno

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Leicester Castle

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Attenborough Arboretum

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Oakham

Wing Maze

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Leicester

Blue Streak rocket

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

Melton Mowbray

Burrough on the Hill

Discover Leicestershire: A captivating blend of history, nature, and culture in the heart of England, offering unique experiences for every traveler.

When is the best time to go to Leicestershire?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJun–Aug
Longest daylightMay–Jun
Driest periodNov–Jun

Explore places in Leicestershire

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Leicestershire sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    The Clock Tower

    Historic Victorian clock tower and iconic Leicester meeting point at the heart of the city’s vibrant pedestrian zone.

    The Clock Tower

    Old John Tower

    Discover Old John Tower, an 18th-century folly atop Leicestershire’s highest hill offering stunning views and rich heritage in Bradgate Park.

    Old John Tower

    Bradgate House

    Explore the haunting Tudor ruins of Bradgate House, childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, set within Leicestershire’s historic medieval deer park.

    Bradgate House

    Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

    Explore one of Britain’s largest surviving Roman masonry structures and its fascinating public baths in the heart of Leicester.

    Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

    Leicester Castle

    Explore Leicester Castle, a Norman fortress with Britain’s oldest timber Great Hall, steeped in medieval history and royal legacy.

    Leicester Castle

    Earl Shilton Castle

    Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.

    Earl Shilton Castle

    Memorial Clock Tower

    A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.

    Memorial Clock Tower

    Welford Place

    Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.

    Welford Place

    King Lear

    Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.

    King Lear

    Watson Fothergill's Office

    Explore the vibrant Victorian Gothic office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic architectural homage.

    Watson Fothergill's Office

    Leicester Roman West Gate site

    Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.

    Leicester Roman West Gate site

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Highcross

    Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.

    Highcross

    Fosse Park

    Britain’s large out-of-town shopping park near Leicester, offering top retail brands and vibrant dining under a striking glass roof.

    Fosse Park

    Bradgate Park

    Explore Bradgate Park’s medieval deer park, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes in Leicestershire’s historic natural sanctuary.

    Bradgate Park

    National Space Centre

    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.

    National Space Centre

    National Trust - Calke Abbey

    Explore Calke Abbey’s hauntingly beautiful ‘un-stately home’ and its ancient parkland, a unique journey through history and nature.

    National Trust - Calke Abbey

    Beaumont Shopping Centre

    A vibrant community hub in Leicester offering diverse shopping, dining, and weekend markets in a welcoming atmosphere.

    Beaumont Shopping Centre

    Abbey Park

    Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.

    Abbey Park

    Tropical Birdland

    Discover over 250 exotic birds in a lush 6.5-acre sanctuary with free-flying parrots, interactive feeding, and family-friendly amenities in Leicester.

    Tropical Birdland

    Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

    Explore Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating galleries of dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, fine art, and community stories on historic New Walk.

    Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

    Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve

    Leicester’s largest local nature reserve, a tranquil mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and canal-side paths rich in wildlife and history.

    Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve

    King Richard III Visitor Centre

    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.

    King Richard III Visitor Centre

    The Blackbird

    A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.

    The Blackbird

    Ashby de la Zouch Castle

    Explore the evocative medieval ruins and literary heritage of Ashby de la Zouch Castle, crowned by its iconic Hastings Tower and underground passage.

    Ashby de la Zouch Castle

    Oakham Castle

    Explore England’s finest Norman great hall, home to a dazzling collection of royal horseshoes and centuries of justice in Rutland’s county town.

    Oakham Castle

    Town Hall Square Fountain

    Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.

    Town Hall Square Fountain

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Cosy Club

    Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.

    Cosy Club

    Bistrot Pierre - Leicester

    Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.

    Bistrot Pierre - Leicester

    OGGI Italian Restaurant

    Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.

    OGGI Italian Restaurant

    Casa Romana Restaurant

    Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.

    Casa Romana Restaurant

    Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant

    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.

    Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant

    John's House

    Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in a rustic farmhouse setting, blending local produce with refined culinary artistry.

    John's House

    Varanasi Boutique Restaurant

    Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.

    Varanasi Boutique Restaurant

    Sapori Restaurant & Bar

    Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

    Sapori Restaurant & Bar

    Fourwards Restaurant

    A family-run British restaurant in Earl Shilton blending classic flavors with modern creativity in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

    Fourwards Restaurant

    Black Iron

    Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.

    Black Iron

    Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant

    Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.

    Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant

    Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto

    Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.

    Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto

    Merchant of Venice

    Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.

    Merchant of Venice

    The Frame

    A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.

    The Frame

    The White Peacock

    Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.

    The White Peacock

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Haymarket Shopping Centre

    Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.

    Haymarket Shopping Centre

    The Range, Leicester

    Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.

    The Range, Leicester

    St George's Shopping Park

    A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.

    St George's Shopping Park

    Narborough Hall

    Discover unique gifts and local charm at Narborough Hall, a beloved gift shop nestled in the heart of Narborough village, Leicester.

    Narborough Hall

    Menkind

    Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.

    Menkind

    Winged Ape Vintage

    Discover unique vintage treasures and timeless style at Winged Ape, Loughborough’s beloved family-run vintage shop since 2016.

    Winged Ape Vintage

    Urban Outfitters

    Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.

    Urban Outfitters

    Very Bazaar Leicester

    Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.

    Very Bazaar Leicester

    Nim's Boutique ltd

    Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.

    Nim's Boutique ltd

    Wheelers Luxury Gifts

    Discover exquisite personalized luxury gifts and impeccable service at Wheelers Luxury Gifts in Loughborough’s Devonshire Square.

    Wheelers Luxury Gifts

    Forget Me Knot Leicester Ltd

    Anstey's beloved independent gift shop, where thoughtful curation meets genuine hospitality.

    Forget Me Knot Leicester Ltd

    Set

    Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.

    Set

    Just Fair Trade

    Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.

    Just Fair Trade

    Karma Corner Gifts

    Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.

    Karma Corner Gifts

    Prettiez

    Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.

    Prettiez
    File:Clock Tower - Palace of Westminster, London - September 2006-2.jpg -  Wikipedia
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    Explore Leicestershire in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Leicester Cathedral south facade.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Dynasty Death and Discovery, Richard III museum entrance.png -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Bradgate park rocks.jpg - Simple English Wikipedia, the free  encyclopedia
    File:View up the flight of locks at Foxton Locks - geograph.org.uk -  3795621.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Battle of Bosworth Field diorama.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Belvoir Castle.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:ZOO Ústí n L - horní vstup 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:National Space Centre, Leicester.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:MeltonNttmRdRH.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Steam locomotive LMS Fairburn 2-6-4T No 42085 on the Great Central  Railway heritage railway in Leicestershire.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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