Leicestershire, United Kingdom Travel Guide

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.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Leicestershire.

Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre early to avoid crowds.
Explore Bradgate Park on foot for the best views and wildlife sightings.
Try the local Melton Mowbray pork pies and Stilton cheese at traditional markets.
Check the schedule for the Leicester Comedy Festival and other local events.
Use the National Forest's well-marked trails for a serene walk or cycle.

Top City Travel Guides in Leicestershire

The cities of Leicestershire, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Nottingham

Explore Leicestershire: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Leicestershire

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Leicester Cathedral

Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.

4.6

Bradgate Park

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

4.8

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.

4.5

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.

4.5

Best landmarks in Leicestershire

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Oakham Castle

England's finest Norman Great Hall, crowned with 240+ royal horseshoes and 800 years of justice.

4.5

23 St.Nicholas Pl

Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.

Bradgate House

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

4.7

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

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

3.9

Best restaurants in Leicestershire

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Black Iron

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

4.4

Casa Romana Restaurant

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

4.6

Fourwards Restaurant

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

4.5

John's House

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

4.8

Best bars in Leicestershire

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Knight & Garter

A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.

4.5

Queen of Bradgate

A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.

4.3

The Distillery

A lively Leicester pub blending classic British fare, craft beers, and a spirited sports bar atmosphere in the city centre.

4.4

The Exchange Bar

A historic Leicester landmark blending vintage charm with vibrant live music, creative events, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Cultural Quarter.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Leicestershire

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Club Republic

Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.

2.4

Helsinki

Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.

3.5

Mosh

Leicester’s premier three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal vibes and student-friendly drink deals.

4.3

The Fan Club

Leicester’s iconic nightclub with multiple dance floors, diverse music, and an electric weekend party atmosphere.

3.5

Best shops in Leicestershire

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Haymarket Shopping Centre

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

4.0

Arciide

Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.

4.6

Nest

Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.

4.4

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.

4.3

Explore Leicestershire on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Leicestershire, mapped for you.

Leicestershire Essentials

Leicestershire is well-connected and accessible from various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. The nearest major airport is East Midlands Airport, which is located approximately 20 miles from Leicester city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or rent a car to reach your destination. Leicester is also well-served by train, with direct services from London St Pancras, Birmingham, and other major cities. National Express and other coach services also provide connections to Leicester and other towns in Leicestershire.
Leicestershire has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trains. Arriva and First Leicester operate the majority of bus services within the county, making it easy to get around. For exploring the county, renting a car can be a convenient option, especially if you plan to visit rural areas. Leicester city center is pedestrian-friendly, and cycling is also a popular mode of transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in urban areas.
The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payments are also common. ATMs are plentiful in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas where card facilities might not be available.
Leicestershire is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Areas such as Leicester city center are bustling and safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Some neighborhoods like parts of Highfields and New Parks in Leicester have higher crime rates, so exercise caution when visiting these areas.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. This will connect you to police, fire, or medical emergency services. Leicester Royal Infirmary is the main hospital in the city, providing comprehensive medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. Leicester has a diverse culture, so most dress codes are acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. When entering churches or mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'hello.' Avoid being overly familiar with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties. Leicester is known for its vibrant food scene. Don't tip excessively; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is usually sufficient.
To experience Leicestershire like a local, visit the local markets such as Leicester Market, one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting historical sites such as the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Bosworth Battlefield, and the charming villages of the Charnwood Forest. For a unique experience, explore the scenic countryside and enjoy a walk along the Leicestershire Round, a circular walking route that covers various landscapes and heritage sites.

When is the best time to visit Leicestershire?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Leicestershire

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Leicestershire. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAlright
  [aw-reet]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see ya]
- YesAye
  [ai]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [no prob-lem]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry mate
  [sor-ree mate]
- How are you?You alright?
  [yoo aw-reet?]
- Fine. And you?I’m good, you?
  [I'm good, yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [doo ya speak ing-lish?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [can I see the men-yoo, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI’m a veggie
  [I’m a veg-ee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [can I pay, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Ring the coppers!
  [ring the cop-pers]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a dock]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [I’m lost]
- I'm illI’m not well
  [I’m not well]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-sing]
- How much is it?How much’s this?
  [how much's this?]
- That's too expensiveThat's well pricey
  [that's well pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock it down?
  [can ya nok it down?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [it's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mor-nin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ee-venin']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yes-t'day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [to-morra]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [what's the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [can ya show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When’s the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a tick-it to...]

History of Leicestershire

Leicestershire's history dates back to Roman Britain, when the Romans established the settlement of Ratae Corieltauvorum, now modern-day Leicester. The town was an important hub for trade and military operations, featuring a forum, baths, and a basilica. Archaeological finds, including intricate mosaics and Roman artifacts, paint a vivid picture of life during this era.
Following the Roman withdrawal, Leicestershire became part of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia. The area saw significant Viking activity in the 9th century, culminating in the establishment of the Danelaw. This era left a lasting impact on the local culture, language, and place names, many of which have Scandinavian origins.
The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought significant changes to Leicestershire. William the Conqueror commissioned the building of Leicester Castle, a motte-and-bailey structure that served as a stronghold and administrative center. The castle played a vital role in the turbulent medieval period, witnessing sieges and power struggles.
One of the most pivotal events in English history, the Battle of Bosworth Field, took place in Leicestershire in 1485. This decisive battle marked the end of the Wars of the Roses and the rise of the Tudor dynasty. Henry Tudor's victory over Richard III changed the course of English history. The Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore this significant site.
Leicestershire played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the textile industry. The county became known for its framework knitting, a craft that evolved from hand-knitting to mechanized production. Towns like Loughborough and Hinckley grew rapidly as centers of textile manufacturing, contributing to Britain's industrial prowess.
In 2012, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath a car park in Leicester. This remarkable find captivated the world and reignited interest in the controversial monarch. The King Richard III Visitor Centre, located near the discovery site, provides an in-depth look at his life, death, and the astonishing archaeological project that brought his story to light.
Leicester is celebrated for its rich cultural diversity, a legacy of post-war immigration. The city is home to vibrant communities from South Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. Festivals like Diwali, the largest outside India, and the Caribbean Carnival highlight Leicester's multicultural heritage, making it a dynamic and inclusive destination.
Leicestershire's market towns, such as Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray, and Ashby-de-la-Zouch, offer a glimpse into the county's historical and economic past. Melton Mowbray, for instance, is renowned for its pork pies and Stilton cheese, both protected by geographical indication status. These towns, with their historic buildings and bustling markets, provide a charming contrast to the urban experience of Leicester city.
Leicester boasts a diverse architectural heritage, from medieval structures to Victorian landmarks. St. Nicholas' Church, dating back to the Saxon period, and the Jewry Wall, one of the largest remaining Roman masonry structures in Britain, are notable examples. The Victorian era left a significant imprint with buildings like the Leicester Secular Hall and the Grand Hotel, showcasing the city's growth during the industrial age.