Abbey Park, Leicester: A Historic Riverside Urban Oasis
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 is Leicester’s premier city park, located about a mile north of the city centre. Divided by the River Soar, it blends Victorian gardens, sporting facilities, and family attractions with the evocative ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian abbey. Visitors can enjoy boating, a miniature railway, Pets Corner, tennis courts, a lavender maze, and scenic riverside walks in a tranquil yet lively setting.
A brief summary to Abbey Park
- Abbey Park Rd, Leicester, Leicester, LE4 5AQ, GB
- +441164541003
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekend to enjoy the miniature railway rides and seasonal boating on the lake.
- Explore the Abbey ruins with informative heritage panels to appreciate the park’s medieval history.
- Stop by Peppercorn Café for refreshments after exploring the gardens and sports facilities.
- Bring children to Pets Corner to interact with small animals and exotic birds.
- Check the park’s event calendar for seasonal festivals, including the popular Bonfire Night fireworks.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several bus routes run from Leicester city centre to stops along Abbey Park Road, with a journey time of approximately 15-25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with standard fares around £2-£3 per adult. Service frequency may reduce in evenings and weekends.
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Car
Driving from Leicester city centre takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. There are three car parks accessible from Abbey Park Road and St Margaret’s Way. Parking charges apply during the day; free parking is generally available after 6pm.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, Abbey Park is roughly 1.5 miles north of Leicester city centre. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Abbey Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Abbey Park
Historic Foundations and Riverside Setting
Abbey Park is steeped in history, occupying the grounds of the once-wealthy 12th-century Leicester Abbey, an Augustinian monastery dissolved in the 16th century. The western side of the park features the atmospheric ruins of the abbey and the 17th-century Cavendish House mansion, offering visitors a glimpse into Leicester’s medieval and early modern past. The River Soar meanders through the park, creating a natural divide and adding to the park’s serene riverside charm.Victorian Landscape and Garden Design
The eastern side of Abbey Park showcases classic Victorian park design, with formal flowerbeds, evergreen shrubberies, and tree-lined avenues. The park’s layout reflects the 19th-century passion for horticulture and landscaping, providing a lush, colorful backdrop throughout the seasons. A sensory garden and a lavender maze add to the botanical variety, inviting visitors to explore and enjoy the scents and textures of the plants.Recreational Facilities and Family Attractions
Abbey Park offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Sports enthusiasts can use the bowling green, five hard-surface tennis courts, and table tennis tables. The boating lake, open seasonally, allows visitors to rent pedal boats and enjoy peaceful time on the water. Children and families delight in Pets Corner, where they can interact with rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, and exotic birds. The miniature railway, operating mainly on weekends and special events, provides charming rides through the park’s scenic areas.Community Events and Social Spaces
Since its official opening in 1882 by the future King Edward VII, Abbey Park has been a focal point for community gatherings and celebrations. The park hosts seasonal events such as music festivals, outdoor theatre, and the popular annual Bonfire Night fireworks display. The Abbey Park Pavilion and Peppercorn Café serve as social hubs, offering refreshments and a place to rest amid the park’s vibrant atmosphere.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Located just over a mile from Leicester city centre, Abbey Park is easily accessible by bus and car, with several parking areas nearby. The park is open daily from early morning until dusk, with public restrooms, changing facilities, and a visitor-friendly café. Paths along the River Soar connect to other green spaces, making Abbey Park a key part of Leicester’s network of outdoor recreational areas.A Natural Retreat in an Urban Landscape
Abbey Park’s combination of historic ruins, landscaped gardens, and active recreational spaces creates a unique urban oasis. Whether seeking a peaceful riverside walk, a family day out, or a glimpse into Leicester’s heritage, visitors find a welcoming environment rich in natural beauty and cultural significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
23 St.Nicholas Pl
1.2 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
1.5 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Welford Place
1.6 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Museum Development East Midlands
3.7 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
6.3 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.7 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
18.3 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
28.1 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.9 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Old Trent Bridge
32.4 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
33.3 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
33.7 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
33.7 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
33.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Cliff of Nottingham Castle, a top tourist attraction in Nottingham, UK.
Museum of Nottingham Life
33.7 km
Discover Nottingham's rich history at the Museum of Nottingham Life, where captivating exhibits and engaging artifacts await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Abbey
0.3 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
0.7 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
0.9 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.
Blue Streak rocket
0.9 km
Discover the iconic Blue Streak rocket, Britain’s Cold War missile turned pioneering European space launcher, at Leicester’s National Space Centre.
The Clock Tower
1.1 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Highcross
1.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
The Guildhall Museum
1.3 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Leicester Market
1.3 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Leicester Cathedral
1.3 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
1.3 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Veeno
1.3 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
1.3 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.
Town Hall Square Fountain
1.4 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Leicester Castle
1.6 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
The Newarke Houses Museum
1.6 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant263
1.2 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Cosy Club
1.2 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
1.2 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
The Frame
1.3 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
1.3 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.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
1.4 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Casa Romana Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
1.7 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
1.9 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
2.0 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
2.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Black Iron
3.7 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
4.6 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
John's House
9.6 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in a rustic farmhouse setting, blending local produce with refined culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Leicester
0.4 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
The Source
0.9 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
1.1 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Menkind
1.1 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
1.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Set
1.2 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
The Wardrobe
1.2 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
1.2 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Just Fair Trade
1.2 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Arciide
1.2 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
1.3 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Nim's Boutique ltd
1.5 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
St George's Shopping Park
1.5 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Valley Discount Store
2.6 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Queen of Bradgate
1.2 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
Tree, Leicester
1.2 km
A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
1.2 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
1.2 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Gadabout
1.3 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
Tønne Bar
1.3 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Inside No 9
1.3 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
The Exchange Bar
1.4 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Knight & Garter
1.4 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Brick & Beam
1.4 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The Blue Boar
1.5 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Firebug
1.5 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
1.5 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
Duffy's Bar
1.5 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
1.5 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
