Attenborough Arboretum: Leicester's Living Timeline of Native Trees
Discover Leicester’s Attenborough Arboretum, a living timeline of native trees and tranquil wildlife habitats in a historic urban green space.
Nestled in Knighton, Leicester, the Attenborough Arboretum is a serene five-acre green space showcasing native trees in the order they arrived in Britain after the last Ice Age. Open daily year-round, it features medieval ridge-and-furrow fields, two large ponds with a boardwalk, and a purpose-built classroom for educational groups. Named after Sir David Attenborough, this arboretum combines natural history, biodiversity, and tranquil wildlife habitats in an accessible urban setting.
A brief summary to Attenborough Arboretum
- 5-23 Carisbrooke Rd, Leicester, LE2 3TQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during British Summer Time to enjoy extended opening hours until 5pm.
- Explore the medieval ridge-and-furrow fields and use the boardwalk to observe pond wildlife closely.
- Plan educational visits or guided tours by contacting the Leicester Botanic Garden in advance.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the arboretum covers five acres with accessible but natural terrain.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching during early spring when bird song is abundant.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Arriva Midlands 44 or 44A bus from Leicester city centre, which stops on Carisbrooke Road near the arboretum entrance. The journey typically takes 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with standard fare around £2.50.
-
Car
Drive to the arboretum via Carisbrooke Road where a small car park is available. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early is advisable. The site is easily accessible from the city and parking restrictions apply on surrounding streets.
-
Walking
From Leicester city centre, walking to the arboretum takes approximately 40-50 minutes over mostly flat, urban terrain. Paths are suitable for wheelchair users, but be prepared for a longer stroll through residential areas.
Attenborough Arboretum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Attenborough Arboretum
A Unique Chronicle of Britain's Native Trees
The Attenborough Arboretum offers a rare botanical journey through time, displaying native tree species in the sequence they colonized Britain following the last Ice Age about 10,000 years ago. Visitors begin their walk encountering early arrivals such as Scots Pine, Juniper, Hazel, and Birch, progressing to later species like Beech, which arrived just before the English Channel formed roughly 7,500 years ago. This chronological planting is based on detailed fossil pollen and botanical evidence, making the arboretum a living museum of Britain's natural history.Historical Landscape and Ecological Features
Occupying land formerly part of Home Farm, the arboretum preserves one of Leicester’s few surviving medieval ridge-and-furrow fields, a testament to the area's agricultural past. The site also includes two large ponds that support diverse amphibian populations, earning it designation as a Local Wildlife Site. A well-constructed boardwalk allows visitors to observe and engage with these aquatic habitats, including opportunities for pond-dipping, enhancing the educational and ecological value of the arboretum.Educational and Community Engagement
Since its opening in 1997 by Sir David Attenborough, the arboretum has been a hub for learning and community involvement. Local schools played a vital role in its planting phase, and a purpose-built classroom on-site facilitates educational visits and guided tours. These programs focus on botany, ecology, and conservation, providing hands-on experiences that deepen understanding of native flora and fauna and promote environmental stewardship.Flora Beyond Native Species
While the arboretum primarily showcases native species, it also includes mature alien trees such as the Horse Chestnut, introduced to Britain in the early 17th century from the Balkans. This inclusion highlights the complex history of plant migration and human influence on Britain's botanical landscape, offering visitors insight into the distinctions between native and alien species based on their arrival and evolution timelines.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The arboretum is designed to be accessible, with all main paths suitable for wheelchair users and a small car park nearby. Open daily from 10am to 4pm (5pm during British Summer Time), it provides a peaceful urban retreat rich in bird song and natural beauty. Although there are no refreshment facilities on-site, the tranquil setting and informative signage make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, families, and educational groups alike.Connection to Leicester Botanic Garden and Conservation
As a satellite site of the University of Leicester Botanic Garden, the Attenborough Arboretum complements the broader mission of conserving plant diversity and educating the public about global and native biodiversity. Together, these sites form a vital green space network in Leicester, fostering appreciation for plant life and environmental heritage within the city and beyond.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
2.9 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
3.3 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
3.4 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
King Lear
4.6 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Museum Development East Midlands
7.2 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.5 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
21.9 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
27.7 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
28.8 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
29.4 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Sir Frank Whittle
34.7 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
St Mary's Guildhall
34.8 km
Explore St Mary's Guildhall in Coventry - a stunning historical landmark blending rich heritage with modern amenities, perfect for history lovers and café enthusiasts.
Council House
34.8 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Lady Godiva
34.9 km
Explore the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a stunning tribute to bravery and heritage, surrounded by vibrant city life and rich history.
Holdenby House
35.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Holdenby House, a majestic estate perfect for memorable events and enriching experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
2.4 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Shady Lane Arboretum
2.7 km
A peaceful arboretum in Leicester with diverse trees, meadows, and historical charm, perfect for nature walks and quiet reflection.
Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve
2.7 km
Leicester’s largest local nature reserve, a tranquil mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and canal-side paths rich in wildlife and history.
Town Hall Square Fountain
3.0 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
The Newarke Houses Museum
3.1 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Market
3.2 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
3.2 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
3.2 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.
Leicester Castle
3.2 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Leicester Cathedral
3.3 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Guildhall Museum
3.3 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
The Clock Tower
3.3 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Highcross
3.3 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
3.4 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Abbey Park
4.4 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Essential places to dine
OGGI Italian Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
2.7 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
The White Peacock
2.8 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Casa Romana Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
3.1 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
3.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
3.3 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
3.3 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.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
3.3 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Cosy Club
3.4 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
3.5 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Black Iron
4.7 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
8.7 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
10.2 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Karma Corner Gifts
1.0 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
Prettiez
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Nest
1.2 km
Independent gift boutique in Leicester's Stoneygate, specializing in personalized jewellery and curated home accessories.
Nim's Boutique ltd
2.9 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Valley Discount Store
3.0 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
St George's Shopping Park
3.1 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
3.1 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Just Fair Trade
3.3 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Very Bazaar Leicester
3.3 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
3.3 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
3.3 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
The Wardrobe
3.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Urban Outfitters
3.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Set
3.3 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
3.4 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Babelas Continental Bar
1.1 km
A cozy, quirky bar in Leicester’s Clarendon Park serving continental beers, wines, and snacks in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
The Old Horse
1.8 km
A friendly, pet-welcoming Leicester pub with hearty roasts, unique charm, and a spacious garden for relaxed socializing.
The Loaded Dog
2.1 km
A lively Leicester pub buzzing with craft beers, live sports, and a student-friendly atmosphere on London Road.
The Marquis Wellington
2.1 km
A classic Leicester gastropub offering hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere with heated beer garden beach huts.
The King's Head
2.7 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
2.8 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
2.9 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Distillery
3.0 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Duffy's Bar
3.0 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Brick & Beam
3.0 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
Firebug
3.0 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
3.0 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
The Exchange Bar
3.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
The Blue Boar
3.1 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Knight & Garter
3.1 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Basement
2.8 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
2.9 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
3.1 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
3.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
The 2Funky Lounge
3.3 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
3.4 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Motto Nightclub
3.6 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Club Republic
3.6 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Fan Club
3.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Corah Works
3.8 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Echo's Night Club
19.3 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
21.7 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
23.2 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
28.5 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
37.9 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Naturalistic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Educational
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
