Belgrave Hall & Gardens, Leicester
Explore the tranquil historic gardens and Georgian heritage of Belgrave Hall, a Grade II listed jewel in Leicester’s Belgrave Village.
Belgrave Hall is a stunning Grade II listed historic house built in 1709, nestled in Belgrave Village, Leicester. Surrounded by two acres of beautifully maintained gardens featuring formal layouts, walled kitchen gardens, and glasshouses, it offers a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century life. The Hall’s rich history is intertwined with notable families and local reformers, while the gardens provide a tranquil and unusual setting for visitors to explore during select open days.
A brief summary to Belgrave Hall
- Church Rd, Leicester, Belgrave, LE4 5PE, GB
- +441162298181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays or the first full weekend of the month from April to September to explore the gardens and join free guided tours.
- Check the Leicester Museums website for special events and Heritage Open Days offering bespoke tours.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the gardens cover two acres with varied terrain including formal and kitchen garden areas.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique garden layouts and historic architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Leicester City Bus Service 58 from Leicester city center to Belgrave Road, a 20-30 minute journey. From the stop, it is a 10-minute walk to Belgrave Hall. Buses run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2.50.
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Train and Bus
From Leicester Railway Station, take a taxi or local bus service 58 towards Belgrave. The combined travel time is approximately 30-40 minutes. Train tickets vary but typically start at £10 from nearby cities.
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Car
Driving to Belgrave Hall takes about 15-25 minutes from Leicester city center. Limited street parking is available nearby, so arriving early on weekends is recommended. Parking is free but can be scarce during events.
Belgrave Hall 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 Belgrave Hall
Architectural Heritage and Early History
Belgrave Hall was constructed in 1709 as a family home for Edmund and Ann Cradock. Shortly after its completion, the couple passed away, and the Hall changed hands several times, including long ownership by the Simons, Vann, and Ellis families. The building is a Grade II listed property, recognized for its historic and architectural significance in Leicester. Its Georgian design reflects the style and domestic aspirations of the early 18th century, offering visitors a window into the past through its preserved structure and period details.The Ellis Family and Local Influence
John Ellis, who acquired Belgrave Hall in 1847, played a pivotal role in Leicester’s development. A Quaker and town councillor, Ellis was instrumental in advancing local infrastructure, notably encouraging George Stephenson’s railway line between Leicester and the Swannington coalfields. Under his ownership, the gardens were significantly developed, featuring formal garden elements, walled kitchen gardens, and glasshouses that remain part of the estate’s charm. Ellis’s legacy is intertwined with both the Hall’s history and Leicester’s industrial progress.The Gardens’ Unique Character and Layout
The two-acre gardens surrounding Belgrave Hall are exceptional for their historical design and variety. Retaining features laid out in the mid-19th century, the gardens include formal flower beds, kitchen gardens enclosed by walls, and traditional glasshouses. These spaces provide a peaceful, almost rare atmosphere within the urban setting of Belgrave Village. The gardens are open to the public on Wednesdays and the first full weekend of each month during the summer season, inviting visitors to enjoy their unusual and well-preserved character.Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance
Belgrave Hall & Gardens serve as a cultural landmark in Leicester, hosting free guided tours that delve into the Hall’s history and the stories of its residents. The Hall’s outbuildings have been repurposed into craft workshops, adding a creative and community-oriented dimension to the site. The venue’s tranquil gardens and historic ambiance offer a unique escape for visitors interested in heritage, horticulture, and local history, making it a valued part of Leicester’s cultural landscape.Preservation and Community Engagement
Managed by Leicester Museums, Belgrave Hall is preserved as a heritage site with ongoing efforts to maintain its historic fabric and gardens. The Hall’s opening times are limited, focusing on weekends and select weekdays to ensure careful stewardship. Community events and heritage open days provide opportunities for deeper engagement, highlighting the importance of preserving such historic properties for future generations. The site’s combination of history, garden artistry, and community use exemplifies successful heritage management.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in Belgrave Village, the Hall is surrounded by a neighborhood rich in cultural diversity and history. The gardens offer a tranquil contrast to the urban environment, providing scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can appreciate the blend of historic architecture and natural beauty, with the gardens serving as a green oasis. This setting enhances the overall experience, making Belgrave Hall a distinctive destination within Leicester’s heritage trail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
23 St.Nicholas Pl
2.9 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
3.1 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Welford Place
3.1 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
4.3 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
7.9 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
15.2 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
29.5 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Old Trent Bridge
30.9 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Bedworth Water Tower
31.5 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
32.2 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
32.2 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
32.3 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
32.3 km
Discover Nottingham's rich history at the Museum of Nottingham Life, where captivating exhibits and engaging artifacts await every visitor.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
32.3 km
Discover the chilling history of Nottingham on the Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, where haunted tales and eerie legends come to life in the shadowy streets.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blue Streak rocket
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Leicester Abbey
1.4 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
Abbey Park
1.6 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
The Blackbird
2.0 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
The Clock Tower
2.6 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Highcross
2.7 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Market
2.8 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
2.9 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
Leicester Cathedral
2.9 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
2.9 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
2.9 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.
Beaumont Shopping Centre
2.9 km
A vibrant community hub in Leicester offering diverse shopping, dining, and weekend markets in a welcoming atmosphere.
Town Hall Square Fountain
2.9 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
2.9 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant263
2.8 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
2.8 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Cosy Club
2.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
The Frame
2.8 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
2.8 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
2.9 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
3.0 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Casa Romana Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
3.2 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
3.4 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
3.6 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
3.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
4.5 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Black Iron
5.2 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
John's House
8.3 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
1.7 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
The Source
2.4 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
2.5 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
St George's Shopping Park
2.6 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Menkind
2.7 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
2.7 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Set
2.7 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
The Wardrobe
2.8 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
2.8 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Just Fair Trade
2.8 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Very Bazaar Leicester
2.8 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
2.8 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Nim's Boutique ltd
3.0 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
3.2 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
Brick & Beam
2.7 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The Exchange Bar
2.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
2.8 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
Queen of Bradgate
2.8 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
2.8 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Tree, Leicester
2.8 km
A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Tønne Bar
2.8 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
The Gadabout
2.8 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
Inside No 9
2.9 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
2.9 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Keepers Lodge
2.9 km
A friendly community pub in Leicester offering great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
3.0 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Firebug
3.0 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
3.0 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Blue Boar
3.0 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Corah Works
2.1 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The Fan Club
2.3 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Motto Nightclub
2.3 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Club Republic
2.3 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Helsinki
2.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Waikiki Nightclub
2.8 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Mosh
2.9 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
TRUTH Leicester
3.0 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
3.1 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
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.
Echo's Night Club
13.8 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
18.2 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
20.0 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
25.2 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
32.3 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
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- 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
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
