Leicester Abbey and Abbey Park: Historic Ruins Amidst Riverside Serenity
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
Leicester Abbey, nestled within the scenic Abbey Park, offers evocative ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian abbey alongside the remains of Cavendish House, a 17th-century mansion. Set on the banks of the River Soar, this historic site combines tranquil riverside views with heritage interpretation panels, a miniature railway, and a popular Pets Corner, making it a rich cultural and family-friendly destination in Leicester.
A brief summary to Leicester Abbey
- Abbey Park, Abbey Park Rd, Leicester, Leicester, GB
- +441164541003
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience of the abbey ruins and park.
- Don’t miss Pets Corner for a delightful interaction with small animals, perfect for families with children.
- Check the schedule for miniature railway rides, which operate on weekends and special event days.
- Look out for heritage interpretation panels around the abbey ruins to learn about the site’s medieval history.
- Enjoy refreshments at Abbey Park Café located near the abbey grounds to rest and recharge during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local buses from Leicester city centre to Abbey Park, with journey times of approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2.50. Bus stops are within a short walk of the park entrance.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Leicester city centre to Abbey Park typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8-£12. Taxis offer a convenient option for groups or visitors with mobility needs.
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Walking
For those staying near the city centre, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly routes leads to Abbey Park. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Car
Driving to Abbey Park is possible with nearby car parking available, though spaces may be limited during peak times and events. Parking charges apply; check local signage for rates. The park is about 3 km north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey 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 Leicester Abbey
Medieval Legacy and Architectural Remnants
Leicester Abbey was founded in the 12th century by Robert le Bossu, the second Earl of Leicester. Once one of the wealthiest Augustinian abbeys in England, it flourished until its closure in 1538 during Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. Today, visitors can explore the evocative ruins of the abbey church and its associated buildings, which have been carefully excavated and preserved within Abbey Park. Nearby lie the ruins of Cavendish House, a 17th-century mansion adding another layer of historical depth to the site. Heritage interpretation panels throughout the grounds provide insights into the abbey’s past, inviting visitors to connect with medieval monastic life.Abbey Park’s Natural and Recreational Offerings
The abbey ruins are situated within Abbey Park, Leicester’s premier green space, which stretches along both banks of the River Soar. The park’s western side houses the abbey grounds and historic ruins, while the eastern side features Victorian-era gardens, evergreen shrubberies, and formal flower displays. The park is a haven for relaxation and recreation, with facilities including a sensory garden, tennis courts, a bowling green, and orienteering courses. A miniature railway runs through the park, operating on weekends and special occasions, delighting families and children.Family-Friendly Attractions and Amenities
A highlight for many visitors is Pets Corner, an interactive area featuring a variety of small domesticated animals such as goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and exotic birds in an aviary. This space offers a hands-on experience that appeals to children and adults alike. The park also includes a café, restrooms, and changing facilities, making it comfortable for longer visits. The open lawns and riverside paths provide ample space for picnics, play, and leisurely walks, enhancing the park’s appeal as a family destination.Setting and Atmosphere
The park’s location along the River Soar lends a tranquil and scenic backdrop to the historic ruins. Visitors can enjoy peaceful riverside strolls, watch ducks on the lake, and absorb the quiet ambiance that contrasts with the urban surroundings. The juxtaposition of natural beauty and historic ruins creates a unique atmosphere where history and nature intertwine, offering a contemplative experience for heritage enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Seasonal Events and Community Engagement
Abbey Park hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Christmas Light Trail, which transforms the park into a festive wonderland with illuminated tunnels and interactive displays. The miniature railway and Pets Corner also feature special activities during holidays and weekends. These events foster community engagement and add a lively dimension to the park’s cultural offerings.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Located approximately one mile north of Leicester city centre, Abbey Park is accessible by multiple transport options. The park is generally open from dawn until dusk, with no entrance fees for the abbey ruins or park grounds. Information boards throughout the site enhance self-guided exploration. Visitors are encouraged to check local listings for event schedules and opening times of amenities such as the café and miniature railway.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
23 St.Nicholas Pl
1.5 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
1.7 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Welford Place
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Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Museum Development East Midlands
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Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
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Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
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Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
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A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
28.2 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
30.1 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Old Trent Bridge
32.1 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
33.4 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
33.4 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
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Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Cliff of Nottingham Castle, a top tourist attraction in Nottingham, UK.
Museum of Nottingham Life
33.4 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
33.4 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
Abbey Park
0.3 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
National Space Centre
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover the iconic Blue Streak rocket, Britain’s Cold War missile turned pioneering European space launcher, at Leicester’s National Space Centre.
The Blackbird
0.7 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
The Clock Tower
1.4 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Belgrave Hall
1.4 km
Explore the tranquil historic gardens and Georgian heritage of Belgrave Hall, a Grade II listed jewel in Leicester’s Belgrave Village.
Highcross
1.4 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
The Guildhall Museum
1.6 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
1.6 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Leicester Cathedral
1.6 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
Leicester Market
1.6 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
1.6 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
1.6 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
1.7 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Leicester Castle
1.8 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant263
1.4 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Cosy Club
1.4 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
1.5 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
The Frame
1.5 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
1.5 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
1.6 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
1.7 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Casa Romana Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
2.0 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
2.2 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
2.2 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
2.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Black Iron
3.8 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
4.4 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
John's House
9.4 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
0.3 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
The Source
1.2 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
1.3 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Menkind
1.4 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
1.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Set
1.4 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
The Wardrobe
1.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
1.5 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
1.5 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Just Fair Trade
1.5 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
1.6 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
St George's Shopping Park
1.8 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Nim's Boutique ltd
1.8 km
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Valley Discount Store
2.9 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
1.5 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
Tree, Leicester
1.5 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
1.5 km
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The Bottle Garden Leicester
1.5 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Gadabout
1.5 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
Tønne Bar
1.5 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Inside No 9
1.6 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
1.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Knight & Garter
1.7 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
1.7 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The Blue Boar
1.7 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Firebug
1.7 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
1.8 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
1.8 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
1.8 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Corah Works
0.9 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The Fan Club
1.1 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Republic
1.1 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Motto Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Mosh
1.5 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Helsinki
1.5 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Waikiki Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
TRUTH Leicester
1.8 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
The 2Funky Lounge
1.9 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
The Basement
1.9 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Echo's Night Club
14.6 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
18.0 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
21.3 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
25.0 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
33.4 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- 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
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
