Town Hall Square Fountain, Leicester
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
The Town Hall Square Fountain is a historic and ornamental centerpiece in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, gifted by former Mayor Sir Israel Hart in 1879. Designed by architect Francis J. Hames, the fountain features bronze-painted cast iron and granite, symbolizing Leicester’s civic pride and heritage. The square itself is a vibrant urban space surrounded by notable architecture and memorials, reflecting the city's evolution and community spirit.
A brief summary to Town Hall Square Fountain
- 7-9 Every St, Leicester, LE1 6AG, GB
- +441164541000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the fountain’s intricate bronze and granite details.
- Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Leicester Town Hall and the Boer War Memorial for a full historical experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the fountain’s unique design and the surrounding Victorian architecture.
- Check for any public events or commemorations in Town Hall Square to experience local civic life.
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
Leicester City Centre is well served by local buses, with several routes stopping within a 5-10 minute walk of Town Hall Square. Bus journeys from Leicester Railway Station typically take 10-15 minutes and cost around £2-£3 for a single fare.
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Train and Walk
From Leicester Railway Station, Town Hall Square is approximately a 15-minute walk through the city center. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through pedestrian-friendly streets with shops and cafes.
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Car
Driving to Town Hall Square is possible with several nearby public car parks, such as the Haymarket or St. Nicholas Car Parks. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 per hour. Note that the square itself is pedestrianized, so parking nearby is necessary.
Town Hall Square Fountain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Town Hall Square Fountain
An Architectural Jewel in Leicester’s Civic Heart
Town Hall Square Fountain stands prominently in Leicester’s central civic space, Town Hall Square, which is dominated by the grand Leicester Town Hall. The Town Hall, designed by Francis J. Hames in the Queen Anne style and opened in 1876, replaced the old Guildhall and cattle market, marking a shift towards a modern urban identity. The fountain, unveiled in 1879, was a generous gift from Sir Israel Hart, a former Mayor of Leicester and a pioneer in the city’s manufacturing scene. Its design incorporates bronze-painted cast iron, Shap granite, and Ross of Mull granite, showcasing Victorian craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities.Symbolism and Design of the Fountain
The fountain is notable for its intricate details, including four Assyrian winged lions supporting its upper tiers and fluted Ionic half-columns, blending classical and exotic motifs. Though once thought to be inspired by a similar fountain in Porto, Portugal, research indicates Leicester’s fountain predates the Porto version, possibly making it the original design. This monument not only beautifies the square but also symbolizes Leicester’s civic pride and the legacy of Sir Israel Hart’s contributions to the city.Town Hall Square’s Historical and Social Significance
Beyond the fountain, Town Hall Square is a focal point for Leicester’s civic life. It houses the City Council and serves as a venue for public events ranging from royal proclamations and military commemorations to festivals and political demonstrations. The square also contains the Second Boer War Memorial, unveiled in 1909, which honors Leicester’s military history. The square’s layout and features reflect Leicester’s transition from a medieval market town to a modern city, combining historical reverence with contemporary urban use.The Surrounding Urban Fabric and Conservation
The square is part of a designated conservation area, with virtually all surrounding buildings listed for their architectural and historic interest. The Town Hall and the fountain contribute to the area’s character, offering a blend of Victorian architectural elegance and civic symbolism. The square’s design and preservation efforts maintain its status as a cherished public space, balancing heritage with the needs of a vibrant city center.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Town Hall Square Fountain can enjoy a tranquil yet lively urban environment. The fountain’s presence invites moments of reflection amid the bustle of city life. The square’s open space allows for gatherings, photography, and appreciation of Leicester’s architectural heritage. The fountain’s bronze and granite materials gleam subtly in daylight, while the surrounding historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop.Legacy of Sir Israel Hart and Civic Pride
Sir Israel Hart’s legacy as Leicester’s first Jewish Mayor and a successful manufacturer is immortalized through this fountain. His gift reflects the spirit of civic generosity and the importance of public art in fostering community identity. The fountain remains a beloved landmark, symbolizing Leicester’s rich history and ongoing dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
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Leicester Roman West Gate site
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Museum Development East Midlands
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King Lear
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Earl Shilton Castle
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Memorial Clock Tower
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Westmorland Drive
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Bedworth Water Tower
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Rushton Triangular Lodge
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Old Trent Bridge
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Wollaton Park Lake
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Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
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Mortimer’s hole
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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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Market
0.1 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
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Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
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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.
The Clock Tower
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Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Leicester Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
Highcross
0.4 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
The Guildhall Museum
0.4 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
The Newarke Houses Museum
0.5 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Leicester Castle
0.6 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
0.6 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Abbey Park
1.4 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey
1.7 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
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A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
2.2 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.
Essential places to dine
Casa Romana Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
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Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
0.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
The White Peacock
0.3 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Merchant of Venice
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
0.4 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.
Cosy Club
0.5 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Restaurant263
0.5 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.1 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
3.2 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
5.8 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
10.1 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
Nim's Boutique ltd
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Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
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Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Just Fair Trade
0.3 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Wardrobe
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.3 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Arciide
0.3 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Set
0.4 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.4 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
The Source
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Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
St George's Shopping Park
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A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
The Range, Leicester
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Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Prettiez
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Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Inside No 9
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The Distillery
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Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Knight & Garter
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A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Duffy's Bar
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A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Firebug
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Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Blue Boar
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A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Tønne Bar
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A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
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An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
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A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
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A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
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A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Exchange Bar
0.3 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
The Gadabout
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A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
The King's Head
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A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Waikiki Nightclub
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Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
TRUTH Leicester
0.1 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
0.2 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Helsinki
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Mosh
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Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Club Republic
0.6 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Motto Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
The Fan Club
0.7 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Corah Works
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Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The 2Funky Lounge
0.9 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
16.3 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
19.1 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
22.2 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
26.0 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
35.1 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
- Lively
- 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
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
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly