Leicester Cathedral: Historic Home of King Richard III’s Tomb

Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.

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Leicester Cathedral

Leicester Cathedral, located in the heart of Leicester’s Old Town, is a striking medieval church renowned for housing the tomb of King Richard III. With origins dating back over 900 years on a Roman temple site, this Gothic cathedral features a soaring 220-foot spire, ornate chapels, and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can explore its rich history, admire its Victorian architecture, and reflect in its tranquil gardens, all open daily with free admission and suggested donations.

A brief summary to Leicester Cathedral

St Martins House, 2 Peacock Ln, Leicester, LE1 5PZ, GB
+441162615389
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 12 pm-3 pm

Local tips

Visit the tomb of King Richard III, located prominently in front of the main altar, and watch the informative video about its creation.
Join one of the expert-led guided tours or themed talks to gain deeper insights into the cathedral’s history and art.
Explore the Cathedral Gardens to see the bronze statue of King Richard III and the evocative public art installation 'Towards Stillness.'
Check the cathedral’s schedule for service times and special events, as some areas may be temporarily inaccessible during worship.
Use the wheelchair-accessible Vaughan Porch entrance and enjoy level flooring throughout the cathedral for easy mobility.

Getting There

Train and Walk

From Leicester Railway Station, take a 15-20 minute walk through the city center to Leicester Cathedral. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing several city landmarks.
City Bus

Use Leicester’s city bus services stopping near St Martins House or Peacock Lane. Frequent services operate throughout the day with fares around £2-£4. The stop is a short walk to the cathedral.
Car

Driving from the M1 motorway, exit at Junction 21 or 22 and follow signs for Leicester City Centre. Limited parking is available nearby; expect to pay around £10-£15 for city center parking. The cathedral is adjacent to St Martins House on Peacock Lane.
Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to the cathedral from anywhere in Leicester, typically taking 10-15 minutes from the railway station with fares around £6-£10 depending on traffic.

Leicester Cathedral location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Leicester Cathedral

Ancient Foundations and Architectural Evolution

Leicester Cathedral stands on a site steeped in history, originally home to a Roman temple before the Normans built the first church nearly 900 years ago. The current structure reflects centuries of architectural development, with major rebuilding phases in the 13th to 15th centuries and significant Victorian restoration in the 19th century. The cathedral’s most prominent feature is its 220-foot spire, designed by Raphael Brandon in the 1860s, which dominates the Leicester skyline. The south entrance, known as the Vaughan Porch, showcases intricate carvings and statues of notable local figures such as St. Guthlac and the scholar John Wycliffe.

Sanctuary of King Richard III

The cathedral’s global significance is anchored by the tomb of King Richard III, the last English monarch to die in battle at Bosworth Field in 1485. After his remains were discovered beneath a nearby city center car park, they were reinterred in Leicester Cathedral in 2015. The tomb is crafted from a single 3-tonne slab of Swaledale fossil stone, adorned with gold and jewels representing the king’s coat of arms. Inside, visitors can also view the richly embroidered funeral pall that covered his coffin during the reinterment, telling the story of his life and rediscovery.

Artistic Treasures and Chapels

Beyond the tomb, the cathedral houses exquisite stained glass windows, including the modern Redemption Windows inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. The chapels offer peaceful spaces dedicated to various saints, such as St. Dunstan, patron of bell ringers, and St. George, patron saint of England. Intriguing medieval wooden carvings depicting figures with ailments, including one with a hearing aid, add to the cathedral’s unique collection of religious art and history.

A Living Place of Worship and Community

Since its dedication as Leicester’s cathedral in 1927, the building has served as the seat of the Bishop of Leicester and a vibrant center for worship, community events, and cultural activities. The cathedral welcomes all visitors daily, encouraging donations to support its upkeep. It also hosts guided tours and themed talks that delve into its rich history, architecture, and the life of King Richard III, enriching the visitor experience.

Serene Gardens and Public Art

The Cathedral Gardens provide a tranquil outdoor space featuring a bronze statue of King Richard III and the public art installation "Towards Stillness," which reflects key moments from the king’s story and the excavation of his remains. This peaceful setting complements the cathedral’s spiritual atmosphere and offers visitors a moment of reflection amid the bustle of the city center.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Leicester Cathedral is committed to accessibility, with level access from the Vaughan Porch entrance through to the main areas inside. It operates daily with visiting hours generally from morning to late afternoon, and admission is free with a suggested voluntary donation. Guided tours are available for a modest fee, providing deeper insight into the cathedral’s history and treasures. The cathedral’s location near Leicester Railway Station and city center attractions makes it an essential stop for visitors exploring Leicester’s rich heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

23 St.Nicholas Pl

0.2 km

Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.

Leicester Roman West Gate site

0.3 km

Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.

Welford Place

0.4 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

4.2 km

Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.

King Lear

5.1 km

Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.

Earl Shilton Castle

13.0 km

Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.

Memorial Clock Tower

18.9 km

A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.

Westmorland Drive

27.4 km

Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.

Bedworth Water Tower

29.1 km

A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.

Rushton Triangular Lodge

32.5 km

Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.

Old Trent Bridge

33.7 km

A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.

Lamport Hall

34.6 km

Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.

Wollaton Park Lake

34.7 km

Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon

35.0 km

Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.

Mortimer’s hole

35.0 km

Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Guildhall Museum

0.0 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

0.1 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.

Veeno

0.1 km

Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.

Highcross

0.1 km

Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

0.3 km

Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.

Leicester Market

0.3 km

Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.

The Clock Tower

0.3 km

Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.

Town Hall Square Fountain

0.4 km

Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.

The Newarke Houses Museum

0.4 km

Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.

Leicester Castle

0.4 km

Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

0.9 km

Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.

Abbey Park

1.3 km

Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.

The Blackbird

1.5 km

A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.

Leicester Abbey

1.6 km

Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.

National Space Centre

2.1 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

Merchant of Venice

0.1 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

0.1 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.

Varanasi Boutique Restaurant

0.1 km

Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.

The Frame

0.1 km

A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.

Cosy Club

0.2 km

Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.

Restaurant263

0.2 km

Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.

Bistrot Pierre - Leicester

0.2 km

Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.

Casa Romana Restaurant

0.5 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.

The White Peacock

0.5 km

Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.

Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant

0.6 km

Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.

Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant

Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto

0.9 km

Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.

Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto

OGGI Italian Restaurant

1.4 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.

Black Iron

2.9 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

5.5 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

9.9 km

A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.

Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.

A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Leicester Cathedral: Historic Home of King Richard III’s Tomb

A brief summary to Leicester Cathedral

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Train and Walk

City Bus

Car

Taxi or Rideshare

Leicester Cathedral location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Leicester Cathedral

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Leicester Cathedral

Ancient Foundations and Architectural Evolution

Sanctuary of King Richard III

Artistic Treasures and Chapels

A Living Place of Worship and Community

Serene Gardens and Public Art

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

23 St.Nicholas Pl

Leicester Roman West Gate site

Welford Place

Museum Development East Midlands

King Lear

Earl Shilton Castle

Memorial Clock Tower

Westmorland Drive

Bedworth Water Tower

Rushton Triangular Lodge

Old Trent Bridge

Lamport Hall

Wollaton Park Lake

Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon

Mortimer’s hole

Unmissable attractions to see

The Guildhall Museum

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Veeno

Highcross

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

Leicester Market

The Clock Tower

Town Hall Square Fountain

The Newarke Houses Museum

Leicester Castle

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

Abbey Park

The Blackbird

Leicester Abbey

National Space Centre

Essential places to dine

Merchant of Venice

Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant

Varanasi Boutique Restaurant

The Frame

Cosy Club

Restaurant263

Bistrot Pierre - Leicester

Casa Romana Restaurant

The White Peacock

Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant

Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto

OGGI Italian Restaurant

Black Iron

Sapori Restaurant & Bar

Dom restaurant and bar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Niche Store

Arciide

Very Bazaar Leicester

Just Fair Trade

Set

The Wardrobe

Menkind

Urban Outfitters

Nim's Boutique ltd

The Source