Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Located on historic New Walk, Leicester Museum and Art Gallery offers a rich journey through natural history, art, and cultural heritage. Free to enter, it features diverse galleries including dinosaurs, Ancient Egypt, German Expressionism, and Leicester Stories. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions, events, and has facilities such as a café and gift shop, making it a family-friendly cultural hub in Leicester.
A brief summary to Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
- 53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA, GB
- +441162254900
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Entry to the museum is free, but check the website for any special exhibitions that may require tickets.
- Visit the Dinosaur and Ancient Egypt galleries for iconic displays that appeal to all ages.
- Use nearby public car parks as the museum’s own parking is currently closed due to redevelopment.
- Take advantage of the museum café and gift shop for refreshments and unique souvenirs.
- Plan your visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and explore family-friendly interactive areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple city bus routes serve stops within a 5 to 10-minute walk of Leicester Museum and Art Gallery on New Walk. Service frequency is generally every 10–20 minutes, with single fares around £2.50. Buses provide a convenient and eco-friendly option for visitors.
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Car
There is no on-site parking due to redevelopment, but nearby public car parks such as Victoria Park and Newarke Street are within a 10-minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 for a few hours. Blue badge holders can park free on designated on-street bays nearby.
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Walking
The museum is easily accessible on foot from Leicester city centre, approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly routes. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery 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 Museum and Art Gallery
A Cultural Landmark on New Walk
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery stands as one of Leicester’s most significant cultural institutions, situated on the historic promenade of New Walk. Established as one of the earliest publicly accessible museums in the UK, it has welcomed visitors since 1849. The building itself is a blend of historic and evolving spaces, currently undergoing a major redevelopment to enhance its galleries and visitor experience. This investment aims to showcase Leicester’s world-class art and design collections in new and engaging ways.Exploring Natural History and Ancient Civilizations
The museum’s collections span a wide spectrum of natural and cultural history. The Dinosaur Gallery captivates with impressive fossils, including the 15-metre Rutland Dinosaur and the Barrow Kipper marine reptile. Nearby, the Geology Gallery displays some of the oldest fossils, such as Charnia, alongside minerals and animal skeletons that illustrate geological science. Ascending the grand spiral staircase inspired by an ammonite fossil, visitors enter the Life and Death in Ancient Egypt galleries. Here, four mummified ancient Egyptians and a rich array of artifacts like canopic jars and fragments of the Book of the Dead reveal ancient Egyptian beliefs about death and the afterlife. This collection is the most important of its kind in the East Midlands.Artistic Treasures and Contemporary Exhibitions
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery houses Leicester’s internationally renowned collection of German Expressionism, displayed in the Expressionism: The Total Artwork Gallery. This collection began post-World War II and remains a highlight of the museum. Other art galleries include Victorian Art, Arts and Crafts, and the Picasso Ceramics collection, donated by Lord and Lady Attenborough. The museum also hosts a dynamic programme of temporary and touring exhibitions, featuring contemporary art and craft displays. These exhibitions, along with events such as curators’ talks and lunchtime concerts, ensure there is always something new to discover.A Family-Friendly Destination with Interactive Experiences
Designed to engage visitors of all ages, the museum offers family-friendly galleries like Leicester Stories and The Den, a dedicated space for children under five. Interactive elements and activity packs make it an ideal destination for families to explore history and art together. Visitors can recharge at the on-site café with free Wi-Fi or browse the gift shop for unique exhibition merchandise and contemporary crafts. The museum is also licensed for weddings, civil ceremonies, and private hire, adding to its community significance.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is committed to accessibility, offering level access throughout, accessible parking nearby, hearing loops, and facilities for visitors with limited mobility. General admission is free, making it an inclusive cultural resource for all. Due to ongoing redevelopment, some galleries such as Wild Space, The Den, and certain art galleries are temporarily closed, with new galleries expected to open in late 2025. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website for the latest updates and special exhibition details.Engagement Beyond the Galleries
The museum actively involves the local community, especially through the Leicester Stories Gallery, which presents narratives and milestones shaped by Leicester residents themselves. This participatory approach enriches the visitor experience by connecting personal histories with broader cultural themes. Educational programmes and school visits are supported with engaging resources, fostering learning and curiosity among younger audiences. The museum’s status as a Museum of Sanctuary highlights its welcoming ethos to all, including those seeking refuge. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery remains a vibrant hub of discovery, blending history, art, and community in a setting that invites exploration and reflection.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
0.5 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
1.0 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
1.1 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
King Lear
5.0 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
5.0 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.3 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
19.8 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
29.2 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
31.6 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
34.3 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Nottingham City of Literature
34.7 km
Explore Nottingham City of Literature, a UNESCO heritage site celebrating the joy of reading and the power of stories in a beautiful park setting.
Kirby Hall
35.1 km
Explore the historical grandeur of Kirby Hall, a stunning Elizabethan manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Wollaton Park Lake
35.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Sir Frank Whittle
35.4 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Unmissable attractions to see
Town Hall Square Fountain
0.6 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Leicester Market
0.7 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Veeno
0.8 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
0.8 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.
The Newarke Houses Museum
0.8 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
The Clock Tower
0.9 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Leicester Cathedral
0.9 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
0.9 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Highcross
0.9 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
Leicester Castle
1.0 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
1.1 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Abbey Park
2.0 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
2.3 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
2.4 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
Attenborough Arboretum
2.4 km
Discover Leicester’s Attenborough Arboretum, a living timeline of native trees and tranquil wildlife habitats in a historic urban green space.
Essential places to dine
The White Peacock
0.4 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
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.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
0.7 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The Frame
0.8 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
0.9 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
1.0 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
1.0 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Cosy Club
1.1 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
1.1 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.4 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
3.4 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
6.4 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
0.5 km
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
0.7 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Just Fair Trade
0.9 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.9 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
The Wardrobe
0.9 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Arciide
0.9 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Set
0.9 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.9 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
St George's Shopping Park
1.0 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Menkind
1.0 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
The Source
1.1 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Prettiez
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Karma Corner Gifts
1.5 km
Leicester's premier spiritual gift shop offering curated wellness items and mindful lifestyle products.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The King's Head
0.3 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.5 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Marquis Wellington
0.5 km
A classic Leicester gastropub offering hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere with heated beer garden beach huts.
The Distillery
0.6 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
0.6 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
The Loaded Dog
0.6 km
A lively Leicester pub buzzing with craft beers, live sports, and a student-friendly atmosphere on London Road.
Firebug
0.7 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Exchange Bar
0.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
0.7 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
The Blue Boar
0.7 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Brick & Beam
0.7 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
Knight & Garter
0.7 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Inside No 9
0.7 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Tønne Bar
0.8 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Basement
0.4 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
0.5 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
0.7 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Helsinki
0.8 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Mosh
1.1 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Motto Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Club Republic
1.2 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The 2Funky Lounge
1.2 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
The Fan Club
1.2 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Corah Works
1.4 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
Echo's Night Club
16.9 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
19.6 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
22.3 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
26.6 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
35.6 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
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
