Leicester Guildhall Museum

Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.

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The Guildhall Museum

Step back 600 years into medieval Leicester at the Guildhall Museum, a superbly preserved timber-framed building dating from c.1390. Once a hub for civic life, theatre, and justice, it now offers engaging medieval galleries, historic courtrooms, and Victorian police cells, all free to explore in a unique atmospheric setting.

A brief summary to The Guildhall Museum

Guildhall Ln, Leicester, LE1 5FQ, GB
+441162532569
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Free
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-4:30 pm
Sunday 11 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Entry to the Guildhall Museum is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly cultural experience.
Check the event calendar for special performances and exhibitions held regularly in the Great Hall.
Explore the Victorian police cells to meet historical figures like Crankie Gemmie and Emma Smith.
Visit the Mayor’s Parlour to see exquisite late-medieval stained glass and historic painted ceiling panels.
Combine your visit with nearby Leicester Cathedral and the King Richard III Visitor Centre for a full heritage day.

Getting There

Bus

Take the Arriva bus routes 50 or 50A from Leicester city centre, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes. The stop is a short walk from Guildhall Lane. Tickets cost around £2-£3.
Train

From Leicester Railway Station, it is a 20-minute walk to the Guildhall Museum through the city centre. Alternatively, take a local taxi for a 5-minute ride costing about £5-£7.
Car

Driving to the Guildhall is possible, but parking is limited in the city centre. Nearby public car parks such as St Martin’s House or Highcross Shopping Centre offer hourly rates from £2.50 to £5.00. Allow 10-15 minutes walking from parking to the museum.
Walking

The Guildhall is centrally located and accessible on foot from Leicester city centre landmarks, with mostly flat terrain and paved streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on starting point.

The Guildhall Museum location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Guildhall Museum

A Living Medieval Landmark

The Leicester Guildhall stands as one of England’s finest surviving timber-framed buildings, with origins tracing back to around 1390. Originally constructed as the Great Hall for the Guild of Corpus Christi, this building served as a meeting place and banquet hall for Leicester’s medieval merchant guild. Over centuries, it evolved into the city’s first Town Hall, hosting civic meetings, court sessions, and public feasts. The Guildhall’s timber beams, painted ceiling panels from the 1600s, and late-medieval stained glass in the Mayor’s Parlour offer a vivid glimpse into Leicester’s rich past.

Theatre, History, and Civic Drama

The Guildhall’s Great Hall was a vibrant cultural venue, where theatrical performances flourished in the 16th century. Notably, William Shakespeare is believed to have performed here, adding to the building’s storied legacy. During the English Civil War, the Guildhall was a focal point for critical decisions and conflict, including the 1645 Royalist siege that breached Leicester’s walls. The building witnessed dramatic moments such as the looting of town archives and the eventual triumph of Parliamentary forces.

From Justice to Museum

In the 19th century, the Guildhall adapted to new civic roles, becoming Leicester’s first police station with Victorian cells that housed infamous local criminals. After the city administration moved to a new Town Hall in 1876, the Guildhall fell into disrepair and faced demolition. Thanks to restoration efforts in the 1920s, it was preserved as a museum, opening to the public in 1926. Today, visitors can explore the medieval galleries, the Mayor’s Parlour with its historic glass, and the police cells featuring figures like notorious pickpockets Crankie Gemmie and Emma Smith.

Engaging Exhibits and Events

The museum’s exhibits vividly recreate medieval Leicester life through original artifacts and interactive displays, making history accessible for all ages. The Guildhall also remains a lively cultural venue, hosting concerts, plays, comedy shows, craft fairs, and exhibitions within its atmospheric halls. Its free entry policy invites visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of local heritage without charge.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

As a Grade I listed building, Leicester Guildhall is protected for its exceptional architectural and historic value. Its timber-framed construction, medieval craftsmanship, and layered history embody the city’s evolution from a medieval market town to a modern urban center. The Guildhall’s proximity to Leicester Cathedral and the King Richard III Visitor Centre situates it at the heart of a vibrant heritage district.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Open daily from 11am to 4:30pm, the Guildhall offers wheelchair access and a welcoming environment for families, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. The onsite café and gift shop complement the visit, while special events provide unique opportunities to experience Leicester’s living history in an authentic setting.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

23 St.Nicholas Pl

0.1 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

4.1 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

34.6 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

34.9 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

Leicester Cathedral

0.0 km

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

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.

Highcross

0.1 km

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

Veeno

0.2 km

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

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

0.2 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.

Leicester Castle

0.3 km

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

The Clock Tower

0.4 km

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

The Newarke Houses Museum

0.4 km

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

Town Hall Square Fountain

0.4 km

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

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

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.

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.

Cosy Club

0.1 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.

The Frame

0.2 km

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

Bistrot Pierre - Leicester

0.3 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

0.7 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

1.5 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.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Niche Store

0.1 km

Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.

Arciide

0.1 km

Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.

Very Bazaar Leicester

0.1 km

Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.

Set

0.2 km

Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.

Just Fair Trade

0.2 km

Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.

The Wardrobe

0.2 km

Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.

Menkind

0.2 km

Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.

Urban Outfitters

0.3 km

Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.

Nim's Boutique ltd

0.4 km

Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.

The Source

0.4 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

0.5 km

Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.

The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester

0.5 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

1.2 km

A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.

The Range, Leicester

1.5 km

Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.

Prettiez

2.3 km

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 Guildhall Museum

A brief summary to The Guildhall Museum

Local tips

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

Getting There

Bus

Train

Car

Walking

The Guildhall Museum location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Guildhall Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Guildhall Museum

A Living Medieval Landmark

Theatre, History, and Civic Drama

From Justice to Museum

Engaging Exhibits and Events

Architectural and Cultural Significance

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

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

Leicester Cathedral

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Highcross

Veeno

Jewry Wall & Roman Baths

Leicester Market

Leicester Castle

The Clock Tower

The Newarke Houses Museum

Town Hall Square Fountain

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

Abbey Park

The Blackbird

Leicester Abbey

National Space Centre

Essential places to dine

Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant

Varanasi Boutique Restaurant

Merchant of Venice

Cosy Club

Restaurant263

The Frame

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

Set

Just Fair Trade

The Wardrobe

Menkind

Urban Outfitters

Nim's Boutique ltd

The Source