St Nicholas Church Leicester
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
St Nicholas Church stands as Leicester's oldest surviving place of worship, with roots tracing back over 1,100 years to around 880 AD. Positioned adjacent to the Jewry Wall—remnants of Roman Leicester's bath complex—this medieval church embodies layers of history from Roman times through the Norman period to the present day. Its Norman tower, Early English Gothic chancel, and meticulously restored interior reflect centuries of architectural evolution and community devotion.
A brief summary to 23 St.Nicholas Pl
- 23 St.Nicholas Pl, Leicester, LE1 4LD, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the adjacent Jewry Wall to see the remarkably preserved remains of Leicester's Roman bath complex, just 12 feet from the church entrance. This pairing offers a complete journey from Roman Leicester to medieval times.
- Examine the Norman tower closely—its two lowest stages date between 900 and 1100 AD and represent some of the oldest surviving architecture in the city. The tower's solidity contrasts with the more delicate Early English Gothic of the 13th-century chancel.
- Look for the 15th-century octagonal font inside, relocated from Stamford's Church of Saint Michael the Greater. Its intricate carving reflects the craftsmanship of late medieval England.
- A guidebook is available for purchase inside the church, offering detailed historical information and architectural analysis that enriches understanding of the building's complex evolution.
- Attend a bell-ringing event if possible—the three historic bells (1617, 1656, 1710) were restored and reinstalled in 2002 and continue to mark significant occasions in Leicester's calendar.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Leicester city centre, take any bus service on the inner ring road towards St Nicholas Circle. Journey time is typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Buses stop near the church on St Nicholas Place. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50. Services run regularly throughout the day, with reduced frequency on Sundays and bank holidays.
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Walking
From Leicester Railway Station, walk north-west through the city centre towards the High Street, then continue to St Nicholas Place. The route is mostly flat and paved, taking approximately 15–20 minutes. From the Clock Tower in the city centre, the church is a 5–10 minute walk. The area is well-signposted and pedestrian-friendly.
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Parking
Street parking is available on St Nicholas Place and surrounding roads, though spaces are limited and subject to time restrictions (typically 2 hours maximum). The nearby Southgates car park, located beneath Jubilee Square, offers multi-storey parking approximately 100 metres away, with charges around £1.50–£2.50 per hour. Disabled badge holders may find designated spaces closer to the church.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Leicester Railway Station and city centre ranks. Journey time to St Nicholas Church is approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6–£12. Ride-hailing apps operate in Leicester and offer similar journey times and pricing.
23 St.Nicholas Pl location weather suitability
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Discover more about 23 St.Nicholas Pl
A Foundation Built on Centuries of Settlement
The ground beneath St Nicholas Church has witnessed continuous human occupation since the Romans established Leicester as Ratae Corieltauvorum in the 1st century. By the 2nd century, the Roman settlement had grown substantial enough to support baths, temples, and civic buildings—the most significant remains of which lie just 12 feet west of the church in the form of the Jewry Wall. This proximity to Roman heritage makes St Nicholas not merely a medieval structure, but a living bridge connecting modern Leicester to its ancient past. The church's earliest documented phase dates to around 880 AD, though scholars debate whether earlier Saxon structures occupied the site following the Roman withdrawal in the 5th century.From Cathedral to Decline: The Medieval Transformation
In 679 AD, Leicester was elevated to a Bishopric, and the church standing on this site is believed to have served as Leicester's original cathedral. This prestigious status proved short-lived. When the Great Heathen Army of Vikings reached Leicester in the 800s, the Bishop fled the city, and by 886 the diocese was dissolved. Over a thousand years would pass before Leicester regained cathedral status in 1926. Despite this loss of ecclesiastical prominence, the church continued to develop architecturally. Between 900 and 1100, the first two stages of the tower were constructed alongside side chapels. The most dramatic expansion came in the 13th century with the addition of the entire east end—the chancel, Lady Chapel, and a now-vanished chantry chapel—executed in the fashionable Early English Gothic style, likely funded by a single wealthy benefactor as civic wealth migrated toward the Castle and St Martin's Church.Decay, Demolition, and Restoration
From the 16th century onward, St Nicholas entered a prolonged decline. The loss of patronage from the nearby Abbey following the Reformation, combined with structural deterioration, left the church increasingly vulnerable. The north aisle collapsed and disappeared during the 17th century; the side chapels vanished without trace. By the 19th century, the structure was deemed unsafe, the spire had been removed, and windows were sealed with brick and rubble due to lack of glass. By 1825, the church faced demolition, but financial constraints paradoxically saved it. Instead of replacement, an extensive restoration programme between 1875 and 1884 rebuilt the north aisle and arrested further decay. The 20th century brought continued conservation, including the installation of a 15th-century octagonal font salvaged from the former Church of Saint Michael the Greater in Stamford.Historic Furnishings and Modern Stewardship
St Nicholas houses several treasures of considerable age and craftsmanship. A distinctive 1890 organ built by local craftsman J. Porritt incorporates pipework from an earlier instrument dating to the 1830s, creating a hybrid instrument that speaks to the church's layered history. Three historic bells, cast in 1617, 1656, and 1710, were removed in 1949 due to structural concerns but were reinstalled in 2002, rung in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II's Jubilee Visit to Leicester that year. These bells represent nearly four centuries of continuous service, their voices having marked countless moments in the lives of Leicester's residents.A Living Monument in Modern Leicester
Today, St Nicholas Church stands just outside Leicester's inner ring road, one of only five surviving medieval churches in Leicester Old Town. Its Norman tower remains instantly recognisable on the city skyline, while its interior—carefully restored and maintained—welcomes visitors seeking to understand Leicester's spiritual and cultural heritage. The church balances its profound historical significance with a modern, inclusive vision, serving both as an active place of worship and as a tangible connection to over eleven centuries of Leicester's story.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
23 St.Nicholas Pl
0.0 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
0.2 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
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Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
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A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
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Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
33.6 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
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.
Lamport Hall
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Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
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Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
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Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
0.1 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
Leicester Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
Highcross
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Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
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.
Veeno
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Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
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 Newarke Houses Museum
0.4 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Market
0.4 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
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.
Town Hall Square Fountain
0.5 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
1.0 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Abbey Park
1.2 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
1.4 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
Leicester Abbey
1.5 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
Cosy Club
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Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
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Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
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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
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Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
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.
The Frame
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A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
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.
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
0.6 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.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
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Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Black Iron
2.8 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
5.4 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
9.8 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
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Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Arciide
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Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Set
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Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Very Bazaar Leicester
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Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
The Wardrobe
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
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
0.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Source
0.5 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
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.
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
0.6 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
1.3 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
1.4 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Prettiez
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tree, Leicester
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A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Queen of Bradgate
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A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
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 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 Bottle Garden Leicester
0.3 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Tønne Bar
0.3 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
The Blue Boar
0.4 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Knight & Garter
0.4 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
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A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre 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.
Firebug
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Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Duffy's Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
The Distillery
0.5 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.6 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Metal Monocle
0.7 km
A vibrant steampunk haven in Leicester where rock and metal music meet inventive drinks and immersive atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
