Planning a weekend trip to Leicester? 🗺️
It’s often overlooked in favour of its better‑known neighbours, but Leicester is bursting with culture, history and foodie hotspots. It’s one of England’s oldest cities, established by the Romans all the way back in 47 AD (the same time as London!).
Fast forward to today, the city is a friendly, multicultural hub packed with museums, eclectic eateries and a thriving music scene. 48 hours isn’t very long, but our whistle‑stop itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this colourful corner of the East Midlands.
Stay nearby
DAY 1
1. Explore Leicester’s Old Town
Start your day with a trip to Leicester Cathedral, which has watched over the city for more than 900 years. Here, you can explore Richard III’s modern tomb – the king’s remains were buried here again in 2015, after being discovered under a nearby car park! Marvel at the beautiful stained-glass windows and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the cathedral’s lawns and gardens.
Continue your journey through royal and religious history by heading over to St Mary de Castro Church, where both Henry VI and Richard, Duke of York, were knighted. Architecture enthusiasts will love the Norman doorways, 13th‑century font and intricate carvings.
Next up is the timber‑framed Guildhall – Leicester’s oldest civic building. The Great Hall was built in 1390 and by 1563 it had become the city’s first town hall. Over the centuries, it has hosted great feasts, dramatic performances (local lore claims Shakespeare himself acted here!) and even Leicester’s first public library.
2. Uncover the city’s Medieval past
You’ve already explored his tomb at the cathedral, but now it’s time to learn the dramatic story of the monarch’s life at the King Richard III Discovery Centre. Interactive displays let you play detective and explore the controversy surrounding the king’s reputation. Through a glass floor, you can even gaze down into the car park grave where his remains were found in 2012!
🍽️ ORSO
View this post on Instagram
Fuel the rest of your city-strolling adventure at ORSO – a cosy café hidden just behind St. Martin’s Square. Tuck into their all-day brunch menu, featuring breakfast classics with an Aussie-inspired twist (the chorizo, halloumi and egg hash is a firm favourite!). Wash it all down with a world-class brew from locals, Bamboo Coffee Roasters or an indulgent milkshake.
3. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
After you’ve filled up on lunch, stroll up the picturesque New Walk towards Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. This Leicester favourite is packed with galleries, displaying everything from Ancient Egyptian mummies to the 15-metre Rutland dinosaur. There’s also a huge selection of art to marvel at, ranging from classical to modern. Entry is completely free too, so you can splash your cash at the gift shop!
4. Curve Theatre
Complete your culture-filled afternoon with a trip to the Curve – Leicester’s award-winning producing theatre. This iconic, glass-fronted theatre plays to over 1.8 million people every year and has produced bold renditions of My Fair Lady, The Wizard of Oz and Billy Elliot The Musical.
Pop in for a backstage tour or catch an evening performance. The Curve’s programme usually ranges from renowned touring productions to new productions championing local talent.
🥘 The Frame
View this post on Instagram
For dinner, head to The Frame in St. Martin’s Square for pan-Mediterranean-inspired small plates and grilled meats. Tapas lover? Choose from a selection of small plates to share – think watermelon feta drizzled with a lime dressing and a sprinkling of fresh mint. Prefer a heartier dish all to yourself? Order something from the grill. The spiced cod, lamb kofta and chicken shish come highly recommended!
DAY 2
1. Kirby Muxloe Castle
Kick off your second day in Leicester with a short drive or taxi ride to Kirby Muxloe Castle. This incomplete manor house was designed as both a home and a fortress for William, Lord Hastings. Building started way back in 1480, but was abruptly stopped when the Lord was executed by King Richard III (our royal friend from day 1!). Although it’s unfinished, the castle is nevertheless worth a trip, with a picturesque moat and plenty of medieval history to ponder.
2. Bradgate Park & Old John Tower
Head towards the north of the city to explore Bradgate Park – 830 acres bursting with natural beauty, wildlife and history. Spot red and fallow deer, explore the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, England’s ‘Nine-Day Queen’, and marvel at fossils dating back half a billion years! Plus, if you hike to the park’s highest point, you’ll reach Old John Tower and magnificent views of the county beyond, dappled with ancient oak trees that are over 500 years old.
🍽️ The Park Kitchen & Deli
View this post on Instagram
Opposite Bradgate Park’s Newtown Linford entrance, you’ll find The Park Kitchen & Deli – a family-run café serving up delicious, locally-sourced produce. Expect everything from brunch classics to hearty toasted sarnies. Finish with a scrumptious piece of cake or sweet treat for dessert and wash it all down with their lovely hot drinks selection.
3. National Space Centre
Did you know Leicester is home to the National Space Centre? It’s one of the UK’s best attractions, making it a must-visit during your 48-hour trip to the city. Inside, you’ll find six galleries filled with rockets, satellites and meteorites – there’s even a 42-metre rocket tower to ascend!
While you’re there, enjoy a 360° immersive show at the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium, explore the International Space Station replica and see real spacesuits worn by Tim Peale and Buzz Aldrin.
4. Enjoy Leicester’s live music scene
View this post on Instagram
After a day exploring castles and the cosmos, unwind to the sound of Leicester’s incredible live music scene. Grab a drink at Brick & Bream – one of Leicester’s best rooftop terraces. Here, you can listen to live jazz with an R&B, soul and hip-hop twist as the sun goes down.
Just a few streets away, you’ll find The Exchange Bar – an iconic building that’s modelled after New York’s Flatiron. With three entertainment spaces (a garden room, cellar bar and main bar), there’s always something going on or new music to be discovered. Grab yourself a craft beer, cocktail or delicious pizza and enjoy an eclectic lineup of local musicians and weekly social events.
If you’re a festival fanatic, vinyl collector or just love a night of live music with locals, check out the ultimate music lover’s guide to Leicester here.
🍛 Chutney Ivy
View this post on Instagram
Round off your 48 hours in Leicester with a feast at Chutney Ivy – a contemporary Indian restaurant in the Cultural Quarter. With an open kitchen that adds a bit of theatre to your meal, this local favourite lets you tour the flavours of India. Think crispy duck samosas and Goan fish curry alongside classics like chicken bhuna. There’s something for everyone on the menu, with plenty of meat, fish and vegan options!
Stay nearby
