Steeped in royal history and surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in England, Leicester is packed with discoveries.
There are plenty of exciting sights to see and things to do in Leicester! From medieval mysteries and vibrant nightlife to fascinating local attractions and activities to get stuck into, this East Midlands city has it all.
Check out our picks for the best things to do in Leicester below!
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1. Bradgate Park
Just 5 miles north of Leicester city centre is the beautiful Bradgate Park. It’s 830 acres of rugged moor and idyllic woodland make up one of the oldest deer parks in England.
Loaded with history (archaeologists estimate that the area has been occupied by humans for the past 12,000 years), within the park’s grounds you’ll find one of the first brick-built country houses in England (completed in 1520), miles of walking and cycling paths, and, of course, the herds of deer which have been grazing here for almost 800 years. Be sure to take a picnic and hike up to Old John Tower for the best views of the park!
2. Leicester’s medieval past
A trip to Leicester wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the history of the city. It’s thought to be one of the oldest in England, with archaeologists finding roundhouse settlements dating back over 2,000 years. As well as a medieval market selling food and trinkets produced using traditional methods, be sure to check out The Guildhall Museum and Leicester Cathedral to get your hit of history.
And, of course, Richard III’s final resting place, with his remains being discovered in a Leicester car park back in 2012 after a hugely publicised archaeological dig. Your historical tour of Leicester wouldn’t be complete without a look at the Visitor’s Centre. Follow the story of the infamous monarch – immortalised as the ultimate villain by Shakespeare – from his life to his death and finally to his discovery.
3. Curve Theatre
Curve Theatre in Leicester is one of the UK’s most exciting theatres, in the heart of Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. Designed by the renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, its sleek, glass-fronted building is as impressive as the performances it hosts.
Inside, Curve offers a packed programme of drama, musicals, dance and family shows all year round. Kilworth House Theatre produces bold, homegrown productions and also welcomes touring shows from across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re catching a West End hit or something new and original, Curve is a brilliant place to experience the magic of live theatre in a truly inclusive and inspiring setting.
4. National Space Centre
Get ready to take a 360-degree tour of the solar system! The National Space Centre is home to the largest planetarium in the UK, and a great choice for kids.
Be sure to check out 3D space flight simulator and experience what it’s truly like to jet into space. There’s also a rocket tower, a mock-up of the Columbus Module from the International Space Station and a gallery with models of each of the planets in our solar system. The only problem will be tearing the kids away!
5. Gorse Hill City Farm
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Gorse Hill City Farm is a Leicester hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the city. This charming escape from the hustle and bustle of Leicester is community-focused and a welcoming space for families, school, and anyone who enjoys being close to nature.
With a variety of friendly animals (think goats, pigs, chickens and even alpacas!) Gorse Hill City Farm is the perfect spot for a laid-back day out. Kids especially love getting up close to the animals, while adults appreciate the peaceful setting and the farm’s strong commitment to education and sustainability. Whether you’re having a quiet stroll or a fun family afternoon, Gorse Hill City Farm makes everyone feel at home.
6. Attenborough Arts Centre
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Nestled right in the centre of Leicester and part of the University of Leicester, the Attenborough Arts Centre is a vibrant hub for creativity and community. Named after Richard Attenborough, a passionate advocate for accessible arts, the centre is all about making art open to everyone.
Whether you’re into contemporary visual art, live performance, music or workshops, there’s always something going on to spark your imagination. What makes Attenborough Arts Centre especially special is its commitment to accessibility. It’s one of the leading arts centres in the UK for disability access and inclusive programming. And best of all, the galleries are free to visit and regularly host exhibitions from both emerging and established artists. Plus, the ever-changing programme of events, performances and creative classes makes it a fantastic place to explore something new.
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7. Leicester’s live music scene
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Leicester’s live music scene is buzzing with variety, energy and some serious talent. From big-name gigs at the O2 Academy Leicester to intimate grassroots sets at places like The Big Difference, this city offers something for every music fan.
The SoundHouse is a local gem, beloved for its graffiti exterior, open mic nights and buzzing summer garden sessions. Around the corner, Firebug combines its laid-back bar vibe with a 100-capacity upstairs venue that hosts indie and alternative acts. The Shed is a longtime favourite for fans of punk and metal, offering both upstairs and basement stages.,
If you’re into something a little different, 2Funky Music Café is a hub for reggae, hip-hop and sound system culture. And for more eclectic nights out, Brick & Beam mixes live jazz and soul with a stylish, cosy atmosphere, while The Exchange Bar offers a chilled-out space for local performers right in the city centre.
8. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, located on the elegant and historic New Walk, is Leicester’s original public museum. First opening its doors in 1849, Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is entirely free to visit with 15 varied and fascinating galleries to explore. The museum features captivating displays from its Dinosaur Gallery (complete with the 15-metre Rutland Dinosaur) to the Leicester Stories Gallery, where local people have had a hand in curating and sharing their own stories spanning seven decades.
Upstairs, visitors can explore the museum’s Ancient Egypt galleries, with four mummies, canopic jars, figurines and fragments of the Book of the Dead. Or explore the internationally acclaimed German Expressionism collection. Friendly, informative and always evolving, Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is a cultural haven that captures the spirit of the city.
9. Spin Pin
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Spin Pin in Leicester is an exciting leisure space that’s bubbling with energy and good vibes. Situated in the heart of the city at Ramdoot House on Navigation Street, this unique venue brings together roller skating, ten-pin bowling and an arcade gaming zone all under one roof. Whether you’re popping in for a casual glide on the rink or aiming for that perfect bowling strike, Spin Pin delivers fun for all ages.
Spin Pin’s atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, with upbeat music and epic neon lights. And their licensed bar only sweetens the deal. So whether you’re skating or knocking over bowling pins, Spin Pin is a Leicester go-to for a buzzing time.
10. Lollipops Pottery Painting Studio
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Walking into the Retro Computer Museum in Leicester feels like stepping into a time capsule. Only better because everything inside is playable! Founded in 2008 by Andy Spencer, this registered charity has grown from a humble garage collection into a mecca of vintage computing set in Troon Way Business Centre, Thurmaston.
Kilworth House Open Air Theatre, nestled within the serene grounds of Kilworth House Hotel in south Leicestershire, is one of the UK’s most breathtaking and distinctive performance venues. Since opening in 2007, this covered outdoor theatre has delighted audiences under sweeping sail-like canopies.
