Leicester is a great city, known for its universities, its curries, and for a dead King in a car park. But what are the best things to do in Leicester? We’ve got a list of the top 10 things to do in Leicester.
1. The Space Center
The National Space Center in Leicester is a great place to visit for all science fans, but also for anyone else! With loads to do and see, and a fully functioning planetarium, it’s a great way to spend the day.
2. The Golden Mile
The Golden Mile is the closest thing in the UK to an Indian Bazaar. It’s 10 minutes from the city centre, and it is a must-visit spot in Leicester! With traditional Indian jewellery shops, Asian fashion, and loads of choices on what to eat!
3. Leicester Cathedral
The construction of the cathedral began about 900 years ago. It was expanded upon between the 13th and 15th centuries, and 100 years ago was restored to its full magnificence. It’s a gorgeous building and worth seeing!
4. Leicester Market
The market has been going on for a very long time – 800 years to precise – it is the largest outdoor covered market in Europe. Open from Monday to Saturday 7 am to 6 pm, the market has 270 stalls from homemade jewellery, to bric-a-brac, books, and fresh food.
5. The Cookie
The Cookie is a brilliant live music venue and bar for acts like George Ezra, Frank Turner, Wolf Alice and many others. You can have good drinks and great music, in a fabulous venue!
6. Botanic Gardens
Owned by the University of Leicester, the Botanic Gardens and Attenborough Arboretum is a natural space curated to improve and demonstrate biodiversity. They have a wide range of plants grown from extensive global collections.
7. New Walk Museum and Art Gallery
With galleries on Ancient Egypt, Dinosaurs, Wild Space, Victorian Art, Pixxaso and contemporary art – there is something for everyone. It’s a great place to spend a day with family, friends, or even to go on a date.
8. SideQuest Hub
For students in Leicester looking for an escape from academic life, SideQuest is the go-to destination. It’s a cutting-edge gaming hub that opened its doors in 2022, quickly becoming a favourite hangout for Leicester’s student community. You can find everything from immersive solo gaming sessions at high-tech stations to group adventures in tabletop gaming and competitive multiplayer matches, including PCs, Playstation and Race simulators. This is where their motto of “PLAY YOUR WAY,” comes in as you can choose from so many gaming activities.
The hub is also a place for esports enthusiasts, regularly hosting tournaments and events that are perfect for connecting with others. SideQuest doubles as a social venue, boasting an array of food and bubble tea options that cater to student budgets too.
8. Twycross Zoo
With Gibbons, Alpacas, Orangutans, Giraffes and even Zebras, Twycross is a brilliant zoo. It has a huge range of conservation efforts attributed to its name and a great range of wildlife for you to peruse.
9. Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill Country Park has a gorgeous range of things for you to do. Not only does the hill itself have a brilliant view, as well as the chainsaw carvings, rhododendron labyrinth, play areas and cafe!
10. Charnwood Forest Alpacas
Charnwood Forest is home to Alpacas, horses, donkeys and lambs – all of which you can go and visit. With Alpaca walks, lamb watches and donkey rides, as well as a lovely cafe, its a great place to spend the day.
