The last few days of our summer vacation were slipping away fast, and we still hadn’t decided where to go.
That’s when my wife suggested Leicester, and honestly, the idea of a calm and refreshing getaway instantly caught my attention. While looking for the best places to visit, we came across some amazing spots that turned out to be perfect for entertainment and relaxing time. In this article, I will share those places in Leicester that made our vacation enjoyable and worth it.
Leicester is increasingly being featured in the top cities to add to your travel bucket list for cultural and leisure experiences.
Tourist Attractions in Leicester to Visit During Vacation
Here are some of the best places to visit in Leicester during your vacation
- The Space Centre
- Golden Mile
- King Power Stadium
- Leicester Cathedral
- King Richard III Visitors Centre
- Grand Union Canal
- Bradgate Park
- Leicester Market
- New Walk Area
- Phoenix Cinema
- Abbey Park
The Space Centre
Established in 2001, the National Space Centre stands as a beacon of wonder and education, offering visitors a captivating journey through the cosmos. Bursting with rockets, exhibitions, and galleries and boasting the UK’s largest planetarium, this unique venue is a testament to human ingenuity and exploration.
Notably, it is the sole global museum to showcase upright space rockets indoors, adding to its allure and uniqueness.
Golden Mile
Leicester’s reputation as a hotspot for Indian cuisine and shopping is indisputable, boasting a plethora of establishments offering authentic food, spices, clothing, and more along the famed Golden Mile. A mere ten-minute stroll from the city center on Belgrave Road, which seamlessly transitions into Melton Road, leads you straight to the vibrant heart of Leicester’s Asian community.
King Power Stadium
While the stadium might not offer an abundance of activities outside of game days, for enthusiasts, it stands as an essential pilgrimage. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the grounds, embark on guided tours, capture memorable photos, peruse the gift shop, and immerse themselves in the electric atmosphere reminiscent of the Premier League triumphs experienced by fans and players alike.
Leicester Cathedral
Richard III undeniably holds a significant place in Leicester’s history, with the cathedral serving as a remarkable testament to this legacy, conveniently situated near the town center. Exploring his burial site is a brief yet enriching experience, complemented by the nearby visitor center, which abounds with a wealth of captivating educational resources delving into the life of the King and the intriguing quest for his remains.
King Richard III Visitors Centre
Renowned as the site of King Richard III’s death during the Battle of Bosworth, the town became prominent in 2012 with the sudden discovery of the King’s remains below a car park. Situated in the historic antique city, the meticulously renovated Alderman Newton’s School construction now serves the esteemed King Richard III Visitors Centre.
Grand Union Canal
The hustle and bustle of Leicester Center is undeniable, and a leisurely stroll along the canal offers a peaceful break from the busy city. Venture in either direction and you’ll soon discover yourself immersed in diverse landscapes and attractions. Whether you head toward nearby parks or scenic nature spots like Abbey Park or Aylestone Meadows, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
Nature lovers can also explore scenic environments like those featured in the best waterfalls near Ubud Bali.
Bradgate Park
The park stands as an exceptional venue where visitors can witness free-ranging red and fallow deer herds thriving in their natural habitat. As one explores the park’s trails, the historic ruins of Bradgate House, once the childhood residence of Lady Jane Grey, Queen of England for a brief nine-day period, grace the landscape.
Additionally, the imposing Old John’s Tower, a striking eighteenth-century landmark, offers a commanding presence atop the park’s highest point, inviting visitors to discover its rich history
Leicester Market
For the ultimate Leicester enjoyment, there may be no better way than to meander through the bustling marketplace on a Saturday afternoon. With over 270 stalls offering everything from fresh produce to clothing, the market creates a lively atmosphere perfect for experiencing local culture. The market ensures you’ll find almost everything you need.
New Walk Area
The walk down the path is indeed pleasant, yet it’s imperative to explore the museum, a gem that comes at no cost and houses captivating Ancient Egyptian and dinosaur exhibits, alongside hosting regular events.
Upon reaching its conclusion, you’ll find yourself at Victoria Park, affectionately known as Vicky locally, contemplating war memorials and an exciting glimpse into the renowned Caribbean Carnival, held annually on the first Saturday of August.
For travelers who enjoy exploring cities on foot, experiences like these are similar to the immersive walking tours in Edinburgh that reveal history and hidden gems.
Phoenix Cinema
Phoenix Cinema is unequivocally distinguished by its unwavering commitment to showcasing indie and foreign-language films, as well as supporting emerging filmmakers. While it does include a selection of blockbusters in its program, it is this dedication that truly sets Phoenix apart as an indispensable venue for cinephiles.
Additionally, the team goes the extra mile by offering short courses tailored for film enthusiasts, further solidifying its significance in the cinematic landscape.
Abbey Park
The park is perfect year-round, offering relaxing summer days and lively events during colder months. Whether you’re seeking active recreation, relaxation, or simply indulging in a refreshing ice cream, it provides the perfect setting.
The park remains a compelling destination, hosting annual fireworks displays and a variety of engaging events, ensuring year-round enjoyment for all.
Looking Back at Our Leicester Trip
Looking back, choosing Leicester for our summer vacation turned out to be a great decision. I will say that the spots we visited truly helped us make the most of our time and kept us engaged throughout the journey.
All the places mentioned above are the ones we personally explored and enjoyed during our trip. If you’re planning your vacation, I recommend considering these spots to experience Leicester the way we did and make your trip just as memorable.
If you’re exploring the UK, you can also discover nearby destinations through tourist attractions in Nottingham.
