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A mini guide to
Leicester city centre: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
See the king's story in order
Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre, on the Greyfriars site where his remains were found, then cross to the cathedral to see where he was reburied in 2015.
Use the free museums
Leicester Museums runs the Museum & Art Gallery, Guildhall, Newarke Houses and Abbey Pumping Station; Abbey Pumping Station's general entry is free except on event days.
Combine the Space Centre and Abbey Pumping Station
Both are north of the city centre, near each other; take a bus rather than walk out from the centre.
Check event dates
Diwali, the Caribbean Carnival and the Comedy Festival bring big crowds; check Visit Leicester for dates before booking.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Leicester city centre?
Leicester city centre is in Leicester, England. The old walled town, the cathedral quarter, the market and the Cultural Quarter. Nearby stops and stations include Leicester station, Haymarket Bus Station, Skylink.
How long do I need in Leicester city centre?
A full day for the cathedral quarter and museums; add half a day for the Space Centre. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Leicester Cathedral, King Richard III Visitor Centre, Jewry Wall Museum. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Leicester station (East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry); Haymarket Bus Station (Arriva, First Bus and Centrebus); Skylink (East Midlands Airport bus). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 12 places to eat and drink in and around Leicester city centre, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 6 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Leicester city centre accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Leicester city centre
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery
Museum on New Walk, opened in 1849 as one of the UK's first public museums; some galleries are closed during refurbishment.
Newarke Houses Museum
Museum of Leicester life and of the Royal Leicestershire Regiment, near the 15th-century Magazine Gateway.
Leicester Castle
Remains of the castle of the Earls of Leicester: a large motte, the Great Hall and the ruined Turret Gateway, west of the centre.
Photo credits
- Leicester Market: NotFromUtrecht, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Leicester Museum & Art Gallery: NotFromUtrecht, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Newarke Houses Museum: NotFromUtrecht, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Leicester Castle: Kris1973, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Leicester