Leicestershire Attractions

Leicestershire offers visitors a choice of local attractions in the region offering visitors a number of interesting and charming places to discover. The county includes museums, parks, gardens, a number of historic buildings, theatre, concerts and events. Leicestershire’s location in the East Midlands means the tranquil English countryside and the great outdoors are all within reach located close to urban locations with a range of things to see and do in the county.

We have outlined a number of interesting attractions and places to visit for visitors to Leicestershire, these include:

Outside Market Bosworth is the Bosworth Battlefield Visitor Centre and Country Park, marking the site of the decisive battle of the Wars of the Roses. It was on this spot in 1485 Henry Tudor overthrew Richard III and became the first Tudor monarch. In late summer the battle itself is re-enacted, but at other times displays and a battle trail recreate the conflict. It is wise to check for times beforehand to avoid any disappointment.

Ashby de la Zouch Castle was built in the 15th Century by Lord Hastings. The castle is a medieval ruin that is dominated by its large tower. Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle was originally a 12th century stone manor house, in 1474 Lord Hastings was granted a licence to crenel late and he founded the impressive stone keep and courtyard fortress. To the original hall, kitchen and solar block, a four storey matriculated square keep was added, along with a seven storey rectangular extension, a chapel and a surrounding curtain wall. Then in the 16th century, the Wilderness castle garden had an enclosing brick wall added. The castle is a popular destination for a day out for the whole family.

The Jewry Wall is Leicester's Museum of Archaeology is located in the wonderful setting of the remains of the Roman town's public baths. The Jewry Wall is among Leicester's most famous landmarks. It is great example of Roman walling which has survived for many years. Its two arched doorways once formed the entrance to the Roman public bathhouse, today the remains of these are laid out in front of the Wall. The museum tells visitors the story of Leicester from prehistory through to the end of the medieval period. The museum boasts Leicestershire's archaeological collections, a large collection ranging in date from 300,000 years ago to the end of the Middle Ages. The Roman collections are of particular interest and include what some experts describe as the finest Roman mosaic in this UK. There are also a few rare examples of Roman wall painting to see.

The Guildhall Museum located in Leicester has had many uses over the years. The Great Hall itself was built in around 1390 as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi, a small of businessman and gentry. After that, the Great Hall was extended and two wings were added. In 1632 the Town Library was moved into the East Wing of the Guildhall, it had previously resided at St Martin’s Church. It is the third oldest public library in the UK. Along with the growth of the town and the expansion of local government functions in the 19th century it was clear that, as a town hall, the Guildhall was too small, for what was required. The guildhall was then used as a school and police headquarters among others uses, it was then restored after it had been neglected and became the museum it is currently.

National Space Centre is located in Leicester; it is the largest space related UK attraction. Visitors can find out about all things to do with space and space exploration, there are a number of exhibitions including the Rocket Tower, Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium, Into Space, Exploring the Universe, The Planets, Orbiting Earth and Space Now. The space centre provides a hands on experience for visitors offering an interactive journey through space.

The National Forest is located in the Midlands of England, established over 20 years ago and covers 200 square miles of the Midlands including Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire. Towns and villages fall within part of the forest include Burton-upon-Trent and Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire. The forest aims to be a multi purpose forest providing a forested and woodland area where people can live and work. The National Forest provides a great place for visitors to enjoy a number of walks in a scenic setting, it is a popular area for outdoor pursuits including cycling, horse riding, fishing and water sports.

Twyncross Zoo is located 20 miles west of Leicester. The zoo has been established for over 40 years; here visitors can see a wide range of animals including monkeys and gorillas, elephants, leopards, snakes, tortoises, a range of birds and fish and many more. The zoo has over 200 species and has an active role in animal welfare, conservation and breeding. The zoo is also a venue for corporate events, conferences and weddings. The zoo provides an educational day out for the whole family.

Belvoir Castle one of the best known attractions in Leicestershire, it is a historic castle located in Grantham. The castle dates back to the 11th century, but the present building is mainly due to the restoration that was done in the early part of the 19th century. The majority of the work was done by the John Thoroton, whose main credentials for the job included his position as the family chaplain. The restoration has left a gothic revival castle that is both dramatic and spectacular.

Theatre fans can visit the Little Theatre, located in the heart of Leicester. The theatre acts as a meeting place for those with an interest in theatre to both share their skills and develop their talents. The theatre is home to the Leicester Drama Society that showcasing plays from the amateur theatre company. The theatre encourages those with an interest in the many different aspects of theatre and production to further their skills and knowledge, members meet on a weekly basis for a workshops that incorporate the basics of acting, voice technique, sight-reading, diction, projection, poetry and prose, monologues, audition pieces, mime, movement and improvisation. The society produces a number of productions throughout the year.

It is recommended that prior to visiting Leicestershire; visitors do their research and ensure any sights and attractions they plan on visiting are actually open on the days you intend on coming. The transport is also worth checking as maintenance and engineering works can mean a restricted service on public transport and the road network.

Leicestershire does not have as high a profile of some other English counties and is sometimes missed by visitors; the county nonetheless has plenty to offer visitors with a mix of rural charm and scenic English countryside to enjoy. There is the diverse city of Leicester along with a number of charming market towns and villages ensuring visitors can enjoy both the urban and rural when visiting the county. There are a choice of historic attractions, including museums, historic houses, parks, gardens and cathedrals with fun days out for the whole family. Leicestershire’s attractions ensure visitors can enjoy a short break, weekend away or a longer stay here.



AddThis Social Bookmark Button





Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
Copyright © 2024 Essential Travel Guide Ltd. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced in any form or by any means without our written permission.