Weekend Wandering: 4 Days in Leicester, UK

Experience history and culture in the heart of the Midlands with a trip to Leicester.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Leicester, one can explore the rich history of the city at the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral. Leicester also offers a diverse food scene with plenty of options to sample Indian, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern cuisines among others. Visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful green spaces at Abbey Park and Bradgate Park for a scenic getaway.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information

Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the City

Check into the Belmont Hotel, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Leicester
Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre to learn about the last Plantagenet king’s life and death
Stop by the New Walk Museum & Art Gallery to admire contemporary artworks and ancient artifacts
Take a stroll in Victoria Park, a pretty park with rose gardens, lakes, and tennis courts
Enjoy dinner at Kayal, a South Indian restaurant with a wide range of curries, dosas, and thalis

Day 2

A Cultural Journey

Start the day with breakfast at the Cereal Killer Cafe, where you can choose from a variety of cereals and toppings
Visit the Leicester Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church with a rich history and a beautiful choir
Head to the Curve Theatre, a modern theater that produces innovative plays and musicals
Stop by the Phoenix Cinema & Art Centre, a vibrant cultural hub with arthouse films, live music, and exhibitions
Savor a traditional British meal at Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, which has been serving pies, pastries, and sandwiches since 1823

Day 3

Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Take a bus or train to Bradgate Park, a scenic nature reserve with deer, ancient ruins, and panoramic views
Visit the Abbey Pumping Station, a fascinating museum that showcases the history of sewage and pumping technology
Explore the Leicester Botanic Garden, a peaceful oasis with rare plants, herb gardens, and a tropical house
Try some local beers at The Real Ale Classroom, a cozy pub where you can sample ales, stouts, and ciders
Indulge in a dinner at The Case, a chic restaurant that offers modern European cuisine using locally sourced ingredients

Day 4

Shopping and Farewell

Go on a shopping spree at Highcross Leicester, a bustling mall with over 100 shops, cafes, and restaurants
Visit the Orange Tree, a gastropub with a rustic decor and a menu that features burgers, steaks, and vegetarian options
Take a final stroll in Leicester Market, a vibrant market that sells fresh produce, sweets, clothes, and souvenirs
Have a farewell drink at The Lansdowne, a historic pub with a cozy atmosphere and a range of craft beers and wines
Take a taxi or a bus to the railway station and bid farewell to Leicester, a city with a rich past and a bright future

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Leicester by plane is to fly into East Midlands Airport which is located 20 miles away from Leicester. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to get to the city.

Car

The easiest way to reach Leicester by car is to drive along the M1, which runs from London to Leeds. Exit the motorway at Junction 21 and follow the signs for Leicester city center.

Train

You can reach Leicester by train by taking one of the many services that run to Leicester railway station. The station is well-connected to major cities across the UK including London, Birmingham, and Manchester.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat or ferry services to Leicester as it is an inland city. However, you can reach Leicester by boat via the Grand Union Canal, which connects Leicester to cities like Birmingham and London.

Bus