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.

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

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

The most convenient way to reach Leicester by bus is to take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and drops you off at St Margaret's Bus Station, located in the city center.

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