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When planning your next UK getaway, you’ll find a surprising variety of things to do in Leicester. This dynamic East Midlands city effortlessly combines heritage, science, arts, and nature. With Roman ruins, world-class museums, charming parks, and busy markets, Leicester offers an unforgettable city break for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Whether you’re exploring medieval architecture or discovering something new at the Space Centre, this guide highlights the best things to do in Leicester for a well-rounded experience.
10 Things To Do In Leicester
Here’s the list of the top 10 fun activities and things to do in Leicester for an ultimate experience in the UK
1. Visit The National Space Centre
Photo: David P Howard / Wikimedia Commons
Leicester is home to the awe-inspiring National Space Centre, one of the UK’s top attractions for science and astronomy enthusiasts. Inside this iconic rocket-shaped building, you’ll find interactive galleries, real spacecraft, and the UK’s largest planetarium. Whether you’re exploring black holes or standing beneath the Blue Streak Rocket, this hands-on experience makes it easy to see why it’s among the best things to do in Leicester for visitors of all ages.
Address: Exploration Drive, SPACE CITY, Leicester LE4 5NS
Timings: Daily 10 AM – 4 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (20 km)
2. Stroll Through Abbey Park
Photo: NotFromUtrecht / Wikimedia Commons
Escape the buzz of the city with a relaxing walk through Abbey Park, a beautifully landscaped green space located just north of the city centre. The park features Victorian-style gardens, a serene boating lake, and the evocative ruins of Leicester Abbey. Ideal for picnics, romantic strolls, or family time, it’s a scenic stop that also offers a miniature railway and children’s playground. For nature lovers, this is undoubtedly one of the most peaceful things to see in Leicester.
Address: Abbey Park Road, Leicester LE4 5AQ
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (18 km)
3. Shop At Leicester Market
Photo: Kris1973 / Wikimedia Commons
Experience the lively local culture at Leicester Market, Europe’s largest outdoor covered market. With over 700 years of history, the market offers everything from fresh produce and artisan goods to vintage finds and ethnic delicacies. It’s a treasure trove for foodies and bargain hunters alike. This central hub of commerce and community is perfect for soaking up local flavour—literally and figuratively—and is a must-do for anyone wondering what to do in Leicester, England.
Address: Market Place South, Leicester LE1 5HB
Timings: Monday–Saturday 08 AM – 5 PM (closed Sundays)
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (22 km)
4. Discover King Richard III Visitor Centre
Photo: Ruth Sharville / Wikimedia Commons
The King Richard III Visitor Centre, built on the site where archaeologists discovered the monarch’s remains in 2012, will captivate history buffs. This modern, interactive museum tells the gripping tale of the king’s life, death at the Battle of Bosworth, and remarkable reburial in Leicester Cathedral. It’s both educational and fascinating, combining forensic science with medieval politics. It’s a standout destination among the best things to do in Leicester for fans of British history.
Address: 4A St Martins, Old Town, Leicester LE1 5DB
Timings: Mon–Fri & Sun 10 AM –4 PM; Sat 10 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (20 km)
5. Enjoy The Curve Theatre
Photo: NotFromUtrecht / Wikimedia Commons
For a taste of Leicester’s contemporary culture, book a show at the award-winning Curve Theatre in the Cultural Quarter. Designed by Rafael Viñoly, this ultra-modern venue hosts a diverse range of performances, from West End musicals and drama to dance and community productions. With its innovative stage design and immersive experience, the Curve is not just a theatre, it’s a creative heartbeat of the city. A night here is a memorable way to enjoy the arts during your visit.
Address: 60 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1SB
Timings: Box Office Mon–Sat 10 AM – 6 PM, theatre open until 11 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (21 km)
6. Explore The New Walk Museum & Art Gallery
Photo: NotFromUtrecht / Wikimedia Commons
Leicester’s cultural appeal continues with the New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, set along the city’s historic pedestrianised Georgian promenade. This family-friendly museum features everything from Egyptian mummies and dinosaur skeletons to fine art by Turner and Picasso. It’s one of the most educational and enriching things to see in Leicester, and best of all, entry is free. Whether you’re a history buff or an art lover, this museum has something for every curious mind.
Address: 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA
Timings: Mon–Fri 11 AM – 4:30 PM; Sat & Sun 11 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (23 km)
7. Tour Leicester Cathedral
Photo: Jules & Jenny from Lincoln, UK / Wikimedia Commons
Step into the spiritual heart of the city with a visit to Leicester Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic building dating back to the 11th century. The re-interment of King Richard III in 2015 brought the cathedral international attention. Inside, admire the stained-glass windows, centuries-old tombs, and beautiful gardens. Guided tours are available and provide insight into its rich past and ongoing role in community life. It’s an architectural and historical gem not to be missed.
Address: St Martin’s House, 21 St Martin’s, Leicester LE1 5DB
Timings: Mon–Fri 09 AM – 5 PM; Sat 10 AM – 5 PM; Sun 12 PM –3 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (20 km)
8. Step Into The Retro Computer Museum
Photo: Retro Computer Museum / Wikimedia Commons
For a dose of nostalgia, tech lovers should visit the Retro Computer Museum just outside the city centre. With over 40 years of computing history, the museum features hundreds of vintage systems such as the ZX Spectrum, Atari, and early Apple models, all in working condition and available for play. This interactive space is great fun for all ages and among the best things to do in Leicester, off the usual tourist trail.
Address: RCM House, Troon Way Business Centre, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston, Leicester LE4 9HA
Timings: Sat & Sun 10 AM – 3.30 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (18 km)
9. Wander The Grand Union Canal
Photo: Alan Hunt / Wikimedia Commons
Take a peaceful walk or cycle along the Grand Union Canal, which weaves through Leicester and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding nature. Stop at waterside cafés, spot local wildlife, or take a narrowboat cruise for a relaxing way to explore the city from a different perspective. It’s one of those slow-paced experiences that lets you unwind and appreciate the area’s charm at your own pace—a perfect city break activity.
Address: Multiple access points near the city centre
Timings: 24*7
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (20 km)
10. Visit The Jewry Wall Museum & Guildhall
Photo: NotFromUtrecht / Wikimedia Commons
Dive into Leicester’s Roman and medieval heritage at the Jewry Wall Museum & Guildhall. The museum showcases Roman artefacts found on-site, including one of the largest surviving Roman walls in Britain. Just steps away is the timber-framed Guildhall, one of the best-preserved in the country, once used as a courtroom and town hall. Together, they offer a compelling window into Leicester’s layered past and are top picks for anyone keen to explore local history.
Address: Jewry Wall Museum, 5 St Nicholas Circle, Leicester LE1 4LB
Timings: Museum Mon–Sat 10 AM – 4 PM; Sun 10 AM – 4 PM
Nearest Airport: East Midlands Airport (20 km)
Leicester is a city that surprises and delights at every turn, offering a wide range of attractions to suit all interests. Whether you’re stepping back into Roman history, exploring space, or enjoying a theatrical masterpiece, the list of things to do in Leicester is as diverse as it is exciting. Explore more such packages offered by TripXL for an unforgettable experience at the beautiful places of the world.
Cover Photo: Mat Fascione / Wikimedia Commons
