Explore the Best Leicestershire Attractions: History, Nature, and Fun for All Ages

7 min read

Nestled in the heart of England, Leicestershire brims with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling market towns to the serene countryside, there’s something for everyone. Whether we’re history buffs, nature enthusiasts, or food lovers, Leicestershire offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

We can explore the majestic ruins of Bradgate Park, home to the childhood of Lady Jane Grey, or wander through the vibrant stalls of Leicester Market, one of the oldest in the country. With its blend of historical landmarks and modern attractions, Leicestershire promises an unforgettable journey for all who venture into its charming landscapes.

Key Takeaways

Rich Historical Heritage: Leicestershire boasts a significant array of historical sites such as Leicester Cathedral and the King Richard III Visitor Centre, offering insights into the region’s past.
Natural Wonders: Attractions like Bradgate Park and Rutland Water provide breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Family-Friendly Attractions: Twinlakes Theme Park and the National Space Centre offer engaging and educational experiences for families, blending fun with learning.
Cultural Experiences: The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, along with the Curve Theatre, highlight Leicestershire’s vibrant cultural offerings, from art exhibitions to performance arts.
Hidden Gems: Unique sites like the Great Central Railway and Foxton Locks offer intriguing historical experiences and scenic views, adding depth to Leicestershire’s tourist landscape.

Historical Sites

Leicestershire offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, reflecting its deep-rooted heritage. We explore the region’s most notable historical landmarks.

Leicester Cathedral

Leicester Cathedral, located in the heart of Leicester, stands as a testament to the region’s rich ecclesiastical history. The cathedral, consecrated in 1927, showcases Gothic Revival architecture with intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows. It’s most famous for housing the remains of King Richard III, discovered in a car park in 2012 and reinterred within the cathedral in 2015. Visitors can also see the Victorian Albert Henry Skipworth Memorial and the tranquillity of the cathedral gardens.

King Richard III Visitor Centre

The King Richard III Visitor Centre, situated near Leicester Cathedral, provides an immersive experience into the life and legacy of the notorious monarch. The exhibition, titled “Dynasty, Death and Discovery,” offers interactive displays and artefacts from the Wars of the Roses. It chronicles King Richard III’s rise to power, his reign, and the dramatic Battle of Bosworth. The centre also features exhibits about the discovery of his remains and the archaeological processes involved, bringing history to life through cutting-edge technology and informative narratives.

Natural Wonders

Leicestershire offers breathtaking natural wonders perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are two must-visit spots:

Bradgate Park

Bradgate Park spans 850 acres, offering visitors a mix of rugged landscapes, serene lakes, and ancient woodlands. Established in the 13th century, it’s home to free-roaming deer, adding to its wild charm. The park features the ruins of Bradgate House, associated with Lady Jane Grey, the nine-day queen. Trails throughout the park suit both casual walkers and avid hikers, making it an ideal destination for various nature activities.

Rutland Water

Rutland Water, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, covers 4.2 square kilometres. Built in the 1970s, it offers a hub of recreational and conservation activities. The reservoir supports diverse wildlife, and the Rutland Osprey Project provides a unique bird-watching experience. Boating, fishing, and cycling are popular activities, with the 25-mile cycling route around the water offering stunning views. Nature reserves within Rutland Water, like the Lyndon Visitor Centre, add educational and environmental value to the visit.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Leicestershire offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that promise fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

Twinlakes Theme Park

Twinlakes Theme Park provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Spanning 70 acres, this park features thrilling rides like log flumes and roller coasters and gentler options suited for younger children. Additionally, the on-site farm hosts a variety of animals like llamas, sheep, and donkeys, which offer petting opportunities for kids. During the winter months, Twinlakes transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with ice skating and Santa visits.

National Space Centre

The National Space Centre stands as a leading educational attraction. With six interactive galleries, it covers a broad array of space science topics. Visitors can explore real rockets, meteorites, and space suits. The centrepiece remains the iconic Rocket Tower, which houses the Blue Streak and Thor Able rockets. Regular planetarium shows offer a visually stunning experience that demystifies complex cosmic concepts. This venue is as educational as it is intriguing, making it ideal for family visits.

Leicestershire’s family-friendly attractions blend education with entertainment, ensuring memorable experiences for everyone.

Cultural Experiences

Leicestershire’s rich cultural landscape offers visitors a plethora of engaging artistic and performance venues. These cultural experiences highlight the county’s vibrant heritage.

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery

The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery in Leicester showcases diverse collections ranging from Ancient Egypt artefacts to contemporary art. Established in 1849, it’s one of the oldest museums in the UK. The museum features permanent displays such as the renowned Dinosaur Gallery and the world cultures exhibit. Special exhibitions and events are hosted regularly, making it a dynamic space for both locals and tourists.

The Curve Theatre

The Curve Theatre, located in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter, is a premier modern performance venue designed by Rafael Viñoly. Opened in 2008, it hosts a variety of productions including musicals, plays, and dance performances. The theatre’s distinctive open-stage design allows for an immersive experience, with audiences often close to the action. As a hub for creativity, the Curve also offers workshops and community engagement projects, fostering local talent and enriching the cultural fabric of Leicestershire.

Hidden Gems

Leicestershire offers plenty of lesser-known attractions that enrich its cultural and historical tapestry. Let’s explore some of these hidden gems.

Great Central Railway

Great Central Railway offers a unique experience for train enthusiasts. Operating since 1976 in Loughborough, it features 8 miles of heritage railway with steam and diesel locomotives. Visitors can step back in time with period stations, vintage carriages, and themed events. Special services include dining trains, murder mystery evenings, and the Santa Specials. The railway also hosts events like galas and Thomas the Tank Engine days, enhancing the charm of this historical attraction.

Foxton Locks

Foxton Locks, near Market Harborough, is a remarkable feat of engineering. Completed in 1814, the site features a staircase of ten locks lifting boats 75 feet along the Grand Union Canal. Visitors can enjoy picturesque walks along the towpath and explore the Foxton Canal Museum, which provides insights into the history of the locks and canal life. The Inclined Plane Boat Lift, an innovative piece of engineering built in 1900, adds to the site’s historical value, though it’s no longer in operation. Nearby, you’ll find cosy pubs and eateries offering local delicacies, perfect for a relaxing day out.

These hidden gems add layers of unique experiences to Leicestershire, inviting visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden paths.

Conclusion

Leicestershire truly offers something for everyone. From its rich historical sites to its vibrant cultural venues and stunning natural landscapes, the county is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a family looking for fun, Leicestershire has it all.

Exploring the hidden gems and well-known landmarks alike, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique charm and heritage of the region. The blend of educational and recreational activities ensures that every visit is both enriching and enjoyable.

So let’s pack our bags and set off to discover the wonders of Leicestershire. With so much to see and do, it’s a destination that promises lasting memories and countless adventures.