History
Leicester has a history reaching as far back as the Iron Age, boasting a selection of Roman, Medieval, Tudor, Industrial and Modern sites to explore. For a glimpse into Leicester's Roman past, the best place to visit is the Jewry Wall Museum. Here you'll find archaeological evidence and fascinating historical artefacts, ranging from ancient stone tools to medieval decorated tiles. The Jewry wall itself was originally part of the Roman town's public baths.
Perfect for an afternoon stroll is the grounds of Leicester Castle. Originally built over Roman town walls, the castle was first constructed in around 1070 and the remains today consist of some ruins and a mound. The Great Hall, which you can explore, was built around 1150 and extensively renovated in 1523. Until 1992 it was used as a court of law.
To experience the medieval heritage of the city, make your way to The Guildhall. One of the best-preserved timber-framed halls in the country, the building dates back to 1390 and is today home to a museum where you can walk the streets of Medieval Leicester.
Shopping
Leicester is a great place to catch up with some retail therapy. Whether you're looking for small boutique shops to high street brands, the city has a fantastic array of specialist stores, markets and major chains. The Highcross Shopping Centre is the commercial heart of Leicester and here you'll find everything from Apple to John Lewis as well as a cinema and a vast number of restaurants and cafés. For a more boutique experience, head to Stoneygate where you'll find designer stores nestled in between beauty treatment salons. Or, for a taste of the exotic, Belgrave Road is a vibrant market area and here you'll find an intoxicating array of jewellery, spices and fabrics.
Culture
For lovers of art, theatre and film, Leicester has a selection of excellent venues. The Curve theatre is home to some of the most exciting and diverse performance in the country, while De Montfort Hall hosts a variety of live music, dance and comedy. If visual art is more your thing, Rothwell Arts and Heritage Centre is home to a number of gallery spaces showcasing local artists, and Embrace Arts has a fantastic range of events, talks and exhibitions organised by the University of Leicester.
Outdoors
There's plenty to get up to in the countryside surrounding Leicester. The nearby National Forest is home to an excellent range of trails for walkers of all ages and abilities, while Bradgate Country Park makes for a pleasant day out where you can find the ruins of the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey. If you're travelling with kids the Wistow Maze is great fun, and there's also plenty of opportunity to rent a bike or take a horse-riding lesson in the surrounding area.
