Leicester Hotels

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.

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.

Best places to stay in Leicester

Most of the best shopping in Leicester, as well as the cathedral and museum and art gallery, are within an easy walk of the train station, in Leicester’s compact city centre. This is also where you’ll find most of the best restaurants, theatres and music venues. Leicester’s Ninja Warrior Adventure venue is also just a short walk from the station. The two football grounds, as well as the university campus with its concert hall and sports facilities, are just south of the main city centre. North of the city centre, you’ll find the National Space Centre and Abbey Park, with its Roman ruins, while Leicester race course is to the south east.

Where to stay with your family in Leicester

Families visiting Leicester will want to be close to the heart of the action, and any attractions they’re hoping to visit, but in accommodation that’s quiet and spacious enough for children. The comfortable and modern Holiday Inn Leicester is ideal in all these respects; it’s easily accessible from the A47 and a short walk into town, plus it’s just next door to Leicester Castle and gardens. The National Space Centre is only a five-minute drive away too. Alternatively, stay further out of town for easy access to the countryside – as well as the football stadium and racecourse – and enjoy quiet and spacious rooms, plenty of outdoor space and a large pool, in the Hilton Leicester.

Where to find cheap hotels in Leicester

Thanks to the density of hotels in the city centre, Leicester is quite competitive for pricing, so you’re sure to find some great in-budget options. The Premier Inn Leicester City Centre is just steps from the main train station – ideal for a car-free break – and the interior is the cosy, comfortable and modern space you know and expect from hotels in this chain. Rooms are often less than £50 per night too, with double, twin, accessible and family options to choose from. The Ibis Leicester City is in a similarly convenient location for the train station, as well as Ninja Warrior, the trampoline park and theatres. There’s a restaurant, bar and breakfast options, as well as cosy double, twin and family rooms – often for under £70/night.

Where to stay as solo traveller

Solo travellers to Leicester may appreciate leaving their car behind and enjoying a city break by train. If so, the Ramada Encore by Wyndham couldn’t be closer to the train station, the city’s best shopping and restaurants, as well as the music and theatre venues. It’s comfortable, modern and budget-friendly – with rooms frequently around £50/night. It also has a handy bar, restaurant and breakfast service, as well as an on-site gym. Just south of the city centre, Hotel Brooklyn Leicester is conveniently located for the university, the O2 Academy venue and many of Leicester’s great sporting facilities. This chic, four-star venue is all about bringing a taste of cool, moody Brooklyn to the midlands, with thoughtfully decorated rooms and suites, ideal for a working or weekend break. There’s even a terrace hot tub suite for a little extra luxury. The restaurant is warm and inviting, serving British and American classics, beautifully presented, and promising great cocktails too.

The 5 must-sees of Leicester

• National Space Centre: For exhibits and galleries themed around space travel.

• Leicester Museum and Art Gallery: Historic collections spanning local and natural history, as well as art from through the ages.

• Leicester Cathedral & Guildhall Museum: Pretty and historic cathedral with King Richard III’s grave.

• King Richard III Visitor Centre: Exhibition on his life, death and the discovery of the grave in Leicester.

• Leicester Castle & gardens: Exhibits and remains of 11th century castle set in a shady, green garden.

Party and Nightlife in Leicester: Your Ultimate Guide

Leicester, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant multicultural atmosphere, offers a dynamic nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. From pulsating nightclubs to intimate concert venues and hidden gems known only to locals, Leicester's nightlife is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you're staying in one of Leicester's comfortable hotels or just in town for the night, here's your guide to the best spots for an unforgettable evening out.

Nightclubs in Leicester

Leicester's nightclubs are the heartbeat of its nightlife, with venues playing a wide range of music from chart-topping hits to underground beats.

• Club Republic: As one of the largest nightclubs in Leicester, Club Republic is known for its electrifying atmosphere and hosting top DJs and themed nights.

• Mosh: A favourite among students and locals alike, Mosh offers three floors of indie, rock, and alternative music, making it the perfect spot for those looking to dance the night away.

Concert Halls and Live Music Venues

For live music enthusiasts, Leicester boasts several venues showcasing local and international talent across various genres.

• O2 Academy Leicester: A staple in Leicester's live music scene, this venue hosts a mix of established acts and up-and-coming artists in an intimate setting.

• The Cookie: Known for its cosy atmosphere, The Cookie is the go-to venue for indie bands and has a reputation for being a launchpad for future stars.

Secret Party Spots

Leicester is also home to several lesser-known venues that offer unique nights out away from the mainstream crowd.

• The Shed: A hidden gem in the city, offering live music, comedy nights, and quirky events in a relaxed, friendly environment.

• The Soundhouse: This intimate venue is where locals go to discover new music, with a focus on indie and alternative acts.

Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out

When it comes to choosing where to spend your evening, certain neighbourhoods stand out for their concentration of nightlife options.

• The Cultural Quarter: Known for its artistic vibe, the Cultural Quarter is the place to be for live music, theatre, and unique bars and restaurants.

• St. Martin's Square and The Lanes: These areas offer a more laid-back night out with a selection of independent bars, gastropubs, and eateries, perfect for those looking to enjoy a drink in a more subdued setting.

Making the Most of Leicester's Nightlife

Leicester's diverse nightlife ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're into high-energy nightclubs, live music, or cosy spots for a relaxed evening. By exploring the city's different neighbourhoods and secret spots, you'll find the perfect place to enjoy Leicester's lively night scene. So, get ready to experience the vibrant energy and variety that Leicester has to offer after dark.

Going Shopping in Leicester: A Shopper's Paradise

Leicester, with its eclectic mix of historical charm and modern flair, offers a shopping experience as diverse as the city itself. From bustling shopping streets to quaint craft shops and vibrant markets, Leicester is a treasure trove for shoppers. Whether you're staying in one of the many welcoming Leicester hotels or just visiting for the day, here's your guide to the best shopping spots in the city.

Trendy Shopping Areas

Highcross Leicester is the go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters. This bustling area is home to a wide array of high street brands and designer labels, making it perfect for those looking to update their wardrobe with the latest trends.

Budget-Friendly Shopping

For those on the lookout for bargains, Leicester Market is the place to be. As one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in Europe, it offers a variety of goods at affordable prices, from fresh produce to clothing and accessories.

Discover Leicester's Craft Shops

Leicester's vibrant creative scene is reflected in its array of craft shops and independent boutiques.

• The Silver Arcade: A historic shopping arcade filled with independent retailers offering handmade jewellery, unique gifts, and bespoke fashion.

• Leicester Craft Centre: The perfect spot to find locally made crafts, art, and textiles, showcasing the talent of Leicester's artisan community.

Markets in Leicester: A Feast for the Senses

Traditional and Farmers Markets

Leicester Market is not only great for budget shopping but also steeped in tradition, offering a range of fresh, locally sourced produce. For organic and artisanal products, the Leicester Farmers’ Market takes place monthly, featuring the best of Leicestershire's food and drink.

Trendy Markets and Flea Markets

For a more eclectic shopping experience, The Lanes and St Martin’s Square host various pop-up markets and events throughout the year, offering everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts and street food.

Where to Buy Holiday Souvenirs

For those looking to take a piece of Leicester home, The Leicester Gift Shop offers a variety of souvenirs, from branded merchandise of the iconic Leicester City Football Club to locally crafted goods that reflect the city's rich heritage.

Shopping Malls: All-Weather Shopping

Highcross Leicester is not just a trendy shopping area but also a comprehensive shopping mall, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options under one roof. For a more intimate shopping experience, The Haymarket Shopping Centre provides a variety of retail outlets and eateries, perfect for a leisurely day out regardless of the weather.

Embark on a Shopping Adventure in Leicester

Whether you're a fashion-forward shopper, a bargain hunter, or a fan of unique crafts and local produce, Leicester’s shopping scene has something to excite every visitor. From its bustling markets to trendy shopping districts and cosy craft shops, Leicester combines the charm of traditional shopping with the excitement of modern retail. So, prepare to explore, shop, and discover all that Leicester has to offer.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

When you stay at The Gresham Aparthotel, you’ll be perched atop one of Leicester’s best-rated bars and restaurants, and also right in the heart of the town centre, close to Town Hall Square and great shopping and dining options. The hotel offers sleek, modern mini-apartments, with urban decor and a focus on maximum comfort. Below the delightful apartments you’ll find the Black Iron Social. It’s a relaxed-yet-stylish venue serving up fabulous cocktails and pretty plates, ranging from superb Sunday roasts and sizzling steaks to goats-cheese tart, salt-baked celeriac and seabass. If you’re staying on a Friday, you can partake in their DJ nights with great deals on cocktails.

Luxury Hotels

Located inside the sprawling Braunstone country park, stately Winstanley House couldn’t feel further from the bustle of the city, and yet, it’s just a ten-minute drive (or 25 minutes on public transport) to the central shopping streets. This is Leicester’s most luxurious address, with its spacious rooms and suites decorated to be an ultra-modern take on grandeur. Think sleek four-posters, in-room bathtubs, chandeliers and plush furnishings. The Black Iron restaurant, steakhouse and bar is part of what makes the hotel so popular, serving up mouthwatering British cuisine, belly-busting weekend brunches, Sunday steak nights and even pretty afternoon teas. For something more central – opposite Leicester Cathedral and next door to Richard III visitor centre – try four-star St Martin’s Lodge. This boutique residence has an understated exterior, giving way to quiet luxury inside. Spacious rooms feature classy decor, original features and glorious, modern bathrooms. You’ll often find rooms for under £90/night too.