Leicester

Cosmopolitan and cultured, historic but futuristic, buzzing yet relaxed.  Unusual shops, fine restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and a strong cultural diversity have all contributed to Leicester’s recent style revolution.

Discover the brand new National Space Centre, the city’s spectacular visitor attraction for the 21^st century.  The first centre of its kind in the UK, it is dedicated to the fascinating world of space, and will take you on an awe-inspiring journey through the universe and beyond.

Those of you who enjoy history can take a stroll around the Castle Park area of the city, to discover the gardens, churches, gateways and fine buildings of Old Leicester.  Visit the 14^th century Guildhall for a taste of medieval times, or take a look at the chancel of Leicester’s cathedral, which serves as a memorial to King Richard III who spend his last fateful days in Leicester before his death at nearby Bosworth Battlefield.

If shopping is your favourite pastime, you won’t be disappointed.  One of the country’s top shopping destinations, Leicester offers designer labels and all the big name stores.  From the individuality of the Leicester Lanes to the exquisite sarees, jewellery and Asian sweets along the city’s famous Golden Mile, there really is something for every taste and pocket.  Don’t miss the excellent fresh produce on Leicester’s 700 year old Market, including the local specialities of Pork Pies, Stilton cheese and Red Leicester, which can be found alongside exotic spices and unusual vegetables from India.

Once your shopping spree is complete, instant relaxation awaits you at one of the city’s stylish cafés, bars or restaurants. From cocktails and cappuccinos to award-winning curry houses and tasty Mediterranean cuisine, Leicester provides exactly what you would expect from a city that is home to cultures from across the globe.  Evening entertainment will also leave you spoilt for choice, with Leicester’s range of first-class theatres, concert halls and cinemas. Experience a live show at De Montfort Hall, one of the region’s leading music venues, or enjoy some cutting edge drama at the nationally renowned Haymarket Theatre.

Leicester is nothing if not varied.  From the dinosaur skeletons and contemporary art of the museums and galleries, to the only Jain Temple in the western world, the city enjoys many cultural influences.  A packed festival programme highlights this variety, which includes the excellent Leicester Comedy Festival.  Each year it succeeds in brightening up the dreary month of February with ten days of non-stop laughter, provided by the latest stars of the UK comedy circuit.  Past acts at the festival include Paul Merton, Eddie Izzard, Jo Brand, Mark Lamarr and Phil Jupitus.  A must-see for all comedy fans.

Finally, Leicester wouldn’t be Leicester without its reputation as the sporting capital of the UK.  This is due in no small part to the sensational Leicester Tigers rugby team, who have won the premiership for the last 4 years, as well as becoming champions of Europe in both 2001 and 2002. 

It is this eclectic mix of attractions and cultures that make Leicester the vibrant and cosmopolitan city that it is.  To find out more about Leicester, or to request the Discover Leicester City Guide, call 0906 294 1113*.

For more information on Leicester go to www.discoverleicester.com

* all calls will be charged at 25p per minute premium rate and will be answered between the hours of Mon-Fri8am-10.30pm and Sat-sun 8am-8pm

All text & images courtesy of Discover Leicester web Site