Leicester guide | Leicester attractions and things to do

Leicester lies on the River Soar at the edge of the National Forest. It has the most inhabitants of any city in the East Midlands. Recently a lot of money has been spent in regenerating the city. The biggest project has been Highcross Leicester, a multi-million pound shopping, dining and entertainment complex. All the major fashion retailers are here, as well as a 12 screen cinema and some of the most popular restaurant chains like Carluccio’s, Wagamama and Yo! Sushi.

There’s also Curve, a huge new theatre with a glass façade and a stage that can be seen from the street, showing everything from serious drama to fun-for-all musicals. Another popular attraction is the National Space Centre, the largest of its kind in the UK, where the interactive exhibits take you on a journey through the universe.

Leicester’s “Old Town” is Castle Park, an area of historic buildings, museums, ancient walls, churches, gardens and riverside walks, where you can explore the city’s past. Leicester Market takes place 6 days a week in the city centre. It’s been going for over 700 years and is the largest covered outdoor market in Europe. Or you could take a walk in Abbey Park, which has a pets’ corner, a boating lake and a Chinese garden as well as the remains of Leicester Abbey.