Travel Eye on Leicester (England)

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Overview:

Leicester is one of the few cities in England that can trace its growth from the Iron Age. In Leicester you can travel through the ages, and learn about the history of the city in its excellent Museums, and by taking an Old Town Heritage Trail available from the Tourist Information Centre.

Leicester was built on the Roman settlement known as Ratae Coritanorum. Today you can still see evidence of the Roman occupation at the Jewry Wall; this is the site of the largest Roman bath to be found in England.

Visit the Jewry Wall and Archaeology Museum, which shows Leicester's history from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages and has some fine Roman relics, including the famous Peacock mosaic pavement.

Leicester was the home of Simon de Montfort first Earl of Leicester, "father of English Parliament". Simon de Montfort led the famous revolt against Henry III, and forced Henry to grant the first English Parliament in 1265.

With the growth of industry, Leicester grew to become the centre of the hosiery trade, expanding into the manufacture of knitwear, footwear and engineering in the 19th century. Engineering is still important in the city, which is home to the School of Engineering at Leicester University.

Locality:

Leicester is located in the East Midlands, 20 miles from Derby and 50 miles from Birmingham.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to:

Popular attractions include:

St. Martin's Cathedral - An 11th century church with much restoration, St. Martin's was elevated to the status of Cathedral in 1926.

The Castle Mound - The ruins of Leicester Castle and the lovely Castle Gardens.

Newarke Houses - Two Jacobean houses, now a Museum, with the social history of Leicester from the 16th century to the present day.

Belgrave Hall and Gardens - A delightful Queen Anne house dating from 1709. The rooms reflect Victorian cosiness and the more elegant Edwardian era.

The Guildhall - A unique Grade I listed medieval building of national importance, incorporating the Mayor's parlour, civic murals, old town library and 19th century cells.

Abbey Pumping Station - Historic 1891 pumping station with massive steam engines, and exhibitions.

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 designer labels in the Leicester Lanes, and exquisitely embroidered silks along the Golden Mile.

Travel to infinity and beyond at the National Space Centre and experience live music at De Montfort Hall. Witness top class action from Leicester's sporting teams and savour a glass of champagne at one of the city's stylish café bars. 

Whatever the time, whatever your mood, whatever you expect, prepare to be surprised. 

Events

May:   'Heart Link' Street Organ Festival (Leicester)

May - June:   Leicester Early Music Festival (Leicester)