Leicester: Tourism, shopping and much more!
Located in Leicestershire in England’s East Midlands is Leicester, a city and county town that’s about 142 km away from London. The city’s name comes from an Old English word and its correct pronunciation is ‘lester’.
With its maritime climate, Leicester’s weather has mild to warm summers with cool winters. A consistent amount of rain is spread throughout the year, along with low sunshine levels.
The city is also home to no fewer than two universities: the University of Leicester and De Montfort University. But it certainly isn’t ‘all work and no play’, as one look at a Leicester map will showcase the city’s pulsing bar- and food scene, a rich arts community, plus a vibrant heritage aimed at lovers of history and nature.
In terms of tourist attractions there’s the National Space Centre, a museum and educational centre chock a block with rockets, exhibitions, galleries, and the biggest planetarium in the UK. Although great for kids, the Space Centre promises a fun day out for all.
Or, if you’d rather catch up with nature, how about Bradgate Park? Located only 25 minutes from the city centre, the park allows you to enjoy wildlife in its natural habitat. You can also admire the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, or explore the expansive park with a picnic basket.
But if retail therapy is more your thing, Leicester has some options to explore…
Leicester: Map for shopping
Don’t skip Highcross! With more than 100 shops under one giant roof, Highcross (which is only a short walk from Leicester Cathedral and The Guildhall Museum) can be a terrific option for a fun day out. Especially with the likes of Cotswold Outdoor, Jack & Jones, and Pandora waiting to be explored.
Its not necessary to drive to London to experience some vintage shopping malls. Haymarket Shopping Centre, which has been around since 1973, is smack-bang in Leicester city centre. With over 65 stores awaiting your presence (including Red Box, The Bag Store, and Heron Foods), a variety of food- and fashion outlets, PLUS free Wi-Fi, is it any wonder the centre is still regarded as a ‘must visit’ on Leicester’s shopping map?
Want to see where the local population hangs out? Try Stoneygate Shops, a collection of independent stores and eateries just outside the city centre. Located close to Clarendon Park’s artistic hub, this leafy suburb creates a wonderful cosmopolitan vibe as you stroll from shop to shop. Drop by and see what special promotions or secret discounts you can enjoy at stores like Jellyrolls, The Toast Inn, Bang & Olufsen, and more.
Over in St Martins Square we find an eye-catching courtyard encircled by alluring little shops, restaurants and salons that all promise a delightful time. Browse the various independent shops, relax with a coffee, or see what quirky gifts and treats you can pick up at Gelato Village, Beau Nouveau Paris, Harriman & Co, and others.
And then, just before you exit the city, you’ll find Beaumont Shopping Centre on the edge of Leicester. This 301,099 sq ft design (with well-loved shops like Yours Clothing, Shoe Zone, and Pets at Home) remains a leading shopping- and leisure venue that knows just how to cater to locals’ desires for shopping, dining, relaxing and entertainment.
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