Visit Leicestershire, a county with over 2,000 years of history where you are guaranteed a traditional taste of England and a landscape perfect for gentle adventures or active escapes. Discover the place where tourism began and unravel the mystery of King Richard III – the last Plantagenet King of England. Sample the specialty cheese and pies that Leicestershire is famous for, or head to Leicester’s Golden Mile for aromatic flavours from the sub-Indian continent. Escape to the outdoors, journeying along over 70 miles of waterways and exploring the vast National Forest. Take to the trails on two wheels, kayak to the pub or discover an incredible underwater world at the UK’s National Diving Centre. In Leicester, step back in time as you wander the ancient lanes, meandering past the medieval Guildhall and historic cathedral. Explore the universe at the National Space Centre and be immersed in the city’s vibrant street art scene.
Places to visit in Leicestershire
October events: Experience Leicester's Festival of Light
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Wrap up warm for Leicester’s spectacular Diwali lights switch on, or join in with a wealth of activities and celebrations leading up to the epic finale on Diwali Day.
Rock out at Download Festival
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Horn signs at the ready; get set for a weekend of rock as the biggest names in metal take to the stage at Download Festival.
See Britain's finest comedians at Leicester Comedy Festival
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Get a glimpse at the future of British comedy at the annual Leicester Comedy Festival.
Check out our guide to Leicestershire
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Explore our top choices for days out, delicious food to tuck into, and the best places to stay in Leicestershire.
Small pleasures come free at Dimminsdale Nature Reserve
Just a few small snowdrops bring cheer to the colder, shorter days of England’s winter, and seen at Dimminsdale, they’re simply breathtaking.
Location: Staunton Harold, Leicestershire
Enjoy creature comforts at the Dandelion Hideaway
Down on the farm there are tents that think they’re cottages, roll-top baths, proper beds, fresh food, plenty of fresh air, and plenty to see and do.
Location: Osbaston, Leicestershire
Get lost in the twists and turns of Wistow Maze
Over the summer, pay a visit to the famous Wistow Maze, a versatile puzzle in the English countryside that changes shape each year.
Location: Wistow, Leicestershire
Elegance and nature at University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden
See how The University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden enhances the beauty of an already breathtaking place.
Location: Oadby, Leicestershire
Chainsaw sculptures capture the eye at Beacon Hill
Where would you expect to see a sheep duo, rock character, miniature train and fairy castle, all carefully carved out of wood?
Location: Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire
Lunch with the deer at Bradgate Park
If you’d like a little history with your sandwiches then take your picnic to Bradgate Park.
Location: Newtown Linford, Leicestershire
Peace and quiet at Belgrave Hall and Gardens
Belgrave Hall was built in the early 18th century, in what was then a small village three miles from the town of Leicester.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Explore the ruins of Ashby Castle
Sir Walter Scott’s classic novel of 1819, Ivanhoe featured Ashby Castle as the backdrop to the famous jousting scenes.
Location: Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire
Explore Leicestershire’s beautiful waterways at Foxton Locks
Enjoy summer walks past the colourful narrowboats and along the unique waterways surrounded by Leicestershire’s picturesque countryside.
Location: Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Gastro glamping at the foot of Belvoir Castle
Pronounced ‘beaver’ by locals and literally meaning ‘beautiful view’, the Vale of Belvoir offers the perfect place to hideaway.
Location: Near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
Free-wheeling fun in Leicester & The National Forest
From a city full of fresh cycling ideas, to off-road biking excursions in The National Forest.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Enjoy a family getaway at Upper Rectory Farm Cottages
The idyllic Upper Rectory Farm Cottages in Leicestershire offers a perfect retreat if you’re looking for a luxurious festive getaway.
Location: Swadlincote, Leicestershire
Fill your belly on a gourmet getaway in Leicestershire
Try the famous Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, local Stilton cheese, cream tea, ales, wines and sloe gin as part of a delicious countryside break.
Location: Melton Mowbray and the Vale of Belvoir, Leicestershire
October events: Sample local delights at the East Midlands Food Festival
The East Midlands Food Festival in Melton Mowbray is one of the largest regional food festivals in the country. Running for over 15 years, lots of loyal and new visitors can enjoy edible delights from some of the country’s finest producers, many from the East Midlands.
Location: Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
