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 is a large city with a thriving student population - during term time over 12% of Leicester's population are students! Leicester also has a big ethnic minority population and boasts some of the best Indian restaurants in the UK. Leicester has a thriving music scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, cinemas and theatres.
You can come right up to date with a true 'Big City' shopping experience. Recognised as one of the country's leading centres for retail, you'll be spoilt for choice. Leicester's multi-cultural population has created a unique blend of the past and the vibrant present day, giving Leicester a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The city centre is mainly Victorian with some later developments, which have usually been integrated in smoothly. The heart of the city centre is the Clock Tower, which is at the intersection of five routes into the city - High Street, Churchgate, Belgrave Gate, Humberstone Gate, and Gallowtree Gate. Today the latter two are pedestrianised, and vehicles are restricted on the others.The city centre is home to the Haymarket and the Shires shopping centres, both of which face the clock tower. Leicester Market, Europe's largest covered market, is nearby. The historic core of the City lies slightly to the west, and monuments here include the Castle, the Anglican cathedral of St Martin, the mediaeval churches of St Mary de Castro and St Nicholas, the Guildhall and the Jewry Wall.
When you take a well-needed refreshment break, you'll be spoiled for choice of food from around the world. Leicester is renowned for its authentic Indian Restaurants, and people come to the city especially to enjoy true Indian food, at one of the specialist Restaurants on the Belgrave Road.The 'Big City' experience really comes to life in the evening. From major concerts at the renowned De Montfort Hall, to nationally respected Haymarket Theatre, your complete day out might just last a bit longer than you planned.
