East Midlands - Leicestershire

A Roman Experience in Leicester
Before the Roman’s arrived, Leicester was a late Iron Age settlement on the banks of the River Soar that minted its own coins and traded with the continent. Leicester was sited at an important river crossing along the Fosse Way, a major Roman road, so the town was reorganised and new public buildings added.
These included the Jewry Wall Public baths, the remains of which can be discovered at Leicester’s exciting new visitor attraction – Jewry Wall, a Roman experience. Here you’ll see one of the largest pieces of Roman masonry still standing in Britain. Opening in the summer of 2025, this new attraction features the city’s extensive Roman remains at Jewry Wall, Roman artefacts and mosaics all discovered in Leicester, and the latest immersive digital technology helping to bring Leicester’s Roman past to life.
 
The greatest lost and found story ever told!
The area is famous for its connection with one of the bloodiest battles in English history and the gravesite where, over 500 years later, King Richard III’s remains were discovered beneath a city car park.
Start with a group visit to Bosworth Battlefield and join one of their guides for a fun and information walking tour of the site where the last English King to die in battle fell, before experiencing its interactive exhibition.
Then travel into Leicester where your group can also uncover the incredible story of a King lost and found at the award-winning King Richard III Visitor Centre. Discover the fantastic evidence gathered that resulted in the King’s eventual rediscovery in 2012, and view the original gravesite where King Richard was found. He was finally laid to rest at Leicester Cathedral in 2015, and on the 10th anniversary of his reinterment you can enjoy a range of events that celebrate Richard III.
 
The place where package tourism began, and history was plotted
Did you know Leicestershire is also the place where package tourism began! In 1841 travel pioneer Thomas Cook ran his first railway excursion – the very first package holiday!  Visitors can follow the exact same route from Leicester to Loughborough by steam train today, dining together in style in one of the restored carriages of the Great Central Railway. More history is on the menu at the 1620’s House and Gardens at Donington Le Heath, where the home of Gunpowder plotter Sir Everard Digby now serves afternoon teas after its guided tours.
 
Castles – conspiracy theories and crowning glories
Pick up an audio-guide at Ashby de la Zouch Castle to hear about its colourful history as you explore the underground passage or climb the half-ruined tower. Explore the moated remains of Kirby Muxloe Castle with its fine gatehouse to uncover an intriguing 15th century conspiracy theory. To top off your tour of castles, the majestic Belvoir Castle is Leicestershire’s crowning glory with its opulent Regency interiors featured in Netflix’s series ‘The Crown’. Explore the formal gardens or take afternoon tea at the place where it was invented and visit the Engine Yard for an exclusive rural shopping experience.
 
Taste the Place
For a real foodie experience get the genuine taste of England in the ancient market town of Melton Mowbray. This historic market town claims the title of “Rural Capital of Food” through its association with the pork pie and Stilton cheese. Immerse yourself in the region’s finest food and drink through experiences like traditional pork pie making, brewery tour or hidden food walking tour. We invite you to drink our ale, craft your own gins and sample our food where it is made in the traditional way.
 
Active Escapes and Gentle Adventures
With more than 70 miles of scenic waterways and an expansive National Forest awaiting exploration, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Paddle kayaks to a charming pub, rent luxury electric bikes to cycle woodland trails, have a go at archery or bushcraft, learn woodturning amidst nature with tea brewing on an open fire or admire the countryside from the deck of a traditional narrow boat. For those with a thirst of adventure, experience the exhilaration of tank driving or hover crafting, then unwind with a wellbeing and nature experience nestled in the heart of the forest.
 
Let your group Uncover the Story
Many more attractions across Leicester and Leicestershire welcome groups. Guided walks and tours can be booked to cover the historic highlights of the city or a market town with bespoke tours arranged on request.
 
There is so much to see and do in Leicester and Leicestershire that you won't be able to fit it all in one day. Why not book accommodation in a smart city centre hotel or charming historic country house? All are waiting with a warm welcome.
 
Group Guides, itineraries and support
Free coach parking is available in the city centre and must be pre-booked. Further details at visitleicester.info/visitor-information/coach-parking
Contact the Visit Leicester Tourism Information Centre 0116 299 4444 and have a chat with one of our friendly customer advisers. For further information on group visits and itineraries contact Jackie Ledger, Place Marketing Manager jackie.ledger@leicester.gov.uk
Download a copy of the Group Travel Guide for Leicester and Leicestershire at visitleicester.info/visitor-information/group-travel