Located in the East Midlands of England, Leicester is one of the UK’s most historic cities and attractions such as the battlefield at Bosworth and the city’s centuries-old Guild Hall are just a couple of examples of attractions in the city. This is, after all, the city that found, identified and re-buried a 15th-century king less than a decade ago, using DNA techniques that were developed in the same city. Leicester is home to historians, academics and sports fans (the local rugby team is the most successful in England, while the football club won a remarkable Premier League title in 2016 against all the odds). It is also a city for those in love, with numerous locations where you can spend time with your significant other in a suitable atmosphere. Don’t know where to stay yet? Leicestershire has some of the best glamping spots in the UK. Read on to find out about the top romantic things to do in Leicester, the UK, and you’ll fall in love with the city.
1. Explore the beautiful Watermead Country Park
Looking for a low-key date night activity on your upcoming trip to Leicester? Take your special someone on a leisure walk along the pathways of Watermead Country Park. The park is a group of artificial lakes along River Soar and the old Grand Union Canal. Get ready to feast your eyes on some of the most peaceful and captivating vistas you’ll ever find in Leicester. It’s the perfect opportunity to hold your partner’s hand and simply enjoy each other’s company.
Watermead Country Park
Address: Wanlip Rd, Fillingate, Leicester LE7 8PF, United Kingdom
Website: Watermead Country Park
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
2. Appreciate art at Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
For something completely different - a remarkable virtual reality experience is an optional extra to a visit and takes...
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For both an ethereal and wonderful experience, be sure to get yourselves lost in mind-bending art at Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience in Leicester. This art museum at All Saints’ Church boasts a 360-degree digital art extravaganza where you get to sit and gaze. Imagine being lost within some of the most extraordinary pieces of art with your loved one beside you. If that’s not one of the most romantic things in life, then we don’t know what is.
Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience
Address: All Saints Church, 107 Highcross St, Leicester LE1 4PH, United Kingdom
Website: Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience
Opening hours: Fri - Mon: 10am - 6pm (closed on Tue - Thu)
3. Enjoy a bite to eat at North Bar and Kitchen
North Bar and Kitchen is located in Leicester’s “West End”; a bustling area known for its range of stunning dining options and lively nightlife. The establishment offers diners the chance to enjoy a fantastic menu, which includes an a la carte menu, vegan-tasting options, and an exquisite dessert menu that is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. You can dine in one of two ways: by taking a seat indoors amidst the fantastic ambiance or heading outside to sit on the terrace and delight in the sights and sounds of the area. If you are looking for places to stay nearby, you can check out some hotels with early check-in for your accommodation.
North Bar and Kitchen
Address: 42 Hinckley Rd, Leicester LE3 0RB
Website: North Bar and Kitchen
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 12pm - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9pm; Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm; Sun 12pm - 3:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
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4. Take a romantic stroll in Abbey Park
Abbey Park is the best-known park in Leicester, having garnered a reputation as a lush green space that provides respite from the bustling city that surrounds it. Leicester’s river, the Soar, flows through the park, which provides the chance to see waterfowl and other wildlife, along with the lavender maze, Ping! tables, and boating lake. What’s more, for those interested in history, this romantic place in Leicester is a must-visit, as it is home to the ruins of Leicester Abbey, as well as the Stuart-era mansion, Cavendish House.
Abbey Park
Address: Abbey Park Rd, Leicester LE4 5AQ, United Kingdom
Website: Abbey Park
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
5. Sip some cocktails in The Gadabout
The Gadabout is located in a beautiful 17th-century building in Leicester, and it has made its name as a fantastic place to visit if you’re a fan of cocktails. The bar has a travel-related theme and it offers a range of signature cocktails - which include Scarlett Fever, Luigi’s mash-up, and Skoll - as well as wine and champagne options, so you should be able to find a beverage that suits your tastes. Thanks to the great atmosphere and truly delicious cocktails, a night spent at The Gadabout is sure to be one to remember.
Gadabout
Address: 10 Guildhall Ln, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Website: Gadabout
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Fri: 3pm - 12am; Thu: 3pm - 1am; Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 11pm
6. Admire natural beauty in the University of Leicester Botanic Garden
The University of Leicester Botanic Garden is 16 acres (6.5 ha) in size and it can be found around 3 miles (4.8 km) from Leicester city center in Oadby. The garden - which is free to visit, except on special event days - provides the chance to explore the site and learn more about the different plants in the area, which range from native species to tropical plants housed in glasshouses. There are also a number of sculptures located within the garden, including pieces by artists such as Marcus Vergette and Deirdre Hubbard.
University of Leicester Botanic Garden
Address: Glebe Rd, Oadby, Leicester LE2 2LD
Website: University of Leicester Botanic Garden
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
7. Have a laugh at Just the Tonic Comedy Club
Just The Tonic, which is located at the Hansom Hall in Leicester city center, is a fantastic comedy venue that should be able to provide an outstanding evening of entertainment should you decide to visit. The club hosts touring comedians, some of whom are recognizable names such as Johnny Vegas, and also serves as a bar and provides a range of pub-style food. When the show begins, you’ll be able to make the most of the intimate setting that ensures a great view and excellent acoustics throughout the show.
Just the Tonic Comedy Club
Address: 54 Belvoir St, Leicester LE1 6QL
Website: Just the Tonic Comedy Club
Opening hours: Sat: 6:45 - 10:30pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
8. See Leicester Castle in its full glory
Most of Leicester Castle has been lost to the ages, but there are a few aspects that can still be visited, with the Castle Motte amongst the most popular. The motte itself comprises of an area of raised earth, and it can be accessed via a public footpath from the nearby Castle Gardens. The area surrounding the motte is beautiful, with lush greenery and the opportunity to admire the canal and the stunning flowerbeds found throughout.
Leicester Castle
Address: 7 Castle View, Leicester LE1 5WH
Opening hours: 7:30am - 5pm (daily)
9. Learn about the city's history at Newarke Houses Museum
The Newarke Houses Museum is an essential visit for anyone who wants to get an in-depth feel for Leicester’s social history. All of the things that make Leicester the way it is today can be witnessed with a look around these two buildings, Wyggeston Chantry House and Skeffington, which date from the 16th and 17th centuries respectively. You’ll see how Leicester’s streets have evolved, learn about the Leicestershire Regiment that played its part in the world wars, and also see some exhibits that commemorate the city’s sporting successes.
Newarke Houses Museum
Address: 20 The Newarke, Leicester LE2 7BY
Website: Newarke Houses Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm
10. View the exhibits at New Walk Museum & Art Gallery
The New Walk Museum & Art Gallery was one of the first public museums in the United Kingdom when it opened in 1849, and it is still going strong to this day. The museum houses a range of exhibits ranging from minerals to Ancient Egypt - the latter of which includes four authentic Egyptian mummies. As well as the history-focused exhibits, there are a number of art collections to explore, ranging from German Expressionist work to the lauded Picasso Ceramics: The Attenborough Collection. This viewing experience here is one of the best things to do in Leicester for couples, so come down soon!
New Walk Museum & Art Gallery
Address: 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA
Website: New Walk Museum & Art Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 4:30pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 5pm
11. Shop at Leicester Highcross
The Highcross - which was originally known as “The Shires” - is the premier shopping destination located in the heart of Leicester. There are a huge number of stores to visit, ranging from Apple right through to Zara, so if you’re looking for the ultimate shopping experience, you can be certain the Highcross will provide. With your shopping complete, you can then dine in one of the many eateries on-site, with the options available including 1573 Bar & Grill, Chocoberry, MOD Pizza, and TGI Fridays.
Leicester Highcross
Address: 5 Shires Ln, Leicester LE1 4AN
Website: Leicester Highcross
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 7pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
12. Pay tribute at Leicester Cathedral
Leicester Cathedral is a Grade II listed building that is situated close to the city center. In recent years, the cathedral has drawn particular attention due to its role in the reburial of King Richard III in 2015, and many visitors now choose to visit the last Plantagenet tomb as part of their visit. In addition, visiting the cathedral also means you will be able to admire the amazing architecture and stained glass windows, while The White Rose Cafe is next door to the cathedral if you’re in need of refreshments.
Additionally, there are Airbnb vacation rentals nearby that you can book to provide you with lodging after your tour of this historic attraction.
Leicester Cathedral
Address: 2 Peacock Ln, Leicester LE1 5FQ
Website: Leicester Cathedral
Fall in love with Leicester
By no means England’s most well-known city, Leicester has developed a reputation for excellence in a number of fields over the years, and it is a place well worth getting to know better. Once you’ve found your hotel with spa in Leicester, it’s time to explore the city.
After days of indulging in everything the city has to offer, you may want to go on day trips from Leicester to nearby destinations.
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