Culture of Leicester. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The first settlement on the site of the modern city emerged during the reign of the Roman Empire. Leicester is one of the oldest cities in the country. In the center of the city there is the oldest historical monument, Leicester Castle, built in the second half of the 11th century. The old building is surrounded by the incredibly beautiful garden; tour participants are offered a glimpse into a cozy patio and visit to the nearby church of St. Mary. This religious monument belongs to the later period; the church was built in the 12th century.

The most striking monuments of the Middle Ages are so-called Leicester bridges. In total, three bridges have survived in the city: Packhorse Bridge, King William's Bridge and Belgrave Bridge. An interesting object is the Beaumont Leys; it's a massive embedment where a few centuries ago there has been a monastery of Templars. Today, the old building is left in ruins. After touring historic sites anyone can go down to a nearby pond and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Those, who prefer to spend time outdoors, are sure to enjoy the beautiful Abbey Park, next to which there is another significant attraction. In 1143, Abbey of St. Mary was founded there. Till this day only a few items have managed to survive; the major part of the building is in ruins. Beautiful architectural monument is the Cathedral. High-scale structure with an original design of the facade and refined interiors can safely be called one of the most beautiful buildings of the city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

You should definitely include a visit to the historic Leicester Guildhall in the excursion. It was built in the 14th century; after a complete reconstruction, the building was converted into a museum. Now it houses an interesting collection of ethnographic and historical exhibits. The complex Jewry Wall is an open-air museum built on the site of Roman Baths. All those, who aren’t indifferent to the ancient times, are interested in visiting. Belgrave Hall Museum introduces visitors to the life and culture of the Victorian era, and Abbey Pumping Station Museum is dedicated to the most striking scientific discoveries. Tourists, who like to visit unusual excursions, have to look into the National Gas Museum, as its collection is also unique.

Among other museums in Leicester, of interest is the King Richard III Visitor Centre telling the true history of the last male representative of the Plantagenets. The place wasn't chosen by chance: it was here, in the once existing church, that the king was buried (the chapel was later destroyed). Today, his remains confirmed by the University of Leicester using computed tomography scan are stored in the already mentioned Leicester Cathedral. By the way, near the cathedral there is a monument to the king, so dishonorably slandered through public opinion manipulation.

The National Space Centre should definitely be included in any sightseeing route of the city. A visit to this cultural institution can become a true space odyssey. It tells about the history of space exploration, and many of the exhibits are genuine but not interactive or informative like those typically presented in other museums of this kind. Spacesuits, spacecraft, minerals - these are some examples from the museum's collection.

The Retro Computer Museum is another excellent cultural institution, thanks to which one can find a lot of interesting information. This time, visitors are provided with information on the evolution of computers. Those who are keen on aircraft would probably be interested in studying their technology at the Bruntingthorpe Air Museum where the main emphasis is on demonstrating the collection of aircraft of the Second World War and post-war period. It's a good idea to walk through the University of Leicester Botanic Garden with its magnificent landscape design, centuries-old trees, an amazing collection of exotic plants and cacti, as well as a stone garden.

The Curve Theater is of special interest from the architectural point of view (however, theatrical performances staged here are no less interesting for fans of theatrical art). Its building - functional and at the same time beautiful - is a vivid example of modern architecture. The theater’s construction dates back to 2008, the architect was Rafael Vignoli Basseira, and the first show that took place here was a performance entitled "Lift Off". By the way, those looking for more spectacular shows should head to Foxlands Farm and watch the so-called “Victory Show” traditionally held on the first weekend of September and marking the end of World War II.

The Newarke Houses Museum & Gardens is worthy of a visit as well. Here you can find a lot of interesting information about the city's history, from the Tudor period to the beginning of the 20th century. Of particular interest is a recreated First World War trench. The complex consists of two buildings: Wygston's Chantry House and Skeffington House. A wonderful historical and religious monument is St. Peter's Church and Heritage Centre where you can feel the atmosphere of touching the history. The Romanesque church dates back to the 14th century. Many visitors to the temple are impressed by stained glass windows and an altar located inside.

St. Nicholas Church is another beautiful monument of sacred architecture. The analysis of its materials shows that the church is dated 880 AD. However, studies suggest that the local shrine was built even earlier, in ancient Roman times. Nevertheless, having stood for many centuries, the church was in poor condition by 1825 and there were even proposals for its demolition. But instead, in 1844, the church was renovated. Well, now it is one of the most interesting buildings on Leicester's tourist route - from historical, religious and cultural points of view. Another monument reflecting the ancient Roman times in the history of Leicester is the Jewry Wall, which is located just near St. Nicholas Church.

In the British city, you can also find quite an unexpected building - namely, the Hindu temple BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. It does not look like colorful shrines typical of countries where Hinduism prevails but still worth a visit. The reason is the modern style - during its construction, architects focused on originality, traditions, and functionality. Those wishing to get acquainted with the life of locals in the 18th century are encouraged to visit the nearby village of Markfield where a group of cottages called Stoneywell is located. Recreated interiors creating the wonderful atmosphere of history's touch, picturesque gardens, as well as wonderful architecture - all this cannot be missed while traveling around Leicester.