Leicester is a city that every self-respecting traveler must visit. There are many reasons for this. First, Leicester is one of the most ancient cities in all of Britain. It was founded during the reign of the Romans. The city from the very beginning was the largest commercial metropolis of the country and the backbone of all of England. And of course, there is something to see.
Interesting places
Leicester is a city full of attractions. You should definitely look at the local castle, built in the 1070s on the ruins of the city's Roman walls. Architecture lovers will love the Cathedral of St. Martin. And for nature lovers - local botanical gardens and parks. And in Leicester, the ruins of St. Mary's Abbey have been preserved. It used to be a medieval monastery.
And of course, we can't help but mention sports. A professional football club called Leicester City is based in this city. It was he who won the championship last season (2015/2016)England. And besides, Leicester City is a three-time winner of the Football League Cup and the National Super Cup. The club has existed since 1884.
For lovers of shopping
Leicester is not only a city with a rich history, but also with a huge number of different shops and boutiques. The largest shopping center here is called Highcross. And it contains over 120 different stores. There are also solid department stores in the center, such as John Lewis, Debenhams and House of Fraser.
In the shopping center there are boutiques whose names are well known to everyone - Swarovski, H&M, Carluccio's, Levis, Lacoste and many others - it's hard to list everything. By the way, in addition to shops in the shopping center there are restaurants and cafes.
Leicester is a city known for vintage shopping. In local stores you can buy things that have the right to be called a work of art or an exhibit.
And here is the Leicester Market - the largest indoor market in all of Europe. In general, avid shopaholics should definitely visit Leicester at least once.
Gastro tourism
Many people go traveling to indulge in various culinary delights. Leicester (a city in England, by the way) is an ideal place for connoisseurs of … real Indian cuisine. At first, this wording is surprising. But in fact, there is nothing strange, because it is in Leicester that the Indian restaurant Taj Mahal is located. It is located on Highfields Street. But besides this restaurant, Leicester also has Laguna, The Rise of the Raj, Sayonara, Phulnath andCharmee. And they all specialize in Indian cuisine! And the last three restaurants are completely vegetarian.
You can also try national British cuisine in Leicester. There is an excellent institution, it is called Opera House. And in general, it is worth taking a walk along the secluded streets of this English city - you can find many restaurants with good cuisine and affordable prices.
Memo to tourists
The city of Leicester now has a population of around 340,000. The people here are very pleasant and friendly, and tourists, in which case, can turn to passers-by for help. But only in English, of course.
You should definitely visit the tourist center located on Every Street. 95% of the people who walk there are visitors. In this place you can buy a variety of guidebooks, a detailed map, booklets, phrasebooks and tickets for excursions.
Many people make the mistake of forgetting to visit London while in Leicester. Only an hour and a half drive to the capital! Even faster you can get to Birmingham. Sightseeing tours to this metropolis are very popular.
If you want to explore the whole of Leicester, it is better to buy a travel card - it will be cheaper. They are sold in tobacco and newsstands. But in the central region, by the way, it is better to walk on foot. Attractions and interesting places there at every turn.
And the best time to travel to Leicester is summer or late spring. The weather here is amazing. Winter is also quite mild, but some places to visit can beclosed.
And finally - about payment. Most shops, malls and restaurants accept not only cash, but also card payments. Almost anyone. In any case, all international standards are accepted in England. It is worth remembering this and carrying less cash with you.
