Pictures of Leicester

About Leicester

Leicester is famed amongst other things for its fine parish church which was raised to Cathedral status in 1927. This is of Norman origin with rebuilding work of the 19th century. One of the treasures of the church is a monument signed by Joshua Marshall in 1656.

The expansion of Leicester began in the early 19th century when a railway link was built enabling coal to be transported from the Leicestershire coalfields. Prior to this hosiery and footwear formed the mainstay of the economy of what was once a small county town, however these industries still continued throughout the 19th and into the 20th century with many people being employed in the factory of Freeman, Hardy and Willis.

Today, if you look beyond the modern housing estates and rows of Victorian terrace properties you can still catch a glimpse of historic Leicester. The Roman's were here and Leicester is mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086 when it is recorded under the name of Ledescestre. Parts of the Jewry wall left by the Romans can still be seen in the area close to St.Nicholas Circle.

One of Leicester's most famous buildings is its beautiful Timber framed Guildhall dating back to the 14th century. The Guildhall was most prominent when used as a meeting place for the mayor and corporation between the late 15th and 19th centuries. It has also served as a court, and more latterly since being considered too small to serve any longer as a town hall, the Guildhall became a museum. Today, it is best known as a concert venue. It is also known for being haunted by up to five ghosts.

The city's University has a reputation for excellence, it was founded in 1921 and granted a Royal Charter in 1957. Some illustrious names are associated with the University these include the poet Philip Larkin, authors C.P.Snow and Sue Townsend, Lord Richard and Sir David Attenborough, astronomer Patrick Moore and other noted TV personalities including Michael Nicholson and Sue Cook.

Leicester has a famous football club and a racecourse with over 100 years of history, both draw crowds from all over the midlands and beyond.

Visitors to the town can expect to see good examples of 18th century town houses, excellent church architecture and experience fine museums which recall the city's history, traditions and culture.

Today Leicester caters for a largely multi-cultural society. It offers an excellent choice of shopping facilities, some markets, good restaurants, cafe's, clubs and pubs. Night Owl's will find plenty to attract them and there are theatres and cinema's. Lovers of fresh air will find ample green spaces, and for the energetic there are sporting facilities second to none. The town's canal waters are often bright with sailing craft, the Grand Union Canal runs for 66 miles through the city and surrounding countryside, walks along tow paths can be enjoyed as well as a rich variety of wildlife.

Interesting & Historical Facts about Leicester

Thomas Wolsey, Lord High Chancellor of England and Henry VIII's right-hand man (until he was arrested for treason) died on 29th November 1530 on his way to face charges. He was buried at Leicester Abbey, which was demolished around 1538, and although the Abbey foundations have been excavated in recent years, Wolsey's remains have never been found.

Leicester facts | Leicestershire facts