A Day with Kings and Foxes: Discovering Leicester’s Hidden Charms

Leicester may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a UK trip, but after spending a day there, I realized it’s one of England’s best-kept secrets. I started my morning at the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where history came alive. It was fascinating to learn how the long-lost king’s remains were discovered beneath a parking lot! Right across the street stands Leicester Cathedral, peaceful and beautiful, where the king now rests. From history to culture, I headed next to the New Walk Museum, where I explored Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs, and fine art—all for free! The museum is located along the charming New Walk, a leafy pedestrian path that feels like a secret garden running through the city. Lunch was at the Leicester Market, one of the largest in Europe. I tried local cheese and a hot samosa from one of the many multicultural food stalls. Leicester’s diversity truly shines in its food! In the afternoon, I visited the National Space Centre, a must-see for any science lover. Standing beneath a towering rocket and watching a planetarium show was an out-of-this-world experience. Before catching my train, I took a short stroll around Victoria Park, where students and families relaxed in the evening sun. From medieval kings to modern science, Leicester offers a surprising mix of old and new. It’s a city with stories—and foxes—around every corner.