Heritage Tours in Leicester

Want to know more about Leicester and Leicestershire? Let us guide you!

Take a guided walk or tour and find out about local legend and myth along with fascinating historical and architectural facts.

Information on walks and tours are listed below, as well as some suggested trails that you might like to do yourself.

Thomas Cook Trail
Did you know that Leicester is the birthplace of tourism? Thomas Cook, who lived in Leicester for over 50 years, introduced the world to tourism when he organised an excursion from Leicester to Loughborough in 1841. There is a walking trail around Leicester, visiting places connected with his life including where he lived and worked and his grave at Welford Cemetery.

King Richard III Trail
King Richard III spent his last fateful night in Leicester before his death at the nearby Battle of Bosworth in 1485. His body was brought back to the city and was buried here, but his bones were later dug up and thrown into the River Soar.

Blue Plaque Trail
Across the UK, small, blue plaques mark places that have historical importance or were relevant to the lives of famous people. Leicester plaques commemorate the lives of people like Joseph Hansom, William Carey and Joe Orton.

Riverside Walks
The River Soar and Grand Union Canal wind their way through Leicester, passing through Castle Gardens and Abbey Park. It is possible to walk from Leicester city centre up to the National Space Centre using the river pathways, and will take you about 35 minutes.

Blue Badge Guides
There is a network of 15 local Blue Badge Guides available to host guided walks and give talks about the city and county. For more details, or to book a place or a dedicated guide for your group visit to Leicester or Leicestershire call in to the Leicester Tourist Information Centre in Town Hall Square in the city to discuss your requirements.