12 Best Things To Do In Leicester As A Student

Leicester is a city where ancient history meets modern energy, offering students a vibrant and welcoming place to call home. From world-class museums and sporting giants to buzzing nightlife and multicultural festivals, Leicester is packed with experiences that make student life truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or just love exploring new places between lectures, Leicester has something for everyone. This blog rounds up 12 of the absolute best things to do in Leicester city to make your student experience truly unforgettable.

About Leicester

• A city of heritage and innovation: Walk through 2,000 years of history, from Roman ruins and medieval guildhalls to cutting-edge museums and street art that’s among the tallest in Europe.
• Home to top universities: The University of Leicester and De Montfort University bring a diverse student community and lively campus culture to the heart of the city.
• Affordable student life: Leicester offers lower living costs than many other UK cities, with great value on food, transport, and entertainment.
• Multicultural and welcoming: Leicester is famous for its diversity, celebrated in vibrant festivals like Diwali on the Golden Mile-the largest celebration outside India.
• Buzzing music and sports scenes: From live gigs and theatre to Premier League football and top rugby, there’s always something happening.

Top 12 Things Every Student Should Do in Leicester

1. Experience An Interactive Session at the National Space Centre

One of the interesting things to do in Leicester, UK, is visit the National Space Centre, one of the UK’s most unique science attractions. With interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, immersive simulator rides, and a towering rocket, it’s perfect for science lovers and anyone looking for a fun, educational day out. The centre also hosts special events and workshops, making it a great spot to geek out with friends or impress visiting family.

Address: Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NS

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early weekends for fewer crowds

Visiting Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (check website for seasonal changes)

Ticket Cost: Around £16.95 for students (discounts available with valid ID)

2. Take A Look At History At King Richard III Visitor Centre

Dive into Leicester’s dramatic history at the King Richard III Visitor Centre. Built on the site where the king’s remains were discovered, this museum offers interactive exhibits and a fascinating look at the life, death, and rediscovery of one of England’s most controversial monarchs. It’s especially engaging for history students and those who love a good mystery.

Address: 4A St Martins, Leicester, LE1 5DB

Best Time to Visit: Mornings or weekdays

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry 3:00 PM)

Ticket Cost: Around £10 for students (with student ID)

3. Get Cultured at the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Head to the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery for a dose of culture. With ever-changing exhibitions, dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and contemporary art, there’s always something new to see. The museum also hosts talks, workshops, and concerts.

Address: 53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA

Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a quieter experience

Visiting Hours:

1. Monday–Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
2. Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free for permanent collections; some temporary exhibitions may charge

4. Experience The Best Of Leicester Nightlife

The most thrilling things to do in Leicester city are to experience its vibrant nightlife. The Fan Club is famous for its retro vibes and affordable drinks, while MOSH is the go-to for indie and alternative music. Don’t miss Lets Disko at the Students’ Union on Wednesdays, a rite of passage for sports teams and societies. Whether you’re into clubbing or chilled pub nights, there’s a scene for everyone.

Address: City Centre, especially around Granby Street, Belvoir Street, and Braunstone Gate

Best Time to Visit: Thursday to Saturday nights

Entry Fee: Varies by venue; many bars and clubs offer free or discounted entry for students

Also read: Best Restaurants and Places To Eat in Leicester in 2025

5. Take a Street Art Stroll Through Leicester

Explore Leicester’s attractions on foot with a self-guided city walk. Discover iconic landmarks like the Clock Tower, quirky statues, ancient ruins, and vibrant street art. These walks are a great way to get to know the city, find new hangout spots, and snap some Insta-worthy pics along the way.

6. Catch A Show Curve Theatre

Catch a show at Curve, Leicester’s iconic theatre in the heart of the cultural quarter. Known for its striking architecture and innovative productions, Curve is the place to see everything from West End musicals to experimental plays. Student discounts and last-minute deals make it accessible even on a budget.

Address: 60 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB

Best Time to Visit: Evenings or matinee performances

Visiting Hours: Box office typically open 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (show times vary)

Ticket Cost: From £10 (student discounts available)

7. Feel the Rush at a Leicester Tigers Rugby or Leicester City FC Match

Experience the buzz of live sport by catching a Leicester Tigers rugby match or a Leicester City FC football game. The city’s sporting spirit is infectious, and student deals often make tickets affordable. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just want to soak up the atmosphere, it’s a classic Leicester experience.

Leicester Tigers (Rugby):

1. Address: Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium, Aylestone Road, Leicester, LE2 7TR
2. Best Time: Match days (usually weekends)
3. Ticket Cost: From £15 (student discounts available)

Leicester City FC:

4. Address: King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, LE2 7FL
5. Best Time: Match days (check fixture list)
6. Ticket Cost: From £20 (student pricing available)

Also read: Explore 10+ Pubs In Leicester

8. Hike Up The Gorse Hill City Farm

Take a break from city life at Gorse Hill City Farm, a charity-run spot where you can meet rare breeds, learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. It’s a wholesome, budget-friendly day out, perfect for animal lovers or anyone needing a break from the library.

Address: Anstey Lane, Leicester, LE4 0FJ

Best Time to Visit: Mornings or weekends in spring/summer

Visiting Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (check website)

Ticket Cost: Around £4 for students

9. Bounce Off the Stress at Flip Out Trampoline Park

For a fun way to let off steam, head to Flip Out. It’s a brilliant group activity with trampolines, ninja warrior courses, foam pits, and more, ideal for bonding with new friends or celebrating after exams.

Address: Unit 6, Lewisher Road, Leicester, LE4 9LR

Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons or evenings

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by day)

Ticket Cost: From £10 per session (student deals often available)

10. Retail Therapy at Haymarket and Highcross

Leicester’s shopping scene is a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and bustling markets. Haymarket and Highcross are top choices for retail therapy, and many shops offer student discounts. Don’t forget to check out the market stalls for unique finds and tasty street food.

Haymarket Shopping Centre: 1 Kildare Walk, Leicester, LE1 3YH

Highcross Leicester: 5 Shires Lane, Leicester, LE1 4AN

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds

Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Highcross open later on Thursdays)

11. Get Artsy at Attenborough Arts Centre

The Attenborough Arts Centre is a creative hub in the University of Leicester. From art exhibitions and live music to workshops and inclusive events, it’s a welcoming space for students to get inspired, try something new, or just chill in a creative environment.

Address: Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA

Best Time to Visit: Check for exhibition openings and evening events

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)

12. Relax in Nature at Abbey Park and Victoria Park

When you need a breather, Leicester’s parks are perfect for picnics, jogging, or just relaxing with friends. Abbey Park, with its riverside walks and boating lake, and Victoria Park, known for its open spaces and summer events, are student favourites for downtime and fresh air.

Abbey Park: Abbey Park Road, Leicester, LE4 5AQ

Victoria Park: Granville Road, Leicester, LE1 7RY

Best Time to Visit: Sunny afternoons, spring and summer

Visiting Hours: Open daily, dawn till dusk

Entry Fee: Free

Things to do in Leicester city are a mixture of rich and diverse student experiences that go far beyond the classroom. Whether you’re diving into the city’s fascinating history, cheering on your favourite sports team, exploring vibrant arts and culture, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon in one of its beautiful parks, there’s always something to keep you engaged and inspired. 

Make the most of your student life experience with UniAcco’s top student accommodation in Leicester. Book now! 

Also read: Top 5 Cheapest Accommodations in Leicester

FAQs

Q. Is Leicester, UK worth visiting?

Ans: Leicester is absolutely worth visiting. Leicester tourist spots offer a fascinating mix of rich history, like the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral, alongside modern Leicester attractions such as the National Space Centre and vibrant cultural venues.

Q. What is Leicester best known for?

Ans: Leicester is best known for its rich history and vibrant culture, highlighted by the discovery of King Richard III’s remains and the King Richard III Visitor Centre. Leicester tourist spots also include a passionate sports scene, especially Leicester City FC, and iconic landmarks like the National Space Centre and Leicester Market.

Q. How to spend a day in Leicester?

Ans: Leicester city things to do include exploring the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral to dive into rich history, then relax with a stroll or picnic in Abbey Park. Don’t miss the New Walk Museum for art and science; wrap up with some downtime at vibrant Victoria Park.

Q. Is Leicester good for nightlife?

Ans: Leicester city attractions cater to all tastes. From lively student nights at clubs like MOSH and Club Republic to quirky bars such as Manhattan34 and The Basement, there’s something for everyone. 

Q. Is Leicester an affordable city?

Ans: Leicester is generally considered an affordable city, especially compared to larger UK cities like London. Students can expect to spend between £1,200 and £1,600 per month covering accommodation, food, transport, and leisure, with rent typically ranging from £340 to £920 monthly