King Richard III in Leicestershire
If you are visiting Leicestershire to find out more about Richard III and the famous Battle of Bosworth we have just the itinerary for you! Highlighting the best places to visit and our recommendations for places to eat too. These are our suggestions for how to make the most out of your few days away. You can do as much or as little as you like.
Please check the opening days and times before you plan your day, table reservations are also recommended.
History can be so much fun, happy exploring!
Love Emily Jane x
Your first night away deserves a fabulous meal. Bring your groceries and cook up something tasty in the Kitchenette or on the BBQ. Or take a 5-minute stroll through the churchyard to Mallories Restaurant. Here you will receive a warm and friendly welcome and a fantastic menu.
Day 1 – The Famous Battle Of Bosworth.
Start your day off in the best possible way by enjoying the fresh countryside air and scenery. Enjoy a refreshing dip in your private hot tub, followed by breakfast on the patio or deck. Alternatively check out The Malt Mill Coffee and Bakery in Barwell, our favourite place for a delicious brunch and great coffee! Fully fuelled you are ready to start your day of exploring.
- Optional Stop-offs at Crown Hill, Stoke Golding where King Henry VII was crowned King after the Battle. Followed by a visit to The Church of St James the Greater, Dadlington, where many of the battle dead were buried.
Bosworth Battlefield
- Travel to Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park: Here the infamous Battle of Bosworth took place on 22 August 1485. Explore the award-winning interactive exhibitions (ticket charges apply) and gain insight into the events that led to Richard III’s defeat and the beginning of the Tudor era. Walk the battlefield trail, taking in Ambion Hill the site where King Richard III set up his camp before the Battle. Explore the landscape, visit the commemorative monument, and imagine the events that unfolded on this historic site. Refreshments are available at Tithe Barn Cafe and ample paid parking (£2.50 for all day as of Apr 24). NB There is a discounted ticket if you plan to visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre too. Full details can be found here.
- Lastly pop into The Church of St James, Sutton Cheney, where it is reported that King Richard III heard his last Mass. This church was closest to the battlefield and there is an interesting Memorial Plague inside.
We would highly recommend a visit to The Hercules Revived, Sutton Cheney for a fantastic evening meal alternatively head back to Mallory Meadows to cook up something yummy on the BBQ or order a takeaway we have many recommendations in our digital guide. Spend your evening relaxing in your cabin, playing games, reading and enjoying watching the sunset from your hot tub.
Day 2 – Discover Richard III in Leicester.
Another dip in the hot tub? Oh, go on then! Followed by an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing breakfast on the deck or patio whilst watching the wildlife surrounding you. You’re ready for your day in the city diving deeper into the fascinating story of King Richard III.
Our top recommendation to get to Leicester is to use the Park-and-ride at Meynell’s Gorse (LE3 3LF). Currently just £4.00 per car per day, with no battling traffic. The drop-off point is only a short walk from the Cathedral and the visitor centre. There are lots of alternative car parks in the city centre. The Highcross Shopping Centre offers a good location, but it is quite pricey if you intend to stay for the full day. You can find a brilliant Map of the city here.
Leicester Cathedral
- Start your visit by paying homage to King Richard III at Leicester Cathedral, whose remains were discovered in a nearby car park in 2012. Explore the beautifully designed tomb and learn about the fascinating history surrounding his life and reign. Talking tours are also available on Wednesdays and Saturdays full details can be found here. Do also stop by the Cathedral Gardens to see the ‘Richard III at Bosworth’ Statue.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
- Next, head to the King Richard III Visitor Centre, located just a short walk from the Cathedral. Dive deep into the story of Richard III, from his rise to power to the Battle of Bosworth Field and the mystery surrounding his burial.
- Time for a re-fuel, If all this exploring is making you hungry there are many great cafes and restaurants nearby. We recommend you head over to St Martins Square. Here you will find something for everyone, from Coffee and Cake to Gelato, and lots of other places offering food from around the world.
- Our final suggestion for your day in Leicester is to follow the King Richard III walking trail. This walking trail takes about 1 hour and includes 12 points of interest around the city and offers a rewarding and memorable experience for anyone interested in history, culture, and exploration. It’s a chance for you to step back in time and connect with the fascinating story of one of England’s most controversial monarchs and his connection to Leicester.
To finish your day off why not stop by the Windmill Inn, Brascote or straight back to your cabin and spend the evening relaxing and enjoying your hot tub?
Day 3 – Castles and Market Towns
If the last 2 days have been a bit full-on, the final day of our itinerary just offers a few interesting options. Each is perfectly positioned as a stop-by on your way home or great for a couple of hours out allowing you to maximise your relaxing time at Mallory Meadows too!
Market Bosworth
- The closest place and we think the perfect way to end your Richard III adventure is with a visit to the charming town of Market Bosworth. Stroll through its picturesque streets, or for a more in-depth visit book yourself on a guided walking tour, or check out the Market Bosworth Treasure Trail. Stop off for coffee and cake at Jaspers or Maison Rose, and soak in the ambience of this historic town that played a significant role in the events surrounding King Richard III. There is a brilliant Market on Wednesdays and the 4th Sunday of every month.
Ashby de la Zouch Castle
- Or spend your final day visiting Ashby de la Zouch Castle (English Heritage entrance charges apply). A medieval fortress adapted from a manor house and the family seat of Lord Hastings. Lord Hastings was a great supporter of King Edward IV who was the brother of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, Later to be crowned Richard III. Following accusations of Treason and without trial the order to execute Lord Hastings was given. Explore the ruins, climb the tower for panoramic views, and learn about the castle’s history, including its connection to the Hastings family.
Kirby Muxloe Castle
- Or journey to Kirby Muxloe Castle (English Heritage entrance charges apply). It was to be a fortified mansion built for Lord Hastings but construction stopped after 3 years and it was left unfinished. The castle would have had four corner towers, three side towers and a gatehouse, all protected by a water-filled moat. Kirby Muxloe Castle is considered to be a ‘Spectacular example of a late medieval quadrangle castle of the highest status.’ Explore the picturesque ruins and learn about the castle’s construction and its role in medieval society. We highly recommend a refreshment stop at The Royal Oak, with a great tasty menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also offer a fab deli with lots of delicious local treats, the perfect Leicestershire souvenir.
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