Discover the Best Museums to Visit in Leicestershire
Leicestershire is overflowing with history, art, and culture! Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for a day out, or an art lover, there’s a museum for you. Here’s your ultimate guide to the top museums in Leicestershire that you simply cannot miss.
1. Hinckley and District Museum
📍 30 Lower Bond Street, Hinckley, LE10 1QU Step into Local History: Housed in a picturesque 17th-century thatched cottage, this museum captures the charm and history of Hinckley. Exhibits include the hosiery industry, local artefacts, and fascinating stories of past residents.
- Seasonal Opening Times: April – October
- Admission Fee: Small charge
- 🌐 Hinckley District Museum
2. Guildhall Museum
📍 Guildhall Lane, Leicester, LE1 5FQ Medieval Leicester at Its Finest: Located in one of the city’s oldest buildings, the Guildhall Museum is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Explore the Great Hall, Victorian jail cells, and exhibits on Leicester’s rich heritage.
- Open Year-Round: Suggested donation for entry
- 🌐 Leicester Guildhall
3. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
📍 53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA For Art and Science Lovers: Discover an impressive collection of art, dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian artefacts, and contemporary pieces—all housed in a stunning Victorian building.
- Admission: Free
- Open Year-Round
- 🌐 Leicester Museum & Art Gallery
4. Abbey Pumping Station
📍 Corporation Road, Leicester, LE4 5PX Industrial Heritage Comes Alive: Showcasing Victorian engineering, this museum features steam engines, vintage vehicles, and interactive exhibits for hands-on learning.
- Open Feb – Oct: Free admission
- 🌐 Abbey Pumping Station
5. Bradgate Park Visitors Centre
📍 Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford, Leicester, LE6 0HE Nature Meets History: Learn about this historic estate’s royal connections and wildlife before exploring the park’s rolling hills and ancient ruins.
- Open: The Park is open year-round, the visitor centre is open Fridays, weekends, and school holidays
- Admission: Free
- 🌐 Bradgate Park Visitor Centre
6. Newarke Houses Museum
📍 The Newarke, Leicester, LE2 7BY Blend of History and Heritage: Highlights include a recreated WWI trench, a nostalgic 1950s street, and Daniel Lambert’s story—a historical icon of Leicester.
- Open Year-Round: Suggested donation for entry
- 🌐 Newarke Houses
7. Leicester Botanical Gardens
📍 Glebe Road, LE2 2LD A Tranquil Oasis: Wander through lush-themed gardens like the Woodland Garden and Rock Garden, and reconnect with nature.
- Open Year-Round: Free admission
- 🌐 Leicester Botanic Garden
8. 1620s House and Garden
📍 Manor Road, Donington le Heath, Hugglescote, Leicestershire, LE67 2FW Travel Back in Time: This restored manor offers period furnishings, interactive displays, and beautiful gardens for a taste of 17th-century life.
- Open April – September: A small admission fee applies
- 🌐 1620’s House
9. Nuneaton Museum and Art Gallery
📍 Riversley Park, Coton Road, Nuneaton, CV11 5TU Beyond Borders: Just over the Warwickshire border, this museum offers engaging local history exhibits and rotating art displays.
- Open Thursday – Saturday: Free entry (donations welcome)
- 🌐 Nuneaton Museum
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there free museums in Leicestershire? Yes! Many museums, like the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, have free admission.
Q: What are the best family-friendly museums? Abbey Pumping Station and Bradgate Park Visitors Centre are perfect for families with kids.
Plan Your Museum Adventure Today!
Whether you’re a lifelong local or a curious visitor, Leicestershire’s museums promise a fascinating journey through history, art, and nature. Start exploring now and uncover the hidden treasures waiting for you!
