LIVING IN LEICESTERSHIRE Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are rich in culture, heritage, and leisure activities, from our vibrant multi - cultural city, to the market towns and rural settings. Often described as the heart of rural England, the area features beautiful country villages, the National Forest, great rivers and castles, and a popular cosmopolitan city centre, making it an exciting and diverse place to live and work.
The city benefits from a large number of public parks including Abbey Park and also Victoria Park which is adjacent to the University. Leicester is steeped in history, dating back to the original Iron Age settlement which was to become an important Roman trading centre with a commanding position on one of Britain’s most important routes – the Fosse Way. The growth of manufacturing industry reached its peak in the great hosiery, textiles and footwear enterprises of the 20th century. On Leicester’s doorstep is the National Forest, offering cycling, riding and walkways, adventure activities and some of the most impressive landscapes in the region, including the Charnwood Forest and Swithland Reservoir. To the east is Rutland water, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Europe, which supports a wide range of water sports. Leicester and the surrounding region offer a wide choice of property to buy or rent. In the city itself, there is a diverse mix of housing and apartments. Both new and older properties, including substantial homes, can be found in leafy parts of Leicester within easy reach of the University. Alternatively, there is property available in the attractive villages and market towns in Leicestershire and Rutland such as Market Harborough and Oakham. House prices are markedly less than those in London.
Leicester is one of the UK’s ten largest cities and represents the largest economy in the East Midlands region. It has a bustling and diverse atmosphere and recent regeneration (to the tune of £3 billion) has made this cosmopolitan city even more exciting. Leicester is home to the state of the art Curve Theatre, as well as large and multi- cultural festivals. It is famous for its diversity, and offers an amazing chance to dive into many different cultural celebrations. Leicester celebrates Diwali (the Festival of Light) with spectacular lights, stunning street parades and dazzling fireworks. It is attended by 35,000 people and is the largest celebration of the festival outside of India. The City also hosts an annual Pride Parade (Leicester Pride), a Caribbean Carnival, and the largest comedy festival in the UK. The University, working in close partnership with city, has been the inspiration behind two of Leicester’s most famous Tourist attractions. The award-winning National Space Centre – the UK’s largest attraction dedicated to space exploration and the Richard III Visitors Centre which retells the dramatic story of the University’s discovery of England’s most infamous King. Leicester is well-known as a sporting capital – hosting the country’s best supported rugby team the Leicester Tigers as well as Leicester City Football Club and Leicestershire County Cricket Club.
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