Exploring the best of Leicester in your car hire

On the back of a surprise Premier League victory and the incredible unearthing of King Richard III, the number of tourists visiting Leicestershire has seen a drastic rise. These two stories might have given the county a spotlight, but full of culture, history, countryside and attractions, it’s easy to see why so many people visit.

Like most places, Leicester and Leicestershire are best explored in a car hire. Having your own car to get from place to place means that you don’t have to be restricted to time and be flexible in what it is you get up to each day.

There’s every reason for Leicestershire to be on your list of places to visit, especially if you’ve never been before. So, you’re in Leicester and you've got your hire car. What do you do? Well, let’s have a look, shall we?

Inner city

You might need your car hire for getting into the city centre, but once you’re here park up and get exploring. Everything is within walking distance of each other.

Leicester is a haven for retail therapy. From independent shops and quaint cafes in St Martin’s Square and The Lanes to the Highcross shopping centre where shoppers will find all their favourite high street brands and labels. It doesn’t stop there, though. A trip to Leicester wouldn’t be complete without a look at Leicester Market, the heartbeat of the city. It is the largest covered market in Europe and has been at its current site for over 700 years.

For the sports fans, the Leicester City FC stadium tour is a must. The tour includes visiting the players’ entrance, changing rooms, media suite and the pitch side dugout! You might be lucky enough to time your trip with a match day.

If you’re wandering around Leicester city centre, the King Richard III visitors centre should be high up on your list of things to do. In the visitor's centre, you’ll discover the captivating story of King Richard III. His life, death and unexpected discovery in a Leicester car park in 2012 are all explored in the centre. Once you’ve learned about the King, take the short walk to Leicester Cathedral to see King Richard III’s tomb.

Outer city

There is simply so much to do in Leicestershire. We can’t possibly explain everything that there is to do but, we’ll run through so of the best activities that are best to use your car hire for.

Foxton Locks is one of the best locks in the county. Connecting the canal with the longest and steepest staircase locks in the UK, you could watch boats go by all day. Swap your car hire for a canal barge on the Grand Union Canal and once you’ve finished enjoy lunch or dinner in one of the local pubs.

The National Space Centre is an attraction that draws families from around the country. There is lots to keep all members of the family entertained, with six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, and an awe-inspiring 42m high Rocket Tower. It’s out of this world!

Bradgate Park is Leicestershire’s largest country park and is found in the Charnwood Forest. Covering more than 800 acres and being home to herds of Red and Fallow Deer, it’s the perfect escape. We recommend taking a picnic.

If the King Richard II visitors centre gave you a taste for history, take the journey to Donington Le Heath, a 1620s house and garden. Step back in time and immerse yourself in 17th century surroundings and see how people used to live. The site holds re-enactment, crafts, hands-on activities, drama and specialist demonstrations.

Surrounding towns and cities

Thanks to its central location in England, Leicester is the epicentre of the country and as such most of the country is within reach. With your car hire available, it’s a great opportunity to visit some of Leicestershire’s surrounding areas too.

Just 30 miles from Leicester is Nottingham, and Birmingham is less than an hour away, too. If you want a retreat to the rural elements, The Peak District National Park is just over an hour away.

Leicester car hire

Green Motion has a car hire branch in the heart of Leicester city centre and at East Midlands Airport, for those traveling to the city from further afield. Use our online booking platform to find out what cars are available to hire in Leicester on the dates you require.