4A St Martins, Leicester LE1 5DB
King Richard III Visitor Centre
King Richard III Visitor Centre is a museum in Leicester, England that showcases the life of King Richard III and the story the discovery, exhumation, and reburial of his remains in 2012-2015.
Location
About
The King Richard III Visitor Centre Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in English history, particularly the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses. Located in the city of Leicester, England, the museum is dedicated to the life and reign of King Richard III, the last English king to die in battle.
The museum is located on the site of the former Greyfriars church, where Richard III was buried following his death in the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. In 2012, a team of archaeologists discovered his remains buried beneath a car park in Leicester, sparking worldwide interest in the story of this controversial monarch. The museum tells the story of his life, death, and rediscovery, as well as the events that led up to the Wars of the Roses and the end of the Plantagenet dynasty.
Visitors to the museum can explore a variety of exhibits and displays, including artifacts from the battle, interactive displays, and a reconstruction of the skeleton of Richard III. The museum also features a series of galleries that tell the story of the Wars of the Roses, including the political and social tensions that led to the conflict, the key battles and campaigns, and the impact of the conflict on England's development as a nation.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the King Richard III Visitor Centre Museum is the way it uses modern technology to bring history to life. Visitors can use touchscreens to explore the details of Richard III's life and reign, and virtual reality exhibits allow visitors to experience key moments in the Wars of the Roses, such as the Battle of Bosworth. The museum also features a 3D-printed replica of Richard III's skeleton, which visitors can examine in detail.
Overall, the King Richard III Visitor Centre Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in English history, particularly the Wars of the Roses. The museum is both informative and engaging, offering visitors a chance to explore the life and legacy of one of England's most controversial monarchs. With its interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts, and state-of-the-art technology, the museum is an ideal destination for visitors of all ages and interests.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
King Richard III Visitor Centre is a popular tourist destination located in the heart of Leicester, UK. This center is dedicated to the life and legacy of King Richard III, one of England's most controversial monarchs. But there's much more to see and do in the area, so let's explore some of the top places and activities nearby that are perfect for tourists.
1. Leicester Cathedral: Just a few minutes' walk from the Visitor Centre is Leicester Cathedral, where King Richard III's remains were discovered. Visitors can tour the cathedral and see the tomb of the infamous king, as well as enjoy the stunning architecture of the building itself.
2. New Walk Museum and Art Gallery: Art and history lovers should definitely visit the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, which is located just a short walk away from the Visitor Centre. This museum features a wide range of exhibits, including art collections from around the world, natural history displays, and even a section dedicated to Ancient Egypt.
3. National Space Centre: If you're interested in science and space exploration, be sure to visit the National Space Centre, which is located about 3 miles away from the Visitor Centre. Here, you can learn all about space travel and see real rockets and spacecraft up close.
4. Bradgate Park: If you're looking to spend some time outdoors, head over to Bradgate Park, which is located about 6 miles away from the Visitor Centre. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Leicester countryside, as well as plenty of opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting.
5. Leicester Market: No trip to Leicester is complete without a visit to the bustling Leicester Market, which is located just a few minutes' walk away from the Visitor Centre. Here, you can browse through stalls selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and souvenirs.
6. Curve Theatre: Theatre lovers should definitely check out the Curve Theatre, which is located just a short walk away from the Visitor Centre. This modern theatre hosts a wide range of productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals.
7. Abbey Pumping Station: History buffs should head over to the Abbey Pumping Station, which is located about 2 miles away from the Visitor Centre. This museum features exhibits on Leicester's industrial heritage, as well as a working steam engine that visitors can see in action.
Overall, there's no shortage of things to see and do in the area surrounding the King Richard III Visitor Centre. From historic landmarks and museums to outdoor activities and bustling markets, there's something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Leicester, be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore all that this fascinating city has to offer.
Opening Hours
| Wednesday | 10 am–4 pm |
|---|---|
| Thursday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Monday | 10 am–4 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am–4 pm |