53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery


The Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is a museum on New Walk in Leicester, England, not far from the city centre. It opened in 1849 as one of the first public museums in the United Kingdom. Leicester Museum & Art Gallery contains displays of science, history and art, both international and local.

Location

About

Leicester, a vibrant city in the East Midlands region of England, is home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including the renowned Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. This world-class museum is a must-visit destination for tourists who are interested in learning more about the history, art, and culture of Leicester and the surrounding region.

Founded in 1849, Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is one of the oldest museums in the country. It has an extensive collection of over 20,000 items, including art, archaeology, natural history, and social history artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum's galleries and exhibitions, which cover a wide range of subjects and periods, from ancient Egypt to contemporary art.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of Egyptian artifacts. The museum has one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian objects in the East Midlands, including mummies, coffins, and funerary objects. Visitors can also see a range of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and coins.

The museum's natural history collection is also impressive, with a range of exhibits on the local wildlife and the geology of the region. The museum's social history collections are equally fascinating, with exhibits on Leicester's industrial heritage, including displays on textiles, shoes, and engineering.

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year. These events cover a range of topics, from local history to contemporary art, and are designed to appeal to a wide range of visitors.

The museum is also home to an art gallery, which showcases a range of works by local and international artists. The gallery's collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, and visitors can see works by some of the most renowned artists of the past and present.

The Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is located in the heart of the city, close to other cultural attractions such as the Curve Theatre and the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery. The museum is open daily and is free to visit, although donations are welcomed. The museum is fully accessible, with ramps, lifts, and disabled parking available.

In conclusion, the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is an essential stop for tourists visiting Leicester. With its extensive collections, exciting events, and world-class art gallery, it offers a fascinating insight into the history, art, and culture of the region. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just curious about the world around you, the museum is a must-visit destination.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Leicester. But after you've spent some time browsing the exhibits, what else is there to do in the area? Whether you're a local or a tourist, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do nearby.

1. Visit the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery

Located just a few minutes' walk from Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is another great destination for art and history enthusiasts. This museum features a wide range of exhibits, including art, natural history, and cultural artifacts. Some of the highlights include Egyptian mummies, dinosaur fossils, and works by artists such as Picasso and Rubens. The museum is also home to a cafe and a gift shop, so you can pick up a souvenir or grab a bite to eat while you're there.

2. Take a stroll through Victoria Park

If you're in the mood for some fresh air and greenery, head to Victoria Park, which is just a short walk from both the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery and the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery. This beautiful park features lakes, gardens, and plenty of open space for picnicking or relaxing. There's also a skate park, tennis courts, and a playground, so it's a great spot to visit with kids or active travelers.

3. Check out the Richard III Visitor Centre

History buffs won't want to miss the Richard III Visitor Centre, located just a few blocks from the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. This museum tells the story of King Richard III, who was famously discovered buried under a Leicester car park in 2012. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see artifacts from the excavation, and even take a guided tour of the site where the king was found.

4. Experience local culture at the Curve Theatre

For a night out on the town, check out a show at the Curve Theatre, which is just a short walk from Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. This modern theater hosts a wide range of productions, from musicals to dramas to comedy shows. The venue also features a cafe and bar, so you can grab a drink or a bite to eat before or after the show.

5. Shop and dine at Highcross Leicester

If you're in the mood for some shopping or a meal out, head to Highcross Leicester, which is just a few blocks from the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. This indoor shopping center features over 100 stores, including popular brands like Apple, Zara, and H&M. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes, so you can refuel after a day of exploring.

Overall, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do near the Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. Whether you're interested in history, art, or just want to enjoy some outdoor activities, you'll find something to suit your interests. So why not plan a day or two in Leicester and explore everything this vibrant city has to offer?

Opening Hours

Thursday 11 am–4:30 pm
Friday 11 am–4:30 pm
Saturday 11 am–5 pm
Sunday 11 am–5 pm
Monday 11 am–4:30 pm
Tuesday 11 am–4:30 pm
Wednesday 11 am–4:30 pm

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