Museums & discoveries / LEICESTER

Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Dinosaurs, ancient Egyptian material and Leicester Stories give this New Walk museum a useful mix of deep time and local life. Choose the displays currently open rather than expecting the full art collection: major redevelopment is changing the building. A focused visit can still make a good low-cost outing near the railway station.

White-columned entrance of Leicester Museum on New Walk — Photo: Steve Cadman from London, U.K.

Before you go

Several art galleries, Wild Space and the Den are closed for redevelopment. The shop, refreshments and visitor car park are also unavailable in the current notice. Plan food elsewhere and check the latest visitor update before setting out.

The practical details

Where to find it: 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: General admission is free with an optional donation. Busy periods may use one-in, one-out entry because of reduced capacity. Events can have separate charges. New art galleries are planned for late 2026, but check an actual reopening announcement before booking around them.
Access and getting around: The museum describes a ramped main entrance and a lift to the first floor; its current FAQ confirms level pushchair access and limited buggy storage. The older access statement predates redevelopment, so confirm the route and toilet facilities you need during works. Do not rely on the closed car park.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Dinosaurs can anchor a short family visit. Ancient Egypt includes mummified people and themes of death, so decide what suits your children. The Den is closed; do not promise a dedicated play space or an indoor picnic area during refurbishment.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–2 hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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