LEICESTER GUIDE Independent ideas for your day out

History & archaeology / LEICESTER

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Follow the investigation that connected a medieval king with a Leicester car park. The displays bring together Richard’s turbulent life, his death at Bosworth and the archaeology and scientific identification of the remains. The original grave site is here; his present tomb is across the old town in the cathedral.

Glass entrance between brick buildings at the King Richard III Visitor Centre
Photo: Mat Fascione
Before you go

Leave enough time for both the historical story and the discovery. A visit to the cathedral afterwards adds a different ending, but it follows separate worship and visiting arrangements.

The practical details

Where to find it
4A St Martins, Leicester LE1 5DB
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking
Advance purchase is recommended. Last admission is 90 minutes before closing; café service ends earlier. A dated offer allows up to three children aged 15 and under free with a paying adult through 31 October 2026; check its terms and later prices. The cathedral is a separate visit.
Access and getting around
Level pathways lead through the exhibition, grave enclosure and café, with a lift to the first floor. Some corners and doorways are tight. An accessible toilet is on the ground floor; transcripts and a visual story are available through the operator.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children
Best chosen for an interest in kings, archaeology or scientific clues. Reading and video form much of the experience; take breaks and prepare younger children for discussion of death and the grave. Check current child-ticket offers rather than assuming permanent free admission.

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

Make it part of your day

Allow 1½–2 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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