8 educational things to do in Leicestershire

A holiday is more than just sun, sea and beach towels. A top trip should be an all
round experience, filled with new discoveries and learning activities.
Leicestershire in the East Midlands is the perfect place for an educational
camping holiday for the whole family. Although this sprawling county may be
landlocked, there are still plenty of things to get up to in its cities and towns.
Here are just eight things to do in Leicestershire to stimulate your brain this
year.

1. Bosworth Battlefield

The location of the famous Battle of Bosworth in 1485 is a site of national historic
significance. One of the most important battles in British history, it was here that
the well known Tudor dynasty was born after King Richard III lost his life. Today,
the staff here hopes to entertain as well as educate visitors of all ages with
exhibitions, tours and year-round events. Family tickets cost between £17.50
and £21.50.

2. National Space Centre

This all-weather attraction is a great place to spend the whole day. The National
Space Centre has an array of exhibitions and fun activities to really capture the
excitement of space travel and the wonders of our universe. Amongst all the
action is the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium with a 360 degree cinema experience
and a gallery of our solar system with a playground for little ones. Family
facilities include a cafe, shop and disabled access. Adult and children’s tickets to
the centre are £13 and £11 respectively.

3. Snibston Discovery Museum

As the name suggests, there is plenty to discover at the Snibston Discovery
Museum in Coalville. Since the museum was first established in 1992, it has
showcased Leicestershire’s top historic science, technology, design and fashion
collections. The team is dedicated to preserving Leicestershire’s heritage and
educating others about technological changes in the UK during the last 500
years. Visitors can enjoy all this every day of the week from 10am to 5pm.
Tickets for a family of four cost £24.25.

4. Tropical Birdland

Within the heart of the Leicestershire countryside, Tropical Birdland is a perfect
place for young nature lovers to see some exciting creatures up close. Its
attractions include the Parrot Path, Chick Hatchery and a Woodland Walk. There
is also a picnic area, water garden and ice cream parlour where you can rest
tired feet. Adult and children’s tickets are £6.50 and £4.50 respectively.

5. Jewry Wall Museum

Discover more about Leicester’s past at the Jewry Wall Museum. Its archaeology
and on-site information spans from prehistoric times to the medieval period for
an in-depth study of the region. One of its most famous landmarks is the Jewry
Wall itself, which once part of the town’s Roman baths. Inside the museum,
explorers can wander around its many collections including beautiful painted
wall plaster and stunning mosaics. Entry to the museum is free, although there
may be a small fee for activities.

6. Great Central Railway

Experience history first hand onboard a working steam train at the Great Central
Railway (pictured above). This site is particularly important as it is the only double track main line steam railway in Britain today. Rides can be enjoyed every weekend and Bank Holiday and daily from May to September. Check the railway’s website for fare prices.

7. New Walk Museum

Visit the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery within Leicester’s New Walk Area to
view its abundance of natural and cultural collections. This family-friendly
hotspot provides a variety of galleries to excite young minds including Ancient
Egypt, Dinosaurs, World Arts and Wild Space. There is also a separate area called
the Den for under 5s. Its list of famous regular visitors includes Lord
Attenborough and Sir David Attenborough. There is free admission, although
some events or activities may have a fee.

8. Gorse Hill City Farm

Experience life on a real working farm at this fun, family-friendly spot in
Leicester! Kids will have the opportunity to feed and touch the animals. Gardens,
events, play areas, picnics and woodland walks can all be enjoyed at Gorse Hill
City Farm with tickets prices of just £2 for adults and £1 for children. An easy
way to travel to the farm is via the 74 bus from Leicester’s city centre.

As this guide to Leicestershire illustrates, you don’t need a beach to enjoy a
camping holiday in the UK. If you are planning to delve into Leicestershire’s
educational attractions, the best campsites can be found between the cities of
Leicester and Loughborough.