If you’re looking for family days out in Leicestershire, then don’t overlook the wonderful heritage and education on offer at some of the county’s best museums. Here are just a few:
Market Harborough Museum
Recently refurbished in 2014, the museum features fresh displays and exhibitions celebrating the life and heritage of the people of this market town with a long and fascinating history. Here you’ll see the Hallaton Treasure – a hoard of Iron age coins and a Roman helmet. There is also a reconstruction of the boot and shoe workshop. With space for changing exhibitions and sharing the redeveloped space with the new library, this is an attraction well worth a visit. For more on Things to do in Market Harborough, visit http://www.marketharborough.com/
Ashby de la Zouch Museum
This small museum sits in the shadow of Ashby de la Zouch castle and features many exhibits from Ashby’s long past, with special attention given to the castle. You’ll discover details on local archaeological finds, a great deal of Roman history and much more.
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre
The Battle of Bosworth was noteworthy as it signalled the end of the Middle Ages. This field was where Richard III lost his life and kingdom to Henry Tudor in 1485. In the museum, visitors will find models and displays about the famous battle, as well as armour, live talks and battlefield trails to follow.
De Montfort University Heritage Centre
The modern centre is located on the site of the medieval church of St Mary of the Annunciation. This is the church where the body of Richard III was displayed after his death. You’ll see two original medieval arches from the church and plenty of information on both the university and the story of Leicester’s siege during the English Civil War.
Leicester Guildhall
Built in 1390, the Guildhall was a meeting place for the merchant guilds of the city, as well as acting as a town hall and gaol. Inside you’ll see one of the oldest libraries in Britain and even Shakespeare is believed to have performed here in the ancient 14th century timber-frame hall.
New Walk Museum
Housed in a quaint Victorian building, you’ll discover a museum of fine art and natural history. The museum features wide ranging exhibits from dinosaurs and the Egyptians to expressionist art and ceramics by Picasso. Also on display are paintings by Degas and Turner.
Richard III Centre
This is a must-visit attraction for anyone with an interest in Medieval history. The contemporary visitor centre is located on the very spot where Richard III’s skeleton was uncovered in 2012. Learn all about the king’s life, reign, death, burial and discovery and see the actual grave where his body was found.