Now a successful performance venue and museum, the Grade I listed Leicester Guildhall has a history spanning 630 years.
This medieval venue is one of the best preserved timber framed halls in the country, first used as a meeting place for a religious guild. The Great Hall, built in 1390, has witnessed landmark moments in history: looted in the Civil War, it later held a dinner to celebrate Cromwell’s victory.
Believed to have hosted Shakespeare himself, Leicester Guildhall now presents craft fairs, exhibitions, concerts, stand-up and gigs from acts based across the UK. It’s also home to the Medieval Leicester galleries, and visitors can meet notorious pick-pockets in the cells of the city’s first police station.
Families are encouraged to choose a persona, dress up and explore the exhibits in character, while thrill-seekers can book onto haunting evening events. Visit the shop for medieval-themed souvenirs and the White Rose Cafe opposite for refreshments.
