Leicester University, Leicester

Leicester University, Leicester

The University of Leicester, located at the heart of the UK, is a prestigious public research institution recognized for its international excellence, world-changing research, and high-quality teaching. Founded in 1921 as University College, the institution was established as a memorial to the Great War, with the generous donation of Thomas Fielding Johnson. In 1957, it was granted a Royal Charter, officially attaining university status. Today, the university boasts a vibrant student body of over 22,000 learners.

The main campus is situated just south of the city centre, adjacent to Victoria Park and Wyggeston and Queen Elizabeth I College. The university’s skyline is marked by iconic buildings from the 1960s, including the Department of Engineering, the Attenborough Tower, and the Charles Wilson Building.

Leicester has a strong reputation in the fields of astrophysics, genetics, and biochemistry. Notably, it was at this university that genetic fingerprinting was pioneered in 1984, revolutionizing forensic science and identity verification worldwide. Additionally, Leicester played a pivotal role in the discovery and DNA identification of King Richard III’s remains, reinforcing its standing as a leader in groundbreaking research.

Beyond its academic excellence, the University of Leicester prides itself on fostering diversity, widening access to higher education, and maintaining strong engagement with local, national, and international communities. As it moves into its second century, the institution continues to aspire towards global leadership in research, innovation, and education.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Leicester. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Leicester University on Map

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Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Sight Name: Leicester University
Sight Location: Leicester, England (See walking tours in Leicester)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Leicester, England

Create Your Own Walk in Leicester

Create Your Own Walk in Leicester

Creating your own self-guided walk in Leicester is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Buildings

Historical Buildings

Leicester, a city in England's East Midlands, has a storied past that is vividly presented in its historical buildings. Valuable architectural monuments, they are the city's pride and as such enjoy special protection by the government.

Among such, Magazine Gateway stands as a testament to the city's medieval legacy. Originally part of its defensive walls, this structure now...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Leicester Introduction Walking Tour

Leicester Introduction Walking Tour

Leicester is one of the oldest cities in England, whose history goes back almost two millennia. The Romans arrived in the area around 47 AD, during their conquest of southern Britain. Following the Saxon invasion, Leicester was then captured by Danish Vikings, in the 9th century.

The settlement was first documented in the early 10th century, under the name Ligeraceaster. At the time of the...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.1 Km or 0.7 Miles