Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, Leicester

The Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, formerly known as the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery until 2020, is a cultural landmark in Leicester. Situated on New Walk, close to the city center, the museum first opened its doors in 1849, making it one of the earliest public museums in the United Kingdom. The original building was designed by Joseph Hansom, the architect behind the iconic hansom cab, and has undergone multiple expansions, the most recent in 2011.

A hub for art, history, and science, the museum offers diverse galleries featuring both local and international exhibits. Visitors can explore fascinating displays on Ancient Egypt, dinosaurs, and Leicester’s history, as well as the city’s highly regarded collection of German Expressionist art. In addition to these permanent exhibits, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing pieces from its collections alongside touring displays from national museums.

Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and dynamic programming. Visitors can enjoy engaging talks, hands-on children’s sessions, and even lunchtime concerts. The museum is also licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies and offers private hire for events.

Although some areas of the museum are currently closed for a significant redevelopment project aimed at expanding its art and design galleries, visitors can still enjoy many of its offerings. Before leaving, guests can stop by the gift shop to purchase exhibition-themed merchandise and contemporary crafts or unwind in the museum’s refreshment area, which provides drinks, food, and free Wi-Fi.