The Student’s Guide to Art Galleries in Leicester

Leicester might be best known for its football or vibrant multicultural vibe - but if you know where to look, it’s also an art-lover’s paradise. Whether you're a Fine Art student, an Instagram addict hunting for aesthetic inspo, or just someone looking to escape the stress of deadlines, the city’s gallery scene has something for every mood. In this blog, we’ve listed the best art galleries in Leicester for students to explore.

1. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

Pair visiting dinosaurs and mummies with one of the best art galleries in the UK. This spot is home to a world-famous German Expressionism collection, with revolutionary, exciting art that will leave you feeling inspired. Another highlight is the Picasso ceramics collection, gifted to the gallery by Richard Attenborough.

Learn more: Leicester Museum and Art Gallery

2. Phoenix Cinema and Arts Centre

Part cinema, part art gallery - what could be better? Both local and international artists are championed here, in traditional and digital formats. There’s also a lot of support for creators here, with an education centre for wannabe artists to learn and explore. If that isn’t enough, there’s also a roof terrace bar for you to chill out after browsing.

Find out more: Phoenix

H2: 3. Attenborough Arts Centre

Named after the famous Attenborough family, this centre is all about contemporary art, performance, and inclusive community engagement. Exhibitions rotate, so there will always be something new every time you visit. Want to get involved yourself? There’s a ton of creative workshops, from life drawing to making digital art on iPads.

View the website: Attenborough Arts Centre

4. Ellerington Fine Art Gallery

A favourite with the locals, this welcoming little gallery is a working art studio. Here you can find original paintings fresh from the brush of Louise Ellerington, alongside limited edition prints, sculptures and photography. Looking for a keepsake or a gift? Here you’ll also find a range of bespoke jewellery and unique greeting cards.

See more: Ellerington Fine Art

5. LCB Depot

Discover this gem in the heart of Leicester’s cultural quarter. Described as a creative hub, LCB has a year-round programme of different exhibitions, events, talks and workshops to see. Local, national and international artists are featured, and they even run occasional fairs to allow you to buy some art for yourself.

Visit their site: LCB Depot

6. Clarendon Fine Art

This gallery is located inside Highcross Shopping Centre, so you can slot in a visit next time you’re browsing the brands. Here you can view work from street, pop and contemporary artists from all over the world - and there’s some big names in here, from Lowry to Warhol. 
Find out more: Clarendon Fine Art Leicester

7. The Leicester Gallery

DeMontfort students, this one’s for you! Inside the uni’s Vijay Patel building, The Leicester Gallery shows world-class art right on campus. The gallery also hosts weekly talks, including artists and visual art professionals - and you don’t have to be a DeMontfort student to go!

See more: The Gallery

8. Adore Fine Art

Nestled amongst the Stoneygate shops, Adore Fine Art showcases original paintings, limited edition prints, and sculptures from local and UK-wide artists. Finish off your brunch, lunch or shopping trip with a browse of the bespoke pieces on display in this gorgeous gallery.

See their site: Adore Fine Art

Whether you're sketching ideas for your next project or just need a mental breather between lectures, Leicester’s art spaces offer the perfect creative escape. The best part? Many are free, rich with inspiration you didn’t know you needed, and super walkable from our student accommodation. When you move to Leicester, you’ll have all of this on your doorstep. Find out more about our accommodation and reserve a room today: true student Leicester