10 Extraordinary Facts About Leicester

Leicester might not always shout about itself, but trust us - it’s full of jaw-dropping stories, historical curveballs, and brilliant facts you’ll definitely want to drop into your next convo. Here are 10 reasons to love this underrated legend of a city.

1. A king was found under a carpark

Yes, seriously. In 2012, archaeologists found the remains of King Richard III buried beneath a car park in the city centre. It was like a real-life history plot twist. He now rests (more appropriately) in Leicester Cathedral – just around the corner. Only Leicester could turn a car park into a royal discovery site.

2.  It’s one of the oldest cities in England

Leicester has been around since Roman times, which means there’s over 2,000 years of history under your feet. The city was once called Ratae Corieltauvorum (try saying that before your first coffee), and there are still Roman ruins scattered across the city today.

3. Package holidays were invented here

Sick of British weather? You can thank Thomas Cook, a Leicester legend, for the invention of the modern package holiday. Back in 1841, he organised his first group trip from Leicester to Loughborough. That one train ride sparked a travel revolution - and probably your last trip to Ibiza.

4. There’s the largest covered market in Europe

Love a good bargain or just enjoy getting lost in the buzz of local life? Leicester Market is the largest covered market in Europe, with everything from fresh produce to vintage clothes and obscure tech bits. You could probably kit out your whole student flat here - and get a samosa for the walk home.

5. It hosts the second-biggest Diwali festival

The first-biggest? India! Every autumn, Leicester lights up - literally - for one of the biggest Diwali celebrations in the world. Expect fireworks, food stalls, music, and crowds lining the Golden Mile. It’s one of the most vibrant and wholesome nights on the city’s calendar - and you don’t want to miss it.

6. There’s a shopping centre on Roman ruins

That new t-shirt you bought? You may have picked it up above ancient Roman streets. Highcross Shopping Centre is built on what used to be part of the original Roman settlement. Some shops even have glass floors so you can look down into history while debating trainers vs boots.

7. The city is a space science hub

If you’ve ever stared at the stars and dreamed big, you’re in the right place. Leicester is home to the National Space Centre, one of the UK’s leading space museums. There’s even a space research hub at the University of Leicester - the city literally has its head in the stars.

8. It’s home to the most popular crisps in the UK

Walkers Crisps - aka the GOAT of UK snacks – were born in Leicester in 1948. The factory still pumps out tonnes of crisps every day, and if you’re lucky (or unlucky), you might catch a whiff of salt and vinegar drifting across the city. Oh, and Gary Lineker? Also from Leicester. Coincidence? We think not.

9. There’s the largest comedy festival in Europe

Every February, Leicester Comedy Festival takes over the city – and it’s the biggest in Europe. Expect big names, rising stars, and pop-up venues everywhere. You might end up watching your new favourite comic in a pub backroom or seeing a Netflix special live before it drops.

10. The River Soar was once pink

Back in the day, Leicester’s River Soar ran bright pink – thanks to dye from local textile factories. It wasn’t great for the fish, but it made a visual statement. These days, the river is much cleaner and perfect for peaceful walks, canal-side coffees, or just zoning out between lectures.

From kings under car parks to pink rivers and crisp empires, Leicester is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re wandering through Highcross, dancing under Diwali lights, or grabbing a laugh at the comedy fest, the city never stops surprising you. Our student accommodation in Leicester puts you at the centre of all this extraordinary energy. With all-inclusive bills, unbeatable social spaces, and everything you need to thrive, we’re ready when you are. Reserve your room or book a viewing now: true student Leicester