King Richard III Private Leicester Walking Tour

Exploring Leicester with the King Richard III Private Walking Tour

If you’re interested in stepping into the past and uncovering one of England’s most fascinating stories, the King Richard III Private Leicester Walking Tour offers a comprehensive journey through the city’s history, from Roman times to the present. This guided experience lasts around four hours, giving you a rich mix of royal intrigue, ancient ruins, and lively streets—all within Leicester’s compact city center.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how personalized attention makes the experience feel intimate and tailored. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guide ensure you get plenty of context, stories, and local insights. However, considering the full itinerary and extensive sightseeing, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a good amount of walking—it’s not a relaxed sit-down kind of tour.

This tour suits history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and curious travelers keen to see Leicester beyond its modern facade. Whether you’re visiting for a day or looking to deepen your understanding of England’s medieval and Roman past, this experience offers a meaningful way to explore.

Key Points

• Authentic, in-depth experience focusing on King Richard III and Leicester’s historical sites.
• Knowledgeable guides bring stories to life with local insights and context.
• Well-rounded itinerary covering Roman ruins, medieval sites, and modern streets—all included in one tour.
• Value for money with entry to major attractions and a detailed exploration of Leicester’s history.
• Private tour setup ensures a personalized experience, ideal for small groups or individual travelers.
• Convenient meeting point at Leicester Railway Station makes this accessible for travelers arriving by train.

Why Choose This Tour? An In-Depth Look

The Perfect Introduction to Leicester’s Past

Starting at Leicester Railway Station, the tour hits the ground running with a wealth of sights packed into just four hours. The first stop, the Statue of Thomas Cook, pays homage to the man credited with founding the first paid day trip. It’s a fun, quick photo opportunity that kicks off your journey with a slice of local history. The nearby Clock Tower is a perennial meeting point, beautifully decorated and a visual anchor in the city.

As you stroll through Leicester Market and Town Hall Square, you’ll experience the lively buzz that defines this city. The market’s sights and sounds are not just colorful—they’re the heartbeat of Leicester’s community and commerce, making it a perfect prelude to more serious history ahead.

Delving into King Richard III’s Story

The core of the tour is the King Richard III Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about the king’s dramatic life, tragic death at Bosworth, and the remarkable discovery of his remains beneath a city car park. The guide here—sometimes a dedicated expert like Stephen, who has been praised for his storytelling—helps breathe life into the archaeological and historical details. You’ll see the exact spot where Richard’s remains were found, a moment that forever changed Leicester’s history.

The re-interment in Leicester Cathedral and the modern tomb of Richard III are powerful visuals that bring closure to his story. Reviewers mention that guides are well-informed, offering insights that go beyond surface facts—”Stephen did a wonderful job” is a common refrain.

Exploring Roman and Medieval Leicester

Not just about royalty, the tour also uncovers Leicester’s ancient Roman roots. Stops like the Jewry Wall and Roman Baths provide fascinating glimpses into Britain’s Roman occupation. Though currently undergoing renovation until mid-2025, these ruins are some of the finest in the country, and the added context of a new visitor centre promises even more engaging exhibits in the future.

Walking through the Leicester Guildhall and Church of St. Mary de Castro, you’ll see historic buildings that have seen centuries of history—courts, prisons, and religious gatherings. The castle remains and West Bridge ruins offer vivid evidence of Leicester’s medieval defenses and tumultuous past, including the English Civil War.

Modern Leicester and Its Hidden Gems

Beyond the ancient sites, the tour explores what the city looks like today. New Walk, once considered Leicester’s most respectable street, remains charming, lined with shops, cafes, and historic architecture. The Trinity House Herb Garden and other small gardens offer peaceful respites amid the city’s hustle.

The Leicester Abbey ruins and Cardinal Wolsey Memorial add layers of historical context, connecting Leicester’s past to broader English history. These sites aren’t just relics—they’re stories in stone, waiting to be uncovered.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s structure is well thought out, with each stop carefully chosen to build a narrative. The King Richard III Visitor Centre is the longest stop, with 40 minutes dedicated to exploring his story and archaeological discoveries. This session is where most visitors find the most value, as guides often share detailed stories and insider knowledge.

The walking pace is moderate, designed to allow ample time at each site. Stops like the Jewry Wall and Leicester Castle last around 20–35 minutes, giving time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos. Some sites, such as The City Rooms or New Walk, are quick but meaningful glimpses into Leicester’s architectural history.

Practical Aspects

The tour begins at 10:00 am, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Most of the attractions are free to view outside of the King Richard III Visitor Centre, which offers included entry. The tour includes all entry tickets, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you choose optional extras like the Church of St. Mary de Castro or Newarke Gateway.

You’ll be walking through a city that’s easy to navigate, with many sights within a short distance of each other. The guide’s local knowledge makes it easier to understand the significance of each site—an advantage over self-guided walks.

Authentic Experience and Guide Expertise

The single review available highlights a guide named Stephen who “did a wonderful job,” bringing Leicester’s history to life. Guests consistently praise guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which greatly enhances the experience. They often share stories and details that aren’t in guidebooks, making the tour more engaging and memorable.

Value for Price

At $226.61 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package: private guiding, access to key attractions, and a deep dive into Leicester’s history. Compared to solo visits or multiple entry tickets, this is a good deal for those wanting a structured, informative day with local expertise.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, royal followers, Roman history fans, or anyone curious about England’s past. It’s particularly suited to those who prefer guided visits over wandering alone, as the guiding enhances the storytelling and learning. The private format makes it suitable for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a personalized touch.

Keep in mind, the tour involves quite a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re interested in exploring Leicester’s history without the hassle of organizing multiple visits or tickets, this tour provides a convenient, enriching solution.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded, insightful look at Leicester’s diverse history—from the Roman era to the modern day and royalty. The inclusion of all entrance tickets and a knowledgeable guide ensures you get good value and a meaningful experience.

If you’re fascinated by King Richard III or eager to explore Leicester’s archaeological and medieval sites, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic local insights, rather than just ticking off landmarks on a checklist.

For those who enjoy a personal touch and want an expert guide to bring history to life, this private walking tour is hard to beat. It’s a chance to see Leicester through the eyes of someone who loves sharing its stories.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the private tour is designed for small groups or individuals, making it a personalized experience for solo travelers.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, giving you enough time to see a wide range of sites without feeling rushed.

Are entry tickets included?
Yes, all entry tickets for attractions like the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Roman ruins are included in the price.

Does the tour start at Leicester Railway Station?
Yes, the meeting point is at Leicester Railway Station, which is convenient for travelers arriving by train.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation between sites provided?
No, the tour is a walking experience, so you’ll explore on foot. The route is manageable within four hours.

Are there any optional extras?
Some sites like the Church of St. Mary de Castro or Newarke Gateway can be visited if open, but they are not included in the standard tour.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Ye Olde England Tours, known for their knowledgeable guides and well-organized experiences.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advisable, especially since the tour involves visiting Roman ruins, medieval sites, and modern streets.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on history and walking suggests it’s best suited for older children or teens interested in history.

In all, the King Richard III Private Leicester Walking Tour offers a deeply engaging and well-organized way to uncover Leicester’s layered history. From archaeological marvels to royal tombs, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for this vibrant city and its stories that have stood for centuries.