About Leicestershire

Located in the heart of England, Leicestershire is a county that successfully combines vibrant urban centres, thriving market towns, picturesque villages and beautiful countryside. With excellent transport connections, a strong economy and an exceptional quality of life, living here allows you to enjoy a mix of urban and rural life, while Leicestershire's mentality of innovation and growth, with an investment area and two universities, all make it a fantastic place for you to settle and take the next step.

At the centre of the county sits Leicester, one of the UK's most diverse and dynamic cities. Surrounding it are a variety of diverse communities, from the university town of Loughborough and the historic market town of Market Harborough to the rural villages of Melton Mowbray, Hinckley and Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Together, they create a county that is rich in character, opportunity, diversity and heritage.

Beyond its towns and cities, Leicestershire is a county of rolling farmland, picturesque river valleys and attractive landscapes. Charnwood Forest provides a distinctive natural environment of woodland and rocky outcrops, offering walking, cycling and outdoor recreation opportunities close to Leicester and Loughborough. The county's network of country parks, waterways and green spaces makes it an excellent location for those who enjoy outdoor living. The National Forest, which extends into the north-west of the county, has transformed former industrial land into one of the country's most significant environmental regeneration projects.

Leicestershire's central location makes it one of the most accessible places in the country. The M1 motorway runs through the county, providing direct links to London, Sheffield, Leeds and the wider Midlands, while the M69 connects Leicester with Coventry and the West Midlands. The county also benefits from strong rail connections, with regular services to London St Pancras, Birmingham, Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield. The presence of East Midlands Airport, situated near Castle Donington in the north-west of the county, provides convenient access to domestic and international destinations and supports one of the UK's most important logistics and freight hubs.

Leicestershire has a rich history stretching back to Roman times and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's story. The county is perhaps best known as the site of the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, where Richard III was defeated and the Tudor dynasty began. Today, visitors can explore this history at the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre. The county also offers an impressive range of cultural and leisure attractions. The National Space Centre attracts visitors from across the UK, while Bradgate Park provides a stunning natural landscape with roaming deer, ancient woodland and links to Lady Jane Grey. Belvoir Castle, Twycross Zoo and numerous museums, theatres and galleries contribute to a varied visitor offer that appeals to all ages.

Leicestershire's food heritage is renowned throughout the UK. The county is the home of the Melton Mowbray pork pie and is closely associated with Stilton and Red Leicester cheeses, reflecting its long agricultural and farming traditions. Local markets, independent producers and food festivals continue to celebrate this heritage today.

Whether you're seeking the energy and opportunity of a city, the charm of a traditional market town, or the tranquillity of village life surrounded by countryside, Leicestershire offers an exceptional quality of life. Its strong transport links, rich heritage, thriving communities and beautiful landscapes have helped establish the county as one of the most attractive places to live, work and visit in the heart of England.