Is Leicester in London?

By Alice Nichols

Leicester is a city in the East Midlands region of England. It is the county town of Leicestershire and has a population of over 330,000 people. While Leicester is an important city in its own right, it’s often confused with London due to its proximity to the capital and similar sounding name.

The confusion:

Many people assume that Leicester is a part of London due to their lack of knowledge about the geography of England. The two cities are actually located over 100 miles apart from each other and are in different regions. While London is located in the southeastern part of England, Leicester is situated more towards the middle.

Geography:

Leicester lies on the River Soar and is surrounded by rolling hills to the west and north. The city’s location makes it an important transport hub, with good links to other parts of England via road, rail, and air. The M1 motorway runs close to Leicester, providing easy access to London and other major cities.

The history:

Leicester has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. It was an important Roman settlement known as Ratae Coritanorum and later became a thriving medieval market town. In more recent times, Leicester has become known for its multicultural population, with large communities of South Asians and Afro-Caribbeans.

The attractions:

Despite not being a part of London, Leicester has plenty of attractions that make it worth visiting. Some popular sights include:

  • The King Richard III Visitor Centre – A museum dedicated to the last Plantagenet king who was famously discovered buried beneath a car park in Leicester
  • Leicester Cathedral – A beautiful medieval church that houses the tomb of King Richard III
  • National Space Centre – An interactive space museum with plenty of exhibits and activities for all ages
  • New Walk Museum and Art Gallery – A free museum with a range of exhibits including art, natural history, and archaeology

The verdict:

In conclusion, Leicester is not in London. While it may be confusing for those who are unfamiliar with the geography of England, the two cities are located in different regions and are over 100 miles apart. However, Leicester has plenty to offer visitors and is well worth a visit in its own right.