
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
Victorian museum showcasing dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and diverse art collections, all with free entry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Victorian museum showcasing dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and diverse art collections, all with free entry.
"A great museum that exceeded our expectations, offering something for everyone with free entry."

Free Entry Fun! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and art gallery without any admission fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option!
Stroll New Walk :walking:
Combine your visit with a walk along the beautiful New Walk, leading to cafes and shops.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Skeletons
Natural History Collection
Roar with excitement at impressive dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays that bring prehistoric giants to life.

Ancient Egyptian Mummies
Ancient Civilizations
Uncover the mysteries of ancient Egypt with fascinating artifacts and the captivating presence of mummies.

Art Galleries
Upper Floors
Explore a diverse range of art, from classical to contemporary, showcasing local and international talent.

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant
Special Exhibitions
Delight in the colorful world of Elmer, with opportunities for creative activities and photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Navigating New Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry Fun! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and art gallery without any admission fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option!
Stroll New Walk :walking:
Combine your visit with a walk along the beautiful New Walk, leading to cafes and shops.
Interactive Learning :bulb:
Engage with hands-on activities, especially in the dinosaur exhibits, perfect for all ages.
Photo Ops Galore :camera:
Capture memories with fun dressing-up sections and art frames for unique photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry Fun! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and art gallery without any admission fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option!
Stroll New Walk :walking:
Combine your visit with a walk along the beautiful New Walk, leading to cafes and shops.
Interactive Learning :bulb:
Engage with hands-on activities, especially in the dinosaur exhibits, perfect for all ages.
Photo Ops Galore :camera:
Capture memories with fun dressing-up sections and art frames for unique photos.
Plan Your Route :map:
No on-site parking; city car parks are a short walk away.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Leicester Museum and Art Gallery for its free entry and diverse, well-curated exhibits, particularly the dinosaur and Egyptian collections. The interactive elements and family-friendly features are a big hit, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. While some find the Leicester history section a bit overwhelming, the overall experience is highly positive, enhanced by the pleasant New Walk location.
"I had a wonderful visit to Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, ranging from ancient history and natural science to fine art and local heritage. The dinosaur skeletons and Egyptian and Sumerian artifacts were particular highlights both educational and visually stunning.
The layout is easy to follow, and the displays are well-organized with informative labels. It's clear that a lot of care has gone into preserving and presenting the collections. I also enjoyed the art galleries upstairs, which featured both classical and contemporary works.
The museum is free entry."
MUSTAFA FARAJ
"Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is located in 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA. It is free. On the day of our visit, we could explore the world of dinosaurs, fossils, rocks, collections of paintings from Germany, stories of Leicester, Ancient Egyptian mummies, etc. We enjoyed the creation of Elmer the Patchwork Elephant by David McKee, which was exhibited in Leicester. We drew our own characters and coloured the picture of Elmer. There are vending machines with snacks and drinks and tables where you may have a rest. There is also a souvenir shop. Thank you for your service."
Lenocka Ce
"Pretty decent museum to touch a piece of ancient history. Seems well maintained, not much to see unfortunately but there is no entry fee.. which is not bad"
Alex S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several city car parks within a 10-minute walk.
No, there is no on-site parking at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. However, several public car parks are located within a short walking distance.
New Walk itself is a beautiful pedestrian promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll. It connects to various parts of the city center, offering access to cafes, shops, and other attractions.
Yes, the museum is well-served by local bus routes. Check with your local transport provider for the most convenient routes to the city center or New Walk.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, many Victorian buildings are working to improve accessibility. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them for the latest information on ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for a budget-friendly day out.
No, advance booking is generally not required for general admission as the museum is free. However, for special exhibitions or events, it's always a good idea to check the museum's website for any booking requirements.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Leicester Museum and Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures.
While general admission is free, some temporary or special exhibitions might have a separate charge or require pre-booking. Always check the museum's 'What's On' section online before your visit.
The gift shop and cafe operate on a pay-as-you-go basis. While entry to the museum is free, purchases made in the shop or cafe are additional costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include dinosaur skeletons, Ancient Egyptian and Sumerian artifacts, natural history collections, local Leicester history exhibits, and art galleries featuring classical and contemporary works.
Yes, the museum offers engaging activities for children, including interactive stations, a dressing-up section, and creative areas like drawing Elmer the Patchwork Elephant.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions, especially in art galleries or for temporary exhibitions.
Yes, there are vending machines with snacks and drinks, and tables where you can rest. While not a full restaurant, it provides options for refreshments.
A visit can range from 1-3 hours depending on your interests. If you plan to explore all collections thoroughly and enjoy the interactive elements, allocate more time.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas of the museum. However, always look out for signage indicating areas where photography is restricted, particularly for sensitive artworks or special exhibits.
The dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian artifacts, and the art galleries offer visually striking backdrops. The interactive dressing-up section also provides fun photo opportunities.
Flash photography is usually discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect the artifacts and artworks from damage. It's best to rely on natural light or your camera's low-light settings.
Visitors often enjoy taking pictures in front of the dinosaur displays and the Egyptian mummy cases. The interactive art frame for dressing up is also a popular spot for memorable photos.
Natural light from windows can be excellent in the art galleries. For exhibits like the dinosaurs or mummies, the museum's lighting is designed to showcase them effectively, so experiment with your camera settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With free entry, it's an ideal spot for an affordable family outing. The layout is generally easy to navigate, and the variety of exhibits means there's something to capture every child's imagination. Remember to check for any specific family events or workshops that might be running during your visit.
Solo Travelers :man_detective:
Combine your visit with a peaceful walk along New Walk and a stop at one of the many nearby cafes for a solo lunch or coffee break. It's a perfect way to spend a few hours immersing yourself in culture and enjoying the city's amenities.
Budget Travelers :money_bag:
To keep costs even lower, pack your own snacks and drinks, or take advantage of the vending machines on-site. The surrounding New Walk area also offers a range of cafes, so you can find affordable options for a meal or a coffee break.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
The Art Galleries upstairs house a significant collection of 18th to 20th-century art, with works from German painters and local artists. For those interested in the region's past, the Leicester History area provides insights into the city's heritage, though some visitors find its multimedia approach a bit overwhelming. Don't miss the special exhibition space, which has previously featured beloved characters like Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, offering interactive fun for families.
Across the exhibits, the museum emphasizes educational and visually stunning displays. Informative labels accompany most items, making it easy to learn about each piece. The layout is generally well-organized, allowing for a smooth flow through the different galleries.
A Day Out on New Walk
New Walk itself is surrounded by a vibrant area with numerous cafes, coffee shops, and eateries. This makes it incredibly convenient to grab a snack, enjoy lunch, or relax with a coffee after exploring the museum's collections. Visitors often recommend combining a trip to the museum with a stop at one of these local establishments for a complete and enjoyable day out.
While the museum does not have on-site parking, the proximity to city car parks means you can easily park and then enjoy the walk along New Walk to reach the museum. This integration of the museum with its pleasant surroundings makes it a well-rounded destination for a day trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit