By Study Inn
Leicester is undoubtedly a vibrant and diverse city and located in the heart of England, it’s brimming with a plethora of exciting things to do. Whether you’re a student, a local, or just visiting, this bustling city offers a wide array of cool, quirky, and unusual activities for everyone looking for something a bit different. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the most unique and unconventional things you can do in Leicester, all within reach of Study Inn Reynard House.
Unusual Things to Do in Leicester
Just a handful of things you won’t find anywhere else but Leicester (or just outside it!).
- The Great Central Railway
More unexpected than unusual, don’t miss the opportunity to step back in time by hopping aboard the Great Central Railway, the UK’s only double-track heritage railway. Just a 30-minute drive from Leicester city centre and accessible via public transport, you can experience a nostalgic journey on a vintage steam train while soaking in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside. Prices vary depending on the season and special events, so make sure to check their website for more information.
- Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Leicester
Calling all aspiring ninja warriors, do you have what it takes to swing, climb, balance, and jump your way through all manner of obstacles at this massive indoor adventure venue? Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Leicester is a fantastic place to challenge your friends, have fun and work up a sweat all at once. Located in the heart of Leicester, in St Georges Retail Park, less than a mile away from Study Inn’s Reynard House, you have no excuse not to go. Did we mention their 10% student discount?!
- The National Space Centre
If you’re looking for something truly out of this world, head to The National Space Centre. Not only is it one of the only space centres in the UK but it also features the UK’s largest domed planetarium screen! Take in everything this interactive museum has to offer, with space exploration exhibits, six galleries, and a planetarium. If you want to view real space rockets up close, this is the place for you! Even if you’re not into science, we think it’s one of Leicester’s top Instagrammable places!
Quirky activities and locations in Leicester
- Escape Rooms at Escape Reality
Test your detective skills and put your thinking cap on at Escape Reality, located just a 10-minute walk from the city centre. With a variety of themed rooms to choose from, such as “Alcatraz” and “The Asylum,” you’ll have a blast with your friends trying to solve puzzles and break free within 60 minutes. Prices start at £22 per person, making it an affordable and unique way to spend an afternoon with your new flatmates.
- Sk8house Roller Disco
Sk8house hosts skating events and roller discos in multiple locations in the UK including Leicester. Experience the bright lights of the roller disco, whether you’re a skilled skater or a newbie, you’ll have heaps of fun styling it out on the dancefloor. Located 6 miles out of Leicester (25 min drive), why not bundle into a local cab, split the fare and bust out your best moves for a fun, affordable and quirky alternative to a nightclub?
- Abbey Park’s Miniature Railway
For a fun and quirky experience, visit Abbey Park’s Miniature Railway, just a 15-minute drive outside of Leicester and accessible via public transport. Operated by the Leicester Society of Model Engineers, this adorable attraction lets you take a ride on a miniature steam train, offering a unique perspective of the picturesque Abbey park. Open on weekends and on holidays, it’s an affordable and charming way to spend an afternoon.
- Café Ventoux, Tugby
This is a café and shop located in Tugby with a cycling theme, but don’t worry if you’re not a cyclist, you can still enjoy it! With bikes hanging from the ceiling and walls, and the cool vintage Fiat 500 car parked in the centre of the café downstairs, it feels trendier than a Shoreditch art gallery. The café is named after a mountain on the famous Tour de France bike race and is located next to Cycle Route 64, making it a great spot for cyclists to stop and enjoy some delicious food and drinks while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Cool hangouts in Leicester
- Caddyshackers Crazy Golf
Caddyshackers Crazy Golf is just a 10 min walk away from the city centre and is an 18+ indoor mini-golf experience combining classic crazy golf with a fun vibe. This venue is perfect for students and affordable too. Challenge your friends on unique, themed holes while enjoying a fully stocked bar, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great alternative for a fun night out with friends which is why we included it on our list of fun nights out in Leicester.
- Treetop Adventure Golf
For another unique golfing experience, check out Treetop Adventure Golf in Highcross Shopping Centre, less than a 10-minute walk from Study Inn Reynard House. This indoor mini-golf course features two 18-hole courses, complete with jungle-themed obstacles, silly sound effects, and interactive features. It’s an enjoyable and budget-friendly activity and much like Caddyshackers, is perfect for students looking for a quirky alternative to traditional nightlife.
- The Shed
The Shed is one of Leicester’s lively music venues situated a short 15-minute walk from the city centre. Its popularity among students is well-known across the city, likely due to the venue’s eclectic mix of live music, open mic nights, and themed events. The venue supports local talent, and chances are you’ll discover up-and-coming artists here. With affordable drink prices and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for students in Leicester and is more off-beat than other music venues.
Go forth and seek out fun
We hope you enjoy exploring these cool and quirky spots in Leicester. There’s no shortage of unique and unconventional activities to suit all tastes and interests, making the city an exciting destination for everyone. Students living at our luxury student accommodation, Reynard House, will find themselves ideally situated with easy access to many of these fantastic locations and activities. Enjoy hidden gems and memorable experiences as you uncover all the amazing things that Leicester has to offer.
