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King Richard III Visitor Centre

Sightseeing attraction | Leicester | England | United Kingdom

The King Richard III Visitor Centre in Leicester is a unique attraction that focuses on the life and legacy of Richard III, one of England's most famous kings. The center was built to shed light on the historical context of the famous figure and provide visitors with a deep insight into the events that led to his death and shaped his historical significance.

The visitor center is dedicated to the discovery of Richard III's remains, which were found in Leicester in 2012. The discovery of the remains, found under a car park near the Greyfriars Church, sparked worldwide interest. The exhibition at the center highlights the archaeological excavations and scientific techniques that led to the identification of the skeleton. A central part of the exhibition is the representation of the history and social and political circumstances at the time of Richard III, encompassing the background of his reign and the struggles during the Wars of the Roses.

The interactive exhibition guides visitors through key moments in the king's life and provides a nuanced view of his personality and legacy. It covers both his political decisions and the myths and legends that have surrounded his figure over the centuries. Special attention is given to the various interpretations of his reign, ranging from a cruel monarch to a misunderstood ruler.

The visitor center utilizes modern technologies such as 3D models, interactive displays, and reconstructions to provide a vivid and engaging portrayal of Richard's life and death. Additionally, the political and military aspects of his time, including the famous Battle of Bosworth, are thoroughly explored. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the exact circumstances of his death and the subsequent political significance for England.

The center is not only a place for educating about history, but also a memorial site that emphasizes the significance of Richard III in English history and illustrates his place in the nation's collective memory. It offers a blend of science, history, and culture that appeals to both history enthusiasts and visitors wanting to learn more about this fascinating era.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
4A St Martins
LE1 5DB Leicester

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday10:00 - 16:00
Monday10:00 - 16:00
Tuesday10:00 - 16:00
Wednesday10:00 - 16:00
Thursday10:00 - 16:00
Friday10:00 - 16:00
Saturday10:00 - 17:00

Reviews

1888 Reviews

Yoon-Kit Yong
02.03.2025

Two amazing stories
Marius Cristian
02.03.2025

Nimic de văzut prea scump pentru o plimbare de 5 minute în muzeu Nu se merită
Nigel
27.02.2025

Visited on Monday and arrived just after opening, it wasn't too busy then. Lots of information displayed around the walls, mostly not about Richard's reign, more about before he became king. The centre doesn't have many actual objects as such, relying more on virtual tech stuff, videos etc , so not like a traditional museum. This, I would imagine, appeals to children or those not willing to read the pages of information available. Upstairs, I personally think that Richard's suit of armour would be better presented in its original colours, silver and gilt, sooner than spray painted white like a Star Wars storm trooper! There is indeed reference downstairs as to how splendid he must have looked in battle armour, not a white suit! The cafe is reasonably priced and wasn't too busy after 1 o'clock, the staff were very friendly and welcoming. One disappointment was the empty glass display case with a card saying that its contents were on display in the Cathedral. On enquiry there we were told the replica crown was in storage in the back! As the entrance ticket is valid for a year we will most probably re visit in the summer, this opportunity for re visit does in my view make the admission price for such a visitor attraction reasonable, we do however live in Leicestershire, making this possible.
Mark Godson
26.02.2025

Excellent place that explains the Wars of the Roses and King Richard III's part in it, and his death, with a good level of detail but that is also clear to follow. Good use of multimedia too. Well worth the entry fee.
Aubrey Marshall
25.02.2025

It's OK, if you're really into history it's worth a look but it's quite overpriced for what it is and the crowds can really take away from the experience. Even as a big history enthusiast I probably wouldn't bother coming back
john payne
21.02.2025

Well worth a visit
Andy Forknall
18.02.2025

Great day out
Heather
16.02.2025

Very wordy. The Wars of the Roses (Cousins' War) are so complex that the very detailed panels were over the top. A brief reference to the difficulties and on with the story of the battle of Bosworth, Richard himself and the fascinating story of his burial and rediscovery would have been more engaging - and you do have to engage. Much better upstairs. Not really for children.
Jonathan whitehead
16.02.2025

A must see museum, it's what leicester is famous for
Yi Lin Lai (Eileen)
08.02.2025

Never thought I will like it as much. Lovely timeline at the start to get your head around the different battles and people involved. Definitely wouldn't be a place for kids as there are lots of reading and history involved (might benefit from making it child friendly to a certain extent). Really cool to see the burial site where they found the body. Really friendly staff and amazing gift store. Tickets also give you unlimited entry for a year.
Alex Dickson
08.02.2025

Well worth a visit. Visually engaging with very knowledgeable and helpful guides. Lots to see and yes even a hole dug in a carpark can be fascinating 🤣
Rodney V Harpham
05.02.2025

Very interesting, and the staff were very knowledgeable, enjoyed the experience, I would say a must.
Jenny Bowley
16.01.2025

So much history to take in. As our tickets are valid for a year, we went back the next day again.
BPW
03.01.2025

My parents and I enjoyed this museum very much. It's well laid out and you can learn a lot about what was a particularly interesting period in English history. The staff were friendly and in particular I'd like to mention Ranjit who was really helpful in offering me advice regarding nearby parking. Thank you to all the staff and people who have put a lot of effort into making this visitor centre such a great place to visit.
Diane Hughes
24.12.2024

Loved it
Greg Windsor
21.12.2024

Well for me coming from a country where our oldest building was built in 1822, it is easy for me to be blown away and have a sense of being overwhelmed by the history of everything in England. As a Ricardian it was easy for me to spend around a couple of hours in the museum. The staff were wonderful, and there were a few people on hand to answer any question one might have as you walk through the museum. I especially enjoyed the time lapse presentation they had which gives a good idea of how the body of Richard III became lost to time.
Alan Murtha
20.12.2024

The jewel in the crown. We visited the King Richard 111 visitors centre today. What a great experience, while the majority of the exhibits were static, these were brought to life by the young lad in a wheelchair. He was able to give a clear explanation of each exhibit. While this lad was the jewel in the crown, all of the staff that we had contact with were warm and friendly. Thanks.
Jon Marshall
08.12.2024

Excellent. Long live the King. He was no tyrant I'm convinced he was very loved. He is also no murderer. The princes lived abroad and even attacked England for the crown but failed.

 

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