Leicester would not be my first choice for a English getaway, but when my little sister said she was performing at the Curve theatre, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to check out this unlikely weekend destination.
To stay
The Grand Hotel Mercure Leicester – This centrally located 4 star hotel is housed in a grand Victorian building, and is the most upmarket accommodation option in the city. The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable and the common spaces downstairs have recently been modernised to provide a stylish and welcoming area for visitors. Prestigious chef, Marco Pierre White has opened ‘Marco’s New York Italian’ in the hotel which serves traditional Italian dishes alongside American classics. The Mercure Hotel is well equipped for business visitors with 10 meeting rooms and conference facilities, or for weddings there is the majestic Kings Ballroom.
To eat
John’s House – This quaint farm eatery opened at the start of 2015 and has become Leicestershire’s only Michelin star eatery. Award-winning chef John Duffin presents sophisticated and delicious plates of food, utilising the produce grown and raised on the family farm. After enjoying a wonderful lunch have a look round the impressive vintage car collection and pick up some homegrown ingredients to take home from the lovely farm shop.
To shop
Studio NL – This stylish studio / shop is found 20 minutes outside of the city centre in an eclectic courtyard of creative businesses. As well as running imaginative workshops and coffee shops, Studio NL make a range of beautiful children’s clothing and accessories, and exhibit and sell a carefully curated collection of items from brands they have discovered and love.
To drink
St Martin’s Tea & Coffee Merchant – Tucked away in the creative quarter of Leicester, St Martin’s Tea & Coffee Merchant is a lovely place to spend a morning. The quirky cafe is spread over two floors with plenty of cosy seating areas to relax and enjoy a drink and cake. The team roast their own beans and the coffee is without a doubt the best in town, with a rich and creamy flavour.
More information on visiting Leicester and what’s on in the city here.