Leicester

Leicester is a city in the East Midlands of England, the county town of Leicestershire, situated on the River Soar about 100 miles northwest of London. It is a historic market town that developed as a Roman trading center (Ratae Corieltavorum) and later grew through medieval and industrial periods into a modern urban center.

Key archaeological and historical sites include Jewry Wall, a fragment of a Roman bath-house, and the 13th-century Leicester Cathedral. In 2012, the remains of King Richard III were discovered during an archaeological project in the city, and were reinterred at Leicester Cathedral in 2015.

The city is home to the University of Leicester (founded 1921) and De Montfort University, contributing to education and research, including space science and medical sciences. The National Space Centre is a notable museum in the city.

Leicester has a diverse population with a large South Asian community. Cultural life includes festivals on Belgrave Road, known as the Golden Mile, and a range of museums, theatres, and markets. The city is a retail hub with shopping centers such as Highcross and Haymarket.

In sport, Leicester City Football Club plays at the King Power Stadium and won the Premier League in 2015-16. Leicestershire County Cricket Club also plays at the County Ground.

Transportation options include Leicester railway station, connecting to London and other cities, plus road links to the M1 and surrounding motorways. The city is also close to East Midlands Airport.