A Guide to New Walk in Leicester

If you find yourself in the heart of England in Leicester, you might already have the King Richard III Visitor Centre and the National Space Centre on your itinerary. But there is another spot that you absolutely shouldn't miss: New Walk. It's not a castle or a busy high street, but a path that lets you slow down time.

What is New Walk?

Laid out in 1785, New Walk stretches for about 1.1 km (0.7 miles). From the day it was born, it has been a dedicated pedestrian-only walkway. No cars, no buses, just peace.

Stepping onto New Walk means leaving the city's hustle and bustle behind. You are immediately surrounded by lush, mature trees and lined with preserved Georgian and Victorian architecture. For students living at the University of Leicester accommodation, it's a scenic commute; for travelers, it's a romantic stroll through 200 years of history.

4 Highlights on New Walk

Whether you are jogging, walking, or just people-watching, here are the landmarks to look out for:

1. Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Located midway along the walk, this majestic building is one of Leicester's oldest museums—and it's completely free!

• Must-See: The towering "Rutland Dinosaur" skeleton, the Ancient Egypt exhibit, and a surprising collection of Picasso ceramics.
• MyTravaly Tip: The square right in front of the museum is perfect for sitting on a bench and soaking up the sun.

2. The Victorian Lamps

Keep an eye on the streetlights! New Walk retains its original Victorian-style lamp posts. While they run on electricity now, they still ooze vintage charm.

Photo Op: Visit at dusk. When the lamps flicker on against a deep blue evening sky, the vibe is straight out of a Harry Potter movie or a classic period drama.

3. De Montfort Square�

As you head towards the city center, you'll pass this circular green space surrounded by elegant townhouses. Once home to Leicester's wealthy merchants, it is now a tranquil spot to pause and admire the architecture.

4. The Little Theatre

Culture vultures should look out for this cute red brick building. It is the home of the Leicester Drama Society and often hosts fantastic plays and musicals.

Eat, Drink & Relax on New Walk

New Walk isn't just about walking; it's about enjoying the journey. Here are some great pit stops:

• Picnic at the Park: One end of New Walk opens up into Victoria Park, a massive green space perfect for a picnic.
• City Dining: The other end leads you straight to Welford Place and the city center, where you are spoiled for choice with restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit New Walk

• Autumn: The avenue of trees turns golden brown—arguably the most "Instagrammable" season.
• Spring: You'll likely see students in graduation gowns taking photos, adding a lively, youthful atmosphere.
• Notes: Remember, no cars and no cycling (cyclists must dismount). This ensures the walk remains peaceful and safe for everyone.

Final Thoughts

In a fast-paced world, New Walk is a rare space where you can truly slow down. It bridges the gap between the city's history and its modern life. Next time you visit Leicester, make sure to carve out an afternoon for New Walk and experience this unique slice of British tranquility.