Leicester Cathedral, Leicester (must see)

Leicester Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Martin, is one of England’s smallest Anglican cathedrals. Despite its modest size, it holds immense historical significance, most notably as the final resting place of King Richard III, whose remains were discovered in a nearby car park in 2012 and ceremonially reburied in the cathedral in 2015.

The cathedral stands on a site with deep historical roots, originally occupied by Roman structures. It is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, a 4th-century Roman officer turned bishop. The earliest mention of a church here dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, making it one of Leicester’s oldest religious sites. The structure originated as a 12th-century Norman church and was rebuilt in the 13th and 15th centuries, becoming Leicester’s civic church due to its ties to merchants, guilds, and the nearby Guild Hall.

While remnants of medieval architecture remain, much of the current building reflects Victorian restoration efforts. The soaring 220-foot spire and the tower, both designed by architect Raphael Brandon, were rebuilt in the 1860s. In 1927, the church was formally consecrated as Leicester’s cathedral following the re-establishment of the diocese, marking the return of a bishop to Leicester after more than a millennium.

Today, Leicester Cathedral attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, many drawn to the tomb of King Richard III. His remains were interred beneath a striking Swaledale fossil stone tomb, weighing three tonnes. The cathedral also houses the Pall, an embroidered cloth that adorned the king’s coffin during his reinterment. Created by artist Jacquie Binns, the Pall narrates Richard III’s life story and the extraordinary rediscovery of his remains.

Aside from its royal connections, the cathedral contains intriguing historical artifacts, including a set of 14th-century wooden carvings depicting figures afflicted with various ailments—one even sporting a medieval hearing aid. The interior also features a large wooden screen separating the nave from the chancel, designed by Charles Nicholson and crafted by Bowman of Stamford.

A Grade II* listed building, Leicester Cathedral remains a prominent landmark in the city, blending centuries of ecclesiastical history with modern commemorative significance. It stands not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to Leicester’s rich and layered past.