In August 2012, remains believed to be of King Richard III were discovered in a car park. Following this, Leicester City Council transformed the adjacent historic Alderman Newton’s Grammar School into the King Richard III Visitor Centre, which opened on 26 July 2014. This Victorian Gothic revival building, formerly occupied by Leicester Grammar School and situated on the site of the old Grey Friars Church, overlooks the king's potential gravesite. The renovated building seamlessly blends its rich history with modern technology, offering visitors an immersive journey through the king's life, his demise, and the intriguing archaeological quest behind his discovery.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Person & Artist
Monday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
The King Richard III Visitor Centre is open from 10am every day, all year, except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve and New Year’s Day.
4A St Martins, Leicester
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The King Richard III Visitor Centre in Leicester, England, offers an informative and engaging experience centered around the discovery of the monarch's remains. Visitors appreciate the well-designed exhibits that effectively tell the story of Richard III's life, death, and the archaeological excavation that led to his rediscovery. The center does a commendable job of presenting historical context and separating fact from fiction surrounding the controversial king.
Many reviewers praise the interactive displays and the use of technology to enhance the learning experience. The center's location, built over the actual site where Richard III's remains were found, adds a powerful dimension to the visit. The glass floor allowing views of the excavation site is often mentioned as a highlight.
However, some visitors feel that the experience is relatively brief for the admission price, suggesting that it might not offer enough content for history enthusiasts seeking more depth. A few reviewers also mention that the center can get crowded during peak times, which may impact the overall experience.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of visitors find the King Richard III Visitor Centre to be an educational and worthwhile attraction. It successfully combines history, archaeology, and modern storytelling techniques to create a memorable experience for those interested in this chapter of English history.
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