The cathedral is built directly over the remains of a Roman forum, which was discovered during archaeological investigations.
King Richard III's tomb is constructed from Swaledale fossil stone and sits upon a plinth of Kilkenny marble.
The stained glass in the cathedral includes pieces dating back to the 19th century, with significant additions during modern refurbishments.
The 220-foot spire was rebuilt in 1757 after the previous structure suffered structural collapse.
The cathedral houses a memorial to those who died in the First World War, featuring a unique cross carved from wreckage from the Battle of Jutland.
Leicester Cathedral is the resting place of King Richard III, whose remains were reinterred in a bespoke tomb here in 2015. The structure stands on the site of a former Roman temple and a later medieval parish church dedicated to St. Martin. While the building traces its origins to the 11th century, the present spire dates to 1757. It was elevated to cathedral status in 1927 to serve the newly formed Diocese of Leicester. The interior features a Victorian Gothic revival aesthetic following extensive 19th-century renovations by Raphael Brandon. In 2023, the cathedral completed a significant multi-year transformation project called 'Leicester Cathedral Revealed,' which included structural repairs and new exhibition spaces. It serves as a working church and the seat of the Bishop of Leicester. The building functions as an integral piece of the city's historic core, located adjacent to the Guildhall.
The view of the tomb from the central nave, capturing the contrast between the historic stone arches and the modern memorial.
Check the cathedral website for scheduled choral evensong performances to experience the acoustics at their best.
Allow extra time to explore the adjacent King Richard III Visitor Centre to fully contextualize the tomb.
Visit during the week to avoid potential crowds during weekend service times.
Attempting to photograph the tomb during memorial services or private prayer sessions.
Occasionally closed to visitors during private services, funerals, or civic events; check the official calendar before arrival.
Maintain a quiet volume; remove hats and refrain from photography during active religious services.
