Leicestershire

Reasons to consider living in Leicestershire

1. Rich History and Culture: Leicestershire has a fascinating history and a rich cultural heritage. The city of Leicester itself has strong ties to Roman, Medieval, and Victorian eras. The county is home to historical landmarks like Leicester Cathedral, Bosworth Battlefield, and Bradgate Park, offering opportunities to explore and appreciate its historical significance.
2. Vibrant City Life: Leicester, the largest city in Leicestershire, offers a vibrant city life with a diverse population and a range of amenities. The city boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, including theatres, museums, and art galleries. It also offers a variety of shopping options, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
3. Beautiful Countryside: Leicestershire is blessed with beautiful countryside, charming villages, and scenic landscapes. The county is home to the picturesque Charnwood Forest, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and nature walks. The tranquil countryside offers a peaceful escape from city life.
4. Excellent Education: Leicestershire is known for its high-quality education system. The county has a range of primary and secondary schools that provide strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. Leicester is also home to the University of Leicester, which is renowned for its research and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
5. Sports and Recreation: Leicestershire is a hub for sports enthusiasts. The county is known for its cricket heritage, with the Grace Road cricket ground hosting matches. Leicester City Football Club, based in the city, has a dedicated fan base and competes in the English Premier League. There are also opportunities for golfing, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.
6. Central Location: Leicestershire enjoys a central location within the UK, providing convenient access to other parts of the country. The county benefits from excellent transportation links, including major road networks and rail connections, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Birmingham, Nottingham, and London.
7. Affordable Housing: Leicestershire offers a relatively affordable housing market compared to larger cities in the UK. The county provides a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and detached houses, catering to various budgets and preferences.
8. Community Spirit: Leicestershire has a strong sense of community and is known for its friendly residents. The county hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, promoting a sense of belonging and fostering community spirit.

Best places to live in Leicestershire

1. Market Harborough: This vibrant market town offers a great blend of history, modern amenities, and beautiful surroundings. It has excellent schools, a thriving town centre, and good transport links.
2. Oadby: Located just a few miles from Leicester, Oadby is known for its leafy suburbs, reputable schools, and spacious residential areas. It has a diverse community and offers a good range of amenities.
3. Burbage: Situated on the outskirts of Hinckley, Burbage is a charming village with a strong sense of community. It has a range of local shops, pubs, and green spaces, making it ideal for families.
4. Loughborough: Home to the prestigious Loughborough University, this town has a bustling atmosphere and a thriving student population. It offers excellent sporting facilities, good schools, and plenty of cultural activities.
5. Quorn: Nestled in the picturesque Soar Valley, Quorn is a charming village with a rich history. It offers a tranquil and idyllic setting, with beautiful countryside and a friendly community.
6. Ashby-de-la-Zouch: With its historic charm and beautiful castle ruins, Ashby-de-la-Zouch is a popular market town. It has a range of independent shops, quality schools, and great access to the National Forest.
7. Rothley: This attractive village boasts a quaint and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a good range of amenities, including local shops, pubs, and recreational spaces, as well as easy access to Leicester.
8. Enderby: Situated on the outskirts of Leicester, Enderby offers a mix of urban convenience and rural tranquility. It has good transport links, local amenities, and a strong community spirit.
9. Syston: Located northeast of Leicester, Syston is a thriving town with a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities. It has good transport links and a friendly community.
10. Hinckley: With its vibrant town centre, Hinckley offers a good range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It has good transport connections, quality schools, and a lively community.

Best schools in Leicestershire (not official rankings)

1. Leicester Grammar School (Great Glen)
2. Loughborough Grammar School (Loughborough)
3. Loughborough High School (Loughborough)
4. Ratcliffe College (Ratcliffe on the Wreake)
5. Oakham School (Oakham)
6. Leicester High School for Girls (Leicester)
7. Uppingham School (Uppingham)
8. Grace Dieu Manor School (Thringstone)
9. Dixie Grammar School (Market Bosworth)
10. Repton School (Repton)