The futuristic National Space Centre sits just off Exploration Drive, next to the River Soar. In addition to the biggest planetarium in the UK, a Rocket Tower and a 3D space ride, the Centre features six interactive galleries and holds an annual calendar of space themed events. It’s a brilliant day out for kids of all ages, including big ones with jobs! The Centre is open Tuesday through Friday, and can be visited on its own or as part Leicester’s Must See Three ticket, which gets you into local attractions Conkers and Snibston as well. Space fans, prepare for blast off…

Great for: Day Trips

Leicester’s Highcross Shopping Centre has more than 100 shops set over multiple levels. It’s served by cafes, snack bars and sit down restaurants, including big name pizza and sushi chains. There’s a cinema, plenty of parking and easy links to bus and train services (Leicester central station is a 10 minute walk from Highcross). The shopping centre hosts events throughout the year. Shops include major national department stores and brands, designer electronics outlets and sport and outdoor stores. Highcross has been extensively refurbished in recent years, and is a great option for a rainy day in the city centre: light, airy and full of great shops.

Great for: Shopping

The Great Central Railway keeps the age of steam alive, on Britain’s only “mainline” steam railway. It’s a heritage line kept up by enthusiasts, which starts in Loughborough and runs through to Birstall. Travellers can pick from special dining packages, or just hop on and enjoy the ride. If you’re really keen, you can even book a “Drive a Loco” package, which puts you at the controls of a steam or diesel locomotive! With more than 15 classic steam locomotives in action, and nearly 20 operational diesel engines, the Great Central Railway bills itself as the only place on earth where you can still see old working trains passing each other on the line. The Great Central Railway runs on weekends only.

Great for: Trains!