King Richard III Visitor Centre Guided Tour

An expert-led exploration of the 2012 archaeological discovery that identified England's last Plantagenet king after 530 years beneath a Leicester car park. The 45-minute tour covers the forensic DNA evidence, the skeleton analysis, and Richard III's burial at Leicester Cathedral. Guides explain the historical context of the Wars of the Roses and what the discovery revealed about the king's life and death. A combination of archaeology and history that interests casual visitors and serious history researchers alike. Best for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in archaeology. This is a easy activity lasting 45 minutes. Group size: 2-25. You meet at Visitor Centre reception desk. Key highlights: View the actual skeleton of Richard III discovered in 2012, Expert guide explains forensic DNA identification process, Learn about the Wars of the Roses and medieval English politics.

Price: £8 adults, £6 concessions

Duration: 45 minutes

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-25

Minimum age: all ages

Best for: history enthusiasts and anyone interested in archaeology

Best time: Weekday mornings have smaller groups. Avoid Saturdays in summer. Afternoon light improves photos of displays.

Meeting point: Visitor Centre reception desk

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Start Meet guide at visitor centre reception - Introductions and briefing on Richard III's life and the 2012 discovery location.

First 15 min Exhibition galleries and skeletal remains - View the actual skeleton discovered in the Grey Friars dig, with close-up analysis of bones and injuries.

15-30 min DNA evidence and forensic analysis - Guide explains how mitochondrial DNA from living descendants confirmed the identity of the remains.

30-40 min Historical context and Richard III's reign - Discussion of the Wars of the Roses, his time as king, and the Battle of Bosworth Field.

Final 5 min Questions and visitor feedback - Opportunity to ask the guide specific questions about the discovery or medieval period.

The whole experience takes 45 minutes. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Visitor Centre reception desk.

• View the actual skeleton of Richard III discovered in 2012
• Expert guide explains forensic DNA identification process
• Learn about the Wars of the Roses and medieval English politics
• See artifacts and evidence from the Grey Friars excavation
• Audio guide included in ticket price
• Accessibility: Level access to visitor centre. Accessible toilets on site. Tours can accommodate wheelchair users but contact ahead. No step-free access to some exhibition areas.

What is included: Guided tour with expert interpreter, Access to exhibition galleries, Audio guide, Exhibition materials.

Not included: Cathedral entry (separate ticket available), Souvenir guide book, Photography permissions in some areas. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, Notebook if you want to record details, Camera (check photography policy at desk). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Weekday mornings have smaller groups. Avoid Saturdays in summer. Afternoon light improves photos of displays..

Tip: Combined ticket with cathedral available

Tip: Audio guide included

Accessibility: Level access to visitor centre. Accessible toilets on site. Tours can accommodate wheelchair users but contact ahead. No step-free access to some exhibition areas..

Operator: Leicester Cathedral | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 116 261 5335

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Leicester Cathedral (2 min walk)
• Jewry Wall Museum (8 min walk)
• Guildhall Museum (5 min walk)

This activity is run by Leicester Cathedral.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour. Non-refundable within 24 hours..

Accessibility: Level access to visitor centre. Accessible toilets on site. Tours can accommodate wheelchair users but contact ahead. No step-free access to some exhibition areas..

Best time to go: Weekday mornings have smaller groups. Avoid Saturdays in summer. Afternoon light improves photos of displays..

Can I take photos during the King Richard III tour?

Photography is permitted in most exhibition areas but not of the actual skeleton remains. Check with the guide at the start. Flash photography is not allowed. Some temporary exhibits may have photography restrictions.

How long does the King Richard III Visitor Centre tour take?

The guided tour runs 45 minutes. Allow an extra 15-20 minutes for the audio guide if you do it independently. The full experience, including browsing at your own pace afterwards, typically takes 90 minutes.

Is there a combined ticket for the cathedral and visitor centre?

Yes, Leicester Cathedral offers a combination ticket that includes both the visitor centre tour and cathedral entry. It costs slightly less than buying tickets separately. Ask at the reception desk or check the cathedral website for current pricing.