Abbey Park

Leicester's largest urban park covers 67 acres and contains ruins of Leicester Abbey where Cardinal Wolsey died in 1530. The Victorian park opened in 1882 and includes formal gardens, lake, children's playground, and miniature railway that operates weekends in summer. The River Soar runs along the western boundary. It ranks among Leicester's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost Free, miniature railway £2 per ride and 1-3 hours depending on activities is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 1-3 hours depending on activities Best for: large green space with historic ruins Skip if: Weather is poor as most attractions are outdoors Cost: Free, miniature railway £2 per ride

Walk through formal Victorian gardens past colourful flower beds to reach medieval abbey ruins beside the lake. Watch ducks and swans while children play on modern equipment or ride the small steam train through parkland.

Accessibility: Paved paths through main areas, some grass paths to ruins may be uneven

Large green space with historic ruins and family activities close to the city centre. That puts it near the top of any Leicester visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Belgrave Road and National Space Centre - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Leicester.

Skip if: Weather is poor as most attractions are outdoors

• Bring bread for the lake ducks but check feeding guidelines.
• Miniature railway only runs weekends April-October.
• Parking available on Abbey Park Road.

Insider tip: The abbey ruins are more extensive than they first appear - follow the marked trail to find foundations throughout the park

Good shots of abbey ruins reflected in lake, spring flowers in formal gardens