Purpose-built museum marking where England's most controversial king was discovered in a car park in 2012. Interactive exhibits detail the archaeological dig and Richard's life, while the Dynasty, Death and Discovery exhibition covers the Wars of the Roses through to the modern-day DNA testing. It sits in Leicester's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Leicester's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost £8.95 adult, £5.95 child, under 5s free and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: the archaeological discovery Skip if: You have no interest in medieval history or archaeological discoveries Cost: £8.95 adult, £5.95 child, under 5s free
You walk through chronological galleries with films, artifacts and interactive displays. The centrepiece shows the exact spot where Richard's remains were found, marked in the museum floor. Touch screens let you explore the facial reconstruction process.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with lift access to all floors
The archaeological discovery that rewrote English history happened here - see where they found the king under the R in a car park. That puts it near the top of any Leicester visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Leicester Cathedral and Guildhall Museum - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Leicester. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
Skip if: You have no interest in medieval history or archaeological discoveries
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:00) |
| Price | £8.95 adult, £5.95 child, under 5s free |
| Time Needed | 2-3 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings to avoid school groups |
| Address | 4A St Martins, Leicester LE1 5DB |
Insider tip: The original car park markings are preserved in the floor - look for the R where the skeleton lay
Photography allowed except in the film areas. Best shots from the discovery site viewing area
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Common questions about King Richard III Visitor Centre
The visitor centre opens Monday to Friday 10 AM-5 PM, Saturday 10 AM-5 PM, and Sunday noon-5 PM. Admission costs £7-9 for adults. The centre covers the 2012 archaeological discovery, the king's life, and the reburial ceremony. Staff can book guided tours of the cathedral tomb five minutes away, which requires separate entry.
Plan 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. The ground floor covers the discovery and skeleton analysis using interactive displays and video. The first floor explores the king's medieval context with audio guides. Most visitors spend 60 minutes on exhibits. Add 20 minutes if you book the adjacent cathedral tour, which includes the tomb.
No, the skeleton is not on display. The visitor centre uses photographs, forensic reconstructions, and video explaining how the skeleton was identified in 2012. The king's remains are in a lead casket within Leicester Cathedral's choir, visible during cathedral tours. The centre focuses on archaeology and medieval history rather than displaying human remains.
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