It’s All Fun And Games! Things to do in Leicester this Summer
Schools almost out for Summer and our diaries are firmly back open, ready to fill up with those all-important fun-filled days that we have all been yearning for. Whether it’s a trip to the cinema for a bit of movie magic, bowling a strike at the alley or exploring the city’s culture, here in Leicester we’re lucky to have a host of independents providing leisure that you’re sure to love.
We’ve gathered our top picks for you to pop on your agenda…
Leicester’s much-loved independent cinema and art centre is back to bring you some much-needed escapism with a fabulous programme of films, art and more. Enjoy a packed schedule of new releases – from diverse indie and world cinema, to homegrown movies and Hollywood crowd-pleasers. Visit their website for the full schedule of events at https://www.phoenix.org.uk/whats-on/
If bowling is right up your alley, Leicester’s independent boutique bowling alley is the place to be to bowl a strike. As well as an eight-lane bowling alley there is a well-stocked bar serving craft ales and cocktails, where you can kick back between frames or order some refreshments during a tense match. The décor is effortlessly cool, with larger-than-life artworks adorning the walls and an arcade full of timeless classics. East Street Lanes is a bowling venue with a twist – after 7pm it is adults only.
In the heart of the Cultural Quarter, you’ll find the Curve theatre, the place for exciting, diverse and inspiring theatre. Recently reopened with new safety measures to make your visit a COVID safe experience, shows you can look forward to in the next few months include Peter James’ Looking Good Dead, Magic Goes Wrong, Grease and Dial M for Murder. Playing host to hit musicals, plays and international stars, it’s worth keeping an eye on their ‘What’s On’ page so you don’t miss a thing.
If you’re looking for an extravagant crazy golf course, Caddyshackers is the place to go! Grab your putter and show off your skills around the themed 18-hole course. The perfect destination for a work, stag, hen, mates or date night, with golf being thirsty work, you can unwind in the bar afterwards and enjoy everything from beer to wine, cocktails to milkshakes. While after 7pm is strictly over 18s, under 18s are welcome but must leave the premises by 7pm and must be accompanied by an adult (21+).
Want an experience you won’t forget? On Cank Street, Leicester Simulations offers unique simulations for you to enjoy so if you have ever fancied yourself an F1 race driver, want to virtually sharpen up your golf skills or take a flight in the spitfire, you’re in luck! Fly solo around London or trail behind a German bomber formation where you can blaze away to your heart’s content, saving good old Blighty with the Spitfire & Messerschmitt Simulators. Open daily from 10am to 10pm, contact them via email info.simulations@gmail.com or telephone 0116 262 1750 to book an experience of even gift a voucher.
Roll the dice at Leicester’s family run and independent board game café, bar and restaurant. As purveyors of games, at Bean you can lose yourself in the fun of board games. It’s as simple as bringing along your own game of choice or you can choose from their extensive games library to play at your table. There is a small fee per hour per person with under 7s and dungeon masters able to play for free. Their friendly team are also on hand to recommend and teach you a few games and they have a kitchen full of cakes, bakes and hearty food for you to indulge in and something to quench your thirst- of course.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro at rock climbing, get active and cruise up the walls at Leicester’s largest bouldering centre, Social climbing. Sessions can be booked up to 3 weeks in advance and it’s recommended to wear clothes that are comfortable and that you’re not precious about getting a bit of chalk on and climbing shoes (available to rent). For first timers, the staff will give you a detailed induction to make your debut climbing adventure as smooth as possible.
Opened in 1900, The Y is the oldest and only surviving Victorian theatre in Leicester. A hub for an eclectic programme of events from comedy to music, drama to open mics, The Y has established itself as one of the city’s key cultural venues. In line with COVID-19 restrictions, they have reduced capacity slightly with socially distanced seating and other safety measures so you can still enjoy an evening of entertainment. Highlights in the next few months to look forward to are Jenny Éclair (2nd September), Ed Byrne (28th September) and Demons of Ruby Mae (30th October).
King Richard III Visitor Centre
It’s a story that gripped the world when remains of King Richard III was unearthed in a car park right here in the city and now you can discover and immerse yourself in the King’s incredible story at the King Richard III Visitor Centre. Using great storytelling, beautiful design and 21st century technology, the centre tells the fascinating and moving story of the king’s life and death and reveals one of the greatest archaeological detective stories ever told.
Tucked away on Dover Street, The Little Theatre is the home of the Leicester Drama Society and recently reopened with a new season of shows to enjoy in their covid-safe socially distanced theatre. Head over on 2nd July to see the documentary film premiere of Graham Fellows ‘Father Earth’– the true story of one man’s attempt to save the planet, by converting a derelict church on a windswept island in Orkney into an eco-friendly recording studio, and driving a G Wiz electric car there all the way from London. This unique preview screening will be followed by a Q&A with Graham Fellows.
