The Guildhall Museum — Attraction in England

This is a spectacular and an absolute treasure of a timber framed building and is one of the best Medieval Guildhalls in the UK and one of the best surviving examples of a such kind in the UK. The building itself dates back to the 14th Century and is one of the best preserved wooden timber framed buildings in the UK. The architecture of the building is absolutely magnificent and is very iconic and memorable. The building is just as good on the inside where you can see what is a first class museum detailing the history of the building and also the history of Medieval Leicester detailing religion, social and Medieval life. There are some other interesting displays about Leicester Abbey, Health & Welfare of the People of Leicester, Money and Markets in Leicester and Crafts and Occupations for People in Leicester in Medieval times and all of these displays are extremely informative and very interesting. There is also some interesting artefacts to see such as Coins, Pottery, Jewellery, Religious Figures and other Religious Items along with Religious Building material and all of these artefacts are in fantastic condition giving you a full idea how they would have used during the Medieval Period. There are some very well preserved medieval rooms to go in as well such as The Mayor's Parlour complete with some interesting features such as The Coats of Arms above the fireplace and Stained Glass Windows that date around 1500 and they are in remarkable condition. Other areas of the Guildhall which you can see are The Great Hall which is one of the best preserved examples of a Wooden timber framed hall in the UK from the period and it is in such fantastic condition and there is The Town Library with wonderful preserved books in glass case and some more fantastic wooden furniture such as chests, tables and chairs. Other interesting areas of the Building is the The Recorder's Room who was the judge in criminal cases during that that period and also the room has a bed and other items giving of how they lived in the chamber. The museum goes into Crime and Punishment and there are some interesting artefacts used in Crime and Punishment from the period such as Leg Irons, Scold's Bridle and Gibbet Irons giving a full idea of how people from the period were punished and treated for any crimes they were accused of committing. There are some cells to see giving you an idea of the conditions that prisoners lived and how they were treated when they awaiting trial for any crimes they were accused of committing and this part of the museum is very thought provoking and insightful along with being very interesting. The museum is free admission with donations very much welcome. There is a small shop selling a small range of souvenirs at reasonable prices and there is Cafe No.7 adjacent to the building selling a variety of food and drink at reasonable prices. Overall this is a very interesting and brilliant place to visit, which makes for a very marvellous and intriguing day out to one Leicester's most iconic medieval buildings.. Definitely another place worth a visit whilst...

Visited the Guildhall Museum in Leicester recently and was pleasantly surprised! Nestled right in the city centre, this historic building is full of character, and you can feel the centuries of history as soon as you step inside. The timber-framed walls, creaky wooden floors, and dim lighting really transport you back in time.

The exhibits are well put together, covering Leicester’s history in a way that’s both informative and engaging. The medieval courtroom was a highlight, giving a real sense of what justice would have been like back in the day—definitely not a place you’d want to be on trial! The old prison cells were another fascinating (and slightly eerie) touch. There’s also a section on Leicester’s connections to Richard III, which is worth a look if you’re interested in that period of history.

The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, happy to answer questions and share extra details about the building. It’s clear they have a real passion for the place. Entry was free, which makes it fantastic value, though donations are encouraged.

A couple of minor downsides—some of the signage could do with a refresh, and a few areas felt a little empty or underused. It would be great to see more interactive elements, especially for younger visitors.

Overall, a fantastic little museum that’s well worth a visit if you’re in Leicester. It won’t take more than an hour to explore, but it’s packed with history and atmosphere. Not quite a five-star experience, but a solid four stars for its charm, history, and the effort put into preserving this incredible building.

Would definitely recommend for history lovers or anyone looking to see a different side of...

Excellent place to visit either on your own or with your family - and if tied-in with visits to Leicester Cathedral where the tomb of Richard 111 is (which it is immediately adjacent to) and the Richard 111 Visitor Centre (which is a very short distance nearby) can make for a full day of activities. It has a free museum because it once was Leicester jail so it has restored cells (and a gibbet in which hanged felons were publicly displayed near to the Aylestone Tollgate as a deterrent to others!) as well as being the guild hall of the medieval Corpus Christi guild before it became Leicester's Town Hall (one part is called the Mayor's Parlour). It is also used as an entertainment venue for concerts, dances and plays - all of which gain tremendously from the historical setting and the unique atmosphere. There is a café open during the day. Free Toilets. Disabled access is not a problem as it has a flat entrance without steps and most of the guild hall is at the same level throughout - apart from the Library which...