Abbey Park

Abbey Park is Leicester’s pride and joy, and it lies approximately one mile north of the City Centre.

The magnificent River Soar divides this picturesque park into two separate and very individual areas.

The historic Victorian part lies on the east side of the river, and is packed with its evergreen shrubberies, trees, lakes and formally planted flower displays. To the west of the river, lies the remains of the twelfth century Leicester Abbey and the great ruins of the 17th Century mansion, Cavendish House.

The park was originally opened in 1882 and still reflects the Victorian era with its formal gardens and bandstand. Over the years, there have been many additions to the park, namely the Chinese Garden, model railway, pets’ corner and a large play area for children of all ages. If you’d like a refreshment, there’s also the park café and a large grass area, perfect for ball games.

Additionally, the 32 acre Abbey grounds features the reconstructed site of Leicester Abbey and the memorial to Cardinal Wolsey, who was laid to rest in the grounds. The Abbey was originally founded in 1143 and originally called St Mary de Pratis (St Mary of the Meadows), now more frequently known as Leicester Abbey. It was originally built for regular canons of the Order of St Augustine. The Abbey stood prominently for almost 400 years and became the 2nd wealthiest Augustinian Abbey in the country.

The Abbey and its surroundings are of valuable historic interest and a Scheduled Monument. Abbey Park is also officially designated as a park or garden of special historic interest (grade II).

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