Best Hotels in Leicester: A Complete Guide to Top Accommodations, Prices, and Neighborhoods

Choosing the right hotel in Leicester means balancing location, price, and guest satisfaction. This guide compares the top-rated properties across the city centre and suburbs, using data from major booking platforms and editorial sources. Expedia identifies Leicester City Centre as the best area for most visitors, and we break down the options to help you decide which hotel fits your travel style.

Last checked: 2026-09-18

City: Leicester, United Kingdom · Cheapest hotel rate found: from £25 per night (Trivago) · Editor’s top pick from organic results: voco Leicester (IHG) – Expedia’s top choice · Hotel inventory: over 1,200 listings on Trivago

What’s the best hotel in Leicester?

Five hotels consistently appear among the top recommendations across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and editorial guides. The table below compares their type, key feature, and price indicator.

voco Leicester by IHG

Hotels.com highlights voco Leicester as a centrally located property within the IHG brand family. Expedia lists it as the top-recommended hotel in the city, citing its modern amenities and central position near Highcross Street.

The Belmont Hotel

The Belmont Hotel is a 4-star independent property with 74 rooms and a restaurant, located in the city centre. According to the official website (belmonthotel.co.uk), it is often chosen by both leisure and business guests for its traditional service and proximity to the train station.

Novotel Leicester

Hotels.com describes Novotel Leicester as a modern, centrally located hotel suitable for families and business travellers. It is part of the Accor group and offers standardised amenities across its rooms.

Holiday Inn Leicester by IHG

Trip.com’s landmark-based ranking places Holiday Inn Leicester among the best-rated hotels near Leicester City Centre. Like voco, it is part of the IHG portfolio and appeals to brand-loyal travellers.

The Grand Hotel Leicester

The Hotel Guru includes The Grand Hotel in its editorial list of best Leicester hotels, describing it as a “grand Victorian city centre hotel” that combines historic architecture with contemporary accommodation. It is a standout for those seeking character.

Is Leicester population growing or shrinking?

Leicester’s population has been growing steadily. According to the 2021 census, the city’s population reached around 370,000, up from approximately 330,000 in 2011. Growth is driven by international migration, higher birth rates, and natural increase. This demographic expansion supports a growing hotel market, with more visitors coming for business, education, and tourism.

Why this matters: Population growth signals rising demand for short-term accommodation, which may lead to new hotel openings and more competitive pricing in coming years.

Is Leicester a wealthy city?

Leicester has a mixed economic profile. It is not considered one of the wealthiest UK cities; average property prices are below the national median. The city has affluent suburbs like Stoneygate and Oadby alongside areas of higher deprivation. For hotel guests, this means accommodation options span budget-friendly chains to modest mid-range hotels, but true luxury properties are rare.

The trade-off: Affordable rates for visitors, but limited high-end options. Luxury seekers should consider voco Leicester or the historic Grand Hotel.

What is the biggest ethnic group in Leicester?

Leicester is one of the most diverse cities in the UK. The 2021 census shows White British remains the largest single ethnic group, but over 50% of the population identifies as non-white. Large Indian and Pakistani communities, along with significant African and Caribbean populations, give the city a multicultural character. This diversity influences local cuisine and cultural events, adding appeal for tourists.

The implication: Expect a wide variety of restaurants and cultural festivals throughout the year, enhancing the visitor experience beyond hotel stays.