Living in Leicester: Why it’s ideal for family life

Leicester is a thriving, diverse city with a welcoming community, supported by world-famous celebrations, tranquil green spaces and excellent connectivity.

From the famous Golden Mile filled with an abundance of restaurants, retailers and jewellers, to the iconic Diwali Festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year, living in Leicester means being part of a city with huge personality and rich cultural heritage.

For those looking to settle in the area, developments such as Abbey Wharf place residents right in the heart of it all – combining peaceful riverside surroundings with easy access to everything the city has to offer.

Life at Abbey Wharf: Riverside living near the city

Situated on the locally famed Wolsey Island, Abbey Wharf offers a unique balance between city convenience and calm riverside living.

Located alongside the River Soar and within walking distance of Abbey Park, the development sits in one of Leicester’s most attractive residential pockets. Tree-lined walking routes, scenic canal paths and peaceful green spaces are all right on the doorstep, giving residents the opportunity to enjoy a slower pace of life while remaining close to the city centre.

This part of Leicester is also deeply connected to the city’s vibrant cultural identity. Just a short walk or cycle away lies Belgrave Road’s Golden Mile, widely known as one of the most exciting cultural districts in the UK. Here you’ll find authentic restaurants, jewellery stores and community temples, alongside the spectacular annual Diwali celebrations that illuminate the entire area.

For families and professionals already familiar with the city, living in Leicester at Abbey Wharf offers the best of both worlds – a quiet residential setting with quick access to work, schools and social life.

Public transport in Leicester

One of the many advantages of living in Leicester is how easy it is to travel both within the city and across the Midlands.

Whether commuting for work, heading into the city centre or exploring further afield, Leicester city transport links make getting around simple and convenient.

Rail links

Leicester Railway Station provides regular direct trains across the country, including journeys to London St Pancras in around an hour.

There are also frequent services to Nottingham, Derby, Birmingham and Sheffield, making it easy to travel throughout the Midlands and beyond.

For residents of Abbey Wharf, the station is only a short journey away, making rail travel a convenient option for both commuters and family trips.

Cycle routes

Leicester has developed an impressive network of cycle paths and green routes that make sustainable travel easy.

Many Leicester cycle routes follow the River Soar and nearby canal paths, offering scenic journeys through tree-lined walkways and open green spaces. The Grand Union Canal path provides an accessible route for both walking and cycling, including popular loops such as the 1.4-mile Fosse Community Centre circuit and the 3.3km Packhorse Bridge route.

Key stretches pass through wildlife-rich areas such as Aylestone Meadows and along the historic Great Central Way.

For residents at Abbey Wharf, cycling into the city centre can take just a few minutes, providing a relaxed and traffic-free alternative to driving.

Road access

For those travelling by car, Leicester is well connected to major routes across the Midlands.

The nearby M1 provides easy north-south access, while the M69 connects the city to Coventry and Birmingham. The A46 also links Leicester to Lincoln and Newark, making longer journeys straightforward.

A ring road system helps reduce congestion in the city centre, and continued infrastructure improvements aim to keep Leicester city transport running smoothly for residents and commuters alike.

Leicester shopping centres

Living in Leicester means having a wide range of shopping destinations within easy reach.

From major retail hubs to independent stores and cafés, the city offers something for every lifestyle.

Highcross Shopping Centre

Highcross is Leicester’s flagship retail destination and one of the most popular Leicester shopping centres.

Home to major brands such as Apple, Zara and John Lewis, the centre combines modern architecture with a wide range of shops, restaurants and entertainment options. For families and young professionals alike, it’s a lively destination where you can shop, dine and spend time together in the heart of the city.

Haymarket Leicester

For a slightly more relaxed shopping experience, the Haymarket Shopping Centre offers a convenient mix of high-street retailers and everyday essentials.

Located close to Leicester’s central transport links, it’s an ideal stop for a weekend browse, quick errands or meeting friends for lunch.

Living in Leicester: The green spaces

Despite its lively city centre, Leicester is home to a surprising number of green spaces where residents can relax and recharge.

For those living at Abbey Wharf, several of the city’s best parks are just a short walk or cycle away.

Bradgate Park

Located near Anstey in north Leicester, Bradgate Park is one of the region’s most beloved outdoor spaces.

The historic deer park spans more than 800 acres of open countryside, with rugged hills, ancient woodland and roaming herds of red and fallow deer. It’s a favourite destination for weekend walks, family picnics and exploring nature just outside the city.

Abbey Park

Just moments from Abbey Wharf, Abbey Park is widely considered Leicester’s most beautiful public park.

Divided by the River Soar, the park combines formal gardens, riverside walks and historic landmarks including the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and Cavendish House. Throughout the year it hosts community events, making it a lively meeting place for residents while still offering peaceful spots for morning runs or afternoon picnics.

Family days out in Leicester

Leicester is a city that blends education, history and entertainment, making it easy to plan a memorable family day out in Leicester.

From royal discoveries to space exploration, there are plenty of attractions that keep visitors of all ages engaged.

King Richard III Visitor Centre

History comes to life at the award-winning King Richard III Visitor Centre.

Located on the site where the king’s remains were famously discovered in 2012, the centre tells the remarkable story of the monarch’s life, death and rediscovery. Interactive exhibits make it both educational and engaging, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.

National Space Centre

One of Leicester’s most recognisable landmarks, the National Space Centre sits just a short distance from Abbey Wharf.

With its impressive 42-metre Rocket Tower and the UK’s largest planetarium, the centre offers immersive exhibits and interactive displays that inspire curiosity about science and space.

It’s a fantastic attraction for families, schools and anyone interested in the future of space exploration.

Love what Leicester has to offer? Have it all on your doorstep

For those considering living in Leicester, Abbey Wharf presents an exciting opportunity to enjoy the city from one of its most appealing residential locations.

Set close to Wolsey Island and the River Soar, the development offers peaceful surroundings alongside easy access to Leicester’s vibrant cultural scene.

These aren’t traditional homes – Abbey Wharf properties feature clean lines and contemporary designs, making them ideal for modern families and professionals who want to stay connected to the city.

Residents benefit from:

• Connectivity: Walk or cycle to the Golden Mile, local temples and Leicester city transport links.
• Convenience: Supermarkets, gyms and everyday amenities are all within easy reach.
• Green living: Riverside cycle routes and nearby parks make commuting and outdoor recreation effortless.

If you like the sound of living in a new home in Leicester, contact the Motion Homes team today to learn more about the latest homes available at Abbey Wharf and book a viewing.