Heritage and Culture
Heritage Hub
The University of Leicester’s Heritage Hub facilitates collaborations that combine cutting-edge university research, sector and lived experience. We support people and organisations to explore, investigate and celebrate their heritage, undertaking innovative data gathering and research to inform strategy and maximise social and economic impact. We are committed to researching and removing barriers to participation, working collectively and equitably through heritage to address inequalities – for example, in education and health.
We have a track record of working across disciplines and sectors to innovate inclusive, financially resilient and impactful projects and partnerships. We collaborate with organisations of all sizes, including local authorities, museums, heritage sites, libraries and archives, education and health providers, charities, community organisations and local businesses. We support and empower young people through learning programmes, placements, work experience and enrichment opportunities with a focus on local heritage.
We are based on campus, but work across our city and region, facilitating sector and public access to University of Leicester expertise, collections and research and connecting our students and staff with the rich heritage of our University, city and region. Bringing people and organisations together through heritage we spark innovative collaborations that make positive change in our world.
Contact us
If you have a query about heritage events or expertise, or would like to find out more about the kinds of support and services the Hub can offer, please contact us at heritageuol@le.ac.uk.
Our key people
- Sarah Scott, Professor of Archaeology, Heritage Hub Director
- George Lewis, Professor of History, Deputy Director
- Sue Wood, Heritage Hub Administrator
Events
Botanic Garden Festival
Sunday 1 September 2024, 11.00am – 4.00pm
University of Leicester Botanic Garden, Glebe Rd, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 2LD
The Heritage Hub will be present at the Botanic Garden Festival, which is free event and open to the public. Come and handle archaeological finds and learn about objects in our collections; an opportunity to learn about cutting edge scientific techniques. Registration is recommended to guarantee access.
Heritage Open Days – Discover Heritage
Saturday 14 September 2024, 11.00am – 4.00pm
University of Leicester, David Wilson Library, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH
Join us at the University of Leicester for this free event and explore a variety of family-friendly activities in the David Wilson Library and wider campus.
Visitors of all ages can explore Roman Leicester in our dig pit, have a go at craft activities, learn about Servandus and his stolen cloak and try writing their own curse tablet.
There will be an opportunity to see some of the treasures of the University’s collections, from medieval manuscripts to the archives of Joe Orton and Sue Townsend. This year we will also be highlighting some of our historical recipe books. Our East Midlands Oral History Archive team will be on hand to explain how we are bringing the region's sound heritage to new audiences.
On show throughout the day will be exhibitions of artwork by Pierre Ngon A Mbara representing African Small Businesses, and Frank Davey depicting Leicester landmarks. There will also be a chance to see our Student Life at Leicester exhibition featuring stories from our University Archives.
Pre-booking is not required – just turn up on the day!
Parking is available at Freeman’s Common Multi Storey Car Park (pay on exit). Please note that the car park is likely to be busy owing to the University Open Day being held on the same day.
University of Leicester campus architecture tours
Saturday 14 September 2024, 11.00am – 4.00pm
University of Leicester, David Wilson Library, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH
As part of the Heritage Open Day, we are offering bookable tours, providing an opportunity to discover the rich and varied architecture of our campus. Places are limited, so booking is highly recommended. If you have any questions, please contact heritageuol@leicester.ac.uk.