Leicester Canterbury Train

The development of the city of Leicester is strongly linked to the completion of the Grand Union Canal in 1790 which linked Leicester to London and Birmingham, and also to the arrival of the railways in 1832. This process of industrialisation continued throughout the reign of Queen Victoria with the appearance of factories along the canal and the River Soar and of mills in districts such as Frog Island and Woodgate.

The city is the county town of Leicestershire in the East Midlands of England. Lying at the edge of the National Forest and on the River Soar, the city has a number of historical monuments including the 15th century Belgrave Bridge and the 12th century Leicester Abbey and medieval Leicester Castle.

Shopping in the city is divided between the Haymarket Shopping Centre, Highcross Leicester, St Martin's Square and Leicester Lanes. Leicester is also home to the largest outdoor covered marketplace in Europe. Leicester Market sells fruit, vegetables, fresh fish and meat and also hosts festivals which are organised by Leicester City Council. The market was given royal consent in 1229 by Henry III. Other markets in Leicester include Beaumont Leys Market. There are other markets, including the farmer's market and the continental markets usually held on Humberstone Gate or Gallowtree Gate.

Located in the south east of England in the county of Kent, Canterbury is an historic city with its cathedral being the centre of the world wide Anglican Church. The cathedral, the oldest in England, dominates the city's skyline but there is more to Canterbury than its cathedral. The ancient ruins of St Augustine's Abbey and St martin's Church form Canterbury's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Canterbury is a small city and is best explored on foot. Walking trails or guided walks will help you make the most of your time here and to enjoy the winding lanes and streets, all with their own unique identity. Alternatively you may wish to relax and absorb the wonder of the city with a boat trip along the River Stour where will be able to appreciate Canterbury's finest and historical architecture set against outstanding, scenic views. The crystal clear waters of the Stour offer a home to ducks, swans, fish and other wildlife while the river banks have an array of bending willow trees and wild flowers. North of the city is the award winning Crab and Winkle Way which is mostly a traffic free, seven mile cycling and walking route based on an old railway line running between Canterbury and Whitstable. It's safe for children and provides a perfect place to picnic along the way in the heart of one of England's oldest forests.