Christ the King Church

The brick and concrete exterior of Christ the King Church won't win any beauty contests, but step inside and you're confronted with something genuinely striking. This 1960s build sits on the outskirts of Leicester and represents a particular moment in post-war British church architecture - bold, geometric, unapologetically modern.

It's the sort of place that divides opinion. Some find it cold; others see real architectural confidence. The interior space feels deliberately different from what you'd expect in a traditional parish church. If you're into mid-century design or church history beyond the medieval and Georgian, it's worth the detour from Leicester town centre.

The church draws a dedicated congregation but isn't geared up as a tourist attraction with visitor facilities or regular open days advertised. Best to check ahead before making the trip - you might find it locked outside service times. Allow 20 minutes if you do get in, longer if you want to sit and take in the space properly.

For a wider holiday in the area, this works as a brief stop rather than a main event. Meadow Farm Marina is only 5.5 miles away if you're based there - a proper lakeside park with decent facilities. It's the kind of thing to tack on if you're exploring Leicester's architecture rather than plan a journey around specifically.