The Divine Infant of Prague Catholic Church

This small Catholic church on the outskirts of Leicester holds a rather unexpected treasure - a replica of the famous Divine Infant of Prague statue, which draws pilgrims and curious visitors from across the Midlands. The original sits in a baroque church in Prague, but this English version has its own devoted following, particularly among Catholic families and those with a devotion to the Christ Child.

The church itself is modest and intimate, which somehow makes the experience feel more personal than you'd expect. You'll find it quiet on most days, giving you space to sit and reflect without the crowds you'd encounter at larger cathedrals. The statue is the focal point - ornate, dressed in rich robes, and quite striking for such a small place. It's the sort of spot where you realize how faith travels and takes root in unexpected corners of industrial England.

There's no entrance fee, and you can usually drop in during daylight hours, though it's worth ringing ahead if you're making a special trip. Allow thirty minutes to an hour, including time to light a candle if you're inclined. It's not a major tourist draw, which is precisely why it works - no queues, no gift shop, just a quiet moment.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks like Hill Top or High Meadows Farm, this makes a worthwhile half-hour detour from Leicester itself. Combine it with a walk through the city's cathedral quarter or a visit to the nearby shopping districts. It won't dominate your holiday plans, but it's a genuine bit of local spiritual life worth experiencing.