The Statue of King Lear

A bronze figure of Shakespeare's tragic king stands in Leicester, arms outstretched as if still raging at the storm. It's the sort of thing you walk past without thinking, then suddenly realise why you've stopped. The Statue of King Lear captures that moment of absolute despair - raw emotion frozen in metal.

This isn't a major tourist draw, and that's rather the point. Literature types and Shakespeare enthusiasts will find it worthwhile as a quiet spot to contemplate the man who gave us this character. It takes five minutes to look at properly. Kids might find it a bit cryptic unless they've read the play, though the sheer drama of the pose tends to grab attention.

It's free to visit, accessible during daylight hours whenever you're passing through Leicester town centre. Best visited as part of a wider walk around the city rather than as a standalone destination - pair it with a visit to the Richard III museum or a wander through the medieval streets nearby.

If you're basing yourself at Hill Top Caravan Park or Village Farm Getaway just outside the city, Leicester makes for an easy afternoon trip. The statue works well as a moment of reflection between the busier attractions. Don't expect crowds or facilities - it's just a statue in an urban setting. But if you've got an hour to spare in town and you love Shakespeare, it's worth tracking down.