Living in Leicestershire

Leicestershire is a county in the East Midlands of England, known for its gently rolling countryside, market towns and long standing agricultural traditions. The landscape is largely rural, shaped by farmland, river valleys and small wooded areas, giving much of the county a settled and balanced feel. Its central location has historically supported trade and movement, while allowing communities to develop at a steady pace.

The county includes towns such as Leicester, Loughborough, Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray and Hinckley, each contributing to local life in different ways. Leicester serves as the main urban centre, supporting industry, education and services, while surrounding towns and villages retain strong local identities. Market towns continue to play an important role, linking rural communities with employment, retail and public services.

Leicestershire benefits from access to open countryside, rivers and country parks that support walking and outdoor recreation. Farming, food production and light industry remain important parts of the local economy, alongside modern employment and commuting. Overall, Leicestershire offers a calm mix of rural landscape, historic settlement and everyday working life, giving it a steady and well established character within England.

Largest Towns in Leicestershire 12

Leicester
577.6K
Loughborough
122.2K
Swadlincote
64.4K
Nottingham
59.1K
Coalville, Ibstock, Markfield
58.8K
Derby
50.8K
Hinckley
47.5K
Melton Mowbray
44.4K
Market Harborough
34.5K
Wigston
32.9K
Oakham
32.5K
Grantham
22.7K

Location

Elevation & Terrain

Lowest point Ratcliffe on Soar — 95 ft (29 m)
Highest point Copt Oak — 758 ft (231 m)
Average across towns 338 ft (103 m)
Elevation range 663 ft (202 m)

Leicestershire stretches from 95 ft at Ratcliffe on Soar up to 758 ft at Copt Oak, a span of 663 ft across 417 towns and villages. This reflects notably varied terrain, with clear contrasts between lower valleys and higher ground.

Deprivation Index (IMD)

Average deprivation scores across 32 postcode areas in Leicestershire. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
6/10
Employment
7/10
Education
6/10
Health
6/10
Housing
5/10
Environment
6/10
354,698 Children (0-15) 18%
1,223,989 Working Age 63%
484,419 Older (60+) 25%

Places in Leicestershire 417

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U W

Postcode Areas in Leicestershire 4

Leicestershire is served by 4 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.

Neighbouring Counties 6