Belgrave

Belgrave is a vibrant, multicultural area located just north of Leicester city center. Known for its rich history, diverse community, and strong sense of local pride, Belgrave offers a unique blend of urban convenience, cultural diversity, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an area that’s seen significant change in recent years, with ongoing regeneration projects making it an increasingly popular place for residents and businesses alike. This guide provides an overview of what to expect from life in Belgrave, covering everything from housing and transport links to schools and amenities.

Location and Transport Links

Belgrave is situated about 1 mile to the north of Leicester’s city center, making it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the convenience of city living while maintaining a sense of community and local character. It’s well-connected by both road and public transport.

By Road: Belgrave is easily accessible by the A6 (Melton Road), which runs through the heart of the area and connects it to Leicester city center, as well as nearby towns like Loughborough and Melton Mowbray. The A563 provides additional road access to the wider Leicester area.
Public Transport: The area is well-served by bus routes, making it easy to get into Leicester’s city center, train station, and other nearby districts. The Belgrave Road is a main thoroughfare with multiple bus stops, providing quick access to the rest of the city.
Train Stations: While Belgrave itself doesn’t have a railway station, it is within a short distance of Leicester Railway Station (about 2 miles away), which offers regular services to destinations across the UK, including direct trains to London, Birmingham, and Nottingham. There are also smaller stations nearby, including Leicester North.

Demographics and Community

Belgrave is a diverse and lively area, with a rich mix of cultural influences. The community is known for its strong sense of local identity, and it is one of the most culturally diverse areas in Leicester, with a large South Asian population, particularly of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi descent. This cultural diversity is reflected in the wide range of shops, restaurants, and community events that take place throughout the year.

There is a strong sense of community in Belgrave, with numerous community centers, religious institutions, and cultural organizations that bring residents together. The area is home to a mix of families, young professionals, students, and long-term residents, contributing to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Housing

Housing in Belgrave is diverse, offering something for a range of budgets and preferences. The area has a mix of older properties, such as Victorian terraced houses, as well as more modern developments on its fringes. Whether you’re looking for a characterful home or something more contemporary, Belgrave has plenty to offer.

Terraced Houses: A significant portion of Belgrave’s housing stock consists of traditional Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, which are ideal for first-time buyers, couples, and small families. These homes typically feature two or three bedrooms, with period features such as bay windows and fireplaces. Many of these properties have been renovated and modernized, offering good value for money.
Semi-Detached and Detached Homes: On the outskirts of Belgrave, you’ll find larger semi-detached and detached homes, particularly in areas like Northfields and St. Peters Road. These properties tend to offer more space and larger gardens, making them ideal for families or those seeking a bit more privacy.
Flats and Apartments: For those looking for lower-maintenance living, Belgrave also offers a range of flats and apartments, which can be found in some of the newer developments or converted properties in the area. These options are often more affordable and are popular with students, young professionals, and those who prefer a smaller living space.

House prices in Belgrave are generally more affordable than in central Leicester, making it a great choice for first-time buyers, young families, and investors. However, prices can vary depending on the property type and its proximity to amenities.

Schools and Education

Belgrave is home to several well-regarded schools, both primary and secondary, making it an attractive area for families with children. In addition to these, there are several educational facilities in the surrounding area that cater to a range of ages and academic needs.

Primary Schools: Some of the top primary schools in Belgrave include St. John’s Catholic Primary School, Belgrave St. Peter’s Primary School, and Thorpe Acre Primary School. These schools are known for their strong academic performance and good relationships with the local community.
Secondary Schools: The City of Leicester College is one of the main secondary schools serving the Belgrave area. The school offers a range of GCSE and A-level subjects and has a good reputation for its extracurricular activities and sporting programs.
Further Education: For older students, the nearby Leicester College offers a wide range of vocational and academic courses, while De Montfort University is located in the heart of Leicester and provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

With its selection of local schools, as well as easy access to Leicester’s higher education institutions, Belgrave is an ideal location for families seeking good educational opportunities.

Green Spaces and Recreation

While Belgrave is an urban area, it offers several green spaces where residents can enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.

Rushey Fields: A large green space to the north of Belgrave, Rushey Fields is a popular park for local residents. It offers open fields, sports facilities, and walking paths, making it ideal for families, dog walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Victoria Park: Although slightly outside of Belgrave, this large park is just a short walk away and provides a variety of facilities, including tennis courts, a playground, and vast open spaces for picnics and sports.
Belgrave Park: A small park located in the heart of Belgrave, offering a peaceful green space with seating areas, ideal for a short stroll or a quiet break.

There are also several sports clubs, community centers, and leisure facilities in and around the area, including local gyms and fitness studios.

Shops and Amenities

Belgrave is a bustling area with a wide range of local shops, supermarkets, and essential services, ensuring that residents have access to everything they need.

Belgrave Road (Golden Mile): This vibrant street is one of Leicester’s most famous shopping areas, particularly known for its Asian shops, restaurants, and markets. You’ll find a variety of independent stores selling spices, fabrics, jewelry, and traditional clothing. It’s also home to a number of cafes and eateries offering a range of cuisines, including Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani.
Supermarkets: There are several supermarkets in the area, including large stores like Tesco Express and Iceland, as well as smaller independent shops catering to the diverse local community. There’s also a weekly market in Belgrave, where residents can buy fresh produce and other goods.
Healthcare: Belgrave has a range of healthcare services, including Belgrave Health Centre and various dental practices. The area is also well-served by pharmacies and opticians.
Leisure and Dining: Belgrave is home to a variety of dining options, from traditional Indian and Pakistani restaurants to modern cafes and takeaways. The area is especially known for its curry houses, and the famous Golden Mile is a popular destination for food lovers.

For more extensive shopping, residents can easily access Leicester’s Highcross Shopping Centre, which is just a short distance away and offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Dining and Nightlife

Belgrave is renowned for its rich food culture, offering a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and takeaways that cater to all tastes. The area’s Golden Mile is particularly famous for its array of curry houses and South Asian dining options, including:

The Royal Bengal: A well-known Indian restaurant serving a wide range of traditional dishes in an elegant setting.
Saffron Restaurant: Offering authentic Indian cuisine, Saffron is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Takeaway Options: There are numerous takeaway spots in Belgrave, serving everything from kebabs and pizzas to traditional Indian and Bangladeshi food.

While Belgrave doesn’t have a bustling nightlife scene like Leicester’s city center, there are a number of relaxed pubs and bars where residents can enjoy an evening drink. For more vibrant nightlife, Leicester city center is just a short bus or taxi ride away, offering a wide variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Local Events and Community Life

Belgrave is known for its strong community spirit and hosts a range of events and cultural festivals throughout the year. Some of the highlights include:

Diwali Festival: As one of Leicester’s most famous celebrations, the Diwali Festival is a major event in Belgrave, with thousands of visitors attending the festival of lights. The area’s shops and restaurants get involved, and the celebrations bring the local community together in a vibrant and joyful atmosphere.
Bengali New Year: This cultural celebration, known as Pohela Boishakh, is celebrated by the local Bengali community with food, music, and dance, making it a vibrant event in Belgrave.
Local Fairs and Markets: Belgrave hosts various community events, including local fairs, charity events, and farmers’ markets, which provide an opportunity for residents to gather and celebrate local culture.

Final Thoughts

Belgrave is a dynamic and multicultural area that offers a unique living experience. With its diverse housing options, strong community spirit, rich cultural heritage, and excellent transport links, it is an increasingly attractive place to live for families, young professionals, and retirees. The area’s lively shops, restaurants, and green spaces make it a convenient and enjoyable place to call home, while its proximity to Leicester city center ensures that residents have access to all the amenities and entertainment that the city has to offer. Whether you’re seeking a characterful Victorian home, a vibrant cultural community, or a convenient location close to the heart of Leicester, Belgrave is a fantastic choice.