Things To Do
in Leicester
Leicester is a small inland town in Sierra Leone set amid tropical river valleys. It offers a warm, community-driven atmosphere where markets, roadside eateries, and friendly locals reveal everyday life in the countryside. The area blends farming, fishing, and small trades, with rhythms tied to the river and seasonal changes.
Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, hospitable residents, and opportunities to explore rural landscapes a short distance from Freetown.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Leicester, Sierra Leone, and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up after your journey and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere as you prepare for your adventure ahead.
After a restful morning, take a stroll around the town to get acquainted with the local culture and scenery. Visit the nearby marketplace to experience the hustle and bustle, filled with colorful stalls and friendly vendors. Try some local snacks while mingling with the locals, soaking up the rich culture.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Sierra Leonean restaurant, where you can savor local dishes like jollof rice or groundnut stew. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or exploring the nightlife, mingling with new friends you’ve met during the day. Take the time to reflect on your first day and plan for the great experiences that lie ahead.
Embark on a day trip to Freetown, the capital, after an early breakfast. The drive along the coast is stunning, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush greenery. Arriving in Freetown, your first stop will be the historic Cotton Tree, a significant landmark.
Spend the afternoon visiting the National Museum to learn about Sierra Leone’s rich history and diverse cultures. Then, head to the bustling Sierra Leone National Market to explore local goods and crafts. Don't forget to bargain for souvenirs as you engage with friendly sellers.
Return to Leicester in the evening, where you can enjoy a quiet dinner at your accommodation or a local eatery. Reflect on the day's discoveries and enjoy some downtime. If you’re up for it, consider joining a community gathering to experience local music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🛵Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $10-25 |
| 🏨Guesthouse/hostel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a relaxed pace of life
- Rich riverine scenery and access to rural Sierra Leonean culture
- Limited infrastructure and variable road conditions
- Fewer tourist-oriented services than larger cities
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tenki" - Thank you
- "Plis" - Please
- "Weh de" - Where is...?
- "Ow you tan" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Leicester
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning light over stalls, colorful textiles, and river reflections create vibrant, candid shots.
A gentle overlook along the Rokel/nearby river with sunset hues and boats on the water.
Interior and exterior shots of artisans shaping wood and weaving baskets; capture hands and textures.
Food in Leicester
Leicester Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tomato-spiced rice dish frequently served with fish or chicken; widely enjoyed in markets and eateries.
Must-Try!
Stewed cassava leaves in a rich oil-based sauce, usually eaten with rice or fufu.
Freshly caught river fish served with a fiery pepper sauce and rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fresh produce, fish, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for tasting street food.
Mobile vendors along the river offering grilled fish, pepper sauce, and fried plantains.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use polite titles when addressing elders and avoid direct confrontation in public. Krio or English can be used in most towns.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; accept a respectful refusal.
Dress modestly in public spaces; remove hats in religious spaces; show respect during ceremonies and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Leicester
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in hospitality and service; round up bills or give small amounts for good service. In markets and street stalls, tipping is informal and not expected.
Cash in local currency is common; some larger shops may accept mobile money or cards in urban areas, but carry cash for markets and small businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor exploration, but dusty conditions and water shortages can occur in some areas.
Frequent tropical rain, lush green landscapes, and higher humidity; roads can get muddy and river levels rise; mosquitoes are more common.
Leicester at Night
Hiking in Leicester
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hikes with river views, forest edges, and village scenery; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Short to moderate loops that explore edge forests and farmland with occasional viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Leicester by plane.
Freetown’s main international gateway, approximately a few hours’ drive from Leicester depending on road conditions.
Domestic gateway serving regional towns; useful if combining trips to the interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Sierra Leone’s largest ethnic groups; predominant in the south and east, with strong cultural traditions.
Major group in the north; widely spoken and influential in local commerce and culture.
Smaller communities and migrant residents contribute to local diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; local matches draw crowds and community enthusiasm.
Common at schools and community events; running and long jumps feature in local athletics gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leicester.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most eateries; ask for plant-based stews, cassava, yams, and rice. Avoid meat-based broths and be mindful of fish stock in sauces.