Leicester’s Golden Mile: Where All That Glitters Is Gold

Whether you’re sampling sizzling samosas, shopping for gold bangles, or joining the Diwali festivities, Leicester’s Golden Mile offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the UK. It’s where heritage meets modernity, where every glittering window tells a story — and where all that glitters truly is gold.

Just north-east of Leicester city centre lies a place where culture, colour and craftsmanship collide — the Golden Mile. Known for its glittering jewellery stores, vibrant restaurants and bustling atmosphere, this stretch of Belgrave Road is a shining example of how Leicester’s famed diversity has transformed a historic industrial area into one of Britain’s most dazzling cultural landmarks.

From Victorian Industry to Vibrant Community

Once home to Leicester’s booming Victorian industries, Belgrave Road was a powerhouse of manufacturing. Giants like Wolsey and the British United Shoe Machinery Company made the area world-famous for hosiery and shoemaking. But as factories closed and workers moved away, Belgrave’s fortunes faded.

After the Second World War many new arrivals from India, Pakistan, and later Uganda, made Leicester their home. They transformed Belgrave Road’s empty factories and shops into thriving businesses, giving birth to what is now affectionately known as Leicester’s Golden Mile — a name inspired by its rows of jewellers glimmering with 22-carat gold.

A Cultural Treasure Trove

The air of the Golden Mile is filled with the fragrance of incense, spices, and sizzling curries. Shop windows burst with vibrant sarees, embroidered Punjabi suits and intricate jewellery that sparkles under the lights.

From bridal boutiques to sweet shops, the Golden Mile is a feast for all the senses. Every store, restaurant and stall reflects the pride and passion of Leicester’s South Asian community.

Where to Eat on Leicester’s Golden Mile

Food is at the heart of the Golden Mile experience. Here are six standout spots every visitor should try:

• Bobby’s – Where Tradition Meets Innovation. A Leicester institution since the 1970s, Bobby’s offers authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine with a modern twist. From street-style chaats to elegant thalis, every dish tells a story of family, flavour and creativity. eatatbobbys.com

• Sharmilee Restaurant & Shop — Established in 1973, Sharmilee is famous for its weekend-only lilo chevdo — a moreish mix of potato chips, peanuts and gram dal seasoned with lemon, sugar and coriander. It’s a Leicester legend that perfectly captures the Golden Mile’s homemade charm. sharmilee.co.uk

• Hyderabad Wala – For the Biryani Lovers — If you’re craving the rich, aromatic flavours of Hyderabad, Hyderabad Wala delivers in spades. Their signature chicken and mutton biryanis are beloved by locals and visitors alike — each bite bursting with spice, depth and authenticity. hyderabadwala.co.uk

• Shiv Sagar Veg Restaurant — Opened in 2018, Shiv Sagar has quickly become a go-to spot for lovers of pure vegetarian cuisine. The menu spans regional Indian favourites, from crispy dosas to indulgent curries — all served with warmth and hospitality. shivsagar.co.uk

• Mirch Masala — Pioneering Leicester’s street food scene since 1996, Mirch Masala brings a global twist to Indian dining. With Indo-Chinese, Mexican and Italian influences, it’s a true celebration of fusion flavours and creative cooking. mirch-masala.co.uk

• The Balmoral — A historic 1892 hotel turned Indian-inspired pub, offers the perfect blend of tradition and modern flavours right in the heart of Belgrave. thebalmoralleicester.co.uk

Festivals and Fireworks: Diwali on the Golden Mile

The Golden Mile isn’t just about food and fashion — it’s also home to the largest Diwali celebrations outside India. Each year between October and November, Belgrave Road is transformed into a breathtaking display of lights, music and joy.

Thousands gather to watch spectacular fireworks, parades and performances as the area celebrates the Festival of Lights. The jewellery shops and saree boutiques shimmer even brighter, while restaurants overflow with families enjoying festive feasts. For visitors, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that captures the very essence of Leicester’s multicultural spirit.

The Art of Jewellery on the Golden Mile

No trip here is complete without exploring the area’s renowned jewellers. Generations of master craftsmen have perfected the art of 22-carat gold design, creating everything from traditional Indian bangles to contemporary engagement rings. Whether you’re shopping for a wedding or simply admiring the artistry, each piece reflects a story of heritage and trust.

Vishal Jogiya – Crafting Timeless Bespoke Creations. For those seeking jewellery that tells a truly personal story, Vishal Jogiya offers a bespoke service that transforms vision into masterpiece. Established in 1985 and proudly trading on Leicester’s Golden Mile for over 29 years, this family-run jeweller continues a heritage that spans generations. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, blending traditional techniques with modern artistry to create one-of-a-kind designs that celebrate individuality, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. vishaljogiya.com

Fashion and Flair

Beyond gold, the Golden Mile is also a destination for style lovers. Saree and menswear boutiques line the streets, offering everything from handcrafted bridalwear to sleek, modern ensembles. It’s a fashion lover’s paradise, blending centuries-old techniques with contemporary trends. Together, these boutiques showcase the creativity, pride, and elegance that make Leicester’s Golden Mile a true fashion destination.

• Ladlee – Tradition with a Modern Twist. For over 35 years, Ladlee has been at the heart of South Asian fashion in the UK. Family-run and proudly based on Leicester’s Golden Mile since 2000, Ladlee is known for its elegant sarees, intricate lehengas, and sophisticated sherwanis. Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, festival, or family celebration, Ladlee’s collection perfectly balances timeless craftsmanship with modern style. deepamleicester.co.uk

• Deepam – Celebrating Colour and Craftsmanship. A cornerstone of the Golden Mile for more than 25 years, Deepam is renowned for its exquisite range of sarees, lehengas, tailored suits, and Indo-Western outfits. Every design tells a story of cultural heritage and fine artistry, with each fabric carefully chosen to reflect the beauty and vibrancy of South Asian tradition. ladleedirect.co.uk

Community and Commerce

At the heart of it all is the Belgrave Business Association (BBA) — an organisation representing the diverse mix of retailers, restaurateurs and entrepreneurs who keep the Golden Mile thriving. Together, they promote Belgrave as a destination where commerce, culture and community shine side by side. visitgoldenmile.co.uk

A Must-Visit British Gem

Whether you’re sampling sizzling samosas, shopping for gold bangles, or joining the Diwali festivities, Leicester’s Golden Mile offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the UK. It’s where heritage meets modernity, where every glittering window tells a story — and where all that glitters truly is gold.

Explore more to see and do in Leicester: visitleicester.info

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