Getting here & Access

There will be FREE secure bike parking at the festival – 3 locations On-Site. Arrive by bike and get FREE annual Cycle Hub membership! (Usually £10) check out the festival map for the bike park locations.

Visit the Ride Leicester team to claim your membership, and find out more here.

Why not choose a scenic walking route along the picturesque River Soar and make your journey part of the Riverside experience? It’s a relaxed and enjoyable way to arrive at the festival, while taking in some of Leicester’s best riverside views.

Since parking in the immediate area is very limited, we suggest using city centre car parks, which are just a short walk or cycle from the riverside.

Riverside Festival is committed to making the event as accessible as possible for all visitors. Due to the outdoor nature of the festival site and the road closures required to ensure the event remains safe, Blue Badge parking is limited and must be booked in advance.

To request a Blue Badge parking space, please contact the Festivals Team at festivals@leicester.gov.uk

As Riverside Festival spans multiple sites, choosing the right drop-off point can help you start your day exactly where you want to explore.

• Western Boulevard (via Upperton Road) – ideal if you’re starting your visit at Bede Park or Western Boulevard, placing you straight into the heart of the main festival atmosphere.
• The Gateway (via Jarrom Street) – best for accessing the DMU Campus area, including the Cultural eXchanges Stage.
• Castle Street (off Vaughan Way) – recommended for Castle Gardens and The Newarke, giving you direct access to the festivals historic surroundings.

A calm space to rest and get information if needed. Ear defenders and fidget toys available. Find it at Kimberlin Library, DMU Campus, from Saturday 12:00-18:00, and Sunday 12:00-17:00

Selected activities at Castle Gardens include British Sign Language interpretation at the Bright Sparks Arts in Health area.

Local charity Mosaic will be offering trips on Sunbeam II, their fully accessible narrowboat. This boat is equipped with features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges, providing an inclusive experience on the River Soar. Boarding is facilitated via an accessible ramp at Millstone Bridge.

• Bede Park
• Castle Gardens
• Piazza (Western Boulevard)

• DMU Campus Food Court
• Kimberlin Library
• Trinity House
• Leicester Castle Business School
• Leicester Gallery (DMU)
• Newarke Houses Museum
• Changing Places: Jewry Wall Museum

Leicester Wheels for All will be attending with a range of adaptable bikes suitable for all ages and abilities, including wheelchair users.

They will also run a bike taxi service for anyone needing extra help getting around the festival site. Find them based on The Newarke.

Wayfinders and large print maps will be around the site and our friendly festival staff are happy to help we will be in yellow high visibility jackets.