1. The Shires Shopping Mall doesn’t allow cameras. Well that’s what the security guard told me after I was spotted trying to photograph the interior of the building.
No cameras allowed? Weren’t we standing in a shopping mall bristling with CCTV cameras, surrounded by shoppers with mobile phone cameras? I could only conclude this was a vain attempt by their marketing department to prevent the wider world from viewing the stark awfulness of this cloistered hanger. Almost as a act of desperation, a large banner outside the building shouts “Welcome to the Shires“, as if we need to be reminded that they are pleased to see us.
The sterile interior of the Shires
A few yards across the road from the Shires, and a pleasant contrast in every respect, is Leicester Market, the largest covered market in Europe. Full of colour and life. So that’s my second interesting fact…
2. Leicester Market is fantastic - 300 stalls selling vegetables, fish, meat, clothing and cloth. The quality is excellent and the prices reasonable. Three mangoes for £1 - amazing! Apparently the market has been on the same site for 700 years.
My third interesting fact continues this vegetable theme…
3. The best vegetarian Indian food in Leicester can be found at Bobby’s at 154-156 Belgrave Road. Bobby’s had been recommended by my cousin. We arrived for a take-away at 6pm on a Saturday evening when it was very busy. I needed some help ordering so asked the guy behind the counter for advice. He left his post and ushered us to a seating area where he explained the family history of the business, the issue of ‘hotness’ and how Bobby’s focusses on bringing out the natural flavours of the vegetables rather than masking them with fried onion and garlic. He was right. The food was delicious and very reasonably priced. We’ll be back! - www.eatatbobbys.com
4. There is a great Big Issue seller in Market Street. This gentleman allowed me to photograph him. “A good face” one of my family commented when I got home. I thank him and wish him well.
↑ Back to top ↑
