If you are looking for a luxury Aparthotel in Leicester city centre with a story to tell, few places compare to The Pocklington.
Nestled on the historic Pocklingtons Walk, our boutique Aparthotel sits within a remarkable historic building that once served as Leicester’s Magistrates’ Court. Today, this beautifully restored property offers luxury serviced apartments in Leicester, combining heritage architecture with modern comfort.
One of the most fascinating apartments in the building is the Magistrates Suite — named after the courtroom that once operated within these very walls.
For guests who love historic hotels, unique stays, and heritage buildings, this suite offers something truly special.
A Historic Building in the Heart of Leicester
Before becoming one of the most distinctive luxury Aparthotels in Leicester, this building played a central role in the city’s justice system.
For many decades, the building on Pocklingtons Walk operated as Leicester’s Magistrates’ Court, where local judges presided over hundreds of cases each year.
People from across the city would enter the courthouse to:
- Attend legal hearings
- Stand before the magistrates
- Resolve disputes and offences
- Witness justice being served
The courtroom that once hosted these proceedings has since been carefully transformed into a luxurious living space — now known as The Magistrates Suite.
Today, instead of legal arguments echoing through the room, guests enjoy peaceful luxury accommodation in Leicester city centre.
The Hidden Prison Cells Beneath the Building
One of the most fascinating pieces of history beneath The Pocklington lies hidden underground.
Like many historic British courthouses, the building included basement holding cells, where defendants were temporarily detained before appearing in court.
These prison cells were used to hold individuals awaiting their hearing before being escorted upstairs to face the magistrates.
The process typically worked like this:
- Defendants were brought to the courthouse by police officers.
- They were placed in secure holding cells beneath the courtroom.
- When their case was called, they were escorted upstairs into court.
- Depending on the outcome, they were either released or transferred to HM Prison Leicester.
While today our guests enjoy luxury comfort, these basement cells are a reminder of the building’s extraordinary past.
It is rare to stay somewhere where the history beneath your feet is quite so real.
From Courtroom to Luxury Aparthotel
When the historic building was restored and transformed into The Pocklington, great care was taken to preserve its character.
The result is one of the most unique boutique hotels in Leicester city centre, offering guests a stay that combines:
- Heritage architecture
- Spacious luxury suites
- Modern amenities
- A prime central location
Our luxury serviced apartments in Leicester provide far more space and privacy than traditional hotels, making them ideal for:
- Business travellers
- City breaks
- Extended stays
- Special celebrations
The Magistrates Suite in particular stands out as a tribute to the building’s fascinating history.
The Magistrates Suite: Where History Meets Luxury
Today, the Magistrates Suite at The Pocklington offers a completely different experience from its former life as a courtroom.
Guests staying in the suite enjoy:
- A beautifully designed luxury apartment
- Generous space and elegant interiors
- High ceilings reflecting the building’s historic architecture
- A calm retreat in the heart of Leicester city centre
This combination of historic character and contemporary design makes the suite one of the most unique places to stay in Leicester.
For travellers searching for a historic hotel in Leicester, the Magistrates Suite offers the chance to sleep inside a piece of the city’s story.
A Unique Stay in Leicester City Centre
Many visitors searching for luxury accommodation in Leicester want more than just a place to stay — they want an experience.
At The Pocklington, every apartment reflects the character of the historic building while offering the comfort and style expected from a modern luxury Aparthotel in Leicester city centre.
Located just moments from Leicester’s shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, The Pocklington provides the perfect base for exploring the city.
Yet unlike standard hotels, our suites offer something far more memorable: a stay inside one of Leicester’s historic landmark buildings.
Book Your Stay at The Pocklington
Whether you are visiting Leicester for business, a weekend getaway or a special occasion, The Pocklington Aparthotel offers a stay unlike any other.
Discover the charm of The Magistrates Suite, explore the history of the building and enjoy the comfort of our beautifully designed luxury apartments.
Experience a place where Leicester’s past meets modern luxury.
Book your stay directly with The Pocklington and experience one of the most unique luxury Aparthotels in Leicester city centre.





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