Keep your eyes peeled ahead! The Haymarket Memorial Clock Tower is hard to miss-it rises up like a giant stone needle right in the heart of the city. Look for a tall, slender tower with lots of intricate stonework and four clock faces, topped by a pointy spire that catches the sunlight. It’s surrounded by a cluster of statues at the base, each one keeping a silent watch over the crossroads. If you see Pizza Hut and some shops nearby, then you’re definitely in the right spot.
Now, as you stand here, let’s go back in time-and mind your head, you’re pretty much at Leicester’s number one meeting point! Before this magnificent clock tower reigned over the crossroads, this spot was famous for… hay! Yep, piles and piles of hay and a building that had everyone grumbling-it was even called the “Haymarket Obstruction.” People dodged carts and horses, probably wishing for some kind of magic roundabout. When rumors started flying about a new clock at the other end of the city, local shopkeepers here threw their own hats in the ring: “Why not have a grand clock right here?” they said. How else could everyone be sure they were fashionably late?
So, the people of Leicester chipped in, even organizing a fundraising concert-imagine singing for a clock! Designs poured in; there were proposals for illuminated dials and statues, and finally, Joseph Goddard’s design was chosen. In 1868, with a lot of muscle and a bit of granite and Ketton stone, the tower rose up. Four statues took their places: Simon de Montfort, Thomas White, William Wyggeston (or Wigston if you read the plinth closely)-all local legends. For years they’ve braved the weather and watched the ever-changing city go by.
At first, the only things ringing out here were horses’ hooves and tram bells. Later, with crazy busy roads, some folks wanted the clock tower gone-in the 1930s, 1960s… but the tower stood stubborn, a bit like a grumpy but lovable grandparent. And when Leicester decided the heart of its city needed a face-lift, the Clock Tower was restored and its surroundings opened up. Now, it’s easier for you to cross the street without bumping into a hay bale or dodging traffic.
Still, if you listen carefully, maybe you’ll catch a whisper from the statues above-wondering what stories you’ll add to their watch tonight.
