Loughborough is a market town in Leicestershire, England. It is located on the River Soar and has a population of over 57, 000 people. The town is known for its university, which was founded in 1892, and for its engineering and manufacturing industries. It is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the Church of St Mary the Virgin, which dates back to the 13th century. Loughborough is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions such as the Great Central Railway, the National Space Centre, and the Charnwood Museum.