The town was founded in 1876 by a British missionary, Reverend John Widdicombe.

Three different sightseeing locations are the Leribe Craft Centre, statue in front of the District Administration office, and an old military lookout.

The Leribe Craft Centre sells handmade wool items ranging from scarfs to jackets.

The statue in front of the District Administration building dates back to English rule of Lesotho.

The old military lookout also dates back to English rule and is located in the central part of the city.