Central England has the wow-factor when it comes to dramatic countryside. Clamber craggy peaks and moors in the Peak District National Park, bike deep through the National Forest or turn back the clock to the industrial age on the Grand Union Canal. Step into the West Midlands’ cities in style in shoppers' paradise Birmingham and cathedral city Coventry. Enjoy Shakespearean plays at the theatres, discover the Bard’s quaint family homes in Stratford-upon-Avon, and head to Sherwood Forest for adventures with England’s favourite outlaw. Be prepared for a culinary adventure too. Central England has a mouth-watering plethora of specialities from sticky Bakewell tart to sizzling balti curries and Stilton cheese.
Central England
See The National Forest in bloom at Yoxall Lodge
Too many hours indoors during winter’s gloomy days and you’re looking to break out into spring’s fresh air and lengthening daylight hours.
Location: Yoxall, Staffordshire
Experience the adventure and thrills of the Monsal Trail
Whizz through four former railway tunnels on your bicycle and enjoy breathtaking views on the Monsal Trail.
Location: Hassop, Derbyshire
Tour the tower of Lincoln Cathedral
For 300 years Lincoln Cathedral was the tallest building in the world. Take a tour of the iconic building for an unforgettable experience.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Head off-road on two wheels in Sherwood Forest
From family cycle trails to extreme mountain biking, Sherwood Pines Forest offers the best when it comes to getting active on two wheels.
Location: Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire
Enjoy a camping weekend at the National Water Sports Centre
Take advantage of a budget break in Nottingham with a camping weekend at the National Water Sports centre, just 10 minutes from the heart of the city.
Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Hunt for ghosts at the National Justice Museum
Named one of the most haunted buildings in Britain, the National Justice Museum was once home to the villainous Sheriff of Nottingham.
Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Cycle along a disused railway line in Stratford-upon-Avon
Explore the English countryside saddle side whilst cycling the 5-mile long Stratford Greenway.
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Rock Climb in the Peak District
With 10,000 recorded climbs the Peak District is widely recognised as having some of the best climbing in the country.
Location: Peak District, Derbyshire
Ride the Water Rail Way cycle route
Begin your ride in the city and then head out to the Wolds.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Walk, cycle or ride the Longdendale Trail
Cycle, walk or bring a horse...
Location: Glossop, Derbyshire
Hire a bike for a cycle in Lincoln
Hire a bike in Lincoln and take it out for a spin on one of the picturesque routes and paths that begin in the historic city.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Free-wheeling fun in Leicester & The National Forest
From a city full of fresh cycling ideas, to off-road biking excursions in The National Forest.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Follow King Arthur’s trail in Shropshire
King Arthur (the real one!) was born, lived and died in Shropshire. No, really. And his Queen Guinevere was a Shropshire lass too.
Location: Oswestry, Shropshire
Enjoy sculptures and breathtaking views on the Spa Trail
Enjoy a family friendly cycling route following an old section of the Horncastle to Woodhall Spa railway route.
Location: Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire
Marvel at the view from one of Nottinghamshire’s highest points
Stroll along a network of landscaped trails before climbing to one of Nottinghamshire's highest points, where a view of Hardwick Hall awaits you.
Location: Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Follow in Roman footsteps with a free smartphone app
Looking for an immersive and cheap experience? Use mobile technology to delve into the past with Lincoln’s free digital Roman Trail app.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Discover a haven for flowers in the heart of England
Wander hand-in-hand along Worcestershire’s Spring Blossom Trail, through field after field, amongst the county’s blossoming flowers and plant life.
Location: Vale of Evesham, Worcestershire
Enjoy a fun family break in Leicestershire
Treat your children to a fun-filled short break in Leicestershire.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire