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
Frolic in Rutland Water's magical outdoor playground
Rutland Water, one of Europe’s largest man-made lakes, is set in over 4,200 acres of stunning countryside, offering you a great getaway experience.
Location: Rutland Water, Rutland
Canal cruise through Staffordshire’s Peak District
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life by hiring a canal boat and leisurely cruising through picturesque scenery.
Location: Peak District, Staffordshire
Take a relaxing boat ride along the River Avon
Enjoy the tranquil waters of the River Avon by boat, as many have been doing for over 100 years.
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Join the A-List on a narrow boat holiday
You just can’t beat messing about in boats and travelling at just 4 miles an hour you are sure to unwind.
Location: Chirk, Shropshire
Explore a living canal village
The Grand Union Canal at Stoke Bruerne is like an outdoor museum with historic canal features to explore.
Location: Stoke Bruerne, Northamptonshire
Boat through the history of a worldwide treasure
Enjoy a trip through the heart of Birmingham via its watery wonders.
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands
Ride a Venetian gondola along the River Avon
Experience all the romance of Venice in the heart of Shakespeare’s hometown in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Paddle through living history on the Heritage Canoe Trail
This brand new route leads to the edge of the Peak District, and features special markers to guide canoeists along the 20-mile canal-based route.
Location: Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire