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
Choose between red, white or rosé at Sealwood Cottage
Sample the fruits of this Derbyshire vineyard in the charming countryside of The National Forest, and then go to sleep in a pyramid-roofed bedroom.
Location: Swadlincote, Derbyshire
Be an apprentice brewer for the day at Derventio Brewery
Roll up your sleeves as you become an apprentice brewer for the day in one of Derby’s many micro-breweries.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
October events: Taste the best of the Peak District this autumn
Eat, drink and be merry as you make your way around the stalls at the Great Peak District Fair and Buxton Beer Festival.
Location: Buxton, Derbyshire
Sample real ales at the Winter Ales Festival
Discover your favourite real ale at the Derby CAMRA Winter Ales Festival at the Derby Roundhouse from 20-23 February 2019.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
Fill your belly on a gourmet break in Bakewell
Enjoy a delicious culinary experience in Bakewell, home of the world-famous Pudding, and hone your hands-on skills on a specialist cookery course.
Location: Bakewell, Derbyshire