Explore Central England

Discover rated places to stay and visit in Central England

Epitomized by cultural figures like Shakespeare and pioneers of industry like Brunel, central England has much to explore both historically and geographically. Derbyshire boasts the fascinating city of Derby, as well as Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District National Park. To the south-east is Leicestershire, a low county with delightful rolling hills, while to the south-west is Staffordshire, home of the world-famous Potteries. Nottinghamshire is to the east and contains Sherwood Forest, the legendary home of Robin Hood, as well as a strong mining heritage.

Rutland is historically the smallest English county, and has much to recommend it, while to the south-west is Northamptonshire, source of the Rivers Avon, Welland, Cherwell and Ouse. Herefordshire forms part of the English border with Wales and is currently home to the world’s largest cider factory. To the north is Shropshire, which also borders on Wales, and contains some of the UK’s most impressive industrial heritage, mostly at Ironbridge. To the east is Worcestershire, and the market town of Kidderminster, which is still famous for its carpet weaving industry.

The birthplace of Shakespeare is Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire, but the West Midlands also has its share of cultural greats. Birmingham alone has given us ELO, Black Sabbath, Duran Duran, Judas Priest, Dexy’s Midnight Runners and The Moody Blues.