The East Midlands sits right in the heart of England and is easy to combine with London, Yorkshire or the north-west. It mixes lively, multicultural cities with the gentle hills, rivers and stone villages of the Peak District.
Why visit the East Midlands
For history you can touch, great value and a relaxed pace. Leicester tells the story of King Richard III, whose remains were found in 2012; Nottingham has its castle and the legend of Robin Hood; and some of England’s finest stately homes, such as Chatsworth House, are here.
Top places to visit in the East Midlands
Leicester
The King Richard III Visitor Centre and cathedral, the National Space Centre, a lively market and the famous “Golden Mile” of Indian restaurants and sweet shops.
Nottingham
Nottingham Castle, caves cut into the sandstone under the city, and day trips to Sherwood Forest and its ancient Major Oak.
The Peak District
Britain’s first national park (1951): green dales, gritstone edges, market towns such as Bakewell and Buxton, and Chatsworth House.
Derby and the Derwent Valley
The Derwent Valley Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cradle of the factory system, and the riverside town of Matlock Bath.
Best time to visit the East Midlands
April to October is best for the Peak District and gardens. Leicester’s Diwali celebrations, among the largest outside India, take place in October or November, depending on the year.
Getting around the East Midlands
Trains run from London St Pancras to Leicester in about 70 minutes and on to Nottingham and Derby. East Midlands Airport lies between the three cities. Buses and trains reach the Peak District, but a car makes it easier to explore.
What to eat in the East Midlands
A Melton Mowbray pork pie, Stilton and Red Leicester cheese, Bakewell pudding from the town of the same name, and outstanding Indian food in Leicester.
East Midlands FAQ
How long should I stay?
One or two days for Leicester or Nottingham and two or three days for the Peak District.
Is Leicester worth visiting?
Yes, especially for the Richard III story, the Space Centre and the food.
