12 Enchanting Spots in The East Midlands to Add to Your Bucket List

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The East Midlands surprised me in the best possible way. When I first walked through Chatsworth House’s gardens, with water cascading down the massive baroque fountains and the grand house glowing like gold in the morning sun, I couldn’t believe this was real. The whole place felt like it jumped straight out of a period drama!

I’ll tell you what, the beautiful places in the East Midlands are seriously underrated. One day I’m exploring Lincoln Cathedral (which towers over the city like a medieval skyscraper), and the next I’m wandering through Sherwood Forest, where you can actually hug a 1000-year-old oak tree. Ready to discover 12 incredible spots that’ll make you see this region in a whole new light?

Top Sights to See in The East Midlands

Visiting The East Midlands? Spend the day exploring the picturesque village of Ashford in the Water, enjoy the charming market town of Bakewell, or take in the stunning scenery of Castleton. Discover the industrial heritage of Cromford Mills, marvel at the breathtaking architecture of Lincoln Cathedral and Castle, stroll through historic streets for shopping and dining, or savor delicious local treats. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or cultural charm, The East Midlands has plenty to offer!

1. Ashford in the Water

• 📍 Location: Picturesque village in the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire,  3 miles north of Bakewell
• 🏆 Best For: Countryside wanderers 🚶‍♀️, riverside relaxers 🌿, heritage hunters 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Admiring the famous Sheepwash Bridge, exploring the medieval parish church, strolling along the River Wye
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn for ideal walking weather, May for stunning bluebell displays in nearby woods 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Ashford Arms – Charming traditional inn with cozy rooms in the heart of the village

Picture-perfect Ashford in the Water enchants visitors with its iconic Sheepwash Bridge, a medieval packhorse bridge with a unique sheep pen once used before shearing. The village sits along a tranquil stretch of the River Wye, creating a peaceful atmosphere miles from city life. The 13th-century Holy Trinity Church features an ancient yew tree and fascinating headstones worth exploring.

The village truly comes alive during summer’s well dressing festival, when elaborate displays made entirely from flower petals and natural materials adorn the community. You’ll find it hard to resist a riverside picnic followed by a visit to a cozy pub for traditional fare. Gentle paths lead through surrounding countryside, offering some of the Peak District’s most idyllic landscapes for afternoon walks.

2. Bakewell

• 📍 Location: Heart of the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire,  13 miles southwest of Sheffield and 25 miles north of Derby
• 🏆 Best For: Food enthusiasts 🍽️, market goers 🛍️, history lovers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Sampling the original Bakewell Pudding, exploring the historic market town, walking along the River Wye
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Monday for the bustling market day, summer months for outdoor dining, autumn for spectacular colors along the river 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Rutland Arms Hotel – Historic coaching inn where the Bakewell Pudding was allegedly first created

Charming Bakewell welcomes visitors with its medieval five-arched stone bridge spanning the River Wye and streets lined with honeyed stone buildings. This market town gained fame as the birthplace of the legendary Bakewell Pudding, allegedly created by accident in the 1800s at the Rutland Arms Hotel. Sample the original recipe at the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop or Bloomers bakery, where friendly rivalry ensures exceptional quality.

The historic Monday market has operated since 1330, filling the town center with stalls selling local produce and crafts. After exploring All Saints Church with its Saxon crosses, I recommend enjoying your pudding in the beautiful riverside Bath Gardens. The town serves as the perfect base for Peak District adventures, with numerous walking trails leading directly from the town center into stunning limestone landscapes.

3. Castleton

• 📍 Location: Western edge of the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, nestled between the Dark Peak and White Peak regions
• 🏆 Best For: Cave adventurers 🕳️, hikers 🥾, geology enthusiasts 🪨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the four show caves, hiking to Mam Tor, discovering Peveril Castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, summer for longer hiking days, Christmas season for the atmospheric cave concerts and village lights ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: YHA Castleton Losehill Hall – Historic gothic mansion offering affordable accommodation in stunning grounds

Dramatic Castleton sits in the shadow of towering Mam Tor and serves as a gateway to four spectacular show caves. Each underground wonder offers unique appeal: Peak Cavern impresses with its massive entrance chamber, Speedwell Cavern features an underground boat journey, while Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine showcase the rare purple-blue fluorite found nowhere else on earth.

Above ground, the ruins of 11th-century Peveril Castle perch on a limestone outcrop overlooking Hope Valley. The famous ridge walk from Mam Tor to Lose Hill rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramas across Derbyshire. After exploration, village pubs welcome weary adventurers with roaring fires, traditional fare, and local ales. The Christmas season brings special cave concerts and twinkling lights throughout the village, creating magical winter memories.

4. Cromford Mills

• 📍 Location: Southern edge of the Peak District, Derbyshire, within the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 🏆 Best For: Industrial heritage enthusiasts 🏭, history buffs 🏛️, canal walkers 🚶‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking a guided mill tour, exploring the canal, visiting Arkwright’s Masson Mills
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for mill tours, summer for canal boat trips, special events throughout the year 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Greyhound Hotel – Historic coaching inn just steps from the mills, dating back to the 1700s

Revolutionary Cromford Mills stands as the world’s first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill and birthplace of the modern factory system. Built by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1771, this historic complex changed manufacturing forever. The North Mill houses interactive exhibits explaining Arkwright’s innovations, while guided tours reveal stories of workers who transformed rural Derbyshire into an industrial powerhouse.

Peaceful Cromford Canal borders the site, offering wildlife-rich walks with industrial heritage views. Nearby Masson Mills, Arkwright’s second factory, houses a working textile museum where vintage looms still clatter. The Derwent Valley Heritage Way connects multiple revolutionary industrial sites along this UNESCO-protected corridor. End your visit at the canalside café in the original mill yard, where 18th-century innovation meets modern refreshments.

5. Lincoln Cathedral and Castle

• 📍 Location: Historic hilltop in Lincoln, Lincolnshire,  40 miles northeast of Nottingham
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture admirers 🏛️, history enthusiasts 🏰, photography lovers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the cathedral tower, walking the complete medieval wall circuit, exploring the Victorian prison
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, Christmas Market in December, summer for roof tours ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lincoln Hotel – Elegant accommodation directly opposite the cathedral with stunning views

Magnificent Lincoln Cathedral dominates the city skyline with three massive towers visible for miles across Lincolnshire. Built between 1072 and 1311, this Gothic masterpiece features intricate stone carvings, soaring vaulted ceilings, and spectacular rose windows. Look for the famous Lincoln Imp hiding among the stonework, then visit the medieval library housing rare manuscripts.

Directly opposite stands Lincoln Castle, built by William the Conqueror and home to one of four surviving original Magna Carta copies. The complete medieval wall walk offers 360-degree views over city and countryside. Between these landmarks runs charming Steep Hill, lined with independent shops in medieval buildings. The Victorian Prison within the castle grounds provides glimpses into 19th-century justice through preserved cells and original features.

6. Mersea Island

• 📍 Location: Essex coastline, connected to the mainland by a tidal causeway,  10 miles south of Colchester
• 🏆 Best For: Seafood lovers 🦪, beach wanderers 🏖️, bird watchers 🦅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Dining on fresh oysters, exploring the colorful beach huts, sailing in the estuary
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities, shoulder seasons for wildlife watching; check tide times before crossing the causeway 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Victory at Mersea – Charming waterfront inn with fresh seafood and comfortable rooms

Tidal Mersea Island delivers coastal charm as England’s most easterly inhabited island, occasionally cut off from the mainland during high spring tides. Divided between bustling West Mersea with its working harbor and quieter East Mersea with nature reserves, the island offers authentic maritime atmosphere. West Mersea has harvested famous native oysters since Roman times, best enjoyed at the Company Shed, where they’re served fresh from estuary waters.

West Mersea Beach features vibrant, photo-worthy beach huts and golden sands perfect for swimming. Nature enthusiasts should head to Cudmore Grove Country Park on the eastern tip for coastal walks and abundant birdlife. The sheltered waters surrounding Mersea make ideal sailing territory, with August bringing the colorful Mersea Week regatta. Remember to check tide tables before arriving, as the causeway floods during the highest tides!

7. Nottingham

• 📍 Location: Central England,  2 hours north of London and 1 hour east of Birmingham
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏰, shoppers 🛍️, culture seekers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Nottingham Castle, discovering the city’s underground cave system, enjoying the vibrant Lace Market district
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor events, December for the Christmas Market 🎄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lace Market Hotel – Boutique accommodation in the heart of Nottingham’s historic quarter

Step back in time in Nottingham, where medieval history meets urban energy. The renovated Nottingham Castle offers panoramic city views and engaging exhibits on the region’s past, including the Robin Hood legacy.

Beneath the streets lies the UK’s largest network of man-made caves, with over 800 underground spaces dating back centuries. The historic Lace Market district features independent shops and stylish bars housed in preserved Victorian buildings. I loved exploring Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, claimed to be England’s oldest inn, carved directly into the castle rock. With excellent shopping and a thriving food scene, Nottingham rewards visitors with both historical charm and modern attractions.

8. Peak District National Park

• 📍 Location: On Nottinghamshire’s western border, extending into Derbyshire,  1 hour west of Nottingham
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, cyclists 🚵‍♀️, nature lovers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the dramatic Mam Tor ridge, exploring limestone dales, visiting charming villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-September for ideal hiking conditions, autumn for stunning colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Cavendish Hotel – Historic luxury accommodation on the Chatsworth Estate

Dramatic landscapes await at every turn in Britain’s first national park. Peak District National Park offers stunning contrasts between the rugged moorlands of the Dark Peak and the gentler limestone dales of the White Peak.

The park features over 1,800 miles of trails, including the famous Pennine Way and Monsal Trail, perfect for hikers and cyclists. For breathtaking views, hike the ridge at Mam Tor for panoramic vistas stretching across diverse terrain. Throughout the park, quintessential English villages like Castleton and Bakewell welcome visitors with stone cottages and traditional pubs. The natural beauty changes with each season, making any time perfect for exploring this outdoor paradise.

9. Pilsley and Chatsworth

• 📍 Location: Eastern Peak District,  30 minutes west of Sheffield and 1 hour from Nottingham
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, garden enthusiasts 🌸, architecture admirers 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Chatsworth House’s opulent rooms, wandering the expansive gardens, visiting the farm shop in Pilsley
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-October when gardens are in full bloom, December for magical Christmas decorations ✨
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Devonshire Arms – Charming country inn in Pilsley village owned by the Chatsworth Estate

Grandeur defines Chatsworth House, one of Britain’s most magnificent stately homes. This palatial estate features 30 spectacular rooms open to the public, including the breathtaking Painted Hall and Sculpture Gallery housing art spanning 4,000 years.

The surrounding 105-acre gardens showcase the 300-year-old Cascade waterfall, a maze, and the remarkable Emperor Fountain. Nearby lies picture-perfect Pilsley village with honey-colored cottages and the exceptional Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop offering artisanal foods. Walking these grounds makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a living postcard of quintessential English countryside. Special events throughout the year include International Horse Trials and the magical Christmas transformation.

10. Sherwood Forest

• 📍 Location: Northern Nottinghamshire,  30 minutes north of Nottingham city center
• 🏆 Best For: Folklore enthusiasts 🏹, woodland walkers 🌳, family adventurers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing the legendary Major Oak, walking ancient woodland trails, visiting the Robin Hood Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for lush greenery, late July/early August for the annual Robin Hood Festival 🏹
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sherwood Forest Holiday Park – Comfortable lodges set right within the ancient woodland

Ancient oaks stand sentinel in the legendary home of England’s most famous outlaw. Sherwood Forest covers 1,000 acres of protected nature reserve with over 900 veteran oak trees, some exceeding 500 years old.

The forest’s centerpiece is the Major Oak, a gnarled giant estimated to be 800-1,100 years old with a massive trunk circumference. Well-maintained trails range from easy strolls to longer hikes through atmospheric woodland. The annual Robin Hood Festival brings medieval reenactors, archery displays, and storytellers to this historic setting. Even on quiet days, walking among these storied trees transports visitors to a time when outlaws might have hidden in these very shadows.

11. Tissington Trail

• 📍 Location: Southern Peak District, extending from Ashbourne toward Buxton,  1 hour west of Nottingham
• 🏆 Best For: Cyclists 🚴‍♀️, casual walkers 🚶‍♂️, horse riders 🐎
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cycling the car-free former railway path, visiting Tissington village, exploring the connecting High Peak Trail
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May for Tissington Well Dressing, September-October for spectacular autumn colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Newton House Hotel – A charming and cozy hotel offering convenient access to local attractions in the East Midlands

Peaceful countryside unfolds along the 13-mile Tissington Trail, a former railway line converted to a traffic-free path. With gentle gradients and well-maintained surfaces, the trail welcomes cyclists, families, and horse riders through picturesque Peak District landscapes.

The route passes the enchanting Tissington village, a perfectly preserved estate settlement with a stunning Jacobean hall and traditional tea rooms. The annual Well Dressing in May transforms the village with intricate natural art decorations dating back centuries. Several converted railway stations offer bike rentals and cafes along the way. The trail connects to the longer High Peak Trail, allowing more ambitious explorers to extend their journey through beautiful limestone scenery and abundant wildlife habitats.

12. Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park

• 📍 Location: Western Nottingham,  3 miles from the city center
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture admirers 🏛️, nature lovers 🦌, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Elizabethan mansion, spotting free-roaming deer, exploring the Natural History Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for daffodils and bluebells, October for the deer rutting season 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: De Vere Orchard Hotel – Modern eco-friendly hotel adjacent to Wollaton Park

Elizabethan splendor crowns a hill at Wollaton Hall, surrounded by 500 acres of parkland. This spectacular mansion houses Nottingham’s Natural History Museum, featuring impressive wildlife exhibits, including dinosaur fossils and an extensive insect collection.

Outside, herds of red and fallow deer roam freely across the landscaped grounds, continuing a tradition from the 1500s. The formal gardens showcase beautiful seasonal displays while trails wind around the large lake and through ancient woodland. The Gothic-style industrial buildings include the charming Camellia House and Stable Block. Families enjoy the modern playground and regular events throughout the year. Just minutes from Nottingham city center, Wollaton offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty in every season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in The East Midlands  

Eager to discover more about the most beautiful spots in The East Midlands? Here are some questions I commonly encounter about its best attractions.

What is the East Midlands famous for?

The East Midlands is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural diversity. It’s the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, with historical sites like Cromford Mills offering a glimpse into the past. The region is also famous for its natural beauty, featuring destinations like the Peak District National Park, one of the most beautiful places of The East Midlands. Cities like Nottingham add a layer of legend and lore, thanks to the tales of Robin Hood. Additionally, the East Midlands is a hub for traditional foods, including the iconic Bakewell Tart and Stilton cheese.

Where is the best place to live in East Midlands UK?

Determining the best place to live in the East Midlands depends on your lifestyle and preferences. For those who love the hustle and bustle of city life, Nottingham offers a vibrant urban environment with plenty of amenities. If you prefer a quieter, more rural setting, villages like Ashford in the Water offer tranquility and natural beauty. Lincoln is a great option for those interested in history and architecture, boasting landmarks like Lincoln Cathedral and Castle. Overall, the East Midlands offers a range of living options, making it one of the best parts of The East Midlands for various lifestyles.

How do I get around in the East Midlands?

The East Midlands is well-connected by public transport, including buses and trains, making it one of the most accessible destinations in The East Midlands. Major cities like Nottingham and Lincoln have extensive bus networks, and train services connect various towns and tourist spots. For those who prefer driving, the roads are generally well-maintained and offer scenic routes, especially in areas like the Peak District.

Is East Midlands worth visiting?

Yes, the East Midlands region of England is definitely worth visiting, offering a diverse range of attractions and experiences. Here are some highlights that make it a worthwhile destination:

1. Historical Sites: The region is rich in history, with landmarks like Lincoln Cathedral, Nottingham Castle, and the ancient city of Leicester. Each of these locations offers a glimpse into England’s deep historical roots.
2. Natural Beauty: The East Midlands boasts stunning natural landscapes, including the Peak District National Park, which offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and photography.
3. Cultural Experiences: Cities like Nottingham, Derby, and Leicester are vibrant cultural hubs with museums, art galleries, theaters, and a lively music scene.
4. Literary Connections: Nottinghamshire is famously associated with the legend of Robin Hood, and the region has inspired numerous writers, including D.H. Lawrence.
5. Culinary Delights: The region is known for its traditional British cuisine, including Bakewell tarts from Derbyshire and Stilton cheese, which is locally produced.
6. Family-Friendly Attractions: There are plenty of attractions for families, including theme parks like Alton Towers, wildlife parks, and interactive museums.
7. Shopping: From boutique shops in quaint market towns to modern shopping centers in the cities, the East Midlands offers a variety of shopping experiences.

What are the must-see historical sites in the East Midlands?

If you’re a history buff, the East Midlands won’t disappoint. From the medieval splendor of Lincoln Cathedral to the industrial heritage of Cromford Mills, the region is rich in historical landmarks. Nottingham Castle offers a dive into the legend of Robin Hood, making it a must-see in The East Midlands for fans of folklore. Other notable sites include the ruins of Peveril Castle in Castleton and the ancient Major Oak in Sherwood Forest.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in the East Midlands?

The East Midlands is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities from hiking and cycling to sailing and fishing. The Peak District National Park is a hotspot for hiking, boasting some of the most scenic places in The East Midlands. Mersea Island is perfect for water sports, while Sherwood Forest offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

What local foods should I try in the East Midlands?

The East Midlands is a food lover’s paradise, offering a variety of local delicacies. Bakewell is famous for its Bakewell Tart, a delicious pastry filled with jam and frangipane. Lincolnshire sausages are another must-try, known for their unique spice blend. Seafood enthusiasts should head to Mersea Island to sample the fresh oysters, making it one of the tastiest places in The East Midlands.

What major cities are in the East Midlands?

The East Midlands region of England encompasses several major cities, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the key cities in the East Midlands include:

1. Nottingham: Known for its association with the legend of Robin Hood, Nottingham is a vibrant city with a rich history. It boasts a variety of cultural attractions, including Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, and a lively arts and music scene.
2. Leicester: A city with a rich cultural diversity, Leicester is famous for its historical sites, including the discovery of King Richard III’s remains. The city also offers a vibrant food scene, museums, and the National Space Centre.
3. Derby: Known as the UK’s “Capital of Innovation,” Derby has a strong industrial heritage, particularly in rail and aero-engineering. It’s also home to the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a collection of Joseph Wright paintings.
4. Lincoln: This city is famous for its medieval Lincoln Cathedral, which was once the world’s tallest building, and Lincoln Castle, which houses one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta.
5. Northampton: Known for its historical shoe-making industry, Northampton also offers cultural attractions like the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery and the Royal & Derngate Theatre.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in The East Midlands  

As we wrap up our journey through the East Midlands, it’s clear that this region is a treasure trove of diverse experiences. From the historical weight of Lincoln Cathedral and Castle to the natural splendor of the Peak District National Park, the East Midlands offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a history aficionado, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore The East Midlands’ beauty, you won’t be disappointed.

The region’s cities and towns each offer their unique charm and attractions, making it one of the best parts of The East Midlands to explore. And let’s not forget the local cuisine, from the iconic Bakewell Tart to the fresh oysters of Mersea Island, that adds a flavorful touch to your travels.

So, if you’re flying to England, make sure to visit The East Midland and take the time to explore its many facets. Whether it’s the bustling city life of Nottingham, the serene landscapes of Mersea Island, or the quaint charm of villages like Ashford in the Water, the East Midlands is more than just a travel destination; it’s a region that captures the essence of England in all its diversity.