places to visit middle england

Top 18 Things to Do in the Midlands of England

kodachrome25/Getty Images

There are so many things to do in the Midlands of England that its remarkable the region is so often overlooked by visitors. They rush from the cosmopolitan South over motorways across to the North without stopping to discover the region that gave birth to Shakespeare, the Industrial Revolution and the greatest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver metalwork ever found.

Enjoy our grab bag of things to do in the Heart of England, from hiking in the Peak District to visiting some of England's grandest historic homes and gardens to crossing the world's first Iron Bridge or going cross country on a vintage steam railway.

Throw Pottery on a Wheel at Wedgwood

Ferne Arfin

At the World of Wedgwood, a terrific museum, shopping and china factory in Stoke-on-Trent, you can see centuries of amazing pottery — including original pots made in Josiah Wedgwood's 18th century factory and even older local wares. The collection, on permanent loan from London's Victoria and Albert Museum , is truly world class. While there, you can tour the factory to see how the finest pots and tableware are thrown and decorated; shop for breathtakingly expensive china; have a posh tea — on Wedgwood china, naturally — or a light lunch in the former workers' canteen, now a sunny, casual restaurant. Best of all, you can throw your own pot on a wheel — with lots of staff help — and organize to have it fired and sent to you as a finished piece.

Explore Iron Bridge Gorge

dageldog/Getty Images

The British public voted the Iron Bridge, a graceful single arch span 60 feet above the river Severn, an English icon in 2006. The world's first cast iron, arched bridge has given its name to the village, to the gorge and to the UNESCO World Heritage site that surrounds it. Hard as it is to imagine in this quiet, bucolic place, Ironbridge Gorge was one of the earliest centers of industry in the world and the place where the seeds of the Industrial Revolution were sown. Today you can visit ten different museums, all within a mile or two of each other. At the Coalport China Museum , step inside a huge beehive kiln to see how the earliest fine bone china was made. At the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron you can explore the remains of one of the world's oldest iron furnaces, where metal was first smelted on an industrial scale. At Blists Hill Victorian Town , stroll in and out of the houses, shops and workplaces of this early village. You can spend a family weekend exploring it and then take a tranquil kayak trip on the river that powered it all.

Dress for the Age of Steam on a Heritage Railway Journey

CaronB/Getty Images

The Midlands has several vintage railways adored by rail and steam enthusiasts from all over the world. They are usually restored and maintained by volunteer enthusiasts and experts who are delighted to tell you all about them. You can ride the rails along quiet backwaters and disused tracks or dress up as an Edwardian to enjoy a cream tea in vintage surroundings while being gently hauled cross country behind a steam locomotive. The Severn Valley Railway is one of the most ambitious, and among the oldest with a history dating back to the Victorian era. There 5 scheduled stops along its 16 miles of track between Bridgnorth in Shropshire and Kidderminster in Worcester as well as request stops in the Severn Valley Country Park and at Northwood. The Telford Steam Railway is actually older than the age of steam. Horses once pulled cars along its rails to deliver raw materials and coal to the industries in Iron Bridge Gorge.

Imagine You're a Roman at Wroxter Roman City

The largest freestanding Roman wall in Britain gives a sense of the size of a bathhouse in Viriconium (now Wroxeter Roman City ), the fourth largest Roman city in Britain. Explore the reconstructed Roman villa, beside the Roman road and based on nearby excavations. The living spaces, furniture and murals will give you a good idea of the life of an average Romanized British family toward the end of Roman occupation in Britain. Unlike the many Roman military installations and religious sites scattered around England, Wroxeter, near Shrewsbury and the Welsh border, was an ordinary middle class town, rather than a garrison, with markets, entertainments and ordinary people. The little museum at the site is fascinating.

Step Back in Time at Attingham Park

 Etrusia UK/Flickr/ CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Not far from Wroxeter, Attingham Park is a house with fascinating stories to tell. Alternately lavished with attention and shamefully neglected by its owners, the house was restored to its 18th century, Georgian glory by the National Trust in the 21st century. Every room tells its own entertaining tales. Take the one about the frugal parson, a younger brother of a younger brother who never expected to inherit the house but did. He was so overwhelmed that he spent the rest of his life throwing off his spartan ways and drinking the cellar dry. There's also a scenic breed of rare and heritage cattle, extensive park land and an ancient oak planted by landscape architecture star Humphrey Repton.

Be Dazzled at BMAG in Birmingham

Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

In 2009, a man with a metal detector made the find of a lifetime, uncovering 3,500 pieces of gold and silver metalwork, enamel and semi-precious stones. The Staffordshire Hoard as it came to be known, is the largest hoard of Anglo Saxon treasure ever discovered. In the battle to keep and display it, that mega-institution, the British Museum , lost out to two Midlands museums, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) , and the Potteries Museum in Stoke-on-Trent . Now you can see the gold near where it was found in the Midlands. And, if you think you might have a go with a metal detector yourself, find out what the rules of Treasure and Treasure Trove are in the UK.

While you're at BMAG, don't miss the world's most important collection of Pre-Raphaelite art with paintings by Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, William Holman Hunt and others of the 19th century Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.

The museum is in the center of Birmingham and is free to visit.

Shop for Everything in Birmingham

Basti Voe/Flickr/ CC BY-SA 2.0  

Indian brides from all over the UK and Europe head to Birmingham to buy sari fabrics and wedding accessories in The Rag Market , the oldest of Birmingham's Bullring markets with 350 stalls selling wares of all kinds. The Bullring markets are just a small part of the retail heaven that is the UK's second largest city. Virtually the whole of the city center is covered with several huge, multi-level modern malls. A short walk away, The Mailbox , so called because it was once a Post Office headquarters designed to look like a typical British mailbox, is a center for luxury fashion. And a few miles away, in the Jewellery Quarter, you can have gems and precious metals custom designed or catch the work of up and coming jewelry designer-makers at more than 100 jewelry shops and 400 jewelry related businesses. Around 40 percent of the jewelry sold in Britain — including some sold by the most prestigious Bond Street shops — is actually made in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace

The market town of Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit locale for lovers of the bard. See a play at the acclaimed Royal Shakespeare Theatre (highly recommended). Tour all the Shakespeare family houses. Or simply wander the streets and along the banks of the Avon, admiring the beautiful, medieval half-timbered houses. Take a lunchtime cruise to see it all from a different perspective. And don't forget to travel a few miles out of town (there's a convenient, hop-on, hop-off bus) to Anne Hathaway's cottage — the scene of the real life Shakespeare in love.

Step into History in the Peak District National Park

john finney photography/Getty Images

When you hike, cycle or motor tour in the Peak District, you are stepping into real social history. The Park is the oldest national park in the UK — though it was only founded in the 1950s. But an event there in the 1930s led to the opening up of most of England's privately owned land to walkers and the foundation of the National Park movement in the UK . In 1932, 500 people walked from the city of Manchester to the highest point in the Peaks, a plateau called Kinder Scout. It became known as the Kinder Scout Mass Trespass and was one of the most successful acts of civil disobedience in UK history. It ultimately led to the National Parks act in 1949, the establishment of Britain's network of long distance paths and the countryside rights of access enshrined in British law. History lesson over. Peak District National Park is a beautiful place to visit for fans of the great outdoors.

Tour Chatsworth, The Duke of Devonshire's Family Home

Graham Marsden/500px/Getty Images

Chatsworth on the edge of the Derbyshire Peak District is one of the most popular homes for U.S. visitors. It has been in the Cavendish family, the current Dukes of Devonshire, for more than 450 years. Among the family's wealth of colorful characters was the scandalous Georgiana Spencer, ancestress of Princess Diana and subject of the film The Duchess, starring Kiera Knightley.

This is one stately home where the contents outshine the 1,000-acre Capability Brown-landscaped park, the gardens and the waterworks — created to thrill a Russian Tzar (who never saw it). The family's passion for art collecting across five centuries has resulted in one of Europe's finest private art collections. More than 4,000 years worth of art is represented — from classical sculptures to contemporary works — all held in trust for the public to see.

Tickets to tour the house, garden, Farmyard & playground or any combination of the four cost between £6.50-£23.

Take a Spin Around a Formula 1 Track

Silverstone , the home of the British Formula 1 Grand Prix, is just one of the surprising things you'll find in the county of Northhamptonshire, also called the "Heart of England." While there, you can accompany a driver on a hair raising ride around the track at speed. Or you can spend the day learning how to drive a Formula 1 car to take on the track yourself.

Visit Althorp, Princess Diana's Childhood Home

Althorp, Diana's childhood home and final resting place, is open to the public during fixed periods every year. The dates are announced on the Althorp website . The house has been the home of the Spencer family for 500 years and its collections are fascinating. There are 650 portraits, perhaps the finest portrait collection in Europe, including a room full of family portraits by Sir Joshua Reynolds, who was a family friend. There's also a long gallery of portraits of the ladies of King Charles II's court, all said to be his mistresses, painted by Lely. The house has the only known portrait from life of the ill-fated Lady Jane Grey, queen of England for about 9 days before being beheaded by Mary Tudor, aka Bloody Mary.

Discover the Wonder of an English Bluebell Wood

Stuart Leche/Getty Images

If you visit Northamptonshire in May, make time to stop at Coton Manor , for its lovely English bluebell wood. The garden, created privately by one determined homeowner and his gardener, is a lovely place to stop for a stroll, have a cream tea and admire the very English springtime sight of a carpet of blooming bluebells covering the floor of a five-acre woodland.

Find Richard III in Leicester

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Richard III, the most villainous king in all of Shakespeare's plays, may not have been such a villain after all. And he may not have been responsible for murdering his nephews — the two little princes — in the Tower of London, in order to secure the throne. The jury's still out on all that. But what is proven is that the skeletal remains found dumped unceremoniously in an unmarked grave under a municipal parking lot in Leicester are those of the hunchbacked king.

The new, award-winning Richard III Visitor Center, Richard III: Dynasty, Death and Discovery, tells the story of his life and times, the dynastic Wars of the Roses and the amazing detective story and modern genetic investigation that led to the discovery and identification of the king's body. After visiting the center, explore Leicester Cathedral , where Richard is now buried, and take in the nearby Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Center to see where he met his end, crying out — if you believe Shakespeare — "A horse, a horse. My kingdom for a horse."

Climb up to Lincoln Cathedral

KMGS Photography/Getty Images

Lincoln, in the East Midlands, has a very well preserved Medieval Quarter as well as some interesting Roman remains. It's at the very top of the town and the cobbled pedestrian street that leads to it is so steep it is actually, officially called Steep Hill. In fact, most of the street is lined with railings to help pedestrians cling on and get to the top. Don't worry though — if you want to make your way from Lincoln's retail district and waterfront on the River Witham without hiking up Steep Hill, there is a bus.

There are plenty of good reasons to visit the area known as Lincoln Uphill. The Cathedral , one of the earliest examples of the English style known as Perpendicular Gothic, was, until the mid 16th century, the only man made structure in the world taller than the Pyramids. While at the Cathedral, look for the Lincoln Imp — legend has it he was frozen in stone by an angel— and The Green Man, a carving that harks back to pagan symbolism. After you visit the Cathedral, find your way down through the Cathedral Quarter to the ruins of the Medieval Bishop's Palace. It's reputed to be haunted and is definitely spooky to visit after dark.

Confront Power and Punishment at Lincoln Castle

Oscarhill/Getty Images

Lincoln Castle has occupied the highest point in the city for almost 1,000 years — possibly longer. It has been a place of judgement and imprisonment for most of that time and remains the site of Lincoln's Crown Court.

It's also a fascinating visitor attraction with three different things to see and do:

• The Magna Carta Vault : In 1215, the barons forced King John to sign the Magna Carta at Runnymede, Bishop Hugh of Lincoln was there and he brought an original copy back to Lincoln. It is one of only four original copies of the Magna Carta, the foundational document of the American legal system, in the world. Two years later, in 1217, a new document was drawn up, incorporating most of the original and adding improvements. It is known as the Charter of the Forest and the underground Magna Carta Vault at Lincoln Castle is the only place you can see both, side by side. There's also a wrap-around screen with a 3D film putting the documents in context and explaining why the Magna Carta, which establishes the rights of the people and the principle that no one is above the law, is important today.
• The Medieval Wall Walk : Circumnavigate the Castle on its intact curtain walls, stopping to peek into the towers and dungeons along the way. Recent improvements have made it accessible — with a wheelchair lift to take visitors up to the safe and dramatic third of a mile wall walk.
• The Victorian Prison : Victorian reformers had some strange ideas about humane imprisonment and they tried out their theories, called the "separate system" in full at the prison within these castle walls. The experience is brought to life for visitors who can don costumes and experience the sights and sounds and the claustrophobia of the unusual chapel

Float Like a Roman on Britain's Oldest Canal

trabantos/Getty Images

Lincoln isn't on the coast but it has a waterfront — and a very old one at that. The Brayford Pool marks the meeting point of the River Witham with the canal known as the Fossdyke Navigation. The Fossdyke connects the Witham to the River Trent — one of England's major waterways. It's the oldest canal in the UK with origins lost in the murky, unrecorded history of the Dark Ages. But the best guess is that the Romans built it around 120 A.D.

You can walk or cycle on 6 mile-long Fossdyke Canal Trail , but why not take to the water instead. The canal itself offers 10 miles of calm, lock free paddling waters, perfect for leisurely canoe or kayak outings.

Find Robin Hood's Lair in Sherwood Forest

 Tom Martin/Getty Images

The Major Oak , is between 800 and 1,000 years old. Legend has it that this was Robin Hood's hiding place and the shelter where he and his band of Merry Men slept, hidden from sight and the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.

At the Sherwood Forest Visitor Center you can find out the best ways to explore this ancient woodland. There's information about walks, wildlife and legends to explore. An important feature of this forest is the number of truly ancient oak trees here. There are at least 1,000 that are thought to be at least 500 years old.

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The Best Day Trips From Birmingham, England

Stay Cheaper By Staying Close to - Not in - London

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

12 "Must-See" Places in England, Scotland and Wales

Every UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK

25 Best Free Things to Do in the United Kingdom

Suggested Itinerary: Three to Six Days in the East of England

The Lake District: The Complete Guide to the English Lakes

Top UK Destinations for Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

10 Little Known Roman Ruins in England, Scotland and Wales

A Complete Guide to British Currency

17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom

How to Travel From London to Birmingham by Train, Bus, and Car

Your Trip to Birmingham, England: The Complete Guide

10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

• About Emily
• About This Blog
• Personal Posts
• My Travel Stories
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Tours and Activities
• Transport and Travel
• Packing Tips
• Travel Gear
• Travel Fashion and Beauty
• Work with me

26 Best Places to Visit in the Midlands, England

• Last Updated 13 May 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

Over the last few years, many of us have been planning holidays a little closer to home. I’ve always been a big advocate for travel at home as well as overseas, so I couldn’t be happier! If you want to explore a few new places in England, this guide to the best places to visit in the Midlands is a good place to start. 

I’ve rounded up recommendations from a bunch of great bloggers, many of them local to the area. Plus I’ve also included a few of my own suggestions, to create a bumper list of all the most spectacular places to explore in the East and West Midlands. As well as the famous Peak District, of course! Enjoy…

Places to Visit in the Peak District, Midlands

11 places to visit in the west midlands, 10 places to visit in the east midlands, places to visit in the midlands: map, peak district national park.

Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja

The Peak District National Park is the oldest national park in the UK, and one of the best places to visit in the Midlands. This is a great destination for outdoor adventures: hiking, camping, cycling, rock climbing, and more!

The Peak District is home to some picturesque and charming villages like Castleton, Bakewell, and Eyam. There’s also stunning scenery like Curbar Edge, the Roaches, and the Dragon’s Back (Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill).

Chatsworth Hall and Haddon Hall are two magnificent stately homes if you’d prefer history to outdoor adventures. Having a car is the best way to get around, although there are some train connections and a local bus network should you be visiting by public transportation.

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Derbyshire and Peak District Day Trip from Manchester

Recommended by: Roshni, The Wanderlust Within

The small chocolate-box village of Castleton is one of the best places to visit in the Midlands. Situated in Hope Valley in Derbyshire, this quaint spot is a favourite for walks in the Peak District as it is home to Mam Tor and Winnats Pass, two popular hikes in the area.

Castleton is also home to the 11th-century ruins of Peveril Castle, one of England’s first Norman fortresses. Castleton village is particularly known for its show caves. There are three in close proximity that are rated some of the best in the country. A visit to Castleton isn’t complete without visiting the quaint village centre and enjoying a traditional afternoon tea at one of the tea rooms.

Recommended by: Tracy, Tracy’s Travels in Time

The popular market town of Bakewell is located in the beautiful Peak District in Derbyshire. Bakewell is perfect for a day out or for a longer break if you wish to explore the area. Chatsworth House estate is only a few miles from the town and there are lots of hiking trails and walks across the local area.

Monday is market day in Bakewell. Visit on the third Saturday of the month for the popular farmer’s market where you will find a large variety of local produce for sale. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample a Bakewell Pudding when in the town. I recommend the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop . There is a café upstairs which is great for lunch or afternoon tea.

Ashford in the Water

Recommended by: Stacy, What Stacy Did

Nestled on the banks of the River Wye, Ashford-in-the-Water is one of the most picturesque villages in the Peak District. Just 2 miles out of Bakewell, it is a wonder that this idyllic village is still relatively hidden from the tourist radar.

The village is made up of beautiful stone cottages around a green space at its centre. My favourite time of year to visit is in late spring, when the cottages are adorned with roses and flower baskets.

The main attraction for most visitors though is the old sheep wash bridge crossing the River Wye. This was named the best place in England for a game of Poohsticks by Visit England! Whatever your preference, you won’t be able to deny the charm of Ashford-in-the-Water. I’m sure it will leave you wanting to explore more of the Peak District.

Pilsley and Chatsworth

Recommended by: Izzy & Phil, The Gap Decaders

Pilsley is a charming and quaint village on the Chatsworth estate just a mile from Chatsworth Park itself. It’s a great place to visit if you’re holidaying nearby. Chatsworth is one of the best-known historic houses in the Midlands and a must-see in the Peak District! Several well-known movies, including Pride and Prejudice, have been filmed at the estate. 

The honeyed stone cottages of Pilsley, many of which are lived in by estate workers at Chatsworth, are set around a traditional green in the centre of the village and boast the most colourful and well cared for gardens.

Head to the Devonshire Arms, a traditional pub serving great food. The Chatsworth House Farm Shop is a great place to buy local and homegrown treats. There are some superb views from the village, to Chatsworth Park and the Derwent Valley.

RECOMMENDED TOUR: 3-Day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour from Manchester

Stratford Upon Avon

Recommended by: Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Located in the heart of England along River Avon, Stratford Upon Avon is a perfect place to visit if you are an ardent fan of Shakespeare and English literature. After all, this was the birthplace of the eternal poet! Naturally, the town has been attracting art and theatre fanatics for more than 250 years.

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is a registered charity that manages all the houses relating to Shakespeare in and around Stratford Upon Avon. It includes Shakespeare’s Birthplace , Anne Hathway Cottage & Gardens, Nash’s House & New Place, Mary Arden’s Farm and Hall’s Croft. Spend the rest of the day along River Avon. You could even hire a traditional canal boat to really make the most of this picturesque river. 

Recommended by: Samantha, The Wandering Wanderluster

Birmingham is England’s second-biggest city and one of the best places to visit in the Midlands if you’re looking for a fun and cultured day out for all the family. The city wins no prizes for its looks, but there’s much to see, do and explore.

Dine at one of Birmingham’s 5 Michelin-starred restaurants, break the bank by visiting the biggest shopping centre in Europe, or take a guided city centre walking tour to discover local history. You could also head to the popular family attraction of Cadbury World that sits just outside the city for a fun family trip.

For those interested in Birmingham’s industrial history, a boat ride along the city’s huge canal system or a stroll through the historic Jewellery quarter is an insightful reminder of the city’s Victorian past.

Recommended by: Faith, XYU and Beyond

Kenilworth is one of those lovely English villages that dates back to the Domesday Book. The Town itself makes for a perfect day out, with its fabulous boutique shops and perfect cafes to have an afternoon tea break. There’s also the Michelin-starred restaurant The Cross, as well as Kenilworth Castle to visit.

Kenilworth Castle is an imposing red sandstone ruin just on the edge of Kenilworth Town. It’s famous for being the home of Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester who was in love with Queen Elizabeth. CLICK HERE to check ticket prices and book.

Kenilworth is a stunningly beautiful castle, even though much of it has gone to ruin. There are walking trails, grand manor houses and exquisite gardens to visit all within easy reach of the town.

Ironbridge Gorge

Recommended by: Sally Akins, The Getaway Guide  

With beautiful landscapes and fascinating history, the Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire is a fabulous destination for a day trip or a longer visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known as “the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution”.

There’s something for everyone in Ironbridge . The 10 museums in the Ironbridge Gorge explain the area’s history, and some of them are particularly fun to visit with children.

For a more active break, the Shropshire countryside is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Or get a different perspective of the area from the River Severn on a raft tour or in a hired kayak.

You’ll also find plenty of quirky shops to browse, and excellent independent bars and restaurants.

Royal Leamington Spa

Recommended by: Vikki, Family Travel with Ellie

I discovered the beautiful town of Royal Leamington Spa way back when I was a student at Warwickshire College. When my parents came to visit, we would enjoy browsing the lovely array of quality shops, and dining in the gorgeous cafes.

Interestingly, Leamington achieved its “Royal “status from Queen Victoria in 1838. A key attraction is the “Royal Pump Room and Baths”.

Fascinatingly, the spa waters were historically known for helping preserve meat and were also believed to cure rabies. A path leading into the River Leam was used by circus people to bathe their animals, including elephants, and much to my daughter’s delight, the Elephant Wash path is still there today.

Cannock Chase

Recommended by: Karen, Marvellous Middle England

Cannock Chase, located between Stafford and Cannock, is the UK’s smallest mainland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This makes it the perfect “off the beaten path” outdoor space to explore, as the crowds flock to its famous neighbours. Don’t let its title fool you, Cannock Chase is home to miles of hiking, biking and running trails, there always seems to be somewhere new to explore.

Thrill-seekers must try the Go Ape high ropes adventure located at Birches Valley Forest Centre, while history fans will love a hike around the many war memorials.

I highly recommend ending your visit with a stay at one of their Forest campsites – the Safari pods offer the perfect opportunity to sleep under the stars.

Recommended by: Kat, Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for places to visit in the Midlands, add Warwick to your list. This beautiful town sits on the banks of the River Avon and is overshadowed by the famous Warwick Castle- founded by William the Conqueror.

The history in the entire area is incredible and Warwick is full of cute cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings which give the entire town a fantastic atmosphere. There are also some brilliant cafes, pubs and restaurants as well as lots of modern and unique shops to explore.

Warwick is also famous for its racecourse. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a motorhome trip , there is a campsite right in the centre with great views of the racing!

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Warwick Castle Day Trip from London

Recommended by: Ania, The Travelling Twins

Shrewsbury is an ancient shire town in the West Midlands. My favourite place in England, with its higgledy-piggledy medieval street plan, narrow passages, and quirky timber frame buildings. They house a variety of pubs, local shops, restaurants and charity shops – those always have a great selection of books.

Shrewsbury is almost completely surrounded by a meander of the River Severn – the longest river in the UK. It wraps around the Old Town and the Quarry – a beautiful 29-acre park. This is the perfect place to unwind after sightseeing and shopping. Talking of the river, you can go for a boat ride or rent a kayak and admire Shrewsbury’s skyline and the magnificent Shropshire scenery from the water.

Recommended by: Dagney from Cultura Obscura

Despite being a major city, Coventry remains off the beaten path for tourists. This is a real shame because Coventry has much to offer! After all, it was voted the UK City of Culture for 2021, a title it most certainly deserves! And you can learn all about why at the city’s numerous museums, including the Coventry Transport Museum and Herbert Art Museum.

For history enthusiasts, one of the top Coventry attractions is the Old Coventry Cathedral, which was completely destroyed by the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Blitz in 1940. It was never restored, but today visitors can explore the ruins and learn more about the Blitz’s effect on the city.

Malvern Hills

Although the Peak District is the best-known countryside area in the Midlands, it’s far from the only one! Over in Worcestershire and Herefordshire, the Malvern Hills are an AONB where the numerous hills provide some of the most impressive views in the country. 

As well as beautiful landscapes and the quaint English countryside, the Malverns are also known for their idyllic towns and villages. Among them is Malvern itself, a Victorian spa town known for its supposedly healing well waters. While the countryside of the Hills is the perfect place to enjoy walking – whether it’s a gentle stroll or a hardcore hike! 

The City of Hereford straddles the banks of the River Wye and amidst the stunning countryside of Herefordshire. It might be a city, but there’s certainly a slower pace of life to enjoy here. Take a stroll along the river, immerse yourself in the historic architecture, or pay a visit to the nearby cattle market for a taste of traditional country life. 

Herefordshire is well known for its farm produce, so be sure to try some of the local food – such as Hereford beef, cider, perry, and potatoes. Don’t miss a trip to the Cide Museum to find out how the county’s famous “golden amber” is made!

Recommended by: Mark at Wyld Family Travel

Leicester lies in the east midlands, home to a little over 350,000 people. Leicester is most well known in recent years for its football team The Foxes, who pulled off a miracle when winning the Premier League title in 2016.

Today Leicester draws tourists to multiple attractions in the city centre. You can visit the National Space Museum which is full of rackets and spaceships. You can visit the site Richard 111 was found. Richard was found buried under a car park in Leicester city centre. Leicester Cathedral today houses the remains of Richard.

Leicester has a long history dating back to Roman times. The remains of the baths of Roman Leicester can be seen at the Jewry Wall. Roman Leicester was an important point on the road north to Lincoln for the armies of Rome.

Mablethorpe

Recommended by: Suzy – Yorkshire to do with Kids

Mablethorpe is a seaside resort on the Lincolnshire coastline in the East Midlands. We love that all the main attractions are close together. There’s so much to do in Mablethorpe!

One of our favourites is the sand train – which also goes in the sea for part of the return journey! The beach stretches for miles and it is golden and clean. There are fish and chips to be munched on and donkey rides to be found. Plus there’s a great mini theme park with rides for all, crazy golf galore and a boating lake.

Recommended by: Steph & Lewis from Book it Let’s Go!

Nottingham is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and legends. There are many things to do in Nottingham that make it worth visiting. From the hand-carved caves under the city that have had many uses over the years, and some are still used today… to Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest for the legend of Robin Hood.

Nottingham is great for couples or families and there are ample green spaces to enjoy. The most famous is Wollaton Hall, which has free-roaming red and fallow deer. This stunning property was also featured in the 2012 movie Batman Begins.

Nottingham has many cultural events throughout the year including Nottingham Pride, Nottingham Mela and Nottingham Carnival which celebrate traditional Indian and Caribbean cultures, respectively.

Sherwood Forest

No trip to the Midlands is complete without visiting the famous Sherwood Forest . Known for being the home of Robin Hood, this protected forest has been a “legend in the making for over 1000 years”. The forest is filled with giant ancient oaks, such as the celebrated Major Oak. This gnarled old tree has been standing for around 800-1100 so it’s seen a lot of English history! 

There are miles of walks and trails around the forest to suit all ages and abilities. They also host many events and guided walks throughout the year. 

Chesterfield

Recommended by: Allison, Urbanite Diary

Chesterfield is a historic market town in Derbyshire, renowned for one of the largest open-air markets in England. Chesterfield Market has been trading for over 800 years – since the town received its market charter in 1204 from King John.

The most iconic landmark of Chesterfield is The Church of St Mary and All Saints, also known as the Crooked Spire, made famous for its twisted and leaning spire, an architectural phenomenon built over 657 years ago in 1362. Although science has since explained this twisting, some folklores still believe that it was caused by the Devil!

Other interesting things to do include visits to Chesterfield Canal, Hardwick Hall and Bolsover Castle.

Silverstone

Recommended by: Darek, Darek and Gosia

One of the most unique places to visit in the Midlands is the Silverstone Circuit. The track is located 30 miles northeast of Oxford , near the town of Silverstone.

As home to the iconic British Grand Prix, the circuit has to be visited by any Formula 1 fan. Watch an F1 race, visit the Silverstone Experience or try your driving skills in a single-seater.

The Silverstone circuit is one of the oldest racing facilities not only in Europe but also in the world. Many drivers call it the “Temple of Motorsport” so this really must be one of the best places to visit in the Midlands!

Although not as well known as some of the other cities in the Midlands, Lincoln is one of the best places to visit in the area. This historic city is known for its medieval cathedral, which towers over the red brick houses of the surrounding historic quarter. From 1311-1549 this was the tallest building in the world! 

During the Second World War, Lincoln was the heart of “bomber country”. The city was home to numerous air bases and Lincoln Cathedral was a popular navigational beacon. You can explore this history at various museums, as well as the new International Bomber Command Centre which opened in 2018. 

Recommended by: Angharad, This Bristol Brood

Visiting the eye-popping-ly picturesque market town of Stamford in Lincolnshire is a bit like walking into a Pride and Prejudice movie (incidentally the Keira Knightley version was filmed here). Cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, a meandering river, 600 listed buildings and a spire-filled skyline (there are a total of 11 churches) imbue the town with an olde worlde charm that has remained unchanged for centuries.

No first-time visit is complete without a visit to Burghley House, which hosts the annual Burghley Horse Trials. Vast grounds surround the mansion, however, the magical Sculpture Garden is well worth paying to explore.

You should also make sure to pay a visit to The George Hotel – an atmospheric old coaching inn – for afternoon tea, grand ice creams or impossibly festive decorations and roaring log fires at Christmas.

Recommended by: Helen on her Holidays

Cromford is a small village in Derbyshire, only a few miles from the Peak District. These days it’s a tranquil place, but 250 years ago it was a busy hub of innovation. The inventor and entrepreneur Richard Arkwright chose Cromford for his revolutionary spinning mill – the first water-powered mill anywhere in the world.

Today Arkwright’s Cromford Mills form part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mills are open for visitors and you can also take a guided tour.

When you visit Cromford Mills, don’t miss visiting the village centre. The old mill pond in the middle of the village is really pretty – you might even see a kingfisher.

Lincolnshire Wolds

Last, but by no means least, the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB is definitely one of the best places to visit in the East Midlands. This is a sprawling area of quaint English countryside , boasting some of the most beautiful and unspoilt scenery in the East Midlands.

With rolling hills, hidden valleys, gentle streams and picturesque villages, there’s a lot of beauty to explore.

This is also the highest land in eastern England between Kent and Yorkshire, so there are some fabulous views of the coast in the east and the Pennines in the west! Perfect for hiking, rambling, cycling, horse riding, or simply village-hopping… don’t miss this gorgeous AONB in the East Midlands. 

More in England

33 of the Best Places to Visit in the South of England

40 of the Most Romantic Places in Britain

30 Places to Visit in the North of England

Are there any more places to visit in the Midlands of England that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts

7 of the Best Long Distance Walks in the UK

• Last Updated 10 May 2024

Rolling countryside, dramatic coasts, and windswept moors… these are some of the best long-distance walks in the UK.

6 of the Best Beaches in Salcombe Devon

• Last Updated 21 March 2024

Golden sand, rolling hills, and a tranquil estuary… these are the best beaches in Salcombe, Devon for the perfect seaside holiday!

15 of the Best Things to Do in Salcombe Devon

• Last Updated 20 March 2024

An insider’s guide to the best things to see and do in Salcombe: seaside holiday heaven on the south coast of Devon, England.

2 thoughts on “26 Best Places to Visit in the Midlands, England”

Stunning Photos.

Thank you :)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top 10 Places To Visit In The Midlands

We all love a good day out. Whether it’s with the kids, as a couple or just a solo adventure. We’re going to show you the top 10 places to visit in the Midlands.

Whether your in the West Midlands or East Midlands, we’re covering the whole area (classed as the Midlands). As it’s such a big area, this post could be super long but we’re handpicking the best areas just for you.

Why Visit The Midlands?

Whether you’re visiting the UK from afar or you live here and are in search of something to do, the Midlands wouldn’t normally be a first choice to visit. But it’s oh so worth it with it’s vast amounts of hidden gems.

West Midlands

The West Midlands is made up of various counties:

• Herefordshire
• Staffordshire
• Warwickshire
• Worcestershire

You’ll also find some major cities such as Birmingham, Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

East Midlands

The same as the West, East Midlands is also made up of several counties:

• Leicestershire
• Lincolnshire (excluding North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire)
• Northamptonshire
• Nottinghamshire

Some of the most populous cities here include Derby, Leicester, Lincoln, Mansfield, Northampton and Nottingham.

Now we know what we’re working with, let’s get straight in to the list!

1. Straford-upon-Avon

A medieval market town, Stratford-upon-Avon is located in Warwickshire (West Midlands). If you have a bucket list of places to visit, this needs to feature on it!

It’s biggest attraction is the fact that it is the birthplace of William Shakespeare – the most famous writer in the world. He was born here in 1564 and also laid to rest here in 1616.

If you want to learn all about the man himself, you can take the hop-on hop-off bus. This will take you to all the most important spots in Shakespeare’s life Mary Arden’s Farm and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

2. Castleton

You’ll find Castleton nestled in Hope Valley, Derbyshire (East Midlands).

If you’re particularly into walking and hiking, you’ll love this gem in the Peak District. It just so happens to be home to two of the most popular walks in the area – Mam Tor and Winnats Pass. Don’t forget the Dragon’s Back Walk too.

Love your history? You’ll find the ruins of Peveril Castle here too. From the 11th century, it’s one of England’s first Norman fortresses.

You can also check out the show caves here. Three are close to the village and are highly rates as some of the best to be found in the country.

Finally, make sure you visit the village centre and enjoy and afternoon tea in one of it’s tea rooms.

3. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is in… you guessed it, Warwick (West Midlands).

It can be hard to choose a castle to visit with there being so many scattered throughout the UK. But Warwick Castle always features on the top lists.

It sits on the River Avon in Warwickshire and construction started very soon after the great Battle of Hastings (1068). It wasn’t until the 12th century that the stone castle started to take shape.

Nowadays, visitors to the castle have lots of activities to choose from in the Summer.

You can take part in a jousting tournament! As well as this, you can watch various shows including archery displays, birds of prey shows and the dragon slayer show – very fitting!

It’s quite easy to make a full day of your visit to Warwick Castle.

4. Bakewell

Another vote for the Peak District! Bakewell is a market town that can be found in the Peak District, Derbyshire (East Midlands).

Walkers and hikers alike will love this one with plenty of walks and hikes across the local area.

Just a few miles out from Bakewell you’ll find Chatsworth House which is well worth a visit.

If you happen to be there on a Monday, you’ll get to enjoy market day.

If a farmer’s market is up your street, get here on the third Saturday of the month. You’ll find a huge variety of local goods and produce on sale.

Whilst you’re here, you have to try a Bakewell Pudding. It’s in the name!

5. Ironbridge

If you can’t guess the attraction here, then there’s no helping you!

Ironbridge is aptly named due to the iron bridge that resides here and stretches over the River Severn. You’ll find it in Shropshire (West Midlands).

1779 is when the bridge was built and it was the first of it’s kind (built using iron) anywhere in the entire world.

Coalbrookdale is where the process of smelting iron using coke was born and it was a ground breaking process at the time.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site as of 1986 and was also the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

6. Mablethorpe

The first seaside has made it’s appearance! Mablethorpe sits on the coast of Lincolnshire (East Midlands).

One of the best things about Mablethorpe is that all of it’s main attractions (of which there are many) are so close together!

Be sure to check out the sand train. It heads in to the sea for the return leg of the journey!

If you love going to the beach, Mablethorpe’s miles of golden sands won’t disappoint. Donkey rides await you and don’t forget the wonderful fish and chips that are available too.

Heading there with the kids? They’ll enjoy the mini theme park that includes a boating lake, crazy golf and rides for all ages.

7. Bourneville

Calling all chocolate lovers!

Bournville in Birmingham (West Midlands) is home to the world famous Cadbury World which started as the original Cadbury chocolate factory in 1879.

John Cadbury created Bournville as a Victorian model village to house his many workers. He also made sure they had access to schools, hospitals and many other essential amenities.

Learn all about the village by taking part in the Bournville Heritage Walk, crossing past all the points of interest.

Whilst you’re here, take a look around Cadbury World and learn how chocolate is actually manufactured (as well as trying samples of the goodies along the way).

8. Sherwood Forest

Back to the East Midlands, specifically Nottinghamshire. The famous Sherwood Forest is a must visit.

It’s well known as being the home of the mighty Robin Wood and has a protected status. It is dubbed as a ‘legend in the making for over 1000 years’.

Giant ancient Oak trees can be found here, one in particular being the celebrated Major Oak.

This tree has been here between 800 and 1100 years! If only it could talk – imagine the history this tree has witnessed!

Walks, walks and more walks. All ages will be able to enjoy a trek around the forest on one of its many trails.

Events are held year round as well as guided walks so be sure to visit more than once.

9. Black Country Living Museum

Fancy a touch of History? Be prepared to take in tons of it!

Get a sense of exactly what life was like back in the 19th and early 20th centuries by visiting the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley (West Midlands).

Many of the staff here are dressed in costume to match the times and play out as characters so you really feel as though you’ve taken a step back in time.

Many of the shops and houses here have been preserved so they are just as they were at the time they we’re actually in use during the area’s time as one of the world’s most heavily industrialised areas.

Prepare to spend the day here as there is so much to see and do.

You’ll learn all about how life was for the average working class person back in recent history.

Fans of the hit show Peaky Blinders will be interested to know that parts of it were filmed right here! And they even hose]t a Peaky Blinders themed event so dress to impress!

10. Silverstone

The Silverstone Circuit near Silverstone (East Midlands) is a must visit for sports fanatics.

It’s located around 30 miles north east of Oxford.

It is home of the British Grand Prix so Formula 1 fans will be right at home here.

You can sit back and watch an F1 race or even take part on the track and test your driving skills with a track day experience.

This circuit is one of the oldest in the world and many drivers hail it as the ‘Temple of Motorsport’.

Go And See The Top 10 Places To Visit In The Midlands

There you have it – 10 places to visit all around the Midlands.

If you’ve already been to these places, then check out more of our posts to really explore the UK like this one about places to visit outdoors .

But even so, these places are definitely worth a second visit as they are truly remarkable and exactly why you shouldn’t discount the Midlands as an ideal place to visit when in England.

• Magazine Subscription Offer
• Newsletters
• Competitions
• Holiday ideas
• Wildlife stories
• Marine life
• Insects and invertebrates
• Trees and plants
• Experiences
• Historical figures
• Green living
• Food & recipes
• Foraging guides
• Outdoor skills
• Craft ideas
• Photography
• Latest issue
• Meet the team
• Countryfile TV guide
• Countryfile presenters
• Countryfile calendar

Guide to the Midlands: best villages to visit, country houses and places to eat and stay

The gently rolling pastures of the English Midlands are scattered with pretty villages, gnarly castles and quirky country houses. Here is our guide to the Midlands, looking at the best villages, country houses and castles to visit, walks, plus best places to eat and stay

Here is our guide to the Midlands, looking at the best villages, country houses and castles to visit, plus places to eat and stay.

What does Meriden mean?

No one knows how Meriden, near Coventry came to be known as the centre of England for more than 500 years. Maybe it began with drovers moving livestock diagonally through the country, finding Meriden to be three days from London and three days from Chester. Maybe it was dreamed up by tallow light in the Bull’s Head: a novel way to draw coaches to the inn. Geographically it wasn’t a farfetched imagining, though, and nor is viewing the old boundaries of Warwickshire as England’s symbolic heart.

On Meriden village green in the West Midlands (formerly Warwickshire), a 1951 plaque declares that the wayside cross above it marks the traditional centre of England.

Where is the new centre of England?

According to more recent (and accurate) calculations by Ordnance Survey in 2002, the geographic centre of England has been found to be a field at Lindley Hall Farm in Leicestershire – 11 miles from the original site.

What are the Midlands counties?

Landlocked Warwickshire borders with seven Midlands counties: Leicestershire and Staffordshire in the north and Gloucestershire and northern Oxfordshire in the south, its feet in the golden Cotswolds. To the east, Northamptonshire, the Rose of the Shires, and in the west, Worcestershire and the West Midlands, where JRR Tolkien’s imagination would take flight to create the rustic Shire of Middle Earth. Warwickshire is the county Henry James described as “mid-most England, unmitigated England”: wooded, undulating, and largely undramatic until met with half-timbered houses and lias-built (lias is a kind of limestone) churches. There it becomes idyllic. This is the home of modern rugby, George Eliot, and a playwright we’ll meet soon.

The best villages to visit in the Midlands

Welford-on-avon.

Of the many villages waiting to catch our eye, Welford-on-Avon is also one of the prettiest. Set in a bend of the River Avon, four miles south-west of Stratford-upon-Avon, it has a Norman church perched above timber-framed cottages, which are rendered plump and endearing with white- painted plaster and bonny thatched heads. Local lore has made the flagstone floors and cosy replaces of the 17th-century Bell Inn the scene of our unmentioned writer’s final ‘merry meeting’. Easier to prove is Welford’s other most English of boasts: to have one of the country’s tallest maypoles.

Six miles west of Coventry is a village telling tales that span centuries: Berkswell , whose name may derive from Bercul, a Saxon chieftain, and the spring-fed well in which he was reputedly baptised. The village green still displays stocks, inexplicably five-holed; some say it accommodated an unruly one-legged former soldier and his two drinking companions. In Berkswell’s handsome church of St John the Baptist , take the steps leading down from a boxed pew in the north aisle to find a two-part Norman crypt. The church is full of surprises, including signature mouse carvings by Robert Thompson (1876–1955). Its grounds hold a celebrity from the heart of English sport, for this is the burial place of Maud Watson, the 1884 winner of the first Ladies’ Singles title at Wimbledon.

Best places for wildlife spotting in the Midlands

To see England’s central landscape reclaimed by nature, look to Brandon Marsh , in the loving care of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust . More than 220 species of bird have been recorded here; you can view their soaring and hear their song from eight different hides. Take the longest of three footpaths, Kingfisher Trail , to walk alongside willow carr (waterlogged woodland), through trees and grassland, past the Newlands reedbed, which has been cultivated to nurture eels and amphibians. In later spring, the oak and ash shade of New Hare Covert will yield bluebells and foxgloves.

Although appearing wild and old, Brandon Marsh was formed by subsidence and flooding due to nearby coal mining, and sand and gravel workings until the 1980s invited further stretches of open water. The hands of industry have wrought further legacies on central England’s landscape through canals, those extraordinary feats of engineering that also foster tranquillity. A place to appreciate both is Hatton , where the Grand Union Canal takes a flight of 21 locks over 4km, raising the water by a remarkable 45 metres. This ‘stairway to heaven’ is blessed with biodiversity: look for darting dragon flies and damselflies in the summer and, all year round, listen for the telltale yaffle of the green woodpecker.

Best country houses and castles to visit for history

Stratford-upon-avon.

Near where the Stratford-upon-Avon canal meets the River Avon you’re likely to find Shakee’s Ice Cream Boat moored in wait for a new season of bard-watchers. Here is where we realise Warwickshire is not only the heart of England but, when it comes to our unnamed writer, the centre of the universe. “They’re Shakespeare-mad around here, aren’t they?” I heard a bemused visitor say on Bridge Street. Well, yes. But forgivably so.

Stratford and the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust properties lie on well-trodden trails, so instead, let’s seek our man four miles east of the town, at Charlecote Park , the 800-year-old home of the Lucy family. Here you can follow footpaths among four shades of fallow deer, imagining a young William Shakespeare poaching a few, and perhaps some rabbits. A lack of compelling evidence has not hindered this story’s popularity. Shakespeare would at least have known Charlecote’s parkland and been aware of the Lucys, though. Be sure to visit the pristine knights’ tombs in the Lucy Chapel of St Leonard’s Church . Some people think Sir Thomas Lucy (d.1600) was sent up by Shakespeare as Justice Robert Shallow in The Merry Wives of Windsor .

Woodland assumes significance in several Shakespeare plays, especially As You Like It , where the court moves out into the Forest of Arden , cueing mischief and confusion. Little remains now of the thick old forest, which once stretched from Stratford to Tamworth, swathing the world Shakespeare knew in oak trees. Today, we find the forest’s legacy in place names: Henley-, Tanworth-, Hampton-in-Arden, and the many villages whose names end with the Saxon su x -ley or -leigh, denoting a woodland clearing. On the corner of Coughton Fields Lane outside Coughton Court near Alcester, a crumbly stone monument marks the supposed spot where travellers prayed for safe passage through the forest.

Warwick Castle

If we avoid Stratford, then nor should we linger in Leamington Spa, Coventry or Warwick. Looking out from a sandstone bluff over a bend in the River Avon, Warwick Castle must be mentioned, however, for its exhilarating combination of history and majesty. This is one of England’s nest medieval castles, replacing a motte- and-bailey fort built by William the Conqueror. The theme park-ish overlay brought by modern-day management from Merlin Entertainments makes a visit fun for anyone, with unwitting absorption of history lessons almost guaranteed through birds-of-prey displays, jousting and the ring of a missile from the world’s biggest working trebuchet. (The projectile is no longer sent flaming, following a 2015 mishap involving a Victorian thatched boathouse.) Even with crowds, 64 acres of Capability Brown landscape provide space to wander, and a home for peacocks both living and topiary.

While Ambrose Dudley, Earl of Warwick, was in residence at Warwick Castle , his brother Robert had been given Kenilworth Castle by Elizabeth I. Robert was the queen’s favourite suitor until his death in 1588; the only man she would have married. His alterations, architecturally and politically ambitious, are visible throughout the castle grounds today and the story of his thwarted desire is told comprehensively by English Heritage. Stairs and viewing platforms installed in Leicester’s Building allow visitors to ascend the red sandstone ruins and look out to the Warwickshire Queen Elizabeth would have seen during the whirl of banqueting, sport and dancing that accompanied her royal progress.

Political history – sites to visit

Two years after Elizabeth’s death, a group of provincial English Catholics schemed to blow up the Houses of Parliament. The history of several Warwickshire families is charged through with links to the Gunpowder Plot, including the Throckmortons of Coughton Court and possibly the Ferrers of Baddesley Clinton .

The latter house, magnificent and moated, has priest-holes, and a tale of earlier intrigue. One day in 1485, the lord of the manor Nicholas Brome came home to find a man “chockinge” (‘chucking’ or stroking) Brome’s wife Elizabeth “under ye chinne”. In a jealous rage, Brome drew his sword and killed the stranger, only to discover he had murdered the Rector of St James. For this killing, and the earlier death of a steward in a fight, Brome was ordered to pay penance, which included renovating the local church. And so the towers of St Michael’s Church in Baddesley Clinton and St Giles in Packwood are known as the Towers of Atonement.

It seems Brome carried his remorse to the grave because, upon a request stated in his will, he was buried standing upright in St Michael’s: “Within the church door as the people may tread upon mee as they cone [sic] into the church”.

Country houses to visit

Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House – two more names hinting at Warwickshire’s sylvan past – are managed by the National Trust and worth visiting in one day, especially if you can make the four-mile walk between estates, partly following the canal towpath. Packwood’s yew trees are startling: over 350 years old, they’re clipped into curious conical and cylindrical shapes. When I learned the topiary may represent evangelists and apostles at the Sermon on the Mount I smiled a bit guiltily. Because that would mean the arbour overseeing them all – the one with the spiral pathway my boys love to hurtle down yelling “Helter- skelter!” – is meant to be Jesus. I’ll urge them to proceed more reverently in future.

But I’m glad they have the trees and rural scenes of Warwickshire in the landscape of their childhood. Blessed are they who enjoy the endlessly captivating heart of England.

Share this article

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Code of conduct
• Manage preferences

• Family holidays

• Dreaming of Sunset with Oliver’s Travels
• Best Cities in Europe for Remote Working 
• 10 Wow-Factor Homes For Your 2024 Reunion Holiday
• Our Top Tour De France Luxury Villas 2023
• The Most Popular Travel-Inspired Interior Trends
• The Best Places to Take a Workation – UK and Abroad
• Oliver’s Vampire Weekender – Only the Undead Should Apply!
• www.oliverstravels.com
• Smart Travel
• Places To Stay
• Travel Guides

Midlands Travel Guide

England isn’t just divided into the north and the south – there’s a whole stretch of the country that sits right between them, a wonderful and often overlooked area known as the Midlands. It’s here you’ll find Shakespeare’s birthplace, the rich cultural heritage of the Industrial Revolution and beautiful countryside that’s as wonderful to look at as it is to explore. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the great stuff to do in the region, we’ve put together this handy Midlands travel guide – and our range of luxury cottages in the Midlands make a great places to stay while you explore!

Hidden Gems | For families | Things to do | For foodies

The Midlands , a vast swath of land that cuts through the heart of the country, is a collection of counties often overlooked by holidaymakers in favour of the wilderness of the north or the gentility of the south. This, however, is a mistake; the Midlands has plenty to offer all types, from the historic market towns of Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire to the buzzing, cosmopolitan city of Birmingham. Wild nature awaits explorers, while towns like Stratford and Cambridge offer a rich literary legacy for heritage hunters. What’s more, without the fame of England’s more celebrated counties, the Midlands remains relatively uncrowded and you won’t have to vie with other travellers for the best photograph or picnic spot during your scenic escape.

Best places to visit in the Midlands

• Stratford-upon-Avon  – Explore the birthplace of Shakespeare and see one of his plays performed.
• Cambridge – Punt along the river of one of England’s most famous university towns.
• The Peak District – Escape to the rugged hills, lakes and caves of this gorgeous pocket of wilderness.
• Birmingham – Hang out in England’s vibrant and happening second city.
• Lincoln – Visit the impressive castle and cathedral in this historic town.

When to visit

Summer in the Midlands has a better guarantee of dry weather than in many other parts of the country. One of the best places to stay in the Midlands is Stratford-Upon-Avon as it’s blessed with more than its fair share of sunny days, during which the river glistens and the town comes to life. It’s also the best time of year to head to the countryside in places like the Peak District and the Lincolnshire Wolds – you are more likely to be able to enjoy whole days of exploring without rain. Spring and autumn bring out different colours in the landscape, but the weather can be more changeable than the summer months.

Winter in the Midlands is often characterised by grey skies and rain, many National Trust attractions close and the national parks become wet , windy and unwelcoming. However, several towns and cities also host lively Christmas markets, the pubs are particularly cosy and if you catch the hills during a spate of snow, you’ll find an untouched wonderland to explore.

Getting around

• Airports: East Midlands airport is easily reachable from a  number of airports across the United Kingdom and Europe. 
• By train: England’s train network serves most of the towns and cities of the Midlands, with several lines heading into London. Use East Midlands Trains and Network West Midlands for timetables and fares, or use National Rail for a broader overview.
• By car: Cars are the most flexible option for travelling in the Midlands, although navigating the infamous spaghetti junction outside Birmingham can be a daunting experience for first-time visitors. Most major car rental services operate out of cities like Birmingham, Leicester and Lincoln.
• By bus: Bus travel in the Midlands is slightly more flexible than trains, and can take you to smaller villages. Visit Traveline Midlands for timetables and routes.
• On foot: Places like the Peak District, the Fens and the forests of Arden and Sherwood are best explored on foot. Walking Routes has a comprehensive list of trails across England, including tips on where to go in the Midlands.

Hidden gems

• The gentle, rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds have been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and cover enough ground that a day on the walking trails, watching wildlife or taking photos can often be spent without so much as seeing another soul. It’s one of the best places to go in the Midlands, if you ask us.
• Discover the well-preserved town centres and narrow cobbled streets of some of the Midland’s most delightful market towns. The ruins of , in a charming village of the same name, are the largest in Britain, while the medieval High Street of Henley-in-Arden is a quintessentially English sight.
• Herefordshire’s Wye River Valley , running up the border of Wales, is another little-known scenic hideout in the Midlands, often overlooked in favour of the nearby Cotswolds. Its highlights, such as the charming town of Ross on Wye and the walking trails along the river’s many meanders, are not to be missed.
• Nottingham’s occasionally unsavoury reputation in the media should not overshadow the city’s numerous appeals. The Theatre Royal and Nottingham Playhouse are artistic hubs in the county, while museums dedicated to industry, brewing and art make for interesting days out. Wollaton Park, next to the university, is the home of a grandiose mansion and herds of deer.
• The 47-kilometre walking route of Wolverhampton Ring encircles the industrial Black Country city, and was devised by a retired teacher to show off some of its undiscovered places. The route takes you up hills, through villages and along canals, with some spectacular views along the way. It’s the best way to discover a lively city that few people visit.
• The National Trust own several properties throughout the Midlands, all of which have their own unique reasons to visit. Some, such as the elegant mansion of Chatsworth House, are well-known and loved; others, like the lakeside Croome Court (home to intricate tapestries) and Stoneywell (which has an interesting artistic heritage) are less popular but just as captivating.

The Midlands for families

If a child were to list all the things they might want for a dream holiday, the chances are they could find most of them in the Midlands. Chocolate factories, high-flying adventure courses, ghost tours, museums filled with airplanes and a gigantic room full of videogames arrive straight from your kid’s wish list into the heart of England.

The fun of a family holiday also lies in introducing children to new and exciting experiences, such as cable cars that climb through the Peak District, trains that run through Shakespeare country and underground caves that are decorated with limestone stalactites.

The sheer range of activities, wide open spaces and quirky accommodation available in the Midlands makes the region an ideal destination to take the children. What’s more, you won’t be saddled with the hefty price tags of the tourist-heavy south. Embrace the excitement of everything on offer and adults, too, will discover childlike wonder once again. Here are just a few of the Midlands’ top child-oriented offerings, and our blog on the best family friendly activities in the Midlands has even more info to enjoy.

The best family-friendly things to do in the Midlands 

• The Midlands is home to Bournville, which will forever be associated with something children and adults alike can appreciate – chocolate! A visit to  Cadbury World  makes a fantastic day out for everyone, with exciting interactive experiences, history lessons and practical demonstrations to enjoy. And yup, you do get to do a tasting!
• One great way to see the amazing sights of the park is via cable car –  the Heights of Abraham  soars over the Derwent valley for over a kilometre, and there’s even a cafe, a museum, a play area and underground caverns to explore once you reach the top.
• For something a bit different that kids (and young-at-heart adults) are bound to enjoy, try  the National Videogame Arcade  in Nottingham. It’s as educational as it is enjoyable, with interactive exhibits as well as the chance to play games – and even influence their future by giving developers feedback on upcoming titles.
• If battling digital aliens isn’t enough, you can enjoy another other-worldly adventure at  Poole ’ s Cavern . Head underground to learn the history of this cave complex and take in its wondrous sights, with the stunning central show cave being the main attraction.

The best family-friendly walking and cycling routes in the Midlands

• Sheldon Country Park offers a lot whether your family prefers walking or cycling, with a five mile loop around this park near Birmingham airport that features woodland and wetland. There’s also a small farm, so younger kids can take a look at the animals.
• You can also enjoy a great cycle around Chasewater in Burntwood. Just take a nice, casual pedal around the perimeter of the large lake – it’s a sea of tranquility in this otherwise bustling part of the midlands.
• Some of the prettiest places to go in the Midlands are the many canals. Take to the canals near Coventry for another waterside walk, and if you head for the section between Basin and Hawkesbury Junction you’ll be treated to the ‘Art Trail,’ where local artists showcase some of their works.
• For a ramble that takes in all forms of nature, try Cannock Chase in Staffordshire. It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty, and for such a relatively small area packs a whole load of landscapes and nature in. It’s perfect if you’ve got the dog with you too!

Other things to do in the Midlands

Groups on holiday in the Midlands won’t find it difficult to fill their itineraries: action addicts can go paintballing or quad-biking, sightseers can tour macabre museums and TV filming locations, while animal enthusiasts can try their hand at falconry.If all this seems a little high energy for your taste, never fear. Those hoping for a more relaxing romantic break or laid-back group retreat can turn down the dial with some less strenuous activities. Gentle strolls in the countryside, leisurely drifts in barges and hidden-away woodland spas are also on the menu here.

Need some help filling your itinerary? We’ve got you covered – just choose from our suggestions below, or head to our blog on the best group activities in the Midlands .

Adrenaline fuelled activities in the Midlands

• The best thing about Avalanche Adventure Ltd   is that whatever you fancy, it’s pretty likely they can sort it out for you! From paintballing to quad biking to hovercraft rides to glider rides, there’s pretty much everything on offer. Check out their website for a full (and exhausting sounding!) list.
• The Falconry Centre   in Hagley offer great introductory courses for falconry, and you can even have a look round and meet other majestic birds of prey.

Laid back activities in the Midlands

• Bit of a fan of TV, or more specifically the Midlands set gangster drama  Peaky Blinders ? Good news! You can delve into the real-life stories behind the show thanks to  Peaky Tours , which will give you some insight into the past and history of these notorious Black Country bandits.
• For a more in depth look at the Black Country’s canal network, take a jaunt with the  Dudley Canal Trust Trip . You can enjoy a narrowboat cruise down the waterways, taking in some beautiful scenery and underground routes not normally accessible to the public.
• Or for something a bit different (and slightly creepy) check out the  Coffin Works   in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is a museum all about the famed coffin makers Newman Brothers. Costumed guides will take you on a tour of the factory, demonstrating techniques and illuminated our ancestor’s attitude to death.

The Midlands’ food and drink scene

For a complete culinary experience of the Midlands, we recommend getting involved with making food yourself. Whether proving dough for your own bread, learning a few professional cooking skills or touring the food factories, the warm and friendly Midlanders are more than happy to let you inside their world.

Of course, some of you may feel that you get enough hands-on cooking experience at home and that holidays are a time for steering well clear of the kitchen. In which case, fear not – you can spend your holiday hopping between the region’s finest restaurants instead. And you won’t be stuck for choice: Choose between Indian, pub grub or trendy eateries. Birmingham has more Michelin stars than any other English city outside of London, so fine-dining won’t be an issue either.

To help you plan your culinary adventure in the Midlands, we’ve chosen a few of our favourite dining, drinking and cooking experiences. There’s more infor over at our blog too, thanks to our article on the best foodie experiences in the Midlands .

The best restaurants in the Midlands

• It might not look like it thanks to its unassuming exterior, but The Cross   in Kenilworth is a Michelin starred restaurant. Concentrating on rustic recipes with a contemporary twist, the menu changes seasonally so you know that whatever you order, its ingredients will be at their very tastiest.
• Simpsons Restaurant in Edgbaston also can lay claim to a Michelin star, and features several tempting tasting menus to chew through. While the food’s divine, the surroundings are a treat too – the restaurant is found in a Grade II listed building.
• The Midlands is also famous for its curry, and you’ll doubtless come across some fine Indian food during your trip. Want to take your balti to the next level? Birmingham’s  Lasan   offers truly amazing Indian food – even Gordon Ramsey is a fan.

Must-try dishes in the Midlands

• It’s already been mentioned, but is probably worth mentioning again – the Birmingham and Black Country areas are famous for their curry houses. There are quite a few, but a friendly local will always be happy to point you towards a nearby favourite.
• The Midlands is also famed for its brewing , and there’s a number of fine beers and ales that have come out of the region. If you’re dropping into a pub (and why wouldn’t you?) look out for beer from Banks’s, Enville Ales or the Wye Valley Brewery, though any local brewery is bound to offer something tasty.
• Looking for something to go with your pint ? Pork scratchings originated in the West Midlands, and make the perfect accompaniment to a local brew.
• For a hearty and traditional Midlands breakfast, keep your eye out for Staffordshire Oatcakes . A bit like a pancake made with oatmeal, this savoury snack is fantastic served with bacon and lashings of melted cheese.

The best foodie activities in the Midlands

• The  School of Artisan Food , which you’ll find in Worksop, is actually a fully-blown cookery school where you can even earn a diploma. Luckily, they also offer shorter masterclasses in eclectic culinary skills such as curing ham, pickles and preserves and how to make the most out of your herb garden.
• Don’t think you need to head to Bordeaux or Tuscany to indulge in some top class wine tasting. Though the midlands might be light on vineyards, the  Loki Wine Merchant and Tasting House  in Birmingham is the place to be to try some fine vintages in a fun and informative environment.
• The pork pie is a picnic staple that originated in the Leicestershire town of Melton Mowbray (along, foodie fact fans, with Stilton cheese) so take a trip to  Dickson & Morris of Melton Mowbray   which doesn’t just sell pies and cheese but offers a workshop on how to make the perfect pork pie.
• And for dessert, those with a sweet tooth should head straight for  Chocolate Alchemy   in Loughborough. If the huge (and tempting!) variety in the shop isn’t enough, go hands-on and make your own sweet treats under the tutelage of one of their expert chocolatiers.

Now you’ve seen what the magical Midlands have to offer, why not check out our collection of holiday homes in the Midlands?  If you have any queries, our friendly concierge team will be happy to help! 

3 Responses

Amazing and impressive blog, I really enjoy reading your blog, kindly keep on writing blogs like this.

Thank you for sharing this interesting blog. I am going to the Midlands next week and this blog made me more excited.

Really interesting blog, I loved reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well. I would love to see more blogs like this in future as well.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

• Visit 100 Countries
• Visit 500 UNESCO Sites
• Landmarks of the World

Welcome to the heart of England, a region brimming with captivating charm and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Don’t let central England’s modesty fool you – it’s a gem filled with fascinating places that may surprise even seasoned travelers. From ancient towns predating London to centuries-old cathedrals and universities, and unspoiled landscapes like the enchanting Cotswolds and the picturesque Chilterns.

Having explored some of these lovely places firsthand, we can assure you that central England is a land of historical significance and boundless inspiration. It proudly claims the birthplace of illustrious figures such as William Shakespeare, Lord Nelson, and Stephen Hawking. It’s also a cradle of major industrial movements, boasting the world’s first iron bridge and Birmingham, known for its extensive canal network built during the industrial revolution.

In central England, you have the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in unspoiled landscapes and charming villages, tracing the footsteps of history while savoring delicious local delicacies.

So, whether you plan a weekend break , a week-long exploration, or a more leisurely adventure, we’ve handpicked eight great places to visit in central England. These recommendations stem from our own experiences and insights shared by fellow travel bloggers.

Get ready to embrace the very best the region has to offer, as we guide you through these extraordinary destinations. Let central England’s warmth and allure leave a lasting impression on your heart.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in central england.

• Stratford-upon-Avon

Ironbridge Gorge

Places to Visit in Central England Map

Hereford is one of the most underrated cities in  England . It and its county, Herefordshire, don’t tend to get the attention other parts of England do, but it’s a wonderful small city with the feel of a country town. Herefordshire is very much a rural county, and Hereford is the market for its products, including its famous cattle and cider. It’s close to the Welsh border and indeed was described by Richard I of England as being ‘in Wales’.

The main landmarks in the city are its cathedral and the medieval bridge over the River Wye. It also has several churches from the medieval period and several beautifully preserved historic houses.

MUST DO IN HEREFORD:

• Hereford Cathedral : The cathedral is the undoubted highlight of Hereford, and it has a magnificent setting close to the River Wye. The present building was begun in 1079, with additions following throughout the Middle Ages. The cathedral is home to the famous Mappa Mundi, an intricate map of the world dating from around 1300.
• The Black and White House Museum : Formerly known as the Old House, this half-timbered building was built in 1621 and is a museum of the Jacobean era. The house is furnished as it would have been at this time and you can pick up and try on clothes in the style of the era. It’s a great little museum for all ages.
• Herefordshire’s Black and White Villages : The county of Herefordshire is full of treasures, from gentle country scenery to stunning Norman churches but the highlight is the black and white half-timbered villages of which the best of these are Eardisland, Weobley and Pembridge.

Contribution from David and Faith of Travel with Little One

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Named for the River Avon that flows through this charming, English town, Stratford-upon-Avon is a medieval market town that would make a  great day trip from London  as it’s only about an hour drive from the city.

First incorporated in 1196, the village has retained much of its historic flavour, despite being a bustling modern village. It’s most well-known though for being the epicentre of all things Shakespeare. The famous poet was born here, spent most of his life here, and died and was buried in this quiet English town. Most of his immediate family had homes here as well.

Although visited by millions of tourists every year, the town itself is charming and distinctly English, as well as a worthwhile step back in time.

MUST DO IN STRATFORD-UPON-AVON:

• Shakespeare’s Birthplace : Tour the very building where, in 1564, William Shakespeare was born. From the outside, the wattle-and-daub half-timbered building isn’t much to look at, but at the time it was built, it was the largest house on the street. Not only was he born here, but he spent the first five years of his marriage to Anne Hathaway is the home. It operated as a bustling inn until 1847, when Shakespeare Birthplace Trust bought it. Much of the furniture and artefacts are original from Shakespeare’s time, as well as the building itself.
• Holy Trinity Church : It’s here that Shakespeare’s family worshipped, and it’s here that many of them, including the poet, were buried. Although still an active parish, visitors are welcome to come and see the graves of Shakespeare, his wife, and their daughter Susanna.
• Royal Shakespeare Theatre : You can’t visit Stratford-upon-Avon without seeing a performance of one of Shakespeare’s plays! Many of the world’s best Shakespearean actors perform here.

Contribution from Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue

A historic university town that combines the sound of spokes and pedals with books opening to the next theory to study. Cambridge is a city in the heart of   England   that boasts the best spot to punt, an unmatched literary history and more significant landmarks than most English spots.

Have a picnic at Park’s Piece, stand beside the sapling grown from the tree that dropped the apple on Isaac’s head, or buy a piece of art where Quentin Blake, illustrator of many Roald Dahl novels frequents and signs the odd original print.

Cambridge has a wealth of sights and foodie must-tries, such as fish & chips at the Eagle Pub. When you enter this pub take a look at the ceilings where you’ll find writing burned within it that is messages from former Royal Air Force pilots who would come in here for a pint during WWII. With scenery perfect for that quintessential photograph, Cambridgeshire truly has it all to be a worthy inclusion on any British holiday itinerary.

MUST DO IN CAMBRIDGE:

• A Walking Tour of the Colleges and Grounds : There are 31 colleges that make up the University of Cambridge! Each building is remarkable to see and learn further of its academic significance as well as its stately history. Take a guided tour and learn more about these iconic buildings, the carefully manicured gardens, and just why it attracts such alumni as Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin, and Sir Isaac Newton to name a few.
• See “Winnie The Pooh” as well as the Grimm Bros Manuscripts :  Visit  Wren Library  within the university to see the encased original “Winnie the Pooh” book penned by A.A. Milne. Within the same library, see the Brothers Grimm’s stories as well as an original copy of Tennyson’s haunting “Crossing the Bar” poem.
• Punting : Sort of like the newly popular art of supping, take a stab at punting. A true test of balance, give it a try yourself with your own boat and pole or pay for a university student to take you for an informative tour.

Contribution from Janine of Fill My Passport

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in England? Check them out here!

Colchester is the oldest recorded town in England (older than  London !) and is located in the county of Essex. This historic town has buildings evident from various eras such as Norman, Roman, Tudor, Stuart,  and Victorian that still remain today.

There are plenty of things to do in Colchester from outside spaces, restaurants and bars, shopping, historic attractions, indoor play areas and a huge swimming pool complex with a spa.

MUST DO IN COLCHESTER:

• Colchester Zoo : The zoo was established in 1963 and has grown massively over the years. They even have a private nature reserve in Africa! Colchester Zoo is home to over 250 species. One of their most impressive enclosures is ‘Kingdom of the Wild’, a huge open-air space where giraffes, rhinos, zebras, ostriches and kudu all co-exist together. There are special events throughout the year, as well as daily displays, educational programmes and animal feeding opportunities.
• Colchester Castle : Parts of Colchester Castle are over 2000 years old and can be seen by taking a special tour of the underground vaults! The tour now even takes guests up onto the roof, to see a tree that was planted after the Battle of Waterloo. The rest of the castle is around 300 years old and has a museum about what life was like during the Roman era. There are props and costumes for visitors to try on and hands-on exhibits.
• Castle Park : Castle Park is a great outdoor space to enjoy the fresh air. Both Colchester Castle and Castle Park are just off the High Street in the city centre, making it a great place to chill out after a day of shopping. There’s a small boating lake open during the summer months, playground equipment and lots of friendly squirrels! Special events are held at Castle Park throughout the year.

Contribution from Kylie of Between England and Iowa

Norwich is located 100 miles northeast of  London  in the county of Norfolk. It was England’s second city from the Middle Ages until the Industrial Revolution. While it may no longer hold that position it is still the most complete medieval city in the UK and in many places, you will also see remnants of the old city walls. You may feel like you have gone back in time strolling down Elm Hill, with the Tudor style buildings.

The ancient medieval city of Norwich at one time had 36 parish churches within its walls. While some of those churches are still places of worship, others have been repurposed. Both the Anglican Norwich Cathedral and the Roman Catholic Cathedral are impressive landmarks.

In addition to the beautiful architecture, there is plenty of natural scenery to explore too. Norwich is the only city in the United Kingdom within a national park – the   Norfolk Broads .

MUST DO IN NORWICH:

• Norwich Castle : Norwich Castle was built by the Normans as a Royal Palace 900 years ago! You can explore the castle keep, museum, and art gallery which are packed with historical treasures.
• Norwich Cathedral : The Norwich Cathedral is one of the finest complete Romanesque cathedrals in Europe. It has the second-tallest spire and largest monastic cloisters in England. Edith Cavell, a heroine from World War I, is buried at the cathedral. It is free to visit the cathedral, but donations are welcome.
• The Market : Norwich Market is one of the largest and oldest open-air markets in England. Inside the  colourful  stalls, you will find a great selection of unique foods, clothes, toys,  jewellery , and more!

Contribution from Anisa of 2 Traveling Texans

Dovercourt is a small seaside town in Essex. Visiting Dovercourt is a nice  day trip from London . It is easy to get to by train and then you can explore the town on foot.

MUST DO IN DOVERCOURT:

• Visit a seal colony:  One amazing and possible once in a lifetime experience you can have is going on a   kayak trip   with   Nomad Sea Kayaking   to observe a seal colony. You will launch from the beach and paddle to the seal colony. You will have to be quiet and you must not approach the seals, but wait for them to get close to you on their own. Luckily they are curious creatures and they were quite brave and may come quite close. It is so much fun to see how they pop their heads up from the water and check out their visitors. Paddling can be exhausting, especially if it’s a windy day, but the sore muscles are so worth it for this unique experience. If you are not so much into physical activities you can go on a boat trip to see the seals.
• Relax at the beach:  Dovercourt is also great for a beach holiday. It can be so enjoyable just walking at the beach and admiring the cute, colourful beach huts. This is the perfect place for a picnic or flying a kite. On a sunny day, you can even go for a swim.
• Indulge at the local restaurants:   The town has many restaurants and cafes. One favourite is a family run cafe called Station Cafe Restaurant. They have very tasty cakes, that you should definitely try if you are in the town.

Contribution from Eniko of Travel Hacker Girl

READ MORE: Check out these other 23 amazing day trip ideas from London !

With charming half-timbered buildings and surrounded by protective castle walls, the town of Warwick in Warwickshire is worth a visit on an itinerary in central England.

It is located upstream on the River Avon from the better-known Stratford and can’t be missed with its grand castle that dominates the banks of the river. The charming town has more to offer visitors than just the castle though, with a fine market square, some lovely eateries, and pretty gardens.

MUST DO IN WARWICK:

• Explore Warwick Castle : Considered one of England’s most kid-friendly experiences, the 14th/15th-century fortified shell has an 18th/19th-century royal residence inside. While quite touristy, and likened to a theme park, the whole family will love touring the opulent staterooms, climbing up towers and on ramparts, and learning about how the castle was electrified in 1894 at the mill and engine house.
• Stroll through the town with your camera in hand : With several pretty buildings in town, you could easily go for a wander and find Instagram-worthy photos. Start with the Lord Leycester Hospital which is made up of adjoining 14th-century half-timbered houses and considered to the most photogenic building in town. Then on to the arcaded Market Hall from 1670 that is a great example of Perpendicular architecture. And then finish off with a stop at Beauchamp Chapel which is the resting place of the Earls of Warwick.
• Enjoy an afternoon of English Gardens : Down a quaint half-timbered street, you’ll find the most appealing garden in Warwick – the Mill Garden. This little haven adjoins the castle property which means great views of the castle and the river. The Hill Close Gardens is actually a collection of 16 small Victorian garden plots and has a little café if you’re visiting around tea time. Finally, the pretty garden at Lord Leycester Hospital would be a lovely way to finish off your afternoon.

We had an absolute wonderful time visiting Ironbridge Gorge and it may just be one of our favourite places in England we’ve visited so far. It was such an incredible experience to learn about its fascinating history and the significant role it played in shaping the world during its glory days.

From the first iron wheels to steam-powered locomotives and those iconic cast-iron bridges, it’s awe-inspiring to think about all the innovations that originated from the rich deposits of iron ore and coal, and the river that served as a means of transporting these materials. Visiting the museums and exploring the various exhibits was a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the history of this incredible place.

Of course, like any other region, times changed, and in the 20th century, the industries that once thrived in the area started to decline, causing some challenges for the region. However, it’s amazing to see how the community came together to breathe new life into Ironbridge Gorge. Now, it has been lovingly restored and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site , proudly symbolizing the Industrial Revolution.

Just a small sampling of the beautiful tiles at Jackfield Tile Museum

MUST DO IN IRONBRIDGE GORGE:

• Iron Bridge : This iconic structure was built back in 1779,as the world’s very first cast-iron bridge, and its purpose was to showcase the incredible potential of this new building material. It’s fascinating to know that the builders, not being experienced with cast-iron, decided to err on the side of sturdiness. So, they constructed the bridge using timber-jointing techniques, just as they would have done if it were made of wood, rather than using rivets. The tollhouse is free to visit and inside, you’ll find an engaging exhibit that takes you on a journey through the construction of this historic bridge, offering valuable insights into its engineering marvel. Once you’ve soaked in all the fascinating information, take a leisurely walk across the bridge. The views are simply breathtaking! As you stroll downstream along the towpath, you’ll be treated to magnificent sights that showcase the beauty of the surrounding area.
• Blist Hill Victorian Town : Covering 50 acres, this is an open-air folk museum that features Victorian industry, factories, and a recreated community from the 1890s. There is a bank, post office, blacksmith, pub, and more… even a pigsty to delight the kids! Visitors can also board a train for a trip through a clay mine or visit a complete foundry that still produces wrought iron. When you need a little snack, we recommend their homemade bread. My goodness, it was so delicious!
• Museums : History buffs interested in the Victorian Age will love a stop in Ironbridge Gorge to visit one, or all ten, of its museums. The   Museum of the Gorge   is where visitors are encouraged to start for the movie that gives a historical overview and puts everything in the area into context. The   Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron   tells the story of iron and the men who worked with it, including Abraham Darby I who discovered how to smelt iron ore with coke which allowed for mass production. And finally, our favourite, the   Jackfield Tile Museum   is a collection of decorative floor and wall tiles produced from the 1850s to 1960s and demos traditional tile-making. It was fascinating wondering through admiring all the workmanship and colourful tiles. We even brought one home from the gift shop that has a permanent place in our kitchen!

As our journey through central England comes to a close, we hope you’ve been enchanted by the region’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm embrace of its charming towns. From the allure of ancient towns and majestic cathedrals to the tranquility of unspoiled landscapes like the Cotswolds and Chilterns, central England has proven itself as a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be explored.

Having personally experienced the beauty of these destinations, we can attest to the magic they hold – especially as we walked across the world’s first iron bridge and admired its beautiful architecture.

We hope our recommendations have fueled your wanderlust and left you eager to create your own cherished memories. Central England’s allure is timeless, and there are always new wonders to uncover. We know we’ll be back again!

Looking for more information to plan your visit to England? You may find these articles helpful.

• 8 Great Places to Visit in Southern England
• 25 Weekend Breaks in England
• Exploring London in One Day Ultimate Itinerary
• Weekend Guide to Bath: 48-Hour Itinerary

Map of Places to Visit in Central England

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ENGLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• For more great weekend ideas around England and the rest of Britain, check out one of my favourites –   52 Great British Weekends: A Seasonal Guide to Britain’s Best Breaks
• For weekend ideas in London –   The Weekend Starts Here: Fifty-Two Weekends of Things to See and Do   – will give you lots of ideas!
• For all things England, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   England travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

RELATED POSTS

Weekend breaks in england, guide to visiting york’s national rail museum, 8 great places to visit in south east england.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through South East England to explore seaside towns, dramatic white cliffs, majestic castles, and more!

Guide to Visiting London’s HMS Belfast

Guide to visiting bath’s no 1 royal crescent.

19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
• From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

More on England

• Route Finder
• Route Planner
• Travel Guide
• Places to visit
• Eat & drink
• Accommodation
• Ski resorts
• Current Conditions
• Avalanche Report
• Collections
• Travel Stories
• Publications

Hikes & Walks In The Midlands

England,United Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of England, The Midlands offers an abundance of walking routes, each with its unique charm and natural splendour. From the iconic peaks of the Peak District to the peaceful canals and green hills of the Cotswolds, the Midlands cater to walkers of all interests and abilities. This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the top walking routes in the Midlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks

• Show images Hide images

The 10 most beautiful hikes in Central England and the Midlands

Discover many more routes in the Route Finder

Try planning your own routes

• Everything in Hiking
• Hiking route
• Long-Distance Hiking
• Pilgrim Walk
• Nature Trail
• City Walking

Forecast for Central England and the Midlands

Can you walk around stratford upon avon.

Discover the literary history of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque River Avon. Enjoy views of the iconic Royal Shakespeare Stroll along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy idyllic views of the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the elegant swans gliding on the water, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that perfectly complements the town's literary legacy.

Lovely easy walk mixing riverside, fields and town at the end. Stopped at Fourteas for tea and cake near the end.

The Peak District - Kinder Scout

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Peak District National Park, home to the famous Kinder Scout. This iconic hill walk takes you to the highest point in the region, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The rugged terrain and wild landscapes make it a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.

This is a scenic circular hike around Kinder Scout in the High Peak District.

The Malvern Hills - Worcestershire Beacon

Escape to the Malvern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and hike up to Worcestershire Beacon. This gentle ascent to the summit is accessible for hikers of all levels, making it a popular choice for families and nature lovers. Once at the top, walkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Worcestershire countryside, making Worcestershire Beacon a must-visit destination.

Walk 17 from 'Walk! Around the Malverns' by Bob Greaves published by Discovery Walking GuidesFrom: Walk Around the MalvernsAuthor: Bob Greaves

The Shropshire Hills - Long Mynd

Head to the Shropshire Hills and conquer Long Mynd, one of the most captivating gems within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Rising above the charming town of Church Stretton, Long Mynd's heather-clad plateau offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The diverse landscapes, from steep valleys to wide plateaus, provide a paradise for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, with a chance to spot red grouse, skylarks, and even the occasional majestic red kite soaring overhead.

A 13 km circular in the picturesque Shropshire Hills Long Mynd. The hike starts from the Car Par in the Carding Mill Valley and goes through hills ...

The Grand Union Canal - Birmingham to Warwick

Experience the Midlands' canal heritage with a walk along the Grand Union Canal. This picturesque journey follows the tranquil waters of the canal, passing charming locks, historic bridges, and peaceful towpaths lined with vibrant wildflowers. Along the way, walkers can enjoy the idyllic countryside scenery, stop at welcoming waterside pubs, and immerse themselves in the rich history of the canal system that once played a vital role in the region's industrial past. Whether for a relaxing day stroll or a multi-day walking adventure, this route provides a serene escape and a unique perspective on England's canal history.

Cannock Chase - Sherbrook Valley

Explore the natural wonder of Cannock Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, visiting Sherbrook Valley. This circular route takes you through ancient woodlands, where you might spot deer and other wildlife, making it a delightful escape from urban life. As you meander through Sherbrook Valley, you'll be enchanted by the serene babbling brooks and dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy of trees. 

7 mile circular round part of the Sherbrook Valley & Fairoak pools

The Limestone Way - Dovedale

Embark on the Limestone Way and explore the stunning Dovedale in the Peak District. Follow the meandering River Dove and pass through iconic limestone formations such as Thorpe Cloud and the famous stepping stones.

The Limestone way - 46 miles(aprox)Rocester to Castleton

Discover other hikes within Central England and the Midlands

Similar activities in central england and the midlands.

Sign Up Today

Start your 14 day free trial today

The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 Must-See Medieval Landmarks in England

Discover the rise and fall of medieval britain at these atmospheric sites..

Peta Stamper

04 apr 2023.

England boasts a huge variety of medieval landmarks that all play their part in telling the story of Anglo-Saxons and the Norman Conquest, right through to the fall of the Plantagenet kings – there are just too many fantastic medieval sites to mention.

However, featuring the iconic Westminster Abbey that has seen the rise and fall of notable English monarchs, to the streets that ordinary folk would have hurried along in Medieval Rye, we’ve selected 10 top spots that are guaranteed to transport you back to England’s medieval past.

History Hit Holidays

Rediscovering Richard III With Matt Lewis

1. Medieval Rye

Rye is a historic port town in East Sussex, England, that was an important member of the Cinque Port Confederation during the medieval period. The name Rye comes from ‘ rie ’ meaning bank or the West Saxon ‘ ieg ’ meaning island, as the town was once entirely surrounded by sea.

Rye’s ties to the sea have coloured its long history with shipbuilding, royal visits, thriving trade and violent smuggling. Notorious locations include a Norman church, The Mermaid Inn, The Olde Bell Inn and the Ypres Tower, all open to visitors today.

2. Wells Cathedral and Medieval Centre

Often described as England’s smallest city, Well owes its medieval city status to its beautiful 13th century cathedral. In area and population, Wells is in fact not the smallest city in  England  – that title goes to the City of London.

However, its size does not diminish the large historical legacy of Wells. Named for the 3 wells dedicated to Saint Andrew, the city grew from a Roman settlement into the Anglo-Saxon period when King Ine of Wessex founded a church there in 704. Wells has since been notable for its cloth-making and role in both the English Civil War and Monmouth Rebellion.

Today, the medieval architecture has led Wells to be a popular filming location. You can tour Wells Cathedral, the “most poetic of the English Cathedrals”, before wandering the picturesque medieval streets.

3. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is an iconic medieval structure and the site of many historic royal and national events, from coronations and royal weddings to burials and even deaths. Centrally located in London, Westminster Abbey was first constructed in the 11th century by King Edward the Confessor, a Saxon king who dedicated this new church to St Peter.

To have an informed visit and to see the most interesting parts of Westminster Abbey, take a tour, as just wandering around can be overwhelming. Along with Westminster Palace and Saint Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO world heritage site.

4. Norwich Guildhall

Within the heart of the medieval city of Norwich in England, Norwich Guildhall is a remarkable example of late medieval architecture and reflected the growing power of the city’s merchant elite.

Today, the Norwich Guildhall is the largest remaining civic building outside of London and is open to the public.

Norwich Guildhall’s characteristic flint exterior remains a bastion of the city’s medieval independence and wealth, sat on Gaol Hill. The Grade I listed building is open for booking free guided tours which last about an hour, or you can explore the guildhall history on one of the Heritage Open Days, run every September.

5. Rievaulx Abbey

Rievaulx Abbey was a Cistercian abbey in Rievaulx near Helmseley in the North York Moors, England. One of England’s great abbeys, Rievaulx was seized during the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538.

The wider site has since been awarded Scheduled Ancient Monument status and the striking ruins of the main abbey continue to be a popular tourist destination, owned and managed by English Heritage. The abbey’s records also provide one of the earliest insights into queer relationships during the medieval period.

6. Rochester Castle

One of the best-preserved Norman fortifications in England, Rochester Castle was built at a strategic crossroads in the years following the Norman Conquest.

In 1087 Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester began the construction of the castle to command an important river crossing. One of William the Conqueror’s greatest architects, Gundulf was also responsible for the Tower of London. Much of what remains of the walled perimeter remains intact from that time.

In 1215, garrisoned by rebel barons, the castle endured an epic siege by King John. Rochester Castle played no role in the Civil Wars and so it was never slighted. It appears, however, that a violent fire took place in the keep before the 1660s, which reduced the building to ruin.

Today the castle has been largely restored and is open to visitors under the custodianship of English Heritage.

7. St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is a small tidal island in Cornwall’s Mount’s Bay, England, and is linked to the town of Marazion by a man-made causeway only passable at mid or low tide. Since 1650, the medieval castle and chapel complex has been the home of the St Aubyn family, although today, the island is jointly managed by the St Aubyns and the National Trust.

St Michael’s Mount was likely an earlier monastery, but was gifted by Edward the Confessor to the Benedictine order of Mont Saint-Michel (the French order that was later dissolved by Henry V) in the 11th century. The Mount was captured on behalf of Prince John in 1193 – during the reign of his brother King Richard I.

In 1424, the chapel was given to the Abbess and Convent of Syon in Middlesex, ending the island’s connection with the French Benedictines. Nonetheless, the Mount remained a popular destination for pilgrims and the castle was built on top of the island around the same time.

St Michael’s Mount continues to weather the tides of time so that visitors can still explore parts of the island and castle.

8. Orford Castle

Orford Castle in Suffolk is a striking medieval castle once used to assert royal authority in the area. With its keep still largely intact, it provides an intriguing look into the world of medieval Britain. Orford Castle was originally built in 1165 under the orders of King Henry II, and was an impressive fortified stone structure surrounded by a curtain wall and several defensive mounds.

In 1189 the castle passed to Henry II’s son Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart, and when he was captured upon his return from the crusades, his mother Eleanor of Aquitaine assembled a fleet at Orford to deliver the ransom for his release.

Whilst much of Orford Castle has since been destroyed or eroded, the polygonal five-storey tower is extremely well-preserved and offers visitors a great insight into the history of this vital stronghold.

9. Battle Abbey and Battlefield

Battle Abbey and Battlefield is the site on which the decisive Battle of Hastings took place in October 1066. It now holds the ruins of the Norman abbey built shortly after the battle, as well as a modern visitor centre detailing the site’s significant place in history.

The Battle of Hastings in 1066 was one of Britain’s most important historical events, following which William, Duke of Normandy – largely known as William the Conqueror – was crowned King of England.

In 1090, Pope Alexander II ordered the Normans to do penance for all the lives taken during their conquest of England, following which William vowed to build an abbey to commemorate the fallen dead.

Today Battle Abbey is managed by English Heritage and features a museum exploring William the Conqueror’s victory at Hastings, the events that led up to it, and its aftermath.

10. High Bridge

High Bridge in Lincoln, England, is a medieval bridge that carries the High Street across the River Witham. It is the oldest bridge in the United Kingdom still to have buildings on it, and having stood since the 12th century, today is a Grade I listed building and scheduled monument.

High Bridge was originally built in 1160 AD with a bridge chapel on the side, dedicated to the murdered Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, in 1235 although later removed in 1762. Bridge chapels were commonly-used medieval sanctuaries for travellers, although few remain in England today. The bridge saw the addition of its characteristic timber-framed shops from around 1550, similar in style to London Bridge.

Today, the medieval stone arched bridge continues to cross the River Witham, one of only 3 remaining bridges with buildings on it (the others are Pulteney Bridge in Bath and Frome Bridge in Somerset).

Top 10 places to visit in the East Midlands

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2022

The East Midlands in England includes the counties of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, parts of Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Rutland.

Major cities include Nottingham, Leicester, Derby and Northampton. However, the area also features some of the most beautiful countryside in England with the Peak District National Park and Derbyshire Dales located in these counties.

For those who enjoy the countryside, the area provides opportunities for visitors to go hiking on its many walking trails, visit cosy pubs for a pint or two, admire pretty villages, peruse market towns or even tour the odd stately home. It is no surprise that this is a popular destination for visitors from all over the UK.

I haven’t forgotten the cities and you will find some recommended places to visit in some of the major cities in the East Midlands on my list too!

Visit the Peak District National Park

Matlock bath and the heights of abraham, chatsworth house.

• Cromford Mills (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Tissington Trail

Calke abbey, the national space centre in leicester, king richard iii visitor centre in leicester, lincoln cathedral and castle, fast facts – east midlands, visiting the east midlands.

With so many beautiful towns and villages to visit this part of the world deserves a holiday all of its own. Stay in a cottage and spend days hiking or cycling through the Peak District National Park which stretches across Northern Derbyshire and into the counties of Cheshire, Staffordshire, and Yorkshire. 

As well as some of the towns on this list that are located in the Peak District (Bakewell, Matlock and Cromford) the following are also worth including in your itinerary. 

Eyam is famous as the plague village whose self-imposed quarantine prevented the spread of the Black Death but to the deaths of 260 villagers. Visit the museum in Eyam to learn more.

Edale is located at the start of the famous Pennine Way walking trail. Stretching for over 268 miles the trail ends in Kirk Yetholm near the Scottish border.

If you fancy a slightly shorter walk there are some great day walks from Edale and a couple of pubs serving real ale in the area too. 

Read more | Peak District Travel Guide

Just on the edge of the Peak District is the Derbyshire town of Matlock Bath . Visitors to this pretty Derbyshire town will find plenty of shops and cafes (fish and chips feature heavily) as well as the popular Heights of Abraham attraction.

Opened in the 1780s the Heights of Abraham can now be reached by cable car. Once at the summit enjoy a guided cavern tour or take a stroll through the woodlands and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside.

If you have young children a visit to Gulliver’s Kingdom is sure to be a hit. The theme park is a perfect destination for families with all the rides designed for children.

Matlock Bath itself was a popular tourist destination in the 19th century when wealthy Victorians would visit the town for the spa waters. 

If you visit at a weekend you will find parking is at a premium as the town is a popular destination with bikers.

Read more | Matlock Bath and the Heights of Abraham

Home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire the beautiful Chatsworth House and estate is an absolutely fantastic day out for all the family. 

There are lots of events organised throughout the year with the annual Christmas at Chatsworth particularly popular. Each year the house is decorated with a different theme and it is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.

Don’t miss the beautiful gardens or a visit to the estates’ farm shop before you leave.

If you wish to spend longer exploring the estate and surrounding countryside why not stay in one of the properties owned by the family?  

Read more | Take a virtual tour of Chatsworth House

Cromford Mills ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Richard Arkwright’s cotton mills at Cromford are part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

These water-powered cotton mills were essentially the early beginnings of the modern factory system when production of goods moved from homes to factories.

Although Arkwright did provide housing for his workforce he was not quite as benevolent to his workers as Titus Salt in Saltaire a century later.

The visitor centre is excellent and there are guided tours available to learn more about the history of the mills.

The Tissington Trail in Derbyshire follows the route of the former rail line 13 miles from Buxton to Ashbourne.

Perfect for both walking and cycling this flat trail affords visitors wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. 

There are bicycle hire facilities at either end of the trail and lots of beautiful villages to enjoy en route including Hartington, Parsley Hay and Alsop.

Read more | The Tissington Trail

Situated near the village of Ticknall in the county of Derbyshire Calke Abbey is a Grade I listed country house and estate looked after by the National Trust .

The house perfectly illustrates the decline of the country estate during the 20th century when more and more families were unable to afford their upkeep (we have all seen Downton Abbey!)

There is always lots to do all year round at Calke Abbey including walks in the parkland (look for the deers), tours and other events.

Read more | Calke Abbey

For a day away from all the culture and history the UK has to offer why not visit the National Space Centre in Leicester?

The space centre is a great day out for all the family with lots to see and do. Don’t miss the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium where you can travel out of the UK and onto the furthest edges of the universe!!

Read more | National Space Centre

Recently located under a car park in Leicester the remains of King Richard III are now on display in this excellent visitor centre in Leicester. 

Find out about the story of Richard II, his rise to power and violent death at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 during the war of the Roses. 

Read more | King Richard III Visitor Centre Leicester

Once the tallest building in the world the gothic Lincoln Cathedral is still one of the most impressive buildings in England.

As you walk around keep an eye out for the famous Lincoln Imp!

One of the remaining copies of the Magna Carta is located at Lincoln Castle . Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror the medieval wall walk provides spectacular views over Lincoln and the surrounding countryside.

If you are feeling fit take a walk (climb) up Steep Hill (officially the 4th steepest street in England) and pop into some of the galleries and tea rooms on your way up.

Parts of the road are very steep (I would be wary of doing it in winter!) but it is worth it to see the old buildings that line the road some of which date back to the 12th/15th and 18th centuries.

Read more | Lincoln Travel Guide

• WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit the West Midlands

• WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in the Peak District National Park .
• WHAT TOURS TO BOOK : Click here for recommended tours of the East Midlands
• WHAT TO EAT/DRINK – Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, Stilton Cheese, Bakewell Tart

• PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Derby, Leicester, Nottingham, Lincoln
• WHAT TO PACK – My packing lists for the UK will help ensure you take what you need whatever the season. Read this article to find out what weather you can expect when you visit.
• Don’t be offended if so you are called “me duck” it is a term of endearment in the East Midlands!

Our top 10 places to visit in the East Midlands will have given you some ideas of things to do and see if you are exploring this area of England .

These are my choice of the top 10 and a great starting point but there are lots of things to see and do in the region for visitors of all ages.

Want to explore some of England’s other regions ? Head over to my other area guides to England which include the North East , East Midlands , West Midlands , Yorkshire , South West , South East and East of England .

Visiting Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? Check out my top 19 places to visit in Scotland and the top 10 choices to add to your travel itineraries for Wales and Northern Ireland.

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Guide To Medieval London: 20+ Things To Do And See

This is the ultimate guide to immersing yourself in the many attractions of Medieval London.

Ah, this time period is one of the most romantic and exciting in English history. It’s full of stories about dynastic battles and fascinating casts of characters. The Middle Ages conjure images of knights on horseback, courtly love, and royal battles and scandals.

To be sure, all this romance came along with an unpalatable side. The Middle Ages was the time of plague, rats, terrifying fires, casual torture, and a poor living environment for most citizens.

Still, the Middle Ages wasn’t exactly the bleak “dark ages” that Renaissance (or other) historians would have you believe. The Middle Ages saw advances in castle building, weaponry, agriculture, invention, and architecture. I mean, who doesn’t love Gothic architecture?

A Brief History Of Medieval London

Before we dive into the attractions of Medieval London, a mini history of this period is in order. If you already know the medieval goings ons in London, just scroll down.

Medieval London spans the period from 1066 to early 1500 or so. On October 14, 1066, William the Conquerer defeated the Anglo-Saxon king in the Battle of Hastings. It would be the last successful invasion of England.

William continued moving up the coast and then inland, building fortifications and dividing the kingdom into fiefdoms. The new territories were manned by loyalists who built fortified castles. These men would go on to become some of the most powerful magnates of the post-conquest era.

On Christmas Day, William was crowned king of a newly unified England in Westminster Abbey . In the years that followed, some of London’s most iconic medieval landmarks were built, including the Tower of London and Westminster Palace.

Williams sons Rufus and Henry were the next to inherit the throne. Henry I died with only one heir, Matilda, and 20 illegitimate heirs who were barred from succession.

Henry wanted Matilda on the throne. But the nobles found a women an unwelcome prospect and preferred Henry’s nephew, Stephen, the Count of Blois. Matilda clashed with Stephen in a civil war that lasted 14 years. However, when Stephen died without a male heir, she had her revenge when her son became Henry II.

He was the first great Plantagenet king, taking his name from his father Geoffrey of Anjou. Henry II was a powerful and brilliant ruler, one of the great kings of medieval Europe. He created the first English legal system.

He was married to Eleanor of Aquitaine, the former queen of France, who was his equal in every way. But after too many infidelities on his part, the marriage soured. Eleanor and their sons turned against him.

After beating his father Henry II on the battlefield, Richard I, known as “the Lionhearted,” became king. He was the archetype of a great Medieval warrior. He spent most of his life crusading and died without an heir, leaving his brother John “Lackland” in charge.

John was an imperious and unpopular ruler. He overstepped his authority and ended up being forced to sign the Magna Carta . This watershed document placed limits on royal power and became a cornerstone of English liberties.

Next in line for the throne was Henry III. He clashed with the barons, who were led by Simon de Montfort. Civil war broke out in 1264, but de Montfort was ultimately defeated.

Henry III’s son Edward became the next king. He was a formidable king and castle builder. Edward I is most known for subduing the Welsh and successfully waging war with Scottish lords William Wallace and Robert de Bruce.

Edward’s son, Edward II, was a hapless ruler. He didn’t marry well. His wife, Isabella the “She-Wolf” led a rebellion that resulted in his deposition.

His son, Henry III, was the opposite, one of the greatest of the medieval warrior kings. But during his reign, the Black Death killed off almost one third of England’s population.

Richard II, Edward II’s grandson, was the next Plantagenet king. Taking the throne in 1377, he was an intellectual man with a cultured court.

But he was an ineffectual political ruler. His cousin Henry Bolingbroke, the Duke of Lancaster, swiftly deposed him.

Bolingbroke became Henry IV, and was a king who tried to restore law and order. His son Henry V had more success and was also a commanding war hero.

His son Henry VI’s long reign was the opposite, a disaster. The king suffered bouts of nervous breakdowns.

His weakness in navigating the vicious intrigues of the court kicked off the War of the Roses, the epic 30 year civil war (1455-1487) between the York and the Lancaster branches of the Plantagenet family.

In 1455, Edward IV of York seized the throne. He survived a threat to the crown from the Earl of Warwick, the “Kingmaker.” He had two sons from a secret marriage to Elizabeth of York.

On Edward’s death, the princes’ uncle, Richard the Duke of Gloucester, took the princes to the Tower of London. Their legitimacy was questioned and they disappeared. What happened to them?

Many historians identify Richard as the culprit. He crowned himself king in 1483. But Richard III is a polarizing historical figure.

Based on Tudor propaganda and a motive of ambition, some think he’s the blood-stained hunchback of Thomas More’s history and Shakespeare’s play. Others think he was a skilled medieval ruler. (If you’re interested in the story, you can read my whodunit here .)

After a short reign, Richard III was killed in the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 by his rival rival Henry Tudor. That ended the War of the Roses and Henry VII became the first Tudor king of England. Henry married Elizabeth of York, thereby united the feuding factions.

Henry’s victory conventionally marks the end of the Middle Ages in England. But there is some blurring of that era into the Tudor era. So, I would be remiss not to mention the next monarch — Henry VIII, who inherited the throne in 1509.

Henry VIII is a larger-than-life colossus among English kings. He’s best known for his tumultuous marital life. His flurry of 6 wives gave rise to the slogan “divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.”

Henry’s first wife was Catherine of Aragon. When she failed to give him a male hair, the king’s roving eye landed on Anne Boleyn.

When the church wouldn’t give Henry an annulment from Catherine, Henry broke away from the Catholic Church. He installed himself as the head of the Church of England and married Anne. When she failed to give him a male heir too, it was off with her head.

The Reformation was a watershed moment in English history. To confirm his position as head of the church, Henry ruthlessly dissolved over 800 monasteries and transferred their wealth to his coffers.

This ended a centuries old way of life. Many of London’s medieval buildings were torn down and replaced with gaudy mansions. The dissolution of the monasteries really marks the end of the history of Medieval London.

Guide To Medieval London: What To See

Now, for the good stuff. If you’re a history lover or medievalist like me, you’ll be happy to know that London is jam packed with remnants of medieval sites.

Let’s step back in time and take a tour of Medieval London. If this virtual tour inspires you to visit London’s medieval attractions, you can book a half day guided tour of medieval London to see them in real life.

For ease of reference, I’ve put my Medieval London list in alphabetical order.

1. Charterhouse

The Charterhouse has a grim past as a plague pit. It was founded in 1171 as a medieval monastery of the Carthusian order for the purpose of praying for victims of the Black Death.

The site later became a grand Tudor mansion, a boys’ school, and an almshouse (which it remains to this day). 

Charterhouse was home to some famous residents, including Thomas More and Thomas Cromwell. Both of these chief ministers got the chop from Henry VIII when the king no longer liked their policies.

In 1535, the Catholic friars of Charterhouse refused to recognize Henry VIII as the head of the Church of England. Revenge was swift, with four of the monks castrated, disemboweled, and hung to set an example to others who might defy the king.

This didn’t stop the monks, however, so more of them were harshly punished.

Later, the Charterhouse was owned by several dukes (who also got the chop). In 1611, Thomas Sutton purchased the property and endowed it as a public school.

The Charterhouse opened as a museum in 2017. It’s still lived in by brothers of the cloth who provide guided tours of this magnificent building.

On a visit, you can see there restored Great Hall, the arcaded Norfolk Cloister, and the Great Chamber of James I.

2. Christ Church Greyfriars

Greyfriars was once one of London’s loveliest churches.

Consecrated in 1306, the church marked a move away from somber churches to a lighter and more airy ecclesiastic architecture. It would have a huge influence on the development of the Perpendicular Gothic style.

During Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, Greyfriars survived. It was renamed Christ Church and became a parish church and, later, a hospital.

The Blitz in the WWII destroyed most of the church. The architect Christopher Wren rebuilt the tower. Today, you can visit and see the ruins set amid a pretty public garden with sculptures.

3. Clink Prison

The Clink Prison was a notorious prison operating in Medieval London’s Southwark neighborhood in the 12th century, known by the slang term “the clink.” It was the prison attached to Winchester Palace and operated from 1144 to 1780.

The Clink was mostly used to store religious malefactors. It was also one of the few London prisons to incarcerate prostitutes.

Today, the prison is a museum dedicated to its criminal past. You’ll see an exhibit on the “Ladies of the Night” and other prison memorabilia.

It’s really a bit of a tourist trap and expensive. But you can get the full scoop on a London’s crimes and punishments walking tour .

4. Crosby Moran Hall

Crosby Moran Hall is the most important domestic building from Medieval London. Today it’s privately owned by Christopher Moran.

In 1466, John Crosby purchased the home and set about enlarging and renovating it. Upon his death, the house came into the possession of Edward IV and became a favorite York residence of Richard III . The house is mentioned three times in Shakespeare’s play of the same name.

Ironically, Crosby Hall was later owned by Thomas More . He wrote an infamous biography of Richard III that helped launch his dreadful reputation as the murderer of the princes in the tower.

In 1907, the entire home was dissembled and moved to Chelsea.

The entrance looks a bit like Hampton Court Palace . The Great Hall has a striking hammer beam roof, oriel window, and minstrel’s gallery. You’ll also see a portrait of Thomas More and his family by Hans Holbein.

Right next door is Chelsea Old Church. Much of it was rebuilt after WWII damage. But the medieval chancel is intact. In fact, this is where Henry VIII and Jane Seymour (his third wife) were secretly married before their official state wedding.

5. Guildhall

The Guildhall is a treasure trove for medieval enthusiasts, with a medieval crypt and great hall.

The Guildhall has been the heart of civic London since 1192. The building you see today was commissioned in 1411.

Inside, you can admire the 150 foot long Great Hall, which was (and is!) one the most splendid in London. For centuries, it was the site of grand affairs of state and criminal trials. It was here that the “Nine Days Queen,” Lady Jane Grey was sentenced to death for treason.

You’ll see colorful stained glass (not original) and statues of London dignitaries. Today, many state ceremonies and banquets are still held in the hall.

The vaulted medieval crypts are below the Great Hall. One dates from the 13th century and the other from the 15th century. The latter is supported by 6 columns of blue Purbeck marble and has a beautiful painted ceiling.

Check the website or call ahead to make sure the Guildhall is open. Sometimes, it closes on short notice.

Also, you can only visit on a guided tour and they are often booked many months in advance. For example, all tours are sold out for 2023 and booking for 2024 has begun.

6. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is just 13 miles from London, so I have included it in my list of Medieval London sites.

Hampton Court Palace is the world’s greatest surviving medieval palace. It has a deliciously rich and scandalous history and is filled with great art.

The palace was the favored playground and leisure complex of England’s infamous King Henry VIII and other notorious characters in English history.

Hampton Court Palace is really a tale of two palaces smooshed together. It’s a combination of the Gothic Palace of Cardinal Wolsey and Henry VIII and the Baroque Palace built later by the Stuart monarchs William and Mary. I’ll focus on the medieval bits.

Wolsey was the man to build the glamorous palace in 1514. When Henry VIII visited, he was disgruntled that Wolsey’s palace outshone his own.

Wolsey was forced to gift the palace to the king. It became Henry’s palace of choice and all six of his wives lived there with him.

With a serious nesting instinct, Henry further embellished the palace to make it “his own.” He commissioned countless murals, tapestries, and paintings.

The highlight of the interior is Henry’s Great Hall. It has a lavishly gilded hammerbeam roof, 60 feet high.

You can also admire Henry VIII’s State Apartments, the Wolsey Rooms, the Royal Chapel, the Renaissance Picture Gallery with paintings from the British Royal Collection , and the Tudor Kitchens.

Click  here  to book a skip the line entrance ticket to the palace. You can also book a  3 hour guided tour  of the palace or visit on a  guided day tour  from London.

7. Inns of Court

London’s Inns of Court are oases of calm amid the hustle and bustle of the City’s legal heartland. The four Inns are Lincoln’s Inn, Inner Temple, Middle Temple, and Gray’s Inn.

They serve as England’s main law school and are all located in the vicinity of the Royal Courts of Justice. The inns also preserve some of London’s finest medieval architecture.

Lincoln’s Inn is the oldest and best preserved of the inns. Dating from 1485-92, the Great Hall is an authentic early Tudor residence. The stained glass windows depict coats of arms of distinguished members, including Thomas More.

The inn also has a “quad,” which likely served as the inspirations for the quads of America’s Ivy League colleges. From the quad, an ancient vaulted passageway leads to a beautiful collection of 16th century homes.

Middle Temple Hall In Middle Temple Inn is also a striking example of Tudor architecture. It’s considered the finest Elizabethan hall in England, with a signature hammerbeam roof. The stained glass is original, having been presciently removed during WWII.

8. Lambeth Palace

Built in the 13th century, Lambeth Palace has been the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury for 800 years. Today, it’s also an events venue and home to the Lambeth Palace Library, which is the world’s second largest religious library after the Vatican .

In medieval times, the archbishops zealously guarded the hegemony of the church against royal incursion.

The most impressive medieval part of the palace is Morton’s Tower, which you see in the photo above. Serving as the main entrance to the palace, it’s one of the finest examples of Tudor brick work in London.

The oldest part of the palace is the crypt, dating from the 13th century. Interestingly, this was where the official hearing ending Henry VIII’s marriage to Anne Boleyn was held.

The Great Hall is a reconstruction of the medieval hall. You can almost imagine Henry VIII plotting with Thomas Cranmer over how to break from Rome and get his annulment from Catherine.

Today, the palace also houses a new purpose-built library, which has one of the world’s best collection of medieval manuscripts and books. Some items to look for are a Gutenberg Bible, the Lambeth Bible, and a Book of Hours that belonged to Richard III.

You can visit Lambeth Palace on a guided tour of Westminster . Click here to get information on joining a tour of the library.

9. Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market  is an old covered market in central London dating back to 1449.

The market was originally a lead-roofed manor house, and that’s where Leadenhall got its name. In medieval times, the market was the mercantile district. It would have been a dirty and disgusting place where butchers slaughtered and cleaned meat.

In 1881, the city tore Leadenhall down and commissioned Sir Horace Jones to design and build the market that stands today. All that remains of the original is a fragment of a wall encased between Victorian buildings and some stones.

Today, it’s a busy place smack in the middle of the financial district. It has Victorian style architecture with a beautiful glass roof and cobbled floors. You’ll find market stands with everything from the basic to exotic to wildly extravagant.

10. Museums With Medieval Art

London is overflowing with some of the world’s best museums. And there are quite a few where you can immerse yourself in medieval art.

Museum of London

The Museum of London takes you on a journey of the history of London, from its prehistoric first settlers around 450,000 BC to today’s contemporary multicultural hub.

Two rooms are devoted to Medieval London.

Exhibits on display include a model of William the Conqueror’s White Tower, Norman battle axes, chain mail, costumes, and medieval carvings from the Guildhall.

Victoria & Albert Museum

The Victoria & Albert Museum houses the world’s best collection of decorative arts, with a wealth of items from Medieval London that are too numerous to list.

But I will mention the Great Bed of Ware from 1590. It’s a 9 feet high four poster bed with elaborate carvings and inlays.

It was most likely made as a tourist attraction for an inn in Ware, Hertfordshire. The bed was so famous it was mentioned in Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night .

British Museum

The British Museum is almost overwhelming to visit, there’s so much to see. But for medievalists, the medieval art is conveniently stashed in one place — The Sir Paul and Lady Ruddock Gallery .

The gallery houses British, European, and Byzantine objects from the Middle Ages. The most famous work is the Lewis Chessmen.

The British Museum is free to visit. But if you want to see it all (not just he medieval pieces), you may want to book a 2 hour  guided tour  or a  2.5 hour private tour .

British Library

Just a few minutes from the British Museum, the British Library is also worth visiting for a taste of Medieval London.

You can visit the  Treasures of the British Library Exhibition  on a walk-in basis. you’ll find the Gutenberg Bible, the Magna Carta, the Lindisfarne Gospels, and Shakespeare’s first folio of plays. There’s also a splendid bookshop.

11. Shakespeare’s Globe

If you’re fascinated with playwright William Shakespeare, you’ll likely be taken with his namesake Globe Theater . 

It’s a unique theatrical space that’s an epicenter of London history associated with the Bard. The original Tudor theater opened in 1599. Fire destroyed it in 1613. It was rebuild, but later demolished.

The reconstructed open air theater is a half-timbered and thatched roof reconstruction of the old theater where Shakespeare acted and directed.

It is an Elizabethan style theater in the round, hence the term “globe.” The theater’s debut play was  Julius Caesar.  Most of Shakespeare’s tragedies were specifically written for the Globe.

You can book  guided tours  of the Globe Theater complex. You can also book a  Shakespeare-themed walking tour in London or a  literary tour that includes the Globe and Charles Dickens House . The Globe is also free with the  London Pass .

12. Southwark Cathedral

Though Southwark Cathedral is right next to the uber popular Borough Market, not many people pop in to this hidden gem in London . 

Southwark Cathedral  is a little Gothic wonder that dates back to 606 A.D. It is London’s oldest Gothic structure. The original site was destroyed by fire in 1212. It was rebuilt and dates from the 13th century.

The older Norman influences can be seen in the rear facade. The Gothic influences are on the front. 

Inside, there’s an airy vaulted ceiling made of a sandstone colored brick. You’ll see some beautiful stained glass, a monument to Shakespeare, funereal tombs, and some quirky 15th century carved roof bosses.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Southwark Cathedral .  Entry to Southwark is free. You can also visit the cathedral on a  guided walking tour of the South Bank . 

13. St. Bartholomew the Great Priority

St. Bartholomew the Great is the oldest surviving parish church in London and the most intact complete example of Norman architecture. When founded in 1123 by a courtier of King Henry I, it was the largest church in London.

The church was chopped about during Henry VIII’s reign and the interior is now firmly Elizabethan.

But today’s church still has some vestiges of its medieval roots. You can admire Norman arches in the choir, a beautiful 15th century Lady’s Chapel, and some Tudor memorials.

14. St. Etheldreda’s Chapel

St. Etheldreda’s is England’s oldest Catholic Church. Dating from the 13th century, the church is a survivor, having withstood the Reformation, the Great Fire, and the bombing of WWII.

Built during the reign of Edward I, the chapel was originally the residence of the Bishop of Ely. It was dedicated to St. Etheldreda, an abbess and saint who was the English equivalent of the Virgin Mary herself.

It has an airy light-filled nave and some gorgeous stained glass windows. The church also has a vaulted crypt set upon an ancient Roman pavement with dark medieval beams.

It was at St. Etheldreda’s that Shakespeare has John Gaunt making one of the finest speeches in the English language, the oration in  Richard II (“This royal throne of kings, this scepter’d isle …).

15. St. James Palace

Henry VIII built St. James Palace on the site of a hospital he confiscated. He intended it to be a manor home for his second wife Anne Boleyn. She never lived to see the palace, after being executed on the Tower Green.

There’s little left of the Tudor palace today, as parts were destroyed by fire. The imposing red brick gatehouse is original, and typically guarded by red- coated sentries.

Henry VIII built the Chapel Royal in honor of his fourth wife Anne of Cleves. The exterior and its mullioned windows are authentically Tudor. Inside, there’s also an original ceiling designed by Hans Holbein in the 1540s.

The palace is only rarely open to the public on special occasions. So, unless you are lucky, you will have to admire it from outside. You can also attend a service in the Chapel Royal.

 16. London Bridge | St. Magnus-the-Martyr

The history of the London Bridge is as old as the history of London. The first bridge was built by the Romans. The ancient wooden structure burned and was rebuilt many times.

Construction of a new bridge began in 1209. It was a noble structure with 19 arches, connecting the city with the south bank. It was filled, chockablock, with wooden buildings that formed a little village.

The 600 year old medieval bridge was razed in 1831 and replaced with a fanciful incarnation. That was deconstructed and rebuilt in the U.S. Now, there’s a very nondescript modern London Bridge.

The small church of  St Magnus-the-Martyr  on Lower Thames Street is located just next to the new bridge. However, it also sits atop the site of the medieval bridge.

The pedestrian entrance to the old bridge can still be seen, built into the church’s tower, which is marked with a plaque. The church’s courtyard also contains stones from the medieval bridge. Inside, visitors can find an incredibly detailed, 13 foot long model of the medieval bridge.

17. St. Margaret’s Church

The charming St. Margaret’s Church is located just north of Westminster Abbey in Parliament Square. The current Gothic-style building was consecrated in 1523 during the reign of Henry VII. Elizabeth I made it one of the country’s “Royal Peculiars.”

Its most notable feature is a dazzling Tudor window from 1509. It commemorates the betrothal of Prince Arthur (Henry VIII’s brother) to Catherine of Aragon (who would become Henry’s first wife when Arthur died).

By the time the window was commissioned and arrived, Arthur was dead, his brother was king, and Catherine was queen.

Former prime ministers Sir Winston Churchill and Harold Macmillan were also married in the church.

18. Temple Church

Temple Church dates from the late 12th century. It’s one of Medieval London’s most rewarding stops.

Temple Church is the oldest surviving circular church in England. Like Westminster Abbey, it’s classified as a “Royal Peculiar,” a house of worship that answers only to the reigning monarch.

The church was built by the secretive Knights Templar , an order of crusading monks founded to protect pilgrims traveling to and from Jerusalem. 

Temple Church is in two parts: the Round church (consecrated in 1185) and the oblong Chancel (built in 1240), the latter of which is the heart of the modern church. 

The church boasts a wealth of funereal tombs and monuments, including effigies of nine armored knights. The north window has images of kings Henry I and Stephen. The south window depicts Henry I and Henry III.

19. Tower of London

The Tower of London is the top medieval attraction in London. For over a 1,000 years, the tower has been a focal point of the London landscape.

For nearly 5 centuries, it was the primary residence of the reigning monarch. It’s been the scene of famous (and infamous!) events in English history.

A simple fort was built on the site after the Conqueror was crowned king in 1066. Construction of the White Tower, the great central keep, began in 1078.

Over the centuries, Henry III and Edward I   expanded William’s fortress and made it more luxurious. They added huge curtain walls with a series of towers and enlarged the moat.

In the reign of Henry VII’s infamous son, Henry VIII, the Tower became notorious as a prison for those who fell out of Henry’s favor. He sent Cardinal Wolsey, Thomas More, Thomas Cromwell, and two wives to the gallows on the Tower Green with little or no “evidence” of crimes.

Unlike Henry VIII, his daughter, Elizabeth I, hated the tower. No wonder, since her mother Anne Boleyn lost her head there.

When you walk over the moat and under the portcullis of the Byward Tower, you are stepping back in time. For a detailed description of everything to see inside, check out my guide to the Tower of London .

In high season, you must  purchase a ticket online in advance or be resigned to wait for hours in line.

For a more in depth experience, you may want to book a tour with an expert. I’ve taken this  3 hour guided tour  and it was excellent. You can also check out this private tour or this  3 hour early access tour .

Just outside the Tower of London sits Tower Hill, a public space that was the location for over 100 executions in Medieval and Tudor London.

20. Westminster Abbey

Founded by Edward the Confessor, Westminster Abbey embodies Medieval London. It’s a UNESCO-listed Gothic wonder. The complex has been an abbey, a cathedral, a coronation church, and a royal mausoleum.

This spectacular medieval “Royal Peculiar” has hosted every coronation from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II and 16 royal weddings.

It’s also the burial place of many medieval royals, including feuding Tudor siblings Elizabeth I and Mary. In the Poet’s Corner, you can pay homage to Geoffrey Chaucer, Ben Johnson, and a monument to Shakespeare.

The stunning Henry VII Chapel is the last great masterpiece of English medieval architecture. It’s the work of Henry VII. He was a famously parsimonious king, but broke the bank on his namesake chapel.

The chapel is where you’ll find the tombs of most of medieval history’s famous heroines, villains, and traitors — Henry VII and his wife Elizabeth of York, Mary Queen of Scots, Mary I, Elizabeth I, Edward VI, Lady Margaret Beaufort, etc.

A highlight is the spectacular fan vaulted ceiling and carved pendants

If you’re a Richard III enthusiast, you can also check out the monument to two “Princes in the Tower.”

On 1647, two skeletons were discovered in the Tower London. Charles II immediately proclaimed they were the missing princes without any scientific analysis. We’ll never know if this is true unless the crown permits DNA testing.

In Westminster’s medieval cloisters, you can visit the Chapter House with its original medieval flooring and the Pyx Chamber with the oldest altar in the abbey.

For more information on everything to see at the abbey, here’s my complete guide to visiting Westminster Abbey .

You should definitely book a skip the line ticket to visit the abbey. For the full historical scoop, you may also want to 2 hour guided tour of the abbey .

21. Westminster Palace

The Palace of Westminster serves as the meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It’s informally known as the “Houses of Parliament.”

If the Tower of London was the realm’s symbol of military might, Westminster Palace was the symbol of the monarch’s iron control.

In Medieval London, this was where the king’s council met, where parliament assembled when called by the king, and where trials were held. It was also the site of celebratory banquets, usually held around the holidays.

Unfortunately, most of the medieval palace was destroyed by a fire in 1834. All that remains is Westminster Hall, the cloisters of St. Stephen’s Chapel (not open to the public), and the Jewel Tower.

On an official tour, you’ll enter through the Victoria Tower. You will see the monarch’s robing room, several antechambers, the Royal Gallery and the House of Lords. (I’ve actually been there as a guest of a lord!)

Your next stop is the medieval hall, which was built by William Rufus between 1097-99. Richard II renovated the hall, adding a hammerbeam roof and intricate carvings featuring royal coats of arms.

You can also admire six stone statues of kings from 1388. Richard II commissioned them and they are assumed to represent the kings who preceded him.

The public can only tour the  Houses of Parliament  on certain dates. Or, you can book a  guided tour of both Parliament and Westminster Abbey .

Just across the street is the Jewel Tower. It’s a three story moated tower built as a giant safe for Edward III. Though it was once stuffed with gold and treasures, it now houses a small museum with relics from the old palace.

22. Winchester Palace

Winchester Palace  was once one of the largest and most important buildings in all of Medieval London. 

Winchester was built in the early 13th century as a home for the powerful Bishops of Winchester. They were a group of medieval power players for half a century.

The palace was used as a meeting place between church and state. It’s said that this is where Henry VIII met his fifth wife, Catherine Howard.

In 1642, the palace was reincarnated as a prison, and continued to decline. In 1814, what remained was mostly destroyed by fire.

Today, visitors can see the ruins of the walls of the Great Hall, including a magnificent oriel rose window that adorns the west gable.

I hope you’ve my guide to Medieval London. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• 30 Day Trips from London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Castles in England
• Best Museums in London
• One Day In Canterbury Itinerary
• One Day in Oxford Itinerary
• One Day In Stratford-upon-Avon
• Harry Potter Places in London

If you’d like to visit Medieval London, pin it for later.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on August 15, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

• Connect with us
• Top 10 things to do in Middlesex
• Destinations

By Rebecca Younger

There are so many things to do in Middlesex, but here are the top 10. 

Stroll through amazing gardens

Just across the river from Syon Park, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the newly-renovated Dragon Pagoda, step inside the Temperate Glasshouse and view the largest and most diverse collection of living plants in the world.

Visit the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Explore the home of cricket

Steeped in over 200 years of history and tradition and home to Middlesex County Cricket Club, Lord’s is the most famous cricket ground in the world. Tours give visitors the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes and explore the Grade 2-listed Pavilion, legendary Long Room, Players’ Dressing Rooms with the Honours Boards, award-winning JP Morgan Media Centre and MCC Museum, home to the iconic Ashes Urn.

Discover the beauty of poetry

Visit the home of one of the world’s most famous romantic poets, John Keats. Now a museum and literary centre the house, in Hampstead, is open Wednesday to Sunday.

Trace the history of aviation at the Royal Air Force Museum

See real aircraft and have a go at interactive exhibits at this extraordinary museum near Edgeware.

Families will love a trip to the Royal Air Force Museum

Have a picnic on Hampstead Heath

Boasting some of the best views from some of the highest points in London, the heath was voted London’s best picnic spot in 2018. Make your way up Parliament Hill for a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline.

Watch a game at Wembley Stadium

Another one for sports fans, whether football or rugby is your thing, depending on what season you visit, be sure to catch a game, if fixtures allow. If not, then you can always sign up for a tour.

Visit Europe’s first Hindu Temple

Popularly known as the ‘ Neasden Temple ’, the Mandir is a traditional place of Hindu worship. Designed and constructed entirely according to ancient Vedic architectural texts, using no structural steel, this beautiful temple was hand-carved in India before being assembled in London.

Have tea at Syon Park

Okay so you can’t actually have afternoon tea in the house but once you’ve had a tour of this historic building and its enchanted woodlands, pop to the garden centre next door, where there is an excellent Garden Kitchen Restaurant offering tea, cakes and other light refreshments. Alternatively, Hilton Syon Park, also situated within gorgeous surroundings of the Duke of Northumberland’s estate, offers a decadent afternoon tea, complete with Champagne.

Enjoy a tour of the stunning Syon Park and then indulge in an afternoon tea next door

Shop ‘til you drop at Brent Cross

Hailed as North West London’s premier shopping destination Brent Cross Shopping Centre is home to over 2,000 leading and designer brands and 120 stylish stores including Fenwick and John Lewis, as well as a selection of restaurants. Take advantage of free parking, great family services and enjoy free family, food and shopping events throughout the year. Alternatively, take a little time out to relax with a great range of beauty brands and treatments on offer throughout the centre.

Feed the animals at London Zoo

Over 190 years since it first opened, this famous zoo , situated in Regent’s Park, welcomes over one million visitors a year.

Read more about Middlesex

Image credits: ©Capture It/Syon Park; David Bartholomew/RAF Museum; RGB Kew

• Things to do
• Shopping centres

Related features

Not just afternoon tea… Brighton Regency Routemaster afternoon tea

Read feature >

Release your inner gorilla at Go Ape Rivington

Top3 : Great days out in Somerset

• © 2024 Kingfisher Media
• Terms and Conditions (publishing)
• Terms and Conditions (social media)
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Team Valley Web
• Arts & culture
• Places to stay
• All features

• Northern Ireland
• Southern England
• Northern England
• Other Regions
• Shopping Guides
• Restaurant Guides
• Historic Attractions
• Theme Parks/Adventure
• World Heritage Sites
• Top UK Attractions
• UK National Parks
• England Airports
• Scotland Airports
• Wales Airports
• Northern Ireland Airports
• UK Airport Hotels
• North America
• Travellers Tips
• UK Travel Tips & Advice
• Articles & Inspirations
• Holiday Packages
• Hotel Reservations
• Travel Tools
• UK Holidays
• Local Events
• MDX Facts & Figures
• Travel & Transport
• Maps/Local Search
• Travel Videos
• MDX Weather

Middlesex Hotels

• London Heathrow

Middlesex Attractions

Related articles, middlesex quick facts & figures, middlesex travel guide.

• Website Terms
• Site Disclaimer
• Privacy Policy

Best Places To Live In Middle-Earth

• Middle-earth offers diverse locations ranging from dangerous ruins to idyllic havens like Tom Bombadil's house and Lothlorien.
• Iconic places like Moria, Gondor, Rivendell, and The Shire showcase Tolkien's rich world-building and narrative depth.
• Despite perilous journeys and menacing threats, Middle-earth is also home to vibrant civilizations and awe-inspiring architecture.

J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings has become an indispensable part of the fantasy canon, spawning related texts, movie and TV adaptations, and numerous video games that let players explore Middle-earth at their leisure. Indeed, part of the enduring appeal of Tolkien's work is his detailed and creative world-building, which resulted in such iconic locations as Mordor, Isengard, and Gondor.

12 Games With Great Lord Of The Rings Mods

Admittedly, not every part of Middle-earth can be described as a tourist hot-spot; those familiar with the journeys of both Bilbo and Frodo will be aware of the dangers inherent to traveling through Tolkien's world. However, the fantasy realm isn't all doom and gloom, and there are many areas where even the most ardent of adventurers might be tempted to settle down.

The Once-Great Stronghold Of The Dwarves

Discussion of Moria brings several things to mind, including Gandalf's iconic clash with the Balrog during The Fellowship of the Ring, and Free Range Games' less iconic The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria game from 2023. However, the gloomy, ruined city is unlikely to be anyone's number one choice for a home—at least, not during the Third Age depicted in Tolkein's epic trilogy.

Yet Moria was once a bustling and prosperous city, illuminated with crystal lamps and home to impressive architectural structures like Durin's Bridge. Indeed, at the height of its prosperity, Moria was the place to be in Middle-earth, at least for Dwarves. The Mines of Moria, rich in valuable mithril , allowed Moria and its inhabitants to flourish, but the greed of the Dwarves caused them to dig too deep, uncovering dark powers which decimated the once-mighty city.

A Troubled But Mighty Kingdom

By the time of The Lord of the Rings , the legendary Gondor finds itself besieged by the forces of evil. Centered around the capital city of Minas Tirith, Gondor acts as crucial counterweight to Mordor, ensuring the containment of Sauron's forces. However, despite valiant efforts of the Men who populate the kingdom, their resistance proves insufficient. Gondor is further threatened by the corruption of its leader, Denethor, and continued attacks and sieges .

Lord of the Rings: 7 Most Important Orcs In The Series

While the geopolitical status of Gondor is precarious, the architectural splendor of areas like Minas Tirith cannot be discounted. Indeed, Gondor is home to some of Middle-earth's best civil infrastructure, making life there fairly pleasant during the brief periods of peace.

Tom Bombadil's Home

An oasis in a chaotic world.

Fans of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings movies may be unfamiliar with the character of Tom Bombadil , as the section of The Fellowship of the Ring in which he features is notably absent from Jackson's adaptation. This is understandable, as Bombadil has only a minor role in Frodo's journey, but it does deprive audiences of a chance to see one of Middle-earth's most idyllic areas. Bombadil lives deep in the Old Forest, enjoying an intense connection with the natural world and a degree of seclusion from the chaos unfolding throughout Middle-earth.

While his house only provides a temporary refuge for Frodo and the other Hobbits, Bombadil's friendly persona and hosting skills make this one of Middle-earth's more desirable residences. For those wishing to find a safe haven from the tumult of the Third Age, Bombadil's house offers the perfect solution.

A Point Of Light In A Dark Region

Few parts of Middle-earth feel as magical as the Elvish realm of Lothlorien , where even time itself seems bizarrely affected by arcane forces. Home to Cereborn, Galadriel, and the Galadhrim, this forested community provides welcome respite to the Fellowship after its harrowing ordeal in the Mines of Moria. However, the strict policies of the Galadhrim nearly prohibit entry to the Fellowship, and tensions are initially high between the Dwarf Gimli and Lothlorien's inhabitants.

The Lord of the Rings: 10 Most Iconic Scenes From The Trilogy

Despite this rocky start, Lothlorien proves to be a paradise for the Fellowship. The generosity and insight of Galadriel prove essential to the ongoing success of Frodo and his friends, and Lothlorien itself leaves a lasting impression on each member of the party. While Lothlorien may be difficult to enter, those who do are bound to be impressed by this timeless, woodland region.

The Birthplace Of The Fellowship

Rivendell serves a vital plot function in Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring , not only providing a safe haven for Frodo and his friends to evade the pursuit of the Ringwraiths, but also serving as the meeting place of the Council of Elrond. Yet beyond its role in the plot of the saga, Rivendell boasts beautiful surroundings and impressive architecture. It's little wonder, then, that the region's buildings have been immortalized in a highly detailed Lego set, as well as by talented gamers .

As a major Elvish settlement in Middle-earth, Rivendell is not only home to such iconic figures as Elrond and Arwen, but is also a place of sanctuary. As such, it is understandable that an aged Bilbo chooses to remain there following the Council of Elrond rather than joining the Fellowship's quest. The heroic Frodo also struggles to leave the serenity of Rivendell behind, even when the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

A Cosy Home For Reluctant Adventurers

The Shire is, without a doubt, one of Middle-earth's most iconic locations. Home to The Lord of the Rings ' most famous Hobbits, namely Bilbo and Frodo, this pastoral region is ideal for those who want some (temporary) respite from the machinations of Sauron and other evildoers. Indeed, from its cosy Hobbit-holes to its bountiful nature, the Shire is not only the starting place for many an epic journey, but also a comforting reprieve for weary travelers.

Lord of the Rings: The Hobbits' Barrow-Blades, Explained

Admittedly, many of the Shire's occupants demonstrate the same flaws and failings as humans in the real world. This is perhaps unsurprising, as Tolkien modeled the fantastical region on Worcestershire, a rural region in England, while Peter Jackson turned to the lush landscapes of New Zealand in order to bring the Hobbit paradise to the silver screen. However, despite the presence of some petty neighbors, the Hobbit-holes of the Shire are prime real estate.

The Lord of the Rings

Created by J. R. R. Tolkien

Current Series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Where to watch HBO Max

The northern lights danced across the US last night. It could happen again Saturday.

Amazing auroras sparked by a massive solar storm — the strongest in decades — set the world abuzz Friday night as colorful glowing light radiated into the skies as far south as Florida and the Bahamas, to the surprising delight of many who waited up and kept watch.

And good news for anyone who missed it: You may get another chance Saturday night or Sunday.

"Overnight, aurora were visible across much of the United States. Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight," the Space Weather Prediction Center said in a Saturday morning update . A later update suggests the possibility of widespread viewing in the U.S. on Sunday too.

(A word of caution, experts have previously told USA TODAY that forecasting space weather is difficult . Researchers must rely on observations of the 93-million-miles-away sun to make their predictions.)

Northern lights are only visible at night time, and experts say it's best to view them away from the hustle and bustle of city life to get the best show. Still, Americans in cities said they could see the lights overnight, including in metro Detroit .

Wisconsinites got to see the lights dance across the sky in green and purple hues. Even residents of downtown Milwaukee caught a glimpse despite the bright city lights obstructing the view.

See photos: Northern lights on full display across US, Europe on Friday

Will the aurora be visible this weekend?

It could be.

The Space Weather Prediction Center offers an experimental forecast map that showed on Saturday the aurora may be visible Saturday in a wide swath of the U.S., possibly in states including Oregon, Nebraska, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New York. But visibility will depend on shifting factors that include weather.

For Sunday, space weather forecasters said the aurora could become visible again over the northern half of the country, with sights extending as far south as Alabama and northern California. The effects of that storm are expected to arrive Sunday morning ET.

What is the cloud forecast Saturday night? Will clouds block the northern lights?

If you missed the aurora borealis Friday night, you might still catch a glimpse on Saturday or Sunday, depending on where you live. But not if clouds get in the way.

The cloud forecast for Saturday night is generally good for most of America, but some of the people who missed their chance last night due to clouds may have a similar problem Saturday, said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines. Areas that are likely to be cloudy include New England and Mid-Atlantic regions, as well as parts of the Southern Plains, including Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado.

“Even just a few breaks in the clouds will allow the aurora to be visible,” Kines said. “There’s always hope.”

Peak visibility time Saturday night will be between 9 p.m. and midnight, with some chance until 2 a.m., Kines said. The best views will be in dark areas away from the light pollution of cities, he said, though some reported seeing the auroras Friday night from metro areas like Milwaukee and Detroit.

Sunday night, if there is any aurora to see, those in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic can rejoice, because Kines said the skies should be clearer.

What is causing the northern lights this weekend?

The spectacle is being caused by geomagnetic storm that erupted from a sunspot cluster on the sun.

The storm was unusually strong — classified as "extreme" (or a G5) storm, the highest level, the  Space Weather Prediction Center  said Friday evening. It's the first G5 storm to hit our planet since 2003.

The geomagnetic storm's effects (which aren't all as pretty as the northern lights) are likely to linger through the weekend. The  Space Weather Prediction Center  said the storm is likely to continue through Sunday.

"There have been reports of power grid irregularities and degradation to high-frequency communications and GPS," the Space Weather Prediction Center said in a Saturday morning update.

Where were the northern lights seen on Friday night?

Across much of the United States and Europe where skies were clear — as far south as Florida, Oklahoma, Texas and Arizona.

To the great disappointment of many in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, cloud cover dimmed or obstructed the stunning display altogether.

Although it's unusual, auroras have been seen in the far southern United States in the past. This happens when a particularly large coronal mass ejection arrives in the Earth's outer atmosphere, triggering a geomagnetic storm, NOAA reports.

On the night of Nov. 5-6, 2001 , aurora displays were seen in Texas and Arizona.

What causes the aurora?

NASA describes an aurora as an "intricate dance of particles and magnetism between the Sun and the Earth."

The Sun's activity creates strong electrical currents known as geomagnetic storms.

These eruptions are mostly happening at a large, complex sunspot cluster, NOAA'S Space Weather Prediction Center said. Sunspots, which increase and decrease on a 11-year cycle, are areas where the magnetic field is about 2,500 times stronger than Earth's.

The reason the auroras move is because of how the Sun's ionized gases interact with the Earth's magnetic field.

If you took a great photo, NASA wants to know

In a collaboration with the National Science Foundation and the New Mexico Consortium aurora sightings and photos are being collected at the Aurorasaurus web page.

Why was the aurora borealis so red on Friday?

Mike Theiss, an extreme nature photographer and hurricane storm chaser, who lives in Florida was shocked to see posts Friday night about how far south people were seeing the auroras. To his amazement, he was able to step out of his front door in Key Largo in the Florida Keys and see and photograph the aurora. Hours later he was still incredulous, and surprised at the colors in the aurora.

"I’ve documented the Northern Lights in Iceland, North Dakota, Arctic Circle in Canada but never this red color," Theiss said. "This is the first time I’ve seen red."

The multiple colors seen in auroras are related to the types of gas being bombarded at various levels above the Earth. Auroras occur within one of Earth's upper atmosphere layers, the thermosphere, according to the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research.

Solar particles trapped there interact with various gas molecules, such as nitrogen and oxygen, according to the research corporation's website. Oxygen gives off green and red lights, while nitrogen glows blue and reddish purple. For example, nitrogen gas glows blue at 75 to 110 miles altitude.

The less common red auroras form from interacting with higher altitude oxygen molecules, the website explains.

'Two incredible spectacles of the universe': Northern lights come about a month after eclipse

Seeing the aurora amazed Antonella Fruscione, an astrophysicist at Harvard University. She sent photos of the sight as well as the April total solar eclipse to her friends in Italy.

"And I sent them the picture that I took at the solar eclipse and I said, 'Can you imagine how fortunate I was this year, one month apart, I see these two incredible spectacles of the universe,'" she recalled telling them.

The phenomena seen Friday and possibly Saturday night is unusual, she said.

"It's a very rare occurrence, especially because last night it was really visible," Fruscione said.

What was the Halloween storm in October 2003?

Over two decades ago in late October 2003, three massive sunspot groups appeared on the sun's surface with little warning, accompanied by 17 major solar flares, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information.

Satellites, radio and GPS systems went on the fritz around the world, causing some major disruptions. But it also offered a stunning view of the auroras as far south as California and Florida. People in Australia and Mediterranean countries even caught a glimpse.

Contributing: Doyle Rice and Krystal Nurse , USA TODAY

Places to visit in Merseyside

Visit Merseyside for a city break with a difference. Absorb the sounds of The Beatles as you stroll through Cavern Walks – where the band became famous before conquering the world – and take in the Fab Four’s exhibition at The Beatles’ Story Experience. But places to visit in Merseyside go much further than in its principal city. Visit the home of British glass at the World of Glass museum in St Helens, a fascinating town also known for its rugby league heritage. See wild animals up close and personal at Knowsley Safari Park, take in Anthony Gormley’s unique art installation on Crosby Beach and visit Formby Point to see one of England’s last strongholds for red squirrels – go see before they disappear for good. .

23 Experience Results

View results as:

• Liverpool (22) Apply Liverpool filter
• Boating (1) Apply Boating filter
• Going underground (1) Apply Going underground filter
• Golf (2) Apply Golf filter
• Tours and trails (5) Apply Tours and trails filter
• Autumn Break Ideas (1) Apply Autumn Break Ideas filter
• Free (3) Apply Free filter
• Low cost (2) Apply Low cost filter
• Neighbourhoods (1) Apply Neighbourhoods filter
• Beaches (1) Apply Beaches filter
• Coastal landmarks and Islands (1) Apply Coastal landmarks and Islands filter
• Seaside resorts (1) Apply Seaside resorts filter
• Wildlife and Nature Reserves (1) Apply Wildlife and Nature Reserves filter
• Architectural wonders (1) Apply Architectural wonders filter
• Arts and cultural events (1) Apply Arts and cultural events filter
• Festivals and carnivals (1) Apply Festivals and carnivals filter
• Hidden gems (1) Apply Hidden gems filter
• Museums galleries and libraries (5) Apply Museums galleries and libraries filter
• Music and nightlife (4) Apply Music and nightlife filter
• Outdoor art and sculpture (1) Apply Outdoor art and sculpture filter
• August events (1) Apply August events filter
• May events (1) Apply May events filter
• Attractions (2) Apply Attractions filter
• Indoor Activities (3) Apply Indoor Activities filter
• Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places (1) Apply Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places filter
• Castles and Historic Properties (1) Apply Castles and Historic Properties filter
• Historic sites and icons (2) Apply Historic sites and icons filter
• Industrial Maritime And Transport (1) Apply Industrial Maritime And Transport filter
• Myths Legends and Tales (1) Apply Myths Legends and Tales filter
• World heritage sites (1) Apply World heritage sites filter
• Sporting Heritage (1) Apply Sporting Heritage filter
• Autumn (4) Apply Autumn filter
• Spring (5) Apply Spring filter
• Summer (4) Apply Summer filter

Head out on a Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

Follow in the footsteps of John, Paul, George and Ringo with this immersive tour of where they lived, met and played throughout Liverpool.

Location: Liverpool, Merseyside

Marvel at Liverpool’s architectural heritage

Stroll along the waterfront for some of Liverpool's many architectural treasures.

Dee Estuary to Hilbre Island

A two-mile walk across the sand from West Kirby, the Dee Estuary is an oasis of wildlife.

Location: Hilbre Island, Merseyside

Take your pick from Liverpool’s rich cultural gems

Liverpool is a thriving capital of culture with museums and galleries for every taste, many of which are free to explore. Dip in and emerge inspired.

Rainy Day Activities: Entertain the kids at Imagine That

Unleash the little ones and let them loose to explore this fun interactive experience that will stimulate their minds.

Take an Anfield Stadium Tour

The legendary Liverpool Football Club is now open to the public.

Join 100 iron men by the sea at Another Place

An army of iron statues look out to sea from Crosby Beach. Visit this surreal, haunting artwork by Antony Gormley, and explore its unique coastline.

Location: Crosby Beach, Merseyside

Eat, drink, shop and play till late at Camp and Furnace

Camp and Furnace is all about fun: whether you want to play a game of Monopoly, go vintage shopping or sing-a-long with the music.

Rainy Day Activities: Explore Earth and space at Liverpool’s World Museum

Need ideas on things to do when it rains? Visit one of North West England’s oldest museums and get a hands-on look at our planet from the oceans to the stars.

Go to Liverpool Sound City, an innovative music, film and art festival

Get a ticket for one of the UK’s largest international music, digital and film festivals.

August events: International Beatleweek

Get swept up in Beatlemania as fans from all over the world descend on the city where it all started.

Rainy Day Activities: Venture beneath the city on the Mersey Tunnel Tour

Take a sneak peak at the famous Queensway Mersey Tunnel - a unique indoor attraction close to Liverpool's bustling docks.

Enjoy a budget break at Euro Hostel Liverpool

Spend a weekend in Liverpool and stay at a hostel with a difference – it’s dormitories, but not as you know it.

Titanic & Liverpool: the untold story

Titanic & Liverpool: the untold story tells Titanic’s story from unique Liverpool perspectives, including Captain Smith and the 120 crew with Merseyside links.

Take an iconic ferry trip across the Mersey

No trip to Liverpool would be complete without venturing on to the water – especially on a newly ‘dazzled’ ferry.

Trace the lives of The Beatles in their home city

Buzzing Liverpool is renowned for its music scene. Discover how its four most famous sons still set the beat for a fab visit to the city.

Take a tour of Liverpool’s architectural marvels

See this handsome, historic city with fresh eyes; join an expert-led RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) tour of its loveliest buildings.

Be captivated by charming Port Sunlight village

Created as a perfect model village, Port Sunlight is the ideal destination for a day out. Relax in peaceful surroundings and see outstanding art.

Location: Wirral, Merseyside

Discover sand dunes and quaint tearooms in Southport

Travel by road or rail to the classic seaside resort of Southport, springboard to England’s Golf Coast.

Location: Southport, Merseyside

Ascend Liverpool Cathedral on a tower tour

The Anglican Cathedral dominates Liverpool’s skyline. Marvel at the inside of the great building and climb up its tower for spectacular views.

Tee off on England’s Golf Coast

Discover 12 of the finest links golf courses in the UK, including three Open Championship courses, within striking distance of central Liverpool.

Location: Southport, Wirral, Lytham, Merseyside

• See more results

Related Items

Nearby cities to visit.

Explore the rambling stately mansions and turreted castles of the northwest, with landscaped gardens to die for. Wildlife lovers can meet tiny bugs to giant Asian elephants at Chester Zoo.

One of England’s premier cities, Manchester offers a great shopping experience, an unbeatable nightlife, with restaurants, theatres and bars to accommodate all tastes. Discover the best things to do in Manchester.

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

Money blog: Tourist taxes being imposed across Europe (and in UK) - here's how much they all are

An increasing number of cities are either imposing or increasing the cost of tourist taxes on visitors. Read this and our other Weekend Money content below, and let us know your thoughts. We'll be back with live updates on Monday.

Saturday 18 May 2024 17:03, UK

Weekend Money

• How to sell your home without an estate agent
• Tourist taxes to watch out for in popular holiday destinations
• Childcare vouchers, hard work and new skyscrapers: What readers have said this week
• Three things you need to know from Money this week

Best of the week

• The rise of Michelin starred 'fast food'
• How much do buskers make?
• Basically... What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• Money Problem : My workplace wants to pay us by the minute - what can I do?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

By Ollie Cooper , Money team

Estate agent fees are one of the big expenses in selling a house - but rule changes and the rise of private sale websites have made it more common for people to go it alone.

But how easy is it - and what do you need to know? We spoke to industry experts to find out.

Firstly, what do estate agents do for their money?

An estate agent will typically charge in the range of 1%-3.5% of the sale price. 

That means for the average house price (£284,691 from December) you could pay anywhere from £2,846 to £9,964 in commission fees.

"When you use an estate agent, their fee includes taking professional photographs, advertising your home, conducting property viewings, and negotiating a price on your behalf," says Jack Smithson  from the home ownership site  Better.co.uk .

In addition, an estate agent will compile comprehensive details of your house, including room sizes and descriptions of fixtures and fittings. 

"They will also provide a concise write-up about the local area, highlighting amenities, schools, and transportation links," Jack adds. 

And they'll conduct checks on buyers for you (more on this later).

It sounds like a lot, but...

"Selling your home yourself can be a manageable process with a few key steps," Jack says.

Preparation 

You should begin by thoroughly researching house prices in your area, using websites like Rightmove and Zoopla - but seek free valuations from local estate agents to ensure you have a realistic asking price in mind.

Next, you want to take high-quality photos of your house.

Jack advises using tutorials on YouTube to learn new shooting and editing techniques that can take you to the next level.

You then want to write down what makes your home unique.

"While browsing other listings for inspiration, take it a step further by emphasising what you love about living in your home and the surrounding area," Jack suggests.

"Whether it's the refreshing scent of the coastline or the tranquil sounds of village life, incorporating these details can help potential buyers visualise living there," he advises. 

Like using YouTube for photography tips, you can use free tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly if you need help with your writing, Jack says. 

Advertising

This is probably the biggest perk of going through an established estate agent - your home is much more likely to be viewed because they will have an established audience and a market. But it's very possible to do it alone. 

"When it comes to advertising your home, explore a variety of avenues including local newspapers and social media," Jack says.

"Consider using websites like Strike, which allow individuals to list their properties for free on platforms like Rightmove," he suggests.

Viewings 

Once you've secured some viewings, you've got the opportunity to make it a bit more personal than estate agents ever could - a real advantage. 

"Explain the reasons behind your decision to purchase the property, highlight its unique features, and share the aspects of your neighbourhood that make it a desirable place to live," Jack says. 

The small things matter when showing people round - so try to take an objective look around before you bring anyone in.

Do the things you'd do normally - make sure it smells nice and it's clean and tidy.

"Lastly, it's worth knowing that you must legally provide potential buyers with a free Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)."

The sale itself

Perhaps the most daunting aspect is the physical exchange of contracts and money. 

An estate agent would typically oversee the process of the initial offer acceptance to the transfer of keys to the new owner.

However, if you go it alone, you'll need to become the central point of contact - bridging the gap between your solicitor or conveyancer and the buyer and their legal representative.

"Once you've accepted an offer on your property, your first task is to draft what's called a memorandum of sale," Jack says.  

This document is a written confirmation of your acceptance of the offer and details the agreed price along with any specific conditions you've both agreed to.

"It's then recommended to engage the services of a solicitor or conveyancer to ensure all legal obligations are met," Jack says (of course, you'll need to do this even if you have an estate agent).

The cost of hiring one typically ranges from a few hundred to over £1,000, depending on factors such as fixed fees, hourly rates, the complexity of the sale and additional costs like property searches or land registry fees.

"In the absence of an estate agent, you'll be responsible for keeping your buyer informed about the progress of the sale. This involves regular updates on the status of legal procedures and any relevant developments," Jack says, before adding that this can actually be a good thing.

"By taking on these responsibilities independently, you'll have greater control over the sale process. However, it will require you to be exceptionally organised, and you'll need to be very good at communicating too."  

Any risks to be aware of?

Rita Patel, legal director at law firm  Browne Jacobson , tells us the biggest risk for people selling their properties without an estate agent is the lack of a vetting and verification process of the potential buyer.

Estate agents will verify the buyer's identity and check the buyer's proof and source of funds - without this, there's no way to assess the buyer is legitimate and can afford to buy.

"Whilst this process is something lawyers can help with, this is often at an additional cost, and you'll need to start from square one if there is an issue with a potential buyer's identification and/or financial eligibility," Rita says. 

More generally, selling without an agent can extend the time it takes to sell. 

"Zoopla suggests this timeframe is normally around 17-34 weeks, but with no one on hand to consistently promote and drive the property sale at all stages, going solo drags this process out," Rita says. 

"Agents can also help mediate any potential breakdowns in communication between the buyer and seller - reducing the likelihood of having to go back to market and start again."

The advantages

Laura Owen-Brown, a PR manager from Gloucestershire, tells us she is set to sell her house without an estate agent in the near future.

"My disappointment with estate agents stems from their lack of familiarity with the properties they attempted to sell me when I was buying my current house," she says. 

"They couldn't tell me about the details that truly matter, like the optimal times for sunlight in the garden, how much council tax I'd pay, what the roof was made of, the places I could walk my dog off lead or the impact of post-football match traffic on Sundays.

"These types of details can shape the experience of living in a house for years and are just as important as the square footage, EPC rating or how many bedrooms a property has," she adds. 

She says the current "transactional" approach to selling houses feels "impersonal and outdated" to her. 

"Yes, I'll have to handle more admin, but the savings in both money and time will make it worthwhile. Liaising with buyers and solicitors directly without a third party slowing everything down will mean I can be in control and have transparency throughout the process, especially during negotiations," she says.

All in all...

As Laura says, it's very much a case of whether you can stomach the admin and are happy to take the risks on background financial checks. 

If you are aware of all the above and willing to take on the organisational burden, you could save yourself a serious chunk of cash. 

As we've been reporting in the Money blog over the last few months, an increasing number of cities are either imposing or increasing the cost of tourist taxes on visitors. 

Many say they are preventing damages from overtourism, as well as funding local infrastructure and businesses. 

Here are the latest tourist fees for the most popular spots in Europe...

Tourists visiting Venice for the day will have to pay a €5 entry fee to enter the city between the hours of 8.30am and 4pm.

Meanwhile, those staying overnight in Venice are charged a fee between €1 to €5 within the accommodation price for the first five consecutive nights.

People visiting the Spanish city now have to pay €3.25 if they're staying in official accommodation, up from €2.75.

Manchester 

Visitors must pay £1 per room, per night across 73 hotels. 

The scheme, which has raised more than £2m within a year, is for improvements to attract more tourists.

Tourists must pay €2 per person for every night they stay, although this is only applied for a maximum of seven nights.

The Greek government has introduced a Climate Crisis Resilience Fee to charge tourists anywhere from €0.50 to €10 per room, per night.

The amount depends on the hotel category and the time of year.

Visitors to the Croatian city must pay €2.65 per person, per night throughout April to September. 

However, the fee has been temporarily reduced to €1.86 for the rest of this year.

Different amounts are charged depending on the type of accommodation.

The most expensive charge is €14.95 for a stay in palaces, and €0.65 at one or two-star campsites, per person, per night. 

Those staying in a typical four-star hotel are charged around €8.

Those staying in the Hungarian capital are charged an additional 4% each night, which is calculated based on the price of the room.

Tourists in Berlin must pay 5% of the room price, excluding VAT and service fees.

The tourist tax here has increased from €0.82 to €1.97 per day. 

Prices researched by travel insurance site Quotezone.co.uk

The main topics from the Money blog that got you commenting this week were...

Government-funded childcare

• Michel Roux Jr's comments about the future of the restaurant industry 

Nearly 600 new skyscrapers for London

From last Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England have been able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

Those hours can be claimed from September. 

Some readers pointed out the T&Cs... 

This 15 hrs a week is for term time ONLY. So full-time working parents will have to either tell their employer they can't work in school holidays or pro-rata it across the year which is 10 hours a week. Yvonne grandma

Others said it spoke to issues in the wider childcare sector...

Is the government going to give pay rises to nursery staff? They are very low paid staff, and can't get enough staff as it is!! Nurseries may have to close if they don't get staff, so parents won't be able to take up the offer!! What is the government going to do about it? Carol

Chefs or delivery drivers?

Celebrity chef Michel Roux Jr has suggested that restaurants may only open three days per week because young people prefer other jobs - like delivering parcels. 

"Just because I worked 80 hours a week or more doesn't mean the next generation should," he said. 

"Quite the contrary. That is something that we have to address in our industry."

Readers said...

That's because one [job] is on the verge of slave labour and one definitely is slave labour. And the latter I'm referring to is working in a kitchen for a chef.  Realist2024

Spent 35 years working as a chef. Young people nowadays are not willing to do the extra hours (usually unpaid) and work every weekend. Godsends like my generation of chefs did and do.  Bucks

There's been considerable backlash in our comments section after a thinktank said a total of 583 skyscrapers are "queuing up in the pipeline" to be built across central London.

That is more than double the 270 built in the past decade...

"600 new skyscrapers on way for London" while the majority are struggling. When will something serious be done about growing wealth inequality in the UK? A growing economy is useless while the gap between the ultra rich and everyone else increases. Qwerty1

How many unnecessary skyscrapers for London? It's fine, as long as they are not made using steel, glass, concrete or bricks - don't people know there's a climate emergency? Shanghaiwan

Who's paying for it? What about the North? treelectrical

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a respected energy markets researcher has said.

Ahead of next Friday's announcement by Ofgem for the July-September period, Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap will rise again slightly in October, before falling in January next year. 

"A predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years," a spokesperson for Uswitch said. 

Around 100 more prosecutions of sub-postmasters unrelated to the Horizon scandal could be "tainted" , a Sky News investigation has found, as officials worked with now discredited Post Office investigators to secure convictions.

The prosecutions of Post Office staff were led by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between 2001 and 2006.

It is understood these usually involved the cashing in of stolen order books.

The Post Office itself wrongly prosecuted hundreds of sub-postmasters between 1999 and 2015 - based on evidence from the faulty Horizon accounting system.

Read more from our business correspondent Adele Robinson  by clicking  here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end" , according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

The list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

While the combined wealth of the list's 350 wealthiest individuals amounts to more than £795bn - larger than the GDP of Poland - the guide's compiler says time will tell what impact a drop in billionaires could have.

"This year's Sunday Times Rich List suggests Britain's billionaire boom has come to an end," Robert Watts said.

Read on here ...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

The Body Shop’s administrators are to launch an auction of the chain after concluding that an alternative restructuring of one of Britain’s best-known high street retailers was not viable.

Sky News has learnt that FRP Advisory, which has been overseeing the collapsed business since January, is to begin formally sounding out potential buyers in the coming weeks.

The move raises the prospect of new owners taking control of The Body Shop, which was founded nearly half a century ago.

Read more here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling - in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end", according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

Published today, the list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

"Many of our home-grown entrepreneurs have seen their fortunes fall and some of the global super rich who came here are moving away."

Top of the list is British-Indian businessman Gopi Hinduja and his family, whose wealth of £37.2bn is the largest fortune in the ranking's history.

But other familiar names in the list saw their riches fall, with Sir Richard Branson's total dropping by £2.4bn, which is back to his 2000 level.

Last year's top climber Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a stake in Manchester United this year, fell two positions with a decline of £6.1bn.

Euan Blair, Tony Blair's eldest son, made the list for the first time, as did Sir Lewis Hamilton.

It comes as the UK continues to deal with a cost-of-living crisis, with new figures this week revealing a record 3.1 million food bank parcels were distributed over the course of a year.

The top 10:

• Gopi Hinduja - £37.2bn
• Sir Leonard Blavtanik - £29.2bn
• David and Simon Reuben and family - £24.9bn
• Sir Jim Ratcliffe - £23.5bn
• Sir James Dyson and family - £20.8bn
• Barnaby and Merlin Swire and family - £17.2bn
• Idan Ofer - £14.9bn
• Lakshmi Mittal and family - £14.9bn
• Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family - £14.4bn
• John Fredriksen and family - £12.8bn

A group of social media influencers have been charged in relation to promoting an unauthorised investment scheme.

The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) original cast member Lauren Goodger, 37, former Love Island star Biggs Chris, 32, and Celebrity Big Brother winner Scott Timlin, 36, also known as Scotty T, are among seven TV personalities alleged to have been paid to promote the scheme to their combined 4.5 million Instagram followers.

The others charged by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) include former Love Islanders Rebecca Gormley, 26, Jamie Clayton, 32, and Eva Zapico, 25 and TOWIE member Yazmin Oukhellou, 30.

The UK's financial watchdog brought the charges in a crackdown on "finfluencers" who use their online platforms to offer advice and information on various financial topics.

It alleges that between 19 May 2018 and 13 April 2021 Emmanuel Nwanze, 30, and Holly Thompson, 33, used an Instagram account to provide advice on buying and selling investments known as contracts for difference (CFDs) when they were not authorised to do so.

The watchdog said CFDs were high-risk investments used to bet on the price of an asset, in this case the price of foreign currencies.

It previously warned that 80% of customers lost money when investing in CDFs.

Mr Nwanze has been charged with running the scheme. He faces one count of breaching the general prohibition of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, and one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

Ms Thompson, Mr Chris, Mr Clayton, Ms Goodger, Ms Gormley, Ms Oukhellou, Mr Timlin and Ms Zapico each face one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

All nine will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June.

The FCA asked anyone who believed they had sustained a loss due to the scheme to contact its consumer contact centre.

A hotel part-owned by Gary Neville and other ex-Manchester United legends has been named one of the best places to work in hospitality. 

Each year, The Caterer releases its top 30 best places for employees in the sector, with the top six featuring some familiar names.

The list is compiled via anonymous employee survey - with no input from managers or owners. 

Hotel Football, the only hotel with a rooftop five-a-side pitch, was among the top six venues selected by employees across the UK. 

The hotel's benefits package was particularly well-praised by those who work there - given that it "prioritises the financial wellbeing of employees during the cost of living challenge".

Management at the hotel, which is situated next to Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium, was also praised for enhanced maternity, paternity, parental and adoption leave policies and a strong belief in diversity and inclusion. 

The other five to make up the top six are The Biltmore in Mayfair, Cycas Hospitality (which has 18 locations across the UK), Dalata (which boasts some 1,000 employees), Gleneagles Hotel in Edinburgh and Nobu Hotel in Shoreditch, London. 

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a leading thinktank has said. 

Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap to rise again slightly in October, before falling again in January next year. 

Reacting to the news, Uswitch said the predicted drop was "clearly good news". 

"The future still remains uncertain, and with the price cap changing every three months – currently expected to rise in October before falling slightly in January –  it's crucial not to be complacent," Richard Neudegg, director of regulation, said. 

However, "a predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years", he said. 

He also urged  households who want to lock in rates for price certainty to run a comparison to see what energy tariffs are available to them.

"There are many 12-month fixed tariffs available at rates cheaper than the current price cap, and even some that are 2% below these new predicted July rates," he said. 

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

Garden tours, plants sales and more ways to spend time among flowers

Visit Maine's botanical gardens or get a sneak peek of what your neighbors are growing in their back yards.

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

One of the loveliest ways to ease yourself fully out of the post-winter blahs and into springtime is to quit being a wallflower and instead surround yourself with living, blooming plants.

From botanical gardens to plant sales and garden tours, it’s time to make like the Scarecrow in “The Wizard of Oz” and while away the hours, conferring with flowers.

The waterfall at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. Photo by Tory Paxson, Courtesy of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

TOTALLY BOTANICAL

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay is open for the season, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Maine Days are May 31 to June 2, when anyone with a Maine driver’s license or state ID gets in for free. Ditto for dads/father figures on Father’s Day (June 16). Advance registration is required. With more than 300 acres of gardens and natural spaces, including a waterfall, there will be plenty to see, smell and bask in the scenery.

Here are more things to do in Boothbay

A tour group walks on the boardwalk at Viles Arboretum in Augusta. Joe Phelan/Kennebec Journal

Viles Arboretum is a botanical garden in Augusta with 6 miles of trails and more than 20 botanical collections. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. There are 224 acres with all sorts of flora and fauna to discover. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the visitor center is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Viles Arboretum offers medicinal plant walks, and although the May 18 session is full, you can still register for the June 15 and Sept. 14 events, lead by herbalist, homeopath and flower essence practitioner Debra Bluth. Tickets are $25. Advertisement

The Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve has four areas to explore on its property in Northeast Harbor: the Asticou Azelea Garden (dawn to dusk daily), the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden (noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from July 9 to Sept. 8, reservations required), Thuya Garden (dawn to dusk daily, June 15 to Oct. 14) and Little Long Pond Natural Lands (hiking trails and carriage roads open dawn to dusk daily). On June 26, at the Wildflowers of Little Long Pond event, participants can wander around the garden’s fields and forest, spotting wildflowers along the way while practicing how to identify them.

Joyce Saltman, right, and Beth Anisbeck embrace a tree for 60 seconds during a tree hugging event sponsored by Portland Parks and Recreation, at Deering Oaks Park last year. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

TOURS AND MORE

2nd Annual Tree Hugging 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Deering Oaks Park, Portland. portlandmaine.gov The tree hugging is a family-friendly community gathering to celebrate Portland’s many trees. Park ranger Liz Collado will lead a sensory awakening and forest bathing session. Along with tree hugging, there will be a storytime, and you can touch a forestry truck and meet naturalist Noah Querido and Portland city arborist Mark Reiland. Just down the road, you’ll find Fessenden Park, on the corner of Brighton and Deering Avenues. The tulips have arrived, and it’s worth a visit to see them.

McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 24. McLaughlin Garden and Homestead, 97 Main St., South Paris, $5. mclaughlingardens.org You’ll find more than 125 varieties of lilacs at the McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival. Explore on your own or take a guided tour led by a horticulturist. There will also be family-friendly activities, and you can shop for native and unusual plants.

4th annual Woodfords Community Garden Tour 1-4 p.m. June 8. Woodfords Corner Community in Back Cove, Deering Highlands, Oakdale and Deering Center, $20 suggested donation. woodfordscorner.org Presented by Friends of Woodfords Corner, this self-guided tour features at least 10 gardens. As you make your way down the list, you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised by all of the hidden havens bursting with flowers, plants and impressive yardscaping elements.

Peony Society of Maine 23rd annual Garden Tour 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 8 and 15. Both tours start at 1348 Ohio St., Bangor, $5 donation. peonysocietyofmaine.net You’ll visit multiple gardens in Bangor, Winterport, Ripley and St. Albans, and your senses will be filled with countless peonies. A peony plant will be raffled off at the end of each tour. Advertisement

Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 22. Sagadahoc Preservation Inc., 880 Washington St., Bath, $40. sagadahocpreservation.org The Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath house and garden tour features several homes in North Bath. Every stop on the tour will be a treat for your senses and may motivate you to make some of your own magic when you get back home.

Garden Conservancy Open Garden Days 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 29. Beckett Castle Rose Garden, Singles Road, Cape Elizabeth, $10. gardenconservancy.org You’ll see plenty of roses as well as ocean views at Beckett Castle, which sits right on the water, with views of five lighthouses. The castle was built in 1871, and its rose garden features more than 70 varieties of heirloom roses. A 50-foot stone tower doubles as the rose arbor entrance to the castle.

PICK A PLANT SALE

Tate House Museum’s Annual Plant and Herb Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 18. Tate House Museum, 1267 Westbrook St., Portland, 207-774-6177.  tatehouse.org The wide selection includes perennials divided from the museum’s 18th century reproduction garden. Visitors can also make their own “seed bombs” and get a sneak peak at a new installation by artist Ashley Page from 10 a.m. to noon.

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland Spring Plant S ale 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. May 18, Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, 217 Landing Road, Westbrook, 207-854-9771.  arlgp.org   Perennials, house plants and more will be on sale, and plants that don’t have specific pricing are “name your own fee.” Anyone interested in donating plants or pots to the sale should send a message to [email protected] .

Taking Root Plant Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Tom Settlemire Community Garden, Maurice Drive, Brunswick, 207-729-7694.  btlt.org This annual sale is organized by the Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust. Proceeds benefit the Common Good Garden, which provides food and gardening education for the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program. Master gardeners will be on hand to help shoppers choose their best options.

Scarborough Land Trust Native Plant Sale and Spring Festival 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Broadturn Farm, 388 Broadturn Road, Scarborough, 207-289-1199.  scarboroughlandtrust.org Visitors will find native plants, food vendors, local artisans, guided nature walks and activities for kids. To preorder plants, visit the Scarborough Land Trust website.

Maine Audubon Society Native Plants Sale and Festival 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 8, Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, 207-781-2330.  maineaudubon.org More than 75 species of native wildflowers, shrubs and tree seedlings will be available, along with workshops, info tables and experts.

Staff writer Megan Gray contributed to this report.

Related Headlines

Headed to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens? Here’s what else to check out in Boothbay

Success. Please wait for the page to reload. If the page does not reload within 5 seconds, please refresh the page.

Enter your email and password to access comments.

Forgot Password?

Don't have a commenting profile? Create one.

Hi, to comment on stories you must create a commenting profile . This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login. Already have a commenting profile? Login .

Invalid username/password.

Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.

Create a commenting profile by providing an email address, password and display name. You will receive an email to complete the registration. Please note the display name will appear on screen when you participate.

Already registered? Log in to join the discussion.

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why .

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

Member Log In

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options

• Share full article

For more audio journalism and storytelling, download New York Times Audio , a new iOS app available for news subscribers.

The Possible Collapse of the U.S. Home Insurance System

A times investigation found climate change may now be a concern for every homeowner in the country..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. And this is “The Daily.”

[MUSIC PLAYING]

Today, my colleague, Christopher Flavelle, on a “Times” investigation into one of the least known and most consequential effects of climate change — insurance — and why it may now be a concern for every homeowner in the country.

It’s Wednesday, May 15.

So, Chris, you and I talked a while ago about how climate change was really wreaking havoc in the insurance market in Florida. You’ve just done an investigation that takes a look into the insurance markets more broadly and more deeply. Tell us about it.

Yeah, so I cover climate change, in particular the way climate shocks affect different parts of American life. And insurance has become a really big part of that coverage. And Florida is a great example. As hurricanes have gotten worse and more frequent, insurers are paying out more and more money to rebuild people’s homes. And that’s driving up insurance costs and ultimately driving up the cost of owning a home in Florida.

So we’re already seeing that climate impact on the housing market in Florida. My colleagues and I started to think, well, could it be that that kind of disruption is also happening in other states, not just in the obvious coastal states but maybe even through the middle of the US? So we set out to find out just how much it is happening, how much that Florida turmoil has, in fact, become really a contagion that is spreading across the country.

So how did you go about reporting this? I mean, where did you start?

All we knew at the start of this was that there was reason to think this might be a problem. If you just look at how the federal government tracks disasters around the country, there’s been a big increase almost every year in the number and severity of all kinds of disasters around the country. So we thought, OK, it’s worth trying to find out, what does that mean for insurers?

The problem is getting data on the insurance industry is actually really hard. There’s no federal regulation. There’s no government agency you can go to that holds this data. If you talk to the insurers directly, they tend to be a little reluctant to share information about what they’re going through. So we weren’t sure where to go until, finally, we realized the best people to ask are the people whose job it is to gauge the financial health of insurance companies.

Those are rating agencies. In particular, there’s one rating company called AM Best, whose whole purpose is to tell investors how healthy an insurance company is.

Whoa. So this is way down in the nuts and bolts of the US insurance industry.

Right. This is a part of the broader economy that most people would never experience. But we asked them to do something special for us. We said, hey, can you help us find the one number that would tell us reporters just how healthy or unhealthy this insurance market is state by state over time? And it turns out, there is just such a number. It’s called a combined ratio.

OK, plain English?

Plain English, it is the ratio of revenue to costs, how much money these guys take in for homeowner’s insurance and how much they pay out in costs and losses. You want your revenue to be higher than your costs. If not, you’re in trouble.

So what did you find out?

Well, we got that number for every state, going back more than a decade. And what it showed us was our suspicions were right. This market turmoil that we were seeing in Florida and California has indeed been spreading across the country. And in fact, it turns out that in 18 states, last year, the homeowner’s insurance market lost money. And that’s a big jump from 5 or 10 years ago and spells real trouble for insurance and for homeowners and for almost every part of the economy.

So the contagion was real.

Right. This is our first window showing us just how far that contagion had spread. And one of the really striking things about this data was it showed the contagion had spread to places that I wouldn’t have thought of as especially prone to climate shocks — for example, a lot of the Midwest, a lot of the Southeast. In fact, if you think of a map of the country, there was no state between Pennsylvania and the Dakotas that didn’t lose money on homeowner’s insurance last year.

So just huge parts of the middle of the US have become unprofitable for homeowner’s insurance. This market is starting to buckle under the cost of climate change.

And this is all happening really fast. When we did the Florida episode two years ago, it was a completely new phenomenon and really only in Florida. And now it’s everywhere.

Yeah. And that’s exactly what’s so striking here. The rate at which this is becoming, again, a contagion and spreading across the country is just demolishing the expectations of anyone I’ve spoken to. No one thought that this problem would affect so much of the US so quickly.

So in these states, these new places that the contagion has spread to, what exactly is happening that’s causing the insurance companies to fold up shop?

Yeah. Something really particular is happening in a lot of these states. And it’s worth noting how it’s surprised everyone. And what that is, is formally unimportant weather events, like hailstorms or windstorms, those didn’t used to be the kind of thing that would scare insurance companies. Obviously, a big problem if it destroys your home or damages your home. But for insurers, it wasn’t going to wipe them out financially.

Right. It wasn’t just a complete and utter wipeout that the company would then have to pony up a lot of money for.

Exactly. And insurers call them secondary perils, sort of a belittling term, something other than a big deal, like a hurricane.

These minor league weather events.

Right. But those are becoming so frequent and so much more intense that they can cause existential threats for insurance companies. And insurers are now fleeing states not because of hurricanes but because those former things that were small are now big. Hailstorms, wildfires in some places, previous annoyances are becoming real threats to insurers.

Chris, what’s the big picture on what insurers are actually facing? What’s happening out there numbers-wise?

This is a huge threat. In terms of the number of states where this industry is losing money, it’s more than doubled from 10 years ago to basically a third of the country. The amount they’re losing is enormous. In some states, insurers are paying out $1.25 or even $1.50 for every dollar they bring in, in revenue, which is totally unsustainable.

And the result is insurers are making changes. They are pulling back from these markets. They’re hiking premiums. And often, they’re just dropping customers. And that’s where this becomes real, not just for people who surf balance sheets and trade in the stock market. This is becoming real for homeowners around the country, who all of a sudden increasingly can’t get insurance.

So, Chris, what’s the actual implication? I mean, what happens when people in a state can’t get insurance for their homes?

Getting insurance for a home is crucial if you want to sell or buy a home. Most people can’t buy a home without a mortgage. And banks won’t issue a mortgage without home insurance. So if you’ve got a home that insurance company doesn’t want to cover, you got a real problem. You need to find insurance, or that home becomes very close to unsellable.

And as you get fewer buyers, the price goes down. So this doesn’t just hurt people who are paying for these insurance premiums. It hurts people who want to sell their homes. It even could hurt, at some point, whole local economies. If home values fall, governments take in less tax revenue. That means less money for schools and police. It also means people who get hit by disasters and have to rebuild their homes all of a sudden can’t, because their insurance isn’t available anymore. It’s hard to overstate just how big a deal this is.

And is that actually happening, Chris? I mean, are housing markets being dragged down because of this problem with the insurance markets right now?

Anecdotally, we’ve got reports that in places like Florida and Louisiana and maybe in parts of California, the difficulty of getting insurance, the crazy high cost of insurance is starting to depress demand because not everyone can afford to pay these really high costs, even if they have insurance. But what we wanted to focus on with this story was also, OK, we know where this goes eventually. But where is it beginning? What are the places that are just starting to feel these shocks from the insurance market?

And so I called around and asked insurance agents, who are the front lines of this. They’re the ones who are struggling to find insurance for homeowners. And I said, hey, is there one place that I should go if I want to understand what it looks like to homeowners when all of a sudden insurance becomes really expensive or you can’t even find it? And those insurance agents told me, if you want to see what this looks like in real life, go to a little town called Marshalltown in the middle of Iowa.

We’ll be right back.

So, Chris, you went to Marshalltown, Iowa. What did you find?

Even before I got to Marshalltown, I had some idea I was in the right spot. When I landed in Des Moines and went to rent a car, the nice woman at the desk who rented me a car, she said, what are you doing here? I said, I’m here to write a story about people in Iowa who can’t get insurance because of storms. She said, oh, yeah, I know all about that. That’s a big problem here.

Even the rental car lady.

Even the rental car lady knew something was going on. And so I got into my rental car and drove about an hour northeast of Des Moines, through some rolling hills, to this lovely little town of Marshalltown. Marshalltown is a really cute, little Midwestern town with old homes and a beautiful courthouse in the town square. And when I drove through, I couldn’t help noticing all the roofs looked new.

What does that tell you?

Turns out Marshalltown, despite being a pastoral image of Midwestern easy living, was hit by two really bad disasters in recent years — first, a devastating tornado in 2018 and then, in 2020, what’s called a derecho, a straight-line wind event that’s also just enormously damaging. And the result was lots of homes in this small town got severely damaged in a short period of time. And so when you drive down, you see all these new roofs that give you the sense that something’s going on.

So climate had come to Marshalltown?

Exactly. A place that had previously seemed maybe safe from climate change, if there is such a thing, all of a sudden was not. So I found an insurance agent in Marshalltown —

We talked to other agents but haven’t talked to many homeowners.

— named Bobby Shomo. And he invited me to his office early one morning and said, come meet some people. And so I parked on a quiet street outside of his office, across the street from the courthouse, which also had a new roof, and went into his conference room and met a procession of clients who all had versions of the same horror story.

It was more — well more of double.

A huge reduction in coverage with a huge price increase.

Some people had faced big premium hikes.

I’m just a little, small business owner. So every little bit I do feel.

They had so much trouble with their insurance company.

I was with IMT Insurance forever. And then when I moved in 2020, Bobby said they won’t insure a pool.

Some people had gotten dropped.

Where we used to see carriers canceling someone for frequency of three or four or five claims, it’s one or two now.

Some people couldn’t get the coverage they needed. But it was versions of the same tale, which is all of a sudden, having homeowner’s insurance in Marshalltown was really difficult. But I wanted to see if it was bigger than just Marshalltown. So the next day, I got back in my car and drove east to Cedar Rapids, where I met another person having a version of the same problem, a guy named Dave Langston.

Tell me about Dave.

Dave lives in a handsome, modest, little townhouse on a quiet cul-de-sac on a hill at the edge of Cedar Rapids. He’s the president of his homeowners association. There’s 17 homes on this little street. And this is just as far as you could get from a danger zone. It looks as safe as could be. But in January, they got a letter from the company that insures him and his neighbors, saying his policy was being canceled, even though it wasn’t as though they’d just been hit by some giant storm.

So then what was the reason they gave?

They didn’t give a reason. And I think people might not realize, insurers don’t have to give a reason. Insurance policies are year to year. And if your insurance company decides that you’re too much of a risk or your neighborhood is too much of a risk or your state is too much of a risk, they can just leave. They can send you a letter saying, forget it. We’re canceling your insurance. There’s almost no protection people have.

And in this case, the reason was that this insurance company was losing too much money in Iowa and didn’t want to keep on writing homeowner’s insurance in the state. That was the situation that Dave shared with tens of thousands of people across the state that were all getting similar letters.

What made Dave’s situation a little more challenging was that he couldn’t get new insurance. He tried for months through agent after agent after agent. And every company told him the same thing. We won’t cover you. Even though these homes are perfectly safe in a safe part of the state, nobody would say yes. And it took them until basically two days before their insurance policy was going to run out until they finally found new coverage that was far more expensive and far more bare-bones than what they’d had.

But at least it was something.

It was something. But the problem was it wasn’t that good. Under this new policy, if Dave’s street got hit by another big windstorm, the damage from that storm and fixing that damage would wipe out all the savings set aside by these homeowners. The deductible would be crushingly high — $120,000 — to replace those roofs if the worst happened because the insurance money just wouldn’t cover anywhere close to the cost of rebuilding.

He said to me, we didn’t do anything wrong. This is just what insurance looks like today. And today, it’s us in Cedar Rapids. Everyone, though, is going to face a situation like this eventually. And Dave is right. I talked to insurance agents around the country. And they confirmed for me that this kind of a shift towards a new type of insurance, insurance that’s more expensive and doesn’t cover as much and makes it harder to rebuild after a big disaster, it’s becoming more and more common around the country.

So, Chris, if Dave and the people you spoke to in Iowa were really evidence that your hunch was right, that the problem is spreading and rapidly, what are the possible fixes here?

The fix that people seem most hopeful about is this idea that, what if you could reduce the risk and cause there to be less damage in the first place? So what some states are doing is they’re trying to encourage homeowners to spend more money on hardening their home or adding a new roof or, if it’s a wildfire zone, cut back the vegetation, things that can reduce your risk of having really serious losses. And to help pay for that, they’re telling insurers, you’ve got to offer a discount to people who do that.

And everyone who works in this field says, in theory, that’s the right approach. The problem is, number one, hardening a home costs a fantastic amount of money. So doing this at scale is hugely expensive. Number two, it takes a long time to actually get enough homes hardened in this way that you can make a real dent for insurance companies. We’re talking about years or probably decades before that has a real effect, if it ever works.

OK. So that sounds not particularly realistic, given the urgency and the timeline we’re on here. So what else are people looking at?

Option number two is the government gets involved. And instead of most Americans buying home insurance from a private company, they start buying it from government programs that are designed to make sure that people, even in risky places, can still buy insurance. That would be just a gargantuan undertaking. The idea of the government providing homeowner’s insurance because private companies can’t or won’t would lead to one of the biggest government programs that exists, if we could even do it.

So huge change, like the federal government actually trying to write these markets by itself by providing homeowner’s insurance. But is that really feasible?

Well, in some areas, we’re actually already doing it. The government already provides flood insurance because for decades, most private insurers have not wanted to cover flood. It’s too risky. It’s too expensive. But that change, with governments taking over that role, creates a new problem of its own because the government providing flood insurance that you otherwise couldn’t get means people have been building and building in flood-prone areas because they know they can get that guaranteed flood insurance.

Interesting. So that’s a huge new downside. The government would be incentivizing people to move to places that they shouldn’t be.

That’s right. But there’s even one more problem with that approach of using the government to try to solve this problem, which is these costs keep growing. The number of billion-dollar disasters the US experiences every year keeps going up. And at some point, even if the government pays the cost through some sort of subsidized insurance, what happens when that cost is so great that we can no longer afford to pay it? That’s the really hard question that no official can answer.

So that’s pretty doomsday, Chris. Are we looking at the end of insurance?

I think it’s fair to say that we’re looking at the end of insurance as we know it, the end of insurance that means most Americans can rest assured that if they get hit by a disaster, their insurance company will provide enough money they can rebuild. That idea might be going away. And what it shows is maybe the threat of climate change isn’t quite what we thought.

Maybe instead of climate change wrecking communities in the form of a big storm or a wildfire or a flood, maybe even before those things happen, climate change can wreck communities by something as seemingly mundane and even boring as insurance. Maybe the harbinger of doom is not a giant storm but an anodyne letter from your insurance company, saying, we’re sorry to inform you we can no longer cover your home.

Maybe the future of climate change is best seen not by poring over weather data from NOAA but by poring over spreadsheets from rating firms, showing the profitability from insurance companies, and how bit by bit, that money that they’re losing around the country tells its own story. And the story is these shocks are actually already here.

Chris, as always, terrifying to talk to you.

Always a pleasure, Sabrina.

Here’s what else you should know today. On Tuesday, the United Nations has reclassified the number of women and children killed in Gaza, saying that it does not have enough identifying information to know exactly how many of the total dead are women and children. The UN now estimates that about 5,000 women and about 8,000 children have been killed, figures that are about half of what it was previously citing. The UN says the numbers dropped because it is using a more conservative estimate while waiting for information on about 10,000 other dead Gazans who have not yet been identified.

And Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, gave a press conference outside the court in Lower Manhattan, where Michael Cohen, the former fixer for Donald Trump, was testifying for a second day, answering questions from Trump’s lawyers. Trump is bound by a gag order. So Johnson joined other stand-ins for the former president to discredit the proceedings. Johnson, one of the most important Republicans in the country, attacked Cohen but also the trial itself, calling it a sham and political theater.

Today’s episode was produced by Nina Feldman, Shannon Lin, and Jessica Cheung. It was edited by MJ Davis Lin, with help from Michael Benoist, contains original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, and Rowan Niemisto, and was engineered by Alyssa Moxley. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. See you tomorrow.

• May 19, 2024 The Sunday Read: ‘Why Did This Guy Put a Song About Me on Spotify?’
• May 17, 2024   •   51:10 The Campus Protesters Explain Themselves
• May 16, 2024   •   30:47 The Make-or-Break Testimony of Michael Cohen
• May 15, 2024   •   27:03 The Possible Collapse of the U.S. Home Insurance System
• May 14, 2024   •   35:20 Voters Want Change. In Our Poll, They See It in Trump.
• May 13, 2024   •   27:46 How Biden Adopted Trump’s Trade War With China
• May 10, 2024   •   27:42 Stormy Daniels Takes the Stand
• May 9, 2024   •   34:42 One Strongman, One Billion Voters, and the Future of India
• May 8, 2024   •   28:28 A Plan to Remake the Middle East
• May 7, 2024   •   27:43 How Changing Ocean Temperatures Could Upend Life on Earth
• May 6, 2024   •   29:23 R.F.K. Jr.’s Battle to Get on the Ballot
• May 3, 2024   •   25:33 The Protesters and the President

Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise

Featuring Christopher Flavelle

Produced by Nina Feldman ,  Shannon M. Lin and Jessica Cheung

Edited by MJ Davis Lin

With Michael Benoist

Original music by Dan Powell ,  Marion Lozano and Rowan Niemisto

Engineered by Alyssa Moxley

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

Across the United States, more frequent extreme weather is starting to cause the home insurance market to buckle, even for those who have paid their premiums dutifully year after year.

Christopher Flavelle, a climate reporter, discusses a Times investigation into one of the most consequential effects of the changes.

On today’s episode

Christopher Flavelle , a climate change reporter for The New York Times.

Background reading

As American insurers bleed cash from climate shocks , homeowners lose.

See how the home insurance crunch affects the market in each state .

Here are four takeaways from The Times’s investigation.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Christopher Flavelle contributed reporting.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Christopher Flavelle is a Times reporter who writes about how the United States is trying to adapt to the effects of climate change. More about Christopher Flavelle

Advertisement