3 reasons to visit the East Midlands
The East Midlands, one of nine regions of England, is one of the most beautiful counties in Great Britain; boasting a large portion of the Peak District National Park as well as the lower extremity of the Pennines. If you have never been to the East Midlands, whether you are from England or visiting from another country, these are my top reasons to go.
The Peak District
This national park located in the heart of England within the historic country boundaries of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and Yorkshire made up of 555 square miles is estimated to attract 10 million visitors annually. Established in 1951, the Peak District National Park was the first national park in the United Kingdom. On offer is a host of activities for visitors to enjoy such as hiking, mountain biking trails, potholing, sailing, fishing, canoeing and paragliding. If you prefer to explore the local area then the Spa Town of Buxton with its opera house, museum and art gallery may be more to your liking. If you are a Jane Austin fan don’t miss out on seeing Chatsworth House which found fame in the 2005 adaption of Pride and Prejudice as well as the more recent Death comes to Pemberley.
Nottinghamshire
I have to admit a fondness for English folklore like that of Robin Hood who was a heroic outlaw and skilled archer who, according to legend, robbed from the rich to give to the poor. I have fond memories of my trip to Nottingham, and visited a number of the top attractions which I recommend, including Sherwood Forrest – where you can see the Major Oak, a tree believed to be between 800 and 1000 years old, I could almost feel it imparting its age-old wisdom when I stood next to it. Once you’ve trudged around the woods it’s time for a drink so head over to the Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem, one of the oldest drinking establishments in England and be sure to look out for the cursed galleon – a small wooden model of a ship which is said to dispatch those who clean it!
Bakewell
A small market town in Derbyshire, Bakewell is known for the local delicacy the Bakewell Pudding which is made of flaky pastry, jam and an egg and almond paste filling – not to be mistaken for the younger Bakewell Tart. Here you can visit All Saints Church, a Grade I listed building founded in the year 920 and boasts some lovely Saxon stonework for those who are interested in history. If you are visiting in August be sure to pop along to the Bakewell Agricultural Show, an annual event organised by the Bakewell Agricultural and Horticultural Society which attracts around 65,000 visitors with attractions ranging from fresh local produce to an international motorcycle stunt show!
