Heart of England
This central region offers much to enjoy (not least because it is the location of our Top 100 winner) – from the buzz of the UK’S second city, Birmingham, to the natural beauty of the Shropshire Hills.
It’s a glorious landscape of contrasts and excitement, stretching from Oxford to the Peak District. Whether you’re looking to experience the epicentre of our industrial past or wide tracts of wilderness, you’ll find it in England’s heartland. In the country It may be the longest established of the UK’S national parks, but the Peak District still has plenty to entertain, with activities for all tastes. Why not try a new challenge, and go caving? Dolomite Training offers a full-day introductory course for £95. For something a little gentler, take a ride with Derbyshire Pony Trekking. Hour-long beginner treks cost £30 per person.
dolomitetraining.co.uk/course/ caving-introduction-course
derbyshire-pony-trekking.co.uk
In the city Coventry received a shot in the arm following its year as UK City of Culture in 2021. For the best view in town, climb the Cathedral Tower (tickets cost £5 per person). Alternatively, drop in on the Stratford Literary Festival (2-7 May 2023) to enjoy great prose and poetry, near the home of the Bard. Speakers include Brian Cox, Alexander Armstrong, Penelope Wilton and Al Murray.
coventrycathedral.org.uk/visit/ see-and-do/tower-climb
stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk
By the water The beautiful River Wye has become a fantastic venue for outdoor activities. Try Bushcraft and Survival at Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences, or choose from its range of watery adventures, including canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
wyeadventures.com