The East Midlands forms the eastern half of central England and is
widely regarded as the true heart of the country. The region consists of
six counties: Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire,
Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, and Rutland. While these counties
share certain common characteristics that distinguish the East Midlands
from other parts of England, each one also maintains its own strong and
distinctive identity.
The area offers an impressive range of
attractions that appeal to a wide variety of visitors. These include the
dramatic landscapes of the Peak District National Park, ancient
woodlands, lively cosmopolitan cities, and a remarkably rich historical
heritage. The region is known for its warm and friendly welcome — you
may well be greeted by a cheerful local with the classic East Midlands
expression "Ey up, me duck!" — and provides an authentic glimpse of
English life away from the usual tourist routes.
Despite sometimes
being overlooked, the East Midlands is home to some of the nation's most
significant landmarks and contributions. It includes the birthplace of
the Industrial Revolution, one of only four surviving original copies of
the Magna Carta, the outstanding Peak District National Park,
picturesque traditional villages, and a collection of world-famous foods
— all within a relatively compact region.
Many people simply pass
through the East Midlands while travelling to Yorkshire or the South
East, never stopping to explore what the area has to offer. In doing so,
they miss out on six counties that combine a unique regional identity
with remarkable cultural diversity, breathtaking natural scenery, and
centuries of fascinating history.
Although influenced by its northern
and southern neighbours, the East Midlands has developed a clear and
separate identity, distinct even from the neighbouring West Midlands.
The historical origins of the region can be traced back to the 1st
century AD, when the territory of the Corieltauvi tribe roughly
corresponded to the modern boundaries. In the 10th century, the area
formed part of the Five Boroughs of the Danelaw, an influence that still
shapes the distinctive local accents heard across the region today.
The worldwide legend of Robin Hood, said to have operated from Sherwood
Forest in Nottinghamshire, remains a source of great pride for many
residents — even though historians continue to debate whether the famous
outlaw ever actually existed. The region's long history is visible in
its architecture, ranging from the magnificent medieval Lincoln
Cathedral to elegant stately homes such as Chatsworth House in
Derbyshire, and historic inns like Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in
Nottingham, which proudly claims to be Britain's oldest pub.
From the
18th century onwards, the East Midlands became a powerhouse of
industrial innovation. The world's first mechanised factory was
established at Cromford in Derbyshire (now a UNESCO World Heritage
Site), while Nottingham became famous for its lace production and Corby
for steelmaking. Many communities were historically built around coal
mining. Although traditional heavy industry has declined, the region has
successfully adapted, with logistics now playing a major role in the
economy thanks to its central location and excellent connections via the
M1 motorway. The East Midlands has also long been an important
agricultural area, and its food heritage remains strong, with several
products enjoying international renown.
Visitors can enjoy local
specialities such as Red Leicester and Stilton cheeses, Lincolnshire
sausages, Melton Mowbray pork pies, and the delicious Bakewell tart and
pudding — many of which are exported around the world.
Despite a
strong shared sense of East Midlands identity (neither fully "Northern"
nor "Southern"), the region is strikingly diverse. The local dialect
varies noticeably even over short distances, influenced by whether
people live in rural agricultural areas or former industrial and mining
towns. Immigration during the 20th century has further enriched the
cultural landscape, particularly in cities such as Leicester, where
vibrant South Asian communities have made a lasting impact. Fierce local
rivalries also exist, most notably in football, with the intense
competition between Nottingham Forest and Derby County being a prime
example.
Geographically, the East Midlands spans three contrasting
landscapes: the flat, expansive coastal plain of Lincolnshire in the
east; the fertile valley of the River Trent, which contains the region's
major urban centres; and the rugged southern end of the Pennine hills in
western Derbyshire, forming the Peak District National Park. Sheltered
by the Pennines to the west, the region is one of the driest parts of
England, making it particularly well-suited to outdoor activities
throughout the year.
In summary, the East Midlands offers a
compelling combination of stunning natural beauty, deep historical
significance, excellent food and drink, and genuinely warm hospitality —
a region well worth discovering for anyone seeking an authentic and
varied English experience away from the more crowded tourist trails.
he East Midlands region of England encompasses a diverse group of
historic counties, each offering its own unique blend of landscapes,
heritage, culture, and attractions.
Northamptonshire
A
predominantly rural county filled with attractive market towns, peaceful
villages, and gently rolling countryside. It is internationally
recognised as the centre of British motor racing, most notably as the
permanent home of the Silverstone Circuit, which hosts the prestigious
British Grand Prix.
Visit for: charming traditional market towns,
quiet countryside, and world-class motorsport.
Leicestershire
Although best known for its energetic and culturally diverse city of
Leicester, the wider county has much to offer. It holds great historical
importance as the final resting place of King Richard III (whose remains
were discovered beneath a Leicester car park in 2012). Modern
attractions include the excellent National Space Centre and the popular
Twycross Zoo. The county is also renowned for its food heritage, being
the birthplace of the famous Melton Mowbray pork pie and authentic
Stilton cheese. Leicester itself boasts one of the country's finest
curry scenes, thanks to its long history of South Asian communities.
Visit for: rich royal and local history, family-friendly attractions,
and outstanding regional cuisine.
Derbyshire
Derbyshire is
synonymous with dramatic natural beauty. Much of the county forms part
of the magnificent Peak District National Park, featuring rugged
gritstone edges, sweeping moorland, deep dales, limestone gorges, and
ancient woodlands — ideal for walking, hiking, climbing, and cycling.
The landscape is dotted with pretty stone villages, historic market
towns, and some of England's most impressive stately homes, such as the
spectacular Chatsworth House. The city of Derby provides a fascinating
glimpse into the region's industrial past alongside excellent shopping.
Visit for: outstanding natural scenery, outdoor adventures, grand
historic houses, and industrial heritage.
Nottinghamshire
This
county is deeply rooted in history and legend, stretching back over a
thousand years. It is, of course, most famous as the home of the Robin
Hood legend, with the vast Sherwood Forest still drawing visitors to see
the ancient Major Oak, long associated with the outlaw and his band. The
lively city of Nottingham — the largest in the East Midlands — offers a
wealth of attractions, including medieval caves, historic sites, one of
England's oldest pubs (dating back to the time of the Crusades),
excellent museums, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Visit for:
legendary folklore, Robin Hood heritage, historic city exploration, and
lively urban atmosphere.
Lincolnshire
One of England's largest
counties by area, Lincolnshire is mostly flat, fertile agricultural land
and remains relatively sparsely populated. Its long coastline features
classic traditional English seaside resorts, with Skegness being the
best known. The historic city of Lincoln is dominated by its magnificent
medieval castle and towering cathedral (once the tallest building in the
world), complemented by attractive cobbled streets and independent
shops. In the south of the county, Woolsthorpe Manor near Grantham is
the birthplace of one of the world's greatest scientists, Sir Isaac
Newton.
Visit for: medieval architecture, historic city charm,
traditional seaside towns, and quiet rural character.
Rutland
England's smallest historic county, Rutland is compact and peaceful,
containing just two main towns. At its heart lies Rutland Water, a large
reservoir that has become a major centre for watersports such as sailing
and cycling (with a scenic perimeter path), as well as an important site
for wildlife, especially birdwatching, thanks to its nature reserve and
seasonal migratory birds.
Visit for: tranquil countryside, excellent
birdwatching, and relaxing outdoor activities around the water.
Together, these counties showcase the incredible variety of the East
Midlands — from high-adrenaline racing and breathtaking hill walks to
ancient legends, medieval cathedrals, nostalgic seaside towns, and
exceptional local food and drink.
Buxton (Derbyshire)
A charming and historic spa town nestled in
the heart of the Peak District. Famous for its elegant Georgian
architecture, mineral-rich thermal waters, and beautifully restored
Crescent, Buxton offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and refined
heritage.
Derby (Derbyshire)
A vibrant city with a proud
industrial past, once at the forefront of engineering and railways.
Derby makes an excellent starting point for exploring the nearby Peak
District, with its fascinating museums, historic cathedral quarter, and
lively cultural scene.
Leicester (Leicestershire)
A dynamic,
multicultural city known for its diversity and rich history. Highlights
include the award-winning National Space Centre, the dramatic King
Richard III Visitor Centre (where the king's remains were discovered),
and a thriving food and festival scene.
Lincoln (Lincolnshire)
A historic gem with steep, winding medieval streets, impressive stone
buildings, and a dramatic hilltop setting. Towering over the city are
Lincoln Cathedral — one of Europe's finest — and the mighty Lincoln
Castle, which houses one of only four surviving original copies of the
Magna Carta.
Matlock Bath (Derbyshire)
A picturesque spa
village hugging the steep-sided Derwent Valley. Loved for its scenic
charm, cable-car rides to the Heights of Abraham, and dramatic limestone
gorge views, it's a popular spot for families and nature lovers alike.
Northampton (Northamptonshire)
The county town of
Northamptonshire and a major hub for shoemaking heritage. It's
particularly well-known among sports fans as the home of the successful
Premiership Rugby Union side, Northampton Saints.
Nottingham
(Nottinghamshire)
The largest urban centre in the East Midlands,
steeped in history and legend. Nottingham boasts a lively student
population, one of the region's best nightlife scenes, excellent
shopping, and famous connections to Robin Hood, Nottingham Castle, and
its network of historic caves beneath the city.
Oakham (Rutland)
The attractive county town of England's smallest county, Rutland. Oakham
is best known for its traditional weekly market, historic castle with a
unique collection of horseshoes presented by royalty and nobility, and
its peaceful, small-town character.
Stamford (Lincolnshire)
A
beautifully preserved stone-built town at the southern edge of
Lincolnshire, often described as one of Britain's finest medieval market
towns. Its honey-coloured buildings, elegant churches, and well-kept
streets have made it a favourite location for period films and
television dramas.
Cromford (Derbyshire)
The only UNESCO World
Heritage Site in the East Midlands, Cromford is internationally
significant as the birthplace of the modern factory system during the
Industrial Revolution. Sir Richard Arkwright's pioneering cotton mills
and workers' village remain remarkably intact.
Peak District
National Park (Derbyshire & surrounding counties)
One of Britain's
most beloved national parks, offering spectacular scenery of rolling
hills, dramatic limestone dales, gritstone edges, and deep valleys. It's
an outstanding destination for walking, hiking, rock climbing, mountain
biking, and simply enjoying breathtaking natural landscapes.
Sherwood Forest (Nottinghamshire)
The ancient royal forest forever
linked with the legend of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. While
much smaller today, the remaining woodlands — especially around the
famous Major Oak — still evoke a powerful sense of medieval history and
folklore.
Vale of Belvoir (Leicestershire / Nottinghamshire
border)
A lovely rural area of gentle hills, pretty villages, and
rolling countryside in north-east Leicestershire. Dominating the
landscape is the magnificent, fairytale-like Belvoir Castle, home to the
Duke of Rutland, with its stunning views across the vale.
By Plane
East Midlands Airport (EMA)
This convenient airport is
located near Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, and Loughborough, making it
an ideal entry point for the region. It primarily serves European
destinations and is operated mostly by low-cost carriers. The airport
has expanded its offerings significantly, with plans for up to 45 direct
routes in 2026, including new additions from airlines like SunExpress
(e.g., to Antalya, Turkey) and Jet2 (new destinations across central
Europe and northern Africa).
It remains a compact, modern facility
with a good selection of restaurants, shops, bars, and other amenities
to make your wait comfortable. For onward travel, several bus services
connect the airport to surrounding areas. A popular and reliable option
is the Railink hourly shuttle bus to East Midlands Parkway railway
station — no pre-booking is required; simply purchase your ticket on
arrival and catch the next available service. Local taxi companies are
also readily available for direct transfers.
Other Nearby
Airports
Humberside Airport (northern Lincolnshire): A smaller
airport offering domestic flights (e.g., to Aberdeen) and a limited
selection of European international routes. From here, take a short taxi
ride (about 3 miles) to Barnetby railway station, where East Midlands
Trains services connect to Nottingham, Leicester, Lincoln, East Midlands
Parkway, and various towns in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
Doncaster Sheffield Airport (Yorkshire): This is the closest airport
outside the immediate region. Note that it closed in 2022 but is
scheduled to reopen in spring 2026, with freight potentially resuming
first, followed by passenger services. Once operational, buses will link
the airport to Doncaster and Sheffield railway stations for onward train
connections to East Midlands cities.
Larger alternatives include
Manchester, Leeds Bradford, and Birmingham airports, all reasonably
accessible by road or rail. Among London airports, Luton and Stansted
offer the most practical options:
From Luton, hourly trains run
to Leicester (about 1 hour) and Nottingham (around 1.5 hours).
From
Stansted, hourly trains connect to Leicester in approximately 2.5 hours.
By Rail
The East Midlands benefits from two key north-south main
lines offering excellent direct connections to London, Scotland,
Yorkshire, and the North East.
East Coast Main Line (eastern side of
the region)
This high-frequency route links London King's Cross to
Edinburgh, with at least two trains per hour in each direction (major
stops include York and Newcastle). Key East Midlands stops include:
Grantham — around 70 minutes from London; ideal interchange for
trains to Nottingham.
Newark — about 80–90 minutes from London;
convenient for connections to Lincoln.
Midland Main Line (western
side of the region)
Operated mainly by East Midlands Railway from
London St Pancras, this line serves Yorkshire and provides fast access
to major cities. Typical journey times from London include:
Wellingborough — around 45 minutes
Kettering — about 55 minutes
Leicester — approximately 65 minutes
Derby — roughly 90 minutes
Nottingham — around 105 minutes
The line also stops at East
Midlands Parkway station, offering a direct interchange for East
Midlands Airport via the Railink shuttle bus. Services run frequently,
with modern trains providing comfortable seating and onboard facilities.
By Car
The M1 motorway is the main artery, delivering direct
access from London in the south, and from Sheffield and Leeds in the
north, straight to the region's core cities of Nottingham, Leicester,
and Derby. The A1 (often motorway-standard in sections) runs from London
to Edinburgh, serving much of Leicestershire and Lincolnshire
effectively.
By Coach
For a more budget-friendly option,
coaches provide affordable travel from major UK cities. Operators like
Megabus and National Express run regular services to Nottingham,
Leicester, Derby, and other key towns. While significantly cheaper than
trains, expect longer journey times — typically at least 3 hours from
London — making this a great choice for cost-conscious travelers who
don't mind the extra time on the road.
Public transport in the East Midlands is generally reliable and
frequent, especially for journeys between major cities and larger towns.
However, the network becomes much more limited in rural areas, where
hiring a car or using taxis often proves to be the most practical and
time-efficient choice.
By Train
The region benefits from a
comprehensive intercity rail network, making travel between the main
cities — Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, and Lincoln — straightforward and
convenient in most cases.
Here are some key direct connections:
From Nottingham → direct trains to Lincoln, Leicester, and Derby.
From Leicester → direct trains to Nottingham and Derby (change in
Nottingham for Lincoln).
From Derby → direct trains to Nottingham and
Leicester (change in Nottingham for Lincoln).
From Lincoln → direct
trains to Nottingham (change in Nottingham for Derby or Leicester).
From Northampton → no direct services to the other main East Midlands
cities; you'll need to change at Birmingham New Street.
Many
smaller towns — and even some villages — are also well-served by the
rail network, often with direct links to at least one of the major hubs.
By Bus
Within cities and larger towns, local bus networks are
extensive and offer an affordable way to get around. Since the region
has no underground/metro systems, buses are the main form of urban
public transport for most residents — which can make them quite crowded
during morning and evening rush hours.
Intercity and inter-town bus
services (including express routes) also connect most major centres
efficiently.
In rural areas, however, buses are frequently the only
public transport option for villages. Services tend to be infrequent,
follow roundabout routes, and can be very slow. Some remote villages may
have just one or two buses per day (or even fewer). A common strategy is
to take a bus as close as possible to your destination and then complete
the journey by taxi.
By Car
The East Midlands enjoys an
excellent road infrastructure, with well-maintained roads and several
major motorways (notably the M1) running through the region. Its central
location makes north-south journeys particularly quick and efficient by
car.
In many cases — especially to rural destinations — driving is
faster than public transport and often the only realistic option. Car
rental services are widely available at all major cities and at East
Midlands Airport. Keep in mind, however, that parking fees in city
centres can be quite expensive.
By Boat
Thanks to the region's
rich industrial heritage, a number of picturesque canals criss-cross the
East Midlands. Hiring a narrowboat offers a wonderfully relaxing way to
explore the countryside and historic waterways — though it's primarily a
leisure activity rather than a fast mode of transport. Narrowboats can
usually be booked in advance for multi-night holidays.
The East Midlands region of England boasts an array of stunning
natural wonders, captivating historical sites, opulent stately homes,
insightful museums, and engaging family attractions—perfect for hikers,
history buffs, and families alike.
Natural Wonders
The Peak
District National Park, England's first national park established in
1951, lives up to its reputation with gently rounded moorland hills
rather than jagged peaks (its name derives from the ancient Pecsaetna
tribe). Dramatic gritstone "Edges"—sheer cliffs like those at Stanage or
Kinder Scout—dominate the skyline, while the limestone dales around
Castleton in Derbyshire hide over 300 caves, including the famous
Speedwell Cavern and Peak Cavern (once home to a notorious hermit).
Nearby, the village of Eyam, dubbed the "Plague Village," commemorates
its residents' extraordinary sacrifice in 1665–1666: they imposed a
voluntary quarantine during the bubonic plague outbreak, marking
boundaries with vinegar-soaked stones and accepting no visitors,
ultimately saving neighboring areas at the cost of 260 lives. Excellent
hiking trails abound, including the starting point of the 268-mile
Pennine Way, which traverses wild moors and offers panoramic views.
In Nottinghamshire, the legendary Sherwood Forest—mythical haunt of
Robin Hood and his Merry Men—survives in a 423-hectare country park.
Though largely replanted in the 20th century, ancient oaks like the
800–1,000-year-old Major Oak (a gnarled giant said to have sheltered the
outlaw) anchor its timeless allure.
The River Trent features the rare
Aegir tidal bore—a surging wave up to 1.5 meters high that travels
upstream for miles during high spring tides, best viewed from
Gainsthorpe or West Stockwith (check tide tables for safety). On
Lincolnshire's east coast, Donna Nook seal sanctuary draws crowds for
its colony of 1,000+ grey seals, especially during November–December
pupping season when pups frolic on the sands—though beaches here are
windswept and chilly year-round.
Historical Attractions
Lincoln enchants with its medieval core: the towering Lincoln Cathedral
(built 1072–1549), once the world's tallest structure at 160 meters, is
a Gothic marvel praised by John Ruskin as "the most precious piece of
architecture in the British Isles," housing an original 1215 Magna Carta
in its castle alongside the Lucy Tower and Victorian prison. Wander the
Steep Hill cobbled streets lined with timber-framed Tudor houses,
independent bookstores, and teashops.
The Derwent Valley Mills near
Cromford, Derbyshire—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001—preserves
the cradle of the Industrial Revolution: Richard Arkwright's 1771
Cromford Mill was the world's first fully mechanized cotton spinning
factory, powering a network of 18th–19th-century mills that
revolutionized global textile production.
Nottingham's City of Caves
reveals a 900-year-old sandstone labyrinth beneath the city, used for
tanning, pubs, and WWII air-raid shelters. In Leicestershire, the
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre marks King Richard III's 1485
defeat, with reenactments and trails; his rediscovered remains (buried
under a car park) now lie in Leicester Cathedral. Woolsthorpe Manor,
Newton's 17th-century family farm, features the apple tree under which
the gravity epiphany struck in 1665–1666, plus recreated experiments.
The Workhouse in Southwell, Nottinghamshire—England's most intact 1824
Poor Law institution—immerses visitors in Victorian destitution through
stark dormitories and punishment cells.
Stately Homes
Evoking
Downton Abbey elegance, these estates showcase aristocratic life across
centuries.
Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, seat of the Cavendish
Dukes of Devonshire since 1549, dazzles with Baroque opulence, 105-acre
gardens by Capability Brown, and cascading fountains powered by
gravity-fed hydraulics.
Belton House in Lincolnshire (National
Trust), a 1680s Restoration gem, exemplifies English country house
perfection with carved state rooms, expansive parkland, formal gardens,
ancient woodland, and an adventure playground.
Belvoir Castle
(pronounced "Beever") in Leicestershire, rebuilt 1801–1816 in Gothic
Revival splendor for the Dukes of Rutland, boasts a Windsor-like central
tower, Regency interiors, and panoramic Vale of Belvoir views.
Althorp House in Northamptonshire, Spencer family home since 1508, spans
500+ years of history on a 13,000-acre estate; its island mausoleum
holds Diana, Princess of Wales.
Museums
Leicester's National
Space Centre thrills with a Blue Streak rocket standing 20 meters tall,
a Soyuz TMA-9 capsule (one of few in the West), planetarium shows, and
hands-on space mission simulators.
The National Holocaust Centre and
Museum near Newark, on a former WWII POW camp site, uses survivors'
testimonies, railway cattle cars, and gardens of remembrance to educate
on the Shoah.
Nottingham's National Justice Museum, in a Georgian
courthouse and gaol, stages mock Victorian trials where visitors act as
prisoners, judges, or jurors amid flogging cells and gallows.
Family Attractions
Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire houses the world's
premier primate collection—over 80 species including endangered
gorillas, chimps, and lemurs—across 100 acres with interactive talks and
play areas.
The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire (near
Derbyshire border) spans 150 acres of planted woodlands with 400+
memorials to UK armed forces dead from WWII to Afghanistan, offering
reflective walks amid oaks, poppies, and Shot at Dawn sculptures.
Spectator Sports
Football (Soccer)
The region has a proud
football tradition with teams competing across England’s major leagues.
Leicester City FC plays in the Premier League and achieved legendary
status by winning the title in 2016 as 5,000-1 outsiders — one of the
most remarkable underdog stories in sporting history.
Nottingham
Forest FC, twice European Cup champions (1979 and 1980), currently
competes in the Championship (second tier), along with Derby County FC.
Lower-league sides Notts County FC and Lincoln City FC play in the
English Football League’s lower divisions. Tickets are usually available
during the season (August to May), with matches involving lower-league
clubs generally being easier to get into and more budget-friendly.
Cricket
Nottingham is home to the historic Trent Bridge ground,
the main venue for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club. County matches
take place from April to September, and the ground regularly hosts
prestigious international Test matches involving the England national
team.
Rugby Union
Top-tier Premiership Rugby is strongly
represented by two major clubs: Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints,
both of whom play their home fixtures from September to June.
Tennis
In June, Nottingham hosts the Nottingham Open, a well-regarded
grass-court tournament on the ATP Challenger Tour and WTA Tour circuits,
serving as an important warm-up event ahead of Wimbledon.
Hiking
and Outdoor Exploration
The East Midlands boasts a wonderful variety
of beautiful countryside and varied terrain, making it ideal for walkers
and hikers of all abilities.
Peak District National Park — One of the
UK’s most beloved walking destinations, featuring dramatic moorlands,
limestone valleys, and breathtaking views. Popular starting points
include the picturesque villages of Bakewell and Castleton. The area is
also a favourite for mountain biking.
Lincolnshire Wolds — Designated
an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this region of rolling hills and
peaceful countryside offers many scenic trails. A great number of walks
begin in the market town of Louth, including the 76-mile Lincolnshire
Wolds Way long-distance path.
The Viking Way — A challenging 147-mile
trail that runs the length of the East Midlands, beginning on the banks
of the Humber Estuary in northern Lincolnshire and finishing at the
scenic Rutland Water reservoir.
Theatre, Concerts, and Performing
Arts
During the summer months, several grand stately homes host
memorable open-air evening concerts, including Belvoir Castle
(Leicestershire), Burghley House (Lincolnshire), and Holme Pierrepont
Hall (Nottinghamshire).
The region’s major cities are home to
excellent theatres that stage productions year-round, including
much-loved traditional pantomimes at Christmas. Nottingham’s Theatre
Royal and Nottingham Playhouse are particularly renowned for their
high-quality and critically acclaimed shows.
For something truly
special, the area offers several open-air venues set in beautiful
woodland and natural surroundings, such as Kilworth House Theatre
(Leicestershire), Rutland Open Air Theatre, and the unique Kinema in the
Woods (Lincolnshire), which also screens films under the stars.
Seasonal Events and Highlights
Spring — Visit Spalding for the famous
annual Flower Parade (typically in May), where spectacular floats
decorated entirely with tulips celebrate the region’s rich bulb-growing
heritage.
May — Food enthusiasts head to Melton Mowbray in
Leicestershire for the Artisan Cheese Fair, the UK’s largest celebration
of cheese, featuring over 70 varieties of superb regional produce.
June — Rock and metal fans gather at Donington Park for Download
Festival, the country’s biggest rock festival, featuring huge
international headliners and an unforgettable atmosphere.
June–August
— Experience magical open-air performances of Shakespeare in the
enchanting woodland setting of Rutland Open Air Theatre.
July — Enjoy
the high-octane excitement of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in
Northamptonshire, the spiritual home of British motorsport.
The East Midlands boasts a vibrant food scene that mirrors much of
the UK, featuring ubiquitous classic British dishes like fish and chips,
Sunday roasts, and full English breakfasts, alongside a wealth of
international cuisines from Italian trattorias to Thai takeaways and
trendy fusion eateries blending global flavours.
What truly
distinguishes the region, however, is its world-class local produce and
protected speciality foods, many of which hold Protected Geographical
Indication (PGI) or Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) status under
EU/UK law. These items are crafted using time-honoured methods and are
shipped internationally, showcasing the area's agricultural heritage.
Key regional highlights include:
Melton Mowbray Pork Pies –
Originating from the historic market town of Melton Mowbray in
Leicestershire, these iconic hand-raised pies feature coarsely chopped
pork shoulder and pork fat, topped with a layer of savoury jellied pork
stock, all encased in a sturdy hot-water crust pastry made from lard,
flour, and water. They're baked in traditional wooden hoops, set aside
to cool, and best savoured cold with pickle or mustard – ideal for
picnics, ploughman's lunches, or as a portable snack.
Stilton Cheese
– Revered as Britain's finest blue cheese, Stilton comes in two main
styles: the classic blue-veined version with its bold, piquant tang and
creamy crumble, or the milder white Stilton, often flavoured with fruits
like mango or lemon. Legally, only cheese produced in designated
villages across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire can use
the name, handmade in small dairies with raw cow's milk, rennet, and
cultures.
Red Leicester Cheese – This striking reddish-orange cow's
milk cheese from Leicestershire gets its colour from annatto dye. It
offers a rich, nutty, slightly sweet flavour with a firm yet crumbly
texture, perfect for melting in toasties, grating over pasta, or
enjoying on a cracker with celery.
Bakewell Tart and Bakewell Pudding
– Both trace their roots to the charming spa town of Bakewell in
Derbyshire, stemming from a famous 19th-century baking mishap. The tart
uses buttery shortcrust pastry filled with raspberry jam, almond
frangipane sponge, and topped with icing and flaked almonds. The pudding
variant is softer, baked in a lighter puff pastry with a runny, custardy
almond filling – a quintessential afternoon tea treat.
Bramley Apples
– The definitive sharp cooking apple, discovered as a chance seedling in
the garden of a butcher named Matthew Bramley in Southwell,
Nottinghamshire, in 1809. Their high acidity and fluffy texture when
cooked make them unbeatable for apple pies, crumbles, chutneys, and
sauces; descendants of the original tree still bear fruit today.
Lincolnshire Sausages – Coarse-ground pork sausages from Lincolnshire,
elevated by abundant fresh sage (and sometimes parsley), breadcrumbs,
and seasoning for a herby, peppery kick. Protected by PGI status,
they're versatile for bangers and mash, toad-in-the-hole, or grilled
with onions.
Cobs – A linguistic hallmark of the East Midlands
(particularly Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Leicestershire), where a
soft bread roll is universally called a "cob." Stuffed with fillings
like pulled pork, mature cheddar, crispy bacon, or chips (fries), a cob
makes for an affordable, hearty grab-and-go lunch or pub bite – far more
common here than "bap" or "roll" elsewhere in the UK.
Throughout the
region, traditional weekly charter markets in towns like Melton Mowbray,
Newark, and Derby offer fresh bargains on these goodies, while farmers'
markets (e.g., Nottingham's Goose Fair market or Leicester's Highcross)
spotlight seasonal veg, meats, and artisanal producers. Renowned dairies
such as Nottinghamshire's Cropwell Bishop Creamery – multiple World
Cheese Award winners – run user-friendly online shops for direct
delivery of their Stilton and other cheeses, often with tasting notes
and pairing suggestions.
Major cities like Nottingham, Leicester,
Derby, and Northampton feature familiar national chains (e.g., Nando's,
Wagamama) but shine with independent gems: farm-to-table bistros,
seafood shacks, and at least five Michelin-starred restaurants
(including spots like Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham with two stars
for innovative tasting menus). Smaller towns offer cosy cafes and
bakeries with elevated homestyle cooking, while rural villages excel in
traditional pubs – many centuries-old with oak beams, roaring fires, and
menus of seasonal game, local ales, and pies that rival city fine
dining.
Leicester's thriving South Asian diaspora (one of Europe's
largest) has transformed it into a curry capital, with over 100 Indian
restaurants ranging from street-food-style thalis and dosas to upscale
banquets. Exceptional vegetarian and vegan dishes – think paneer tikka,
aloo gobi, and innovative plant-based biryanis – are ubiquitous and
often rival meat options in flavour and quality, thanks to family-run
spots like Kayal or the Golden Mile's hidden gems.
The East Midlands boasts a rich and varied pub culture, with
traditional establishments scattered throughout the countryside and
market towns. Many of these historic pubs date back several centuries,
and some proudly claim extremely long histories. Nottingham, in
particular, is home to Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, which is frequently
cited (though debated) as Britain's oldest pub, with origins reputedly
tracing back to 1189.
As in the rest of the UK, pub quality varies
enormously from one place to another. At one end of the scale, you might
find tired, run-down venues with sticky carpets and indifferent service.
At the other, beautifully maintained inns and gastro-pubs that could
easily pass for upscale restaurants, complete with exposed beams,
roaring fires, and carefully curated interiors.
The best way to
discover great local pubs is usually to ask residents for
recommendations — though keep in mind that "best" is highly subjective.
For some people, the perfect pub means a peaceful, cosy spot to enjoy a
leisurely pint and good conversation with friends. Others prefer lively
venues filled with music, lively crowds, and a buzzing atmosphere.
Most pubs in the region proudly feature local real ales brewed right
here in the East Midlands. The area has a strong brewing heritage, and
many of these cask-conditioned beers are now enjoyed well beyond the
region — some are even exported internationally. While mainstream lagers
tend to stay the same from visit to visit, the selection of real ales
often rotates regularly, with many pubs offering a monthly-changing
guest ale from a different brewery. If you're unsure about a beer, just
ask — it's common practice for staff to offer a small complimentary
taster before you buy a full pint.
Over recent years, food has become
a much stronger focus in many pubs across the region. A growing number
serve proper restaurant-quality meals, and in smaller villages
especially, the local pub frequently doubles as the best (and sometimes
only) dining option for miles around. Menus range from classic, hearty
pub grub — think homemade pies, Sunday roasts, sandwiches with proper
thick-cut chips — to more sophisticated dishes that wouldn't look out of
place in a fine-dining establishment.
Beyond traditional pubs, the
larger cities and towns offer a good selection of modern bars, cocktail
lounges, and nightclubs. While smaller towns may have only a handful of
fairly average late-night venues, the major urban centres — particularly
Nottingham — stand out as proper nightlife destinations. Thanks in large
part to its two major universities, Nottingham boasts an especially
vibrant and varied clubbing scene, with numerous venues offering
everything from mainstream dance floors to specialist nights, late-night
bars, and live music spots. It's a popular choice for a big night out in
the region.