30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in East Midlands | Apr 2025

Daily Nottingham City Centre Walking Tour with Local Guide Image
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Daily Nottingham City Centre Walking Tour with Local Guide

Join your local Nottingham guide for a 1. 5-hour walking tour that brings the city’s rich and rebellious past to life. Running daily at 10:30am, this tour doesn't just cover the history—it’s about experiencing Nottingham through the eyes of those who shaped it.

4.89 (27 reviews)

Private Miniature Horse Walking near Lincoln Image
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Private Miniature Horse Walking near Lincoln

A unique opportunity to spend time with a Falabella miniature horse A rare breed of horse from Argentina. The activity can include grooming your Falabella, an introduction on best way to handle your Falabella while out walking, enjoying a walk with your Falabella in the beautiful countryside with views over to Tattershall castle, meeting the other horses and ponies and goats who live here, Birthdays can be provided for with a cake after your walk but it is very much based around what you are happy doing .

5.00 (34 reviews)

Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour Image
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Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour

Our private walking tour will show you all the best bits of this incredibly unique city, home to the largest public square in the U.

5.00 (7 reviews)

Sydney Private Tour - Pick up & Drop off Image
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Sydney Private Tour - Pick up & Drop off

Experience the breathtaking, panoramic beauty of Sydney on a private tour with your personal guide. Escape the crowds in your own luxury SUV as you visit iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Stamford Town Guided Tours Image
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Stamford Town Guided Tours

Join us on a 90 minute guided tour of this Lincolnshire gem. We will deliver an entertaining and informative narration of the architecture, characters and legends of one of the finest stone towns in England.

4.92 (96 reviews)

Oakham Private Walking Tour Image
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Oakham Private Walking Tour

The history of Oakham goes back over a thousand years with people living here much earlier too. Oakham is a beautiful vibrant market town which somehow manages to be wonderfully quiet compared to the noisy chaos of London.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Maid Marian and Robin Hood Outdoor Escape Game in Nottingham Image
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Maid Marian and Robin Hood Outdoor Escape Game in Nottingham

Tales of Robin Hood have been told across centuries, all around the world. And it's all claimed to have started right here in Nottingham and the nearby Sherwood Forest.

4.50 (14 reviews)

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Fun and Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Nottingham with Hidden Gems Image
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Fun and Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Nottingham with Hidden Gems

A fun and different way to see Nottingham Solve satisfying clues and follow beautiful maps sent to your phones. Spot things other people take for granted! You’ll learn interesting facts and stories.

4.89 (9 reviews)

Stamford Private Walking Tour Image
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Stamford Private Walking Tour

This private walking tour explores explores perhaps the most beautiful town in Britain. Midway between London and York on the old Roman road and a smidgeon over an hour by train from London.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide Image
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Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

Nottingham is known as “The Queen of the Midlands” due to its women, however it also has a rich history of rebellion! Home to Robin Hood, England’s greatest legendary outlaw and hero as well as Lord Byron, our greatest romantic writer and DH Lawrence author of “Lady Chatterley’s Lover”, a book banned for 30 years.

Lincoln Private Walking Tour Image
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Lincoln Private Walking Tour

Lincoln is the capital city of Lincolnshire and one of the most picturesque and historic cities anywhere.  Lincoln is one of the most beautiful and surprising hidden gems in the UK with a modern history going back to Roman times.

5.00 (4 reviews)

Stamford and Burghley House Private Tour Image
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Stamford and Burghley House Private Tour

Stamford is a real hidden jewel of England. It has unique mix of history and fabulous Georgian architecture along with some terrific old shopping streets.

Fox Encounter for 2 people and park entry Image
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Fox Encounter for 2 people and park entry

Meet the Arks many residents, all of whom are rescues from the UK and European Pet Trade. Park entry is included with this experience so you can spend as long as you wish getting to know all the other residents.

4.94 (49 reviews)

Private Nottingham Walking Tour with Local Guide Image
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Private Nottingham Walking Tour with Local Guide

Join your local guide on your very own 1. 5-hour Private Nottingham City Walking Tour to explore this amazing city. Our tour is all about spending time with a local, as well as uncovering our deep history.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN) Image
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Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Take the worry out of your departure to Manchester Airport (MAN) and pre-book a private transfer to suit your group size (up to 8 people).

Nottingham Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt Image
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Nottingham Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt

Turning Nottingham Into an Adventure Playground! Get a unique perspective of the city centre on this self-guided, interactive treasure hunt.

4.50 (2 reviews)

Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour Image
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Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour

Why did the Victorians think a mortgage was like a monkey? How can one architect have two names on one building? What links one of Nottingham's foremost Victorian architects with Mick Jagger and Thomas Hardy? All these and more questions will be answered on an entertaining and informative guided walk around the buildings of architect Watson Fothergill in Nottingham City Centre.

5.00 (44 reviews)

DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour - Largest Rum Distillery in UK! Image
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DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour - Largest Rum Distillery in UK!

An experience like no other! Join us at the DropWorks Distillery, where modern British Rum is made on a scale never seen before on these shores! It is the largest Rum distillery in Europe.

4.96 (48 reviews)

Park Entry for a Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children) Image
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Park Entry for a Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children)

Entrance for 2 adults and 2 children (4-16 years). 3 and under are FREE WELCOME TO ARK WILDLIFE PARK & EXOTIC ANIMAL SANCTUARY – THE UK’S FIRST RESCUE ZOO AND LINCOLNSHIRE’S NEWEST, AWARD WINNING, INDEPENDENT WILDLIFE PARK.

4.48 (44 reviews)

Leicester Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK Image
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Leicester Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

The smartphone travel tool that helps you discover the great outdoors & connect with the world around you. Utilizing seamless GPS technology, it takes you off-the-beaten-track to discover hidden gems & incredible places you may never find alone.

4.00 (2 reviews)

A Story of Discovery, Education and Remembrance Image
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A Story of Discovery, Education and Remembrance

The centre provides, for the first time, a unique glimpse into a subject that has remained contentious for over 70 years.

4.87 (286 reviews)

Abseil Experience - Millersdale Derbyshire Peak District Image
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Abseil Experience - Millersdale Derbyshire Peak District

Abseil from Millers Dale Viaduct in the Peak District for a fun and memorable experience. Enjoy great views of the River Wye and surrounding limestone landscape as you make your descent.

5.00 (16 reviews)

Nottingham Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt Image
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Nottingham Quest: Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt

Turning the streets of Nottingham Into an Adventure Playground! Get a unique perspective of the city centre on this self-guided, interactive treasure hunt.

3.00 (1 reviews)

Nottingham Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers Image
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Nottingham Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers

Zombie Scavengers takes you on an adventure in Nottingham to survive the zombie apocalypse! Use our app and some strategy to find a list of items needed to survive, in any order you'd prefer, around the city.

Scavenger Hunt in Derby by Operation City Quest Image
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Scavenger Hunt in Derby by Operation City Quest

Operation City Quest of Derby is a great way to see the city! Use an app to submit photos of items you find around the city and challenges you complete for points.

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Grimsby by Operation City Quest Image
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Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Grimsby by Operation City Quest

Walk around Grimsby while completing the Operation City Quest scavenger hunt! Use an app to find a list of objects around the city in any order you choose and perform fun challenges for points.

Zombie Scavengers Game - Derby, UK Image
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Zombie Scavengers Game - Derby, UK

Zombie Scavengers tests your ability to survive after a Zombie Apocalypse. The game leads you through the city, where you will have 60 minutes to collect survival items for your colony.

Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt - Nottingham, UK Image
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Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt - Nottingham, UK

Using an app on your smartphone, you'll be given nearly 120 objects to find during your scavenger hunt. You'll then wander throughout the downtown area searching for the items.

Nutty Nottingham Walking Tour Image
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Nutty Nottingham Walking Tour

This unique and enjoyable experience is like no other offered in the city. You will take a journey around the city centre, including stops at The Old Market Square, The Brian Clough Statue, The Council Building, Hockley, The Lace Market, The National Justice Museum, Nottingham Contemporary gallery, The Weekday Cross and of course the castle! You will start and end at Nottingham's oldest inn, but it's two different pubs.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt - Northampton, UK Image
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Operation City Quest Scavenger Hunt - Northampton, UK

Using an app on your smartphone, you'll be given nearly 120 objects to find during your scavenger hunt. You'll then wander throughout the downtown area searching for the items.

What activities can I do in East Midlands?

1. Explore the Peak District National Park: East Midlands is home to a significant portion of the Peak District, one of the most beautiful national parks in England. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and breathtaking views of rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and charming villages. 2. Visit Nottingham: Known for its rich history and connections to the legendary Robin Hood, Nottingham offers a variety of attractions. Explore Nottingham Castle, wander through the historic Lace Market area, and visit the City of Caves, a network of underground tunnels. 3. Discover Leicester: This vibrant city is famous for its multiculturalism and historical significance. Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre, explore the Leicester Cathedral, and learn about the city's textile heritage at the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery. 4. Explore Lincoln: With its stunning cathedral, medieval castle, and quaint cobbled streets, Lincoln is a must-visit destination. Climb the cathedral tower for panoramic views, wander through the historic Bailgate area, and explore the Lincoln Castle and its famous Magna Carta. 5. Enjoy the outdoors at Rutland Water: Located in the county of Rutland, this large reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities. Go sailing, kayaking, or windsurfing, cycle or walk around the lake, and enjoy birdwatching at the Rutland Water Nature Reserve. 6. Visit the National Space Centre: Located in Leicester, this interactive museum is a treat for space enthusiasts. Learn about the history of space exploration, see real spacecraft, and experience the UK's largest planetarium. 7. Explore the Derbyshire Dales: Discover the picturesque countryside of the Derbyshire Dales, including charming villages like Bakewell and Matlock. Enjoy scenic walks, visit stately homes like Chatsworth House, and try the famous Bakewell Pudding. 8. Discover the history of aviation at the RAF Museum Cosford: Located near Wolverhampton, this museum showcases the history of aviation through a vast collection of aircraft and exhibits. Learn about the Royal Air Force's past and present, and get up close to iconic planes. 9. Visit the National Trust properties: East Midlands is home to several National Trust properties, such as Hardwick Hall, Calke Abbey, and Belton House. Explore the grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and learn about the history of these stately homes. 10. Enjoy a day at the races: If you're a fan of horse racing, head to one of the region's racecourses, such as Nottingham Racecourse or Leicester Racecourse. Experience the excitement of the races and soak up the lively atmosphere. These are just a few suggestions for things to do in East Midlands, England. The region offers a diverse range of attractions, from natural beauty to historical landmarks, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

When is the best time to travel to East Midlands?

The best time to travel to East Midlands, England is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as exploring the beautiful Peak District National Park, visiting historic sites like Nottingham Castle, or taking leisurely walks along the River Trent. Additionally, summer is also a great time to attend various festivals and events that take place in the region, such as the Nottinghamshire County Show or the Ashbourne Shrovetide Football Match. However, it's worth noting that summer is also the peak tourist season in East Midlands, so popular attractions may be more crowded and prices for accommodation and flights may be higher. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy more affordable prices, you can consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is still mild and there are fewer tourists. Overall, the best time to travel to East Midlands, England depends on your preferences and priorities. Whether you're looking for warm weather, cultural events, or a more relaxed atmosphere, East Midlands has something to offer throughout the year.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to East Midlands

The East Midlands region of England is rich in history and culture, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in the East Midlands: 1. Historic Sites: The region is home to many historic sites, including the famous Sherwood Forest, where the legendary Robin Hood is said to have roamed. Other notable sites include the magnificent Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, and Lincoln Cathedral, one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. 2. Literary Connections: The East Midlands has been home to several renowned writers. Nottingham, in particular, has strong literary ties, with D.H. Lawrence being one of its most famous residents. Visitors can explore the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum and visit the writer's former home. The region also inspired other writers such as Lord Byron and George Eliot. 3. Festivals and Events: The East Midlands hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Nottingham Goose Fair, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest and largest traveling fairs in Europe. The Robin Hood Festival in Sherwood Forest celebrates the legendary outlaw with medieval-themed activities and entertainment. Additionally, there are music festivals, food festivals, and cultural events held across the region. 4. Industrial Heritage: The East Midlands played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore the rich industrial heritage at places like the Derby Silk Mill, the world's first factory, and the National Coal Mining Museum in Nottinghamshire. The Great Central Railway, a preserved steam railway, also offers a glimpse into the region's railway history. 5. Arts and Museums: The East Midlands boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The Nottingham Contemporary is a renowned contemporary art gallery, while the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery in Leicester houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts. The Curve Theatre in Leicester and the Theatre Royal in Nottingham are among the region's top venues for live performances. 6. Local Cuisine: Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in the East Midlands. The region is known for its traditional dishes such as Bakewell pudding, Melton Mowbray pork pies, and Stilton cheese. Visitors can also explore local farmers' markets and sample regional produce. Overall, the East Midlands offers a blend of history, literature, arts, and culinary delights, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in immersing themselves in English culture.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to East Midlands

When visiting the East Midlands region in England, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider: 1. Local Food and Drink: The East Midlands is known for its delicious food and drink products. Consider buying items like Melton Mowbray pork pies, Stilton cheese, Red Leicester cheese, local beers or ales, and locally produced jams or chutneys. 2. Traditional Crafts: The region is home to various traditional crafts, and purchasing handmade items can make for unique souvenirs. Look for pottery from Stoke-on-Trent, lace from Nottingham, or traditional textiles like Harris Tweed. 3. Local Produce: The East Midlands is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so consider buying locally grown fruits, vegetables, or honey from one of the many farmers' markets or farm shops in the region. 4. Antiques and Vintage Items: The East Midlands has a rich history, and you can find antique shops and vintage markets where you can browse for unique items like furniture, clothing, or accessories. 5. Local Artwork: Support local artists by purchasing paintings, sculptures, or prints from galleries or art fairs in the area. The East Midlands has a thriving arts scene, so you're likely to find something that catches your eye. 6. Traditional Clothing: Look for traditional English clothing items like flat caps, tweed jackets, or handmade leather goods. These items can be found in specialty shops or at local markets. 7. Local Literature: The East Midlands has been home to many famous writers, so consider purchasing books or poetry collections from authors like D.H. Lawrence, Lord Byron, or George Eliot. Remember to check the rules and regulations regarding the importation of food or agricultural products if you plan to take any perishable items back home.

East Midlands travel review

Title: Exploring the Enchanting East Midlands, England Introduction: Nestled in the heart of the country, the East Midlands region of England boasts a rich tapestry of history, picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming villages. From the majestic peaks of the Peak District to the cultural hub of Nottingham, this captivating region offers an abundance of experiences for travelers seeking a diverse and unforgettable journey. Join me as we embark on an exploration of the enchanting East Midlands. Historical Treasures: The East Midlands is steeped in history, with several notable landmarks that transport visitors back in time. One such gem is the magnificent Chatsworth House, a stately home located in the Peak District. Its grandeur, stunning gardens, and extensive art collection make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. For those intrigued by medieval history, a visit to Nottingham Castle is a must. Perched on a hilltop, this historic site offers breathtaking views of the city and houses a fascinating museum that delves into the legend of Robin Hood. Explore the caves beneath the castle, which were once used as a hideout by outlaws, and immerse yourself in the tales of this iconic figure. Natural Beauty: The East Midlands is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Peak District National Park, known as the ""backyard of England,"" offers an array of activities such as hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages that dot the region. For a tranquil escape, head to Rutland Water, the largest man-made lake in England. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, try your hand at sailing or fishing, or simply relax and soak in the serenity of the surroundings. Nature lovers will also appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including rare bird species. Cultural Delights: The East Midlands is not just about natural beauty; it also boasts a thriving cultural scene. Nottingham, the region's largest city, is a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. Explore the Lace Market district, known for its historic lace-making industry, and discover a fascinating blend of old and new architecture, trendy boutiques, and bustling cafes. Leicester, another cultural gem, offers a captivating mix of history, diversity, and contemporary attractions. Visit the King Richard III Visitor Centre, which tells the story of the infamous monarch, or explore the vibrant Golden Mile, home to a thriving Indian community and a plethora of authentic restaurants and shops. Conclusion: The East Midlands region of England is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and cultural delights. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or a lover of art and culture, this enchanting region has something to offer everyone. From exploring medieval castles to immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Peak District, a visit to the East Midlands promises an unforgettable travel experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of this captivating region.