Where ancient ridges, green valleys, and quiet towns reveal a grounded beauty.
The Midlands sits at the centre of England — a region of quiet strength and subtle variety. From the gritstone edges of the Peak District to the rolling Shropshire Hills and the farmland of the East Midlands, it’s a landscape shaped by tradition, working land, and timeless footpaths.
This is walking country that feels grounded. Trails lead through ancient woodlands, over windswept ridges, along rivers and canals, and into market towns that still carry the rhythms of rural life. It’s not dramatic, but it’s rich — full of calm, depth, and slow discovery.
The southern reaches of the Peak District National Park offer a gentler contrast to the northern Dark Peak. Walk along Monsal Dale, Dovedale, and Lathkill Dale, or climb Curbar Edge and Stanage Edge for expansive views. Base yourself in villages like Bakewell, Hartington, or Eyam. The Pennine Way begins in Edale, marking the Midlands’ northern edge and a gateway to wilder walking.
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this quiet hill country includes The Long Mynd, Caer Caradoc, and The Stiperstones. Explore ridge walks and open commons near Church Stretton, or follow rivers and woodland trails around Clun and Ludlow. The Stiperstones’ quartzite tors — like Devil's Chair and Manstone Rock — offer a rare mix of drama and biodiversity.
Between the cities, find calm in Cannock Chase, a forested AONB with easy trails, heathland, and abundant wildlife. Nearby, the National Forest is restoring woodland across Leicestershire, Staffordshire, and Derbyshire — a new walking landscape full of young trees, peaceful tracks, and rewilding in action.
Walk near Rutland Water, follow the Viking Way (147 miles through Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland), or explore field paths and canal trails near Belvoir Castle, Market Harborough, and the Lincolnshire Wolds. This is gentle country, dotted with historic churches, quiet lanes, and open skies.
The Midlands is England’s quiet centre — steady, scenic, and made for walking that rewards patience and presence.
Curated stays for walkers, wanderers, and slow travellers — all within easy reach of the path.
Trusted tour companies offer self-guided walking holidays in the Midlands — with accommodation, luggage transfers, and detailed route notes included.
Choose a county to discover its trails, towns, villages and places to stay.
Start your walk on one of the region’s best-known routes.
