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 and adventure 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. This is also great cycling country, with disused rail trails like the Monsal and Tissington Trails. Base yourself in Bakewell, Hartington, or Eyam for easy access to both ridges and rivers.
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this quiet hill country includes The Long Mynd, Caer Caradoc, and The Stiperstones. Explore open ridge walks near Church Stretton, cycle quiet lanes, or paddle calm rivers near Clun and Ludlow. The quartzite tors of the Stiperstones offer striking views and a rare blend of wildness and biodiversity.
Between the cities, find calm in Cannock Chase, a forested AONB with walking trails, bike routes, and wildlife-rich heathland. It’s great for family-friendly outdoor days, forest bathing, or stargazing under some of the Midlands’ clearest skies. Nearby, the National Forest is restoring woodland across Leicestershire, Staffordshire, and Derbyshire — a young landscape full of rewilded tracks and future nature trails.
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. You’ll also find nature reserves, peaceful picnic spots, and gentle cycleways — perfect for relaxed, rural exploration.
The southern Peak District is a standout, with routes along Dovedale, Monsal Dale, and Curbar Edge. The Shropshire Hills also offer ridge walks across The Long Mynd and The Stiperstones. For a longer journey, try the Viking Way or the Pennine Way starting in Edale.
Yes. The Midlands has plenty of off-road cycle trails — including the Monsal Trail, Tissington Trail, and family-friendly forest paths in Cannock Chase. Paddling is also popular on rivers like the Severn and in calm areas near Rutland Water.
Absolutely. The area has a peaceful, uncrowded feel with strong transport links, especially around Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Leicestershire. Trails are well marked, towns are walker- and cyclist-friendly, and there's space to go at your own pace.
Yes — the region is full of historic towns, castles, and ancient landscapes. Walk between stone villages in the Peak District, explore Iron Age hillforts in Shropshire, or combine nature trails with heritage sites like Belvoir Castle or Eyam.
You’ll find cosy inns, country B&Bs, woodland lodges, rural cottages, and even bike- and walker-friendly pubs. Many are close to trails, forests, and canals, especially in hotspots like Bakewell, Church Stretton, and Cannock Chase.
