Top staycations in the Midlands

We can’t stress just how much we love the Peak District here at Coolstays. And, with the majority of the park lying within the East Midlands county of Derbyshire, it poses a fantastic option for anyone looking to take their next staycation in this part of the UK.

Home to some of this country’s most inspiring, scenic landscapes, the Peak District is a treasure trove of fantastic walking and cycling routes; idyllic bridleways; and hidden, secluded camping spots. Just don’t forget to bring your hiking boots!

Where should you go?

Mam Tor is one of the most famous walks in the entire Peak District and should be on any hiker’s list. Standing at 517 metres high near Castleton, ‘Mother Hill’ offers some of the best picture-postcard-views around allowing you to take in the dry limestone gorge of Winnats Pass - another spot that’s worth a visit!

Sitting north-west of Bamford, Win Hill is another cracking hike with yet more inspiring views. And finally, anyone in love with the Peak District simply must venture up Kinder Scout. It’s the tallest of the hills in the area, and hiking to its summit has become something of a right of passage for Peak District hillwalkers.

The Peak District also has a number of quaint villages that offer a quintessentially English day out thanks to their riverside walks, historic churches, intermittent sheep-dipping, independent shops, hotels, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. Two Peak District villages that really stand out are Ashford-In-The-Water and Bakewell. So make sure you add these to your list and give them a visit during your trip!

Top Coolstays near the Peak District

If there’s a better spot for an autumn stroll in the Midlands than the Shropshire Hills, then we’ve not seen it. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers a quarter of Shropshire and sits on the border of England and Wales.

When it comes to geology, Shropshire is one of Britain’s most significant counties, thanks to the fact that it displays 11 of the 13 recognised periods. Hikers, bikers, and ramblers, will be able to enjoy heath-covered hills, picturesque valleys, and beautiful ancient woodland.

Where should you go?

If you’re out for a stroll, be sure to visit the Linley Beeches that stand tall on Linley Hill. These proud and beautiful trees are fascinating to look at and offer a tranquil walk through their twisting shadows, as you gaze out at the views. Another fab walk would be Caer Caradoc Hill. This ancient hill fort dates back to either the Iron or Late Bronze Age, and the stiff climb to the top is well worth it, as the hill’s summit offers a great place from which to see far and wide.

The heath and moorland plateau of Long Mynd is another popular walking route that we would recommend, and once you set off you’ll see why this spot has earned itself the nickname ‘Little Switzerland’.

The historic Market Town of Church Stretton sits in the heart of the Shropshire Hills. Wander the picturesque streets of this charming town and its surrounding villages as you gaze up at the tall hills that surround you. Enjoy a pint or a lovely pub lunch, or take part in some fun activities such as hang gliding or paragliding!

Top Coolstays near the Shropshire Hills

Somehow, the Malvern Hills still remain a bit of an undiscovered gem. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of the most inspiring stretches of countryside in England. Think looming hill forts, sprawling oak forests, and pretty, medieval priories.

With, yes you guessed it, some amazing walking routes and stunning views on offer, the Malvern Hills is up there with the Peak District and the Shropshire Hills for family days out in the country. Dog walkers, cyclists, hikers, and lovers of British countryside will never tire of this peaceful stretch of hills in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and a small area of northern Gloucestershire.

Where should you go?

Sir Edward Elgar is renowned as England’s greatest composer and The Elgar Route is a popular walking trail that offers up a marvellous array of sights, including the composer’s favourite spots and the breathtaking scenery that inspired so much of his music.

You may also wish to go for a jaunt up the Worcester Beacon or the equally impressive Herefordshire Beacon where you can explore the earthworks and defensive ditches of the British Camp Iron Age Fort.

If you don’t fancy putting your hiking boots on, then you may wish to visit Great Malvern’s Priory Park. This beautiful park is filled with mature trees and sits around the edge of a large duck pond spanned by a couple of bridges. You can enjoy sitting by the water’s edge, or gather around the Victorian bandstand which plays host to free Sunday afternoon concerts during the summer months. Picton Garden is another option in Great Malvern, with wonderful and unusual plants aplenty!

Top Coolstays near the Malvern Hills

With its fantastic location just a short hop from the East Coast of England, the Linconlshire Wolds is an ideal destination for those of you who want to split your time between rambling on trails and getting sand between your toes on picturesque beaches.

The Lincolnshire Wolds is another designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that has traditional agriculture and ancient history woven into its DNA. This landscape still bears the impression of long-gone ancient settlements, as well as vast stretches of beautiful farmland. Wander its rolling hills, explore quaint chalk streams, and meander your way around its idyllic hamlets all at your own pace and enjoy this marvellously peaceful part of the UK.

Where should you go?

The Red Hill Nature Reserve is one of the most picturesque spots in the area. A former barley field that’s returned to a wildflower meadow, Red Hill offers a wide range of pretty flowers and lovely views of the criss-crossing fields all around. The variety of seasonal flowers on offer makes this an ever-changing colourful vista that has to be on your list!

The marvellous 76-mile Lincolnshire Wolds Way is a circular trail that takes you on a winding ramble from pub to pub, allowing you to discover the birthplace of Tennyson, whilst taking in all that this classic slice of English countryside has to offer.

Another spot that’s well worth your time is the fab Claythorpe Water Mill. This family run spot is sat in the grounds of an 18th Century watermill. Here you can sit by the river watching the animals, or enjoy some tea and cake in the cafe.

Top Coolstays near the Lincolnshire Wolds