Hidden Gems of England: The East Midlands

The East Midlands area of England is often bypassed by time hungry tourists intent on hitting the big attractions. But if you want to discover England's green and pleasant land full of history, heritage and beautiful architecture, then a trip into the East Midlands should be right at the top of your itinerary. Made up of the counties of Derby, Leicester, Lincoln and Nottingham, a well-planned itinerary can include everything from the natural beauty of the Fen country, the mountains of the Peak District, historic houses, museums, art galleries and a day in Robin Hood's well,…hood. Get inspired by this hidden gems guide to the East Midlands to make sure you don't miss out on some charming places.

When it comes to family holidays it can be difficult to keep everyone entertained but a trip to Derby will leave everyone satisfied. Kids will love a day at the Crich Tramway Village in the heart of Derbyshire and at the foot of the Peak District National Park. Here you'll find the National Tramway Museum and a wonderfully recreated period village. There are unlimited tram rides on offer with the purchase of a full price ticket and a flexible family ticket covering two adults and up to three children that costs £40.50.

If you have time to add in a visit to a stately home to your schedule then it has to be the magnificent Hardwick Hall. Built by Bess of Hardwick, a woman well ahead of her time, in the late 1500s and at a time when glass was prohibitively expensive, it was known as 'Hardwick Hall more glass than wall'. The hall was designed by English architect Robert Smythson and 2014 was a historical year for the town as it marked the 400th anniversary of his death. Celebrations include workshops, events, tours and talks all about Elizabethan life and architecture. So if you've ever fancied your hand at stone carving, now's your chance to have a go.

Psst! If you're in for some more family fun, check out the top 6 kid friendly hotels in the UK and Ireland!

The long lost grave of Richard III was discovered in Leicester in 2013. You can visit an exhibition outlining everything you ever wanted to know about the search for King Richard III and how this royal found himself interred in a council car park. You can also go on an audio tour, facial reconstruction tour and a guided walk. Oh, and when in Leicester you can't miss the beautiful cathedral, the final resting place of King Richard III.

If you're more interested in the future than the past you can always bypass long deceased kings and head straight for the National Space Centre. A hugely inspirational attraction focused on all things intergalactic, the National Space Centre includes over 150 hands-on challenges, six interactive galleries, the UK's largest planetarium and that iconic rocket launch tower.

Lincoln – Rediscover the forgotten county

Lincoln is quite different in character from the surrounding counties and is sometimes called 'the forgotten county' by locals. But don't let this deter you from visiting because as well as being home to the charming and quintessentially English town of Stamford, this famously flat land is home to the Fens, one of England's most astonishing medieval cathedrals and the bright lights of Skegness.

If you only visit one small town on your trip, make it Stamford. This gorgeous town has maintained its historic character allowing you to wander from timber-framed pubs with lashings of period atmosphere through unspoiled cobbled streets and on to pretty country walks with nary a glance at the 21st century.

Nottingham – Brave Sir Robin and the caves

Nottingham is of course famous for being the home of Robin Hood and his band of merry men who made their home in Sherwood Forest. Today you can still visit the forest and places related to the stories like Nottingham Castle where the Sherriff hung out plotting Robin's demise – well, according to legend that is! Nottingham is also famous for its City of Caves under the streets of the city of Nottingham. These sandstone caves date back to the Dark Ages and were used right up until the 1940s for everything from homes to pubs, factories and even air raid shelters. The whole family can go on a tour of the caves with guides in character as friendly archaeologists – so no spooky ghosts to worry about down here.

Located in the heart of the region on the M1 providing easy access to surrounding towns including Nottingham, Derby and Leicester Radisson Blu Hotel, East Midlands Airport is the perfect base from which to explore all the East Midlands has to offer.

Ready to discover the East Midlands rich heritage? Book your stay with Radisson Blu Hotel, East Midlands Airport.