The East Midlands counties of Lincolnshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, and Leicestershire have plenty to offer anyone looking for a weekend break, any time of year. Here are some suggestions on where to go, what to see, and where to stay if planning to travel in July and August and enjoy the summer weather.
July Weekend Breaks
Where to Go
The Lincolnshire Coast can be bracing at best, and while some people love being windswept, it isn't to everyone's taste. Good weather helps most people enjoy the coastal scenery, and there's more chance of this in July. August can be busy with more summer holiday crowds, particularly in the south of the region around the popular resorts such as Skegness, Ingoldmells and Mablethorpe. But there are about 50 miles of coast in all, with plenty of variety for everyone.
Where to Stay
The Best Western Vine Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Skegness with its own large gardens, and is convenient for visiting the Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve.
What to See
There's plenty of beautiful natural scenery to enjoy, and wildlife too, as the coast isn't all caravan parks and chip shops!
What to Do
Visitors who are not into buckets and spades should investigate what they call the Rural Coast. In places like Saltfleetby, Crook Bank, Gibraltar Point, or Moggs Eye are wildlife walks and quieter beaches.
August Weekend Breaks
Where to Go
Rutland Water is lovely all year round, but in midsummer it is at its very best. Rutland is the smallest county in England but has some lovely rural towns including Oakham and Uppingham. Rutland Water is the largest reservoir in England, and is roughly the same size as Windermere in the Lake District, which is England's largest natural lake.
Where to Stay
Hambleton Hall near Oakham is one of the finest hotels in the country, and with its location overlooking Rutland Water is the ideal spot from which to enjoy all the fun of the Birdwatching Fair.
What to See
The British Birdwatching Fair is the biggest event of its kind in the world and it takes place at Rutland Water in late August every year. Even visitors who are not avid twitchers enjoy the fair, which is a good, fun event and allows anyone to further their knowledge of birds and birdwatching.
What to Do
Take the opportunity to explore the rest of England's smallest county, including Oakham for easy access to the fair. Take in Uppingham, too, and add Rutland's several attractive little villages, and England's smallest county often turns into people's most favourite.
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Other Weekend Break Ideas:
Weekend Breaks in the East of England in July and August
Weekend Breaks in the East of England in September and October
Weekend Breaks in the East Midlands in September and October
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Mike Gerrard - Mike is an award-winning travel writer who has worked for National Geographic, the London Times, and many other clients. ...
