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 September and October and enjoy the autumn weather.
Weekend Breaks in September
Where to Go
Visit Sherwood Forest and the National Forest, when the trees start to turn from Lincoln green to autumnal golds. At one time much of England, and indeed much of Europe, was covered by forests like these. Treasure the remnants that remain, and help support an enterprising scheme like the National Forest by visiting the area.
Where to Stay
The Grange Courtyard is at Shepshed, to the east of Moira and Ashby-de-la-Zouche. It offers award-winning bed and breakfast accommodation, being highly rated by various tourist boards and with a 5-star rating from the AA's inspectors.
What to See
The main Visitor Centre for the National Forest is the appropriately-named Conkers, near the village of Moira in north-west Leicestershire. It's just down the road from Ashby-de-la-Zouche, which has its own visitor attractions.
What to Do
For the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre head for Edwinstowe in northern Nottinghamshire. From here it's easy to walk into the forest and soak up the Robin Hood legends, and visit the Mighty Oak, said to be the outlaw's main hideout. True or not, the trees here are still ancient and impressive.
Weekend Breaks in October
Where to Go
Late October or early November is the perfect time to visit Leicester. It's then that the feast of Diwali falls, and the city's Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains all celebrate their Festival of Lights.
Where to Stay
The family-owned Belmont Hotel on de Montfort Street is right next to the New Walk, Leicester's green urban public walkway, first laid out in 1785 and still enjoyed today
What to See
The entertaining and colourful Diwali Festival lasts for five days and centres on the arrival of the New Moon sometime between mid-October and mid-November. It's the biggest Diwali Festival outside India, so is a spectacular and fun time to visit Leicester. Head for the Belgrave Road area to see the streets lined with lights, and where the shops stay open until midnight.
What to Do
Leicester has plenty of other attractions ranging from Roman remains and museums to pleasant parks where there are walks to enjoy, in between the sight-seeing.
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Other Weekend Break Ideas
Weekend Breaks in the East Midlands in July and August
Weekend Breaks in the East of England in July and August
Weekend Breaks in the East of England 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. ...
