Things to see and do East Midlands

Formerly vast and deep, now very fragmented and protected, the Sherwood forest is forever linked to the adventures of Robin Hood. At the visitor reception desk, there are many itinerary suggestions, including the Major Oak Trail, Britain's largest oak tree. About 800 years old and with a circumference of 10 meters, its branches extend over 28 meters and it would weigh about 23 tons. This natural monument of great beauty now needs support to keep itself upright.... The charming village of Edwinstowe, which borders the forest, is home to St. Mary's Church, where Robin is said to have married sweet Marianne, and Rufford Abbey, surrounded by a lovely park with a lake.

Funicular carry you from the station to the village tops, above a spectacular gorge. The exceptional view of heights has long seduced the curious since, since 1780, a "wild garden" was opened to welcome them. There was a walk on foot… Today, the park has several attractions and the ticket includes the discovery of ancient th century mines and a museum that recounts the history of the sites. Walking tours, outdoor attractions for children and bar where to eat.

There are two reception centres in Hope Valley. The first is at the Moorland Centre in Edale (Fieldhead, in the village, +44 143 367 020). The second is located in Castleton (Buxton Road, +44 162 981 6572).

South of Hope Valley, Castleton has four caves that are now open to the public after long years of mining sites, since the th century. They can be found easily at the west end of the village following the indications. Treak Cliff and Blue John offer guided tours leading to the heart of the hill from which the stone'Blue John'is extracted to make jewelry. To discover the daily life of old lead mines, you will have to take a boat tour on the Côté side or venture into the Peak cavern, which has the largest natural entrance in England. The people of the corner in called "Devil's Arse"… Consider checking the schedules online.

Over 8 500 British secret Agents worked here during the Second World War, including one Ian Fleming, who drew his inspiration for writing his James Bond. You can discover a bomb reconstitution, the machine used to decrypt encrypted messages, and several exhibitions and museums on war, toys or computers (among others).