Home to literary legends, medieval castles, and miles of rolling countryside, Warwickshire is in the very heart of England, sitting just east of Birmingham. The county boasts a mix of iconic historic towns and pretty villages, connected by scenic roads dating back to Saxon times.

Located in the north of the county, the town of Nuneaton was the home of an acclaimed female novelist from the Victorian era. Today, it’s a thriving market town with small independent shops. In the south, Stratford-upon-Avon — best known for being home to England’s most famous playwright — is a historic, picturesque town set around the babbling river Avon, and its main draw is soaking up the rich Tudor history at Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Thanks to the legacy of its most famous resident, Stratford is a hub of creativity, where local theatres on cobbled streets showcase the work of the Royal Shakespeare Company. In scenic Warwickshire, you’re never far from a waterside walk. Nineteen rivers cross the county, and the region’s famous canals combine more than 100 miles of towpaths, where cyclists take in their serene surroundings and canal boat enthusiasts navigate through the 21 barriers at Hatton Locks.

Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the gateway to the Midlands, operating flights all over the world. The airport is less than an hour from the farthest reaches of the county, with regular train services running to the major towns and villages. If arriving via London, Heathrow Airport (LHR) is around 1.5 hours away by car and benefits from excellent public transport links. If you’re driving, the M40 motorway passes through Warwickshire, connecting to the major cities of London and Birmingham.

Within Warwickshire, regular bus and train services connect the main towns and attractions. You can also explore the area by water by taking a boat out on the River Avon or cruising the canal network on a narrowboat.

Holiday cottages in Warwickshire are popular all year round, but the county is at its liveliest in the summer, peaking in the school holidays between mid-July and early September. Summer is when sunny days and warm temperatures create the perfect conditions for exploring Warwick Castle and local waterways, and stopping for lunch in rose-scented pub gardens. Cooler fall and winter weather shouldn’t stop you browsing antique bookshops and heading out on country walks — just be prepared for sudden downpours.

A visit at the end of April will coincide with Stratford-upon-Avon’s celebrations to mark the birthday of its most famous resident. At the end of September, Warwick Words History Festival showcases the region’s heritage with a packed programme of talks and walks. Music fans book accommodations in Warwickshire for July, when the weekend-long Warwick Folk Festival draws musicians from across the country.

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle was founded by legendary monarch William the Conqueror following his success at the Battle of Hastings. Dating back to the 10th century, this medieval fortress has overlooked the river Avon for over a millennium. Despite attacks, fires, and war, this stronghold remains one of the best-preserved castles in the world. The site is home to traditional jousting tournaments, imposing towers to climb, and 64 acres of grounds to explore, including eye-catching topiary peacocks.

Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum

This curious little shopfront in the market town of Rugby looks more suited to a Victorian film set than a sports museum. The building was once the workshop of the world’s first rugby ball makers, and the game was invented only metres away nearly 200 years ago. The museum houses an exhibition telling the story of the sport — and its all-important ball — across four collections of artefacts.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

The world-famous Tudor playwright was born and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, and his timbered former residence is open to visitors. The impressive 16th-century abode has been carefully restored, and the Shakespeare Trust has handpicked items to celebrate the influence of the Bard across the world. To round out the experience, check out a performance at one of the three Royal Shakespeare Company theatres in the town.