The Heart of England holidays

Explore the heart of England, otherwise known as the midlands, with one of our local driver-guides. Literature lovers should meander around the birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon. See his wife's home, our favourite landmark, Anne Hathaway's Cottage. Staying on the Shakespeare theme, watching a play at the newly renovated Royal Shakespeare Company is definitely worthwhile.

Cambridge, with its exquisite architecture, history and tradition is renowned for its quirky rituals and its university town with huge academic ancestry. The tightly packed core of ancient colleges, the picturesque gardens leading on to the river and the leafy green meadows that surround the city give it a far more tranquil appeal than its historic rival Oxford. Enjoy amazing gothic architecture at Kings College Chapel, (we would recommend staying for choral evensong if time permits) marvel at the Tudor building of Trinity College (of Stephen Hawking notoriety) and one of the first public art museums in the country.

Heading further north guests should stop at the beautiful Peak District, filled with traditional villages and rolling hills - but surprisingly no peaks! The Peak District is home to one of England's most beautiful stately homes - Chatsworth House. Chatsworth has one of Europe's most significant art collections and gives visitors the opportunity to see everything from Old Masters to contemporary ceramics and artefacts from Ancient Egypt, through to cutting edge modern sculpture and computer portraits.

Chester is a historical town which has evolved over time with a varied mix of influences and styles, giving it a slightly haphazard feel. Its mismatched buildings line the irregular streets in an endearing, higgledy-piggeldy fashion. Tudor buildings are dotted among the faithful Victorian reproductions, all of which is testament to the city's endurance and importance over the ages. This combines well with the nearby city of Liverpool, famously home to the Beatles. Football fans will love the private tours we can offer, or even training sessions with a former player.