Exploring the Heart of England

Travel the Heart of England with the Great British Heritage Pass - explore the stunning heart regions and England heritage properties of Birmingham, Coventry, Stratford upon Avon, Warwick and more.

Begin just north of Birmingham in Staffordshire by visiting Weston Park, a magnificent historic location comprised of 1,000 acres of formal gardens, woodland, lakes and follies. At its centrepiece is the house, which has a collection of paintings, tapestries, porcelain and fine furniture.

Next head off for Tamworth Castle, a dramatic Norman castle with 15 rooms, which is reputedly haunted by two lady ghosts. Your journey continues just north of Warwick at Baddesley Clinton, a romantically sited medieval moated manor house dating back to the 15th century. Finish your medieval journey by headings towards Warwick Castle, Britain’s Greatest Medieval Experience.

Head south and enter Shakespeare Country, where you can visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the picturesque thatched cottage childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife. Shakespeare’s Birthplace allows you to visit the home where the famous author was born and grew up. It offers insight into Shakespeare’s life as a child, and includes an exhibition on his life, work and times.

While in Stratford, be sure to also visit Mary Arden’s House & the Shakespeare Countryside Museum which has a connection to Shakespeare and his literary history.

After visiting Shakespeare’s home, take some time exploring the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire at Painswick Rococo Garden, a unique 18th century garden set in a hidden Cotswold Valley.

After you have relaxed in this haven, head west towards Goodrich Castle, a red sandstone castle which is one of the most complete medieval castles in Britain, situated on a rock outcrop with views over the Wye Valley.