Comprising six English counties, the East Midlands is a varied and fascinating corner of the UK. Easy to navigate around, several main motorways travel through this region, opening up access to its major cities and picturesque beauty spots.

The M1 connects Leicester, Loughborough and Nottingham, paving the way to the north and onward to Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds.

To find out more about the legendary Robin Hood, branch off the motorway and head along the A52 into Nottingham. The city’s majestic 12^th century castle is the best place to immerse yourself in its long and rich history. 

If you follow the A606 south from Nottingham you’ll reach Melton Mowbray. This quaint market town is the perfect place to sample the delicious pork pies it’s so famous for producing, along with locally-made stilton cheese.

Go from one foodie haven to another with a trip Bakewell in the Peak District. Head back onto the M1 then take the A617 through the national park and into the quaint market town. Here you can pop into one of the traditional teashops and sample its renowned Bakewell Pudding, an almond-flavoured egg custard pastry filled with jam.

Plenty of walking trails can be found throughout the Peak District but if you’d like to explore a regal estate, take the B6048 and B6012 to nearby Chatsworth House. Marvel at the art that hangs proudly in the decorated rooms before enjoying a stroll around the sprawling manicured gardens. Here, you’ll find fountains, lakes and plant life in abundance. 

As in Ireland, you’ll drive on the left-hand side while in the UK. Speed limits vary according to road type, so keep an eye out for signage. It can range from 48 km/h in urban areas to 112 km/h on motorways and dual carriageways.

The East Midlands is a region of real contrasts. From the rolling Peak District National Park to the vibrant university city of Nottingham, explore all this pocket of the UK has to offer when you hire a car in the East Midlands.

Discover Nottingham’s regal heritage

Nottingham’s student spirit has helped bolster the city to become arguably the creative centre of the East Midlands. Feel its vibrancy as you explore its music venues, art exhibitions and innovative street food delights.

But the city’s past stretches way beyond its universities. The best place to start discovering the rich history is at the magnificent Nottingham Castle, perched on a steep rock face. Make your way to the top of this 17^th century ducal mansion to enjoy panoramic views out over the city.

There’s more to see underground. Join a guided tour of Nottingham Castle’s caves that tunnel through the rock face. These secret passageways date back to medieval times, allowing you to learn more about the castle’s history and uncover its heritage.

Go city hopping

More historic charm can be found in Nottingham’s neighbouring cities – Derby, Lincoln and Leicester.

A landmark discovery during 2012 in a Leicester car park led to the creation of the King Richard III Experience. Travel through the three zones of the visitor centre – dynasty, death and discovery – to learn all about the famous monarch’s life story.

Travel north to see Lincoln Castle in all its majestic glory. Walk along the newly-restored castle walls and soak up views of the city. Deep inside the castle, within a closely-guarded vault, you’ll find one of only four copies of the Magna Carta. You can understand more about the significance of this historical document in the castle’s underground cinema.

Ramble through the Peak District

Step into the vast open space of the Peak District and the rest of the world soon melts away. Drive into the national park and then take a walk through its diverse landscapes – limestone valleys, glittering lakes and lush forest await.

Hiking fans should make for Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District. Roam through wild moorland, catch a glimpse of a waterfall and at the top, enjoy spectacular views across the green blanket of countryside.

Finish off your day trip at Buxton, the pretty spa town known as the ‘capital of the Peak District’. As well as its famed thermal waters, tourists venture here to admire the abundance of Georgian and Victorian architecture, built to rival that of Bath. Wander the pretty streets and seek out the Devonshire Dome, an 18^th century wonder that dominates the town’s skyline.

With so much to explore, car hire in the East Midlands with Hertz is a great way to see it all.