Not to miss

Derby

Derby was a sedate market town before it birthed the Industrial Revolution in the early 1700s and became a manufacturing hub. These days, however, it's car production rather than stockings that are Derby's mainstays. Oh, and things might go bump in the night here - it's the ghost capital of England!

Leicester

Leicester has overcome its post-industrial slump and become a socially and environmentally progressive melting pot. People are drawn to this historic and self-deprecating city by its palpable sense of excitement - a result of a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures.

National Space Centre

Let's face it, who in their right mind would pass up the chance to check out zero-gravity toilets or amazing germ-devouring underpants? These and other cosmic wonders are on display here. Interactive displays cover the history of astronomy and space travel; you can check on the status of all current space missions or watch spacey films in a domed theatre.

Royal Crown Derby

Royal Crown Derby turns out some of the finest bone china in England and a tour of the factory is quite fascinating. In the demonstration area, you'll see workers skilfully create china flowers using little more than a hat-pin, spoon handle and - naturally - a head-lice comb. There's also a shop piled high with various bargains, and a cafe.

Caves of Nottingham

Nottingham stands on a plug of Sherwood sandstone that is riddled with constructed caves dating back to medieval times. Rather surprisingly, the entrance to the most fascinating, readily accessible caves is inside a shopping centre. These contain an air-raid shelter, a medieval underground tannery, pub cellars and a mock-up of a Victorian slum dwelling.