Country Living magazine guide to rural England: The heart of England

The counties making up the Heart of England offer the visitor the beautiful landscape of the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales, the rich industrial heritage of Staffordshire, the unspoiled stone-built villages of Leicestershire, the magnificence of Rutland Water, the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest and last but not least, the cultural heritage of Warwickshire.

An area of scenic and cultural diversity, the Heart of England is also rich with industrial heritage and was once central to the industrial revolution.

Today the countryside is still dotted with remnants of old steam houses, coalmines and pitheads as well as the more traditional sites such as historic houses, castles and famous ruins.

The guide will definitely appeal to people with a real interest in the beauty, tranquillity and traditional values of the countryside, who are looking for high standards in places to stay, eat and drink and quality craftsmanship in any products purchased.

Equally for those readers who are seeking a more active life in the countryside the book provides information on walks and tours as well as details of National Trust and English Heritage properties.The attractive cover design incorporates a photograph of "The Holy Trinity Church" next to the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.