East Midlands

Our East Midlands region is made up of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire and Rutland. It's an area of breathtaking beauty and fantastically diverse scenery, from the heather-clad moors of the Peak District to the peaceful woods of Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire and the rolling parklands of our many historic properties in Derbyshire. The Peak District National Park in the region is the second most visited national park in the world – partly because of its proximity to large urban conurbations.

The region has something to offer everyone, with outstanding walking country and spectacular views. In fact, we care for roughly 13% of the National Park. We also look after 17 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), covering more than 13,556 hectares, and three National Nature Reserves, Dovedale, Kinder and Calke.

For views across the fens, gothic fireplaces and tapestries, visit the medieval Tattershall Castle or explore the birthplace and family home of Sir Isaac Newton at Woolsthorpe Manor. Woolsthorpe is a great example of how we're giving new life to an historic house, as we're about to open our rejuvenated Science Discovery Centre.

Alongside fine country mansions like Hardwick Hall, Kedleston Hall and Belton House, there are also the quirky. Mr Straw's House is a fascinating 1920s tradesman's home, complete with 1920s wallpaper, heavy Victorian furniture and household objects. The Workhouse at Southwell is the most complete example of its kind in the country. We're award-winning too. The Museum of Childhood at Sudbury Hall scooped a silver award in the 'Think Family' category of the 2009 East Midlands Enjoy England Excellence Awards.

As you can see, there's plenty going on in the East Midlands and there's lots more to come. Just one example of conservation in action is our programme to further improve the water quality of our rivers and lakes. We're also working with the RSPB on a partnership approach to the Eastern Moors near Sheffield.

A word from our Director, Rebecca Speight

"I know you might expect me to say this, but it's a really exciting time here in the East Midlands. No doubt you'll have read about some of the places and landscapes that we look after, and how we're exploring new ways to inspire and encourage local people to get involved with them. And that's something that we want our Conservation Services Manager to really embrace and champion. Engagement's our word of the moment. So, we're looking for an inspirational leader, someone who can get the best out of colleagues and services, and bring them together beautifully to offer the best possible advice to our special places. Someone who's not afraid to challenge conventional thinking and find innovative new ways of delivering our work – and get involved with partner organisations too."