Lonely Planet Names Warwickshire As One Of Europe’s Top Destinations For Summer 2016!

Lonely Planet named Warwickshire in the UK as one of Europe's top destinations for travellers this summer. The English county received the accolade in Lonely Planet's Best in Europe 2016 list, which highlights the European destinations that should be on travellers' radars right now.

Warwickshire is the only UK destination to be named and earned its place in Lonely Planet's Best in Europe thanks to its breadth of offerings.

Best in Europe is compiled by Lonely Planet's travel experts, who for over 40 years, have trodden every cobbled street and admired every view on the continent, keeping one step ahead of the travel curve. They share their insider tips on where's hot in Europe this summer. The list includes destinations that have a buzz right now; overlooked spots that are poised to be the next traveller find; or perennial favourites with something fresh on offer.

Lonely Planet's Editorial Director, Tom Hall, said: "Warwickshire is best known for Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, but Warwickshire has so much more to offer. Check out the atmospheric remains of Kenilworth Castle, experience the wonderful mix of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture of Charlecote Park, or sample some culinary wizardry at Michelin-starred The Cross. Whether travellers are seeking sublime scenery, historic market towns or perfect ruins, Warwickshire has them all, making the county one of our top European picks this summer."

Warwickshire is brimming with beauty, including bucolic hills, sublime castles and historic market towns. Stratford-upon-Avon is currently in the midst of a string of festivities marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's legacy with the opening of Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall for the first time and the re-imagining of New Place, his final home which opens on 1 July. Warwick Castle, which this year restored and re-launched its 22-tonne trebuchet - the world's largest siege machine - provides a chance to relive medieval warfare and on 16 June the Aviva Women's Tour Cycling Race passes through the county for the first time.

Helen Peters, Chief Executive of Shakespeare's England, the Destination Management Organisation for Warwickshire said "I am delighted that Warwickshire has been selected by Lonely Planet as one of Europe's top destinations this year. 2016 has been such an important year with the county celebrating so many important events and anniversaries, not only Shakespeare's 400th but also the 300th anniversary of Capability Brown and 750th anniversary of the Siege of Kenilworth Castle. To be awarded this accolade is testament to all that this fantastic county has to offer both domestic and international visitors alike".

Lonely Planet's Best in Europe 2016 Destinations are as follows