The region has a varied and resilient industrial base with a strong tradition in manufacturing as well as growing strengths in the service sector. It also boasts excellent centres of learning and research in its eight universities.
The East Midland's varied environment contributes much to its identity, and to the quality of life of its population. It boasts some significant environmental assets, such as the Peak District National Park and the Lincolnshire Wolds are of outstanding national beauty. The Peak District, especially, provides significant resource for leisure and tourism.
The region contains thriving multicultural cities as well as lush rural landscapes and a varied coastline. Major assets include national sports venues such as Trent Bridge cricket ground, the National Ice Centre and the National Watersports Centre as well as two premiership rugby clubs, five race courses and six motor racing circuits.
Areas of cultural and heritage interest include the historic city of Lincoln with its medieval cathedral and castle, and distinctive Georgian and Tudor architecture, the Peak District National Park, Rutland Water, 10 national nature reserves, four producing theatres, and more than 50 museums as well as national attractions such as the National Space Centre in Leicester. East Midlands Airport is a key regional asset. The region also boasts the Derwent Valley world heritage site.
