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Connecting with sport and leisure

A more dynamic region for sport and leisure is hard to imagine. The region’s largest centre, Birmingham, has staged more world, European and national championships than any other city – and is proud to be the country’s national city of sport.

Football friendlies or premier league? Cricket, golf, athletics or the races? Whether you are planning to take part or watch with bated breath, you will find a great choice of sport and leisure locations and events across the region.

Major facilities in the Heart of England

Two men doing archery

You have a lot to look forward to in a region that boasts:

  • 7 racecourses – including Britain’s only floodlit racecourse in Wolverhampton

  • 9 professional football teams  - including 4 within the 2009/10 Premiership

  • 27 championship-length golf courses 

  • Edgbaston – home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and a venue for the 2009 Ashes series 

  • Alexander Stadium – premier athletics complex

  • De Vere Belfry – a unique resort, leisure complex and home to world-class golf 

  • AEGON Classic Tennis at the Edgbaston Priory Club

  • National Indoor Arena (NIA) – one of the busiest indoor sporting and entertainment venues and home to international indoor athletics

The Heart of England’s sporting pedigree

Many prestigious events have challenged participants and thrilled spectators at the region’s sporting venues. Here are just a few:

  • Ryder Cup golf 

  • Test match cricket

  • premiership and championship football

  • Davis Cup tennis 

  • IAAF world indoor athletics championships

  • Olympic trials

  • evening horse racing at Britain's only floodlit track

Leisure attractions in the Heart of England

  • Ironbridge Gorge - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, birthplace of the industrial revolution.

  • Warwick Castle - the finest medieval castle in England.

  • Stratford-upon-Avon - birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and theatre.

  • Five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty - including Cannock Chase, the Malvern Hills and the Shropshire Hills.

  • Music and Dance - City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) and Birmingham Royal Ballet (BRB).

  • Art Galleries - The New Art Gallery, Walsall; Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery; The Barber Institute of Fine Arts.

  • Family/Theme Parks - Alton Towers, Cadbury World, Black Country Living Museum, National Sea Life Centre.

Find out how well connected the Heart of England is.

Find out why the Heart of England is a great place to move your company.

Find out what else the Heart of England has to offer.

Find out how easy it is to move your business here - call us on +44 (0)121 380 3500 or email

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