Warwickshire rated among top 10 European summer travel destinations

Warwickshire has been named as one of Europe's top destinations to visit this summer.

It was described by travel guide experts as "brimming with beauty" and praised for its "bucolic hills, sublime castles and historic market towns".

Lonely Planet ranked the county as number six in its Best in Europe 2016 list.

Shakespeare's birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon is hosting events throughout the year to mark the 400th anniversary of his death, while visitors to Warwick Castle can see its restored 22-tonne trebuchet - a huge catapult - in operation.

The Peloponnese in Greece took the number one spot in Europe this summer, followed by Aarhus, Denmark in second place and Venice, Italy at number three.

Lonely Planet's editorial director, Tom Hall, said: "Lonely Planet's Best in Europe 2016 list offers up our recommendations for travellers seeking an authentic experience in Europe this summer - for those looking for local recommendations, or for those hoping to absorb some traditional life while they're away.

"Whether they are firm holiday favourites that have something new to offer, or places you may never have come across, these destinations should be on any traveller's wish list this summer."

:: This is Lonely Planet's Best in Europe 2016 list:

1. Peloponnese, Greece

2. Aarhus, Denmark

3. Venice, Italy

4. The Dordogne, France

5. Lviv, Ukraine

6. Warwickshire, England

7. Extremadura, Spain

8. East Coast Tenerife, Canary Islands

9. Texel, the Netherlands

10. Northern Dalmatia, Croatia