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 Run for your life |
Stadium Way, Walsall Road Perry Barr Birmingham B42 2LR United Kingdom +44 121 356 8008 |
Alexander Stadium was built in 1978 and the track surface has been upgraded twice since then. It is the principal athletics ground in Birmingham and has a covered seating capacity of 7,000. The televised AAA Championships take place here in July, as well as the BUPA British Championships. If you want to see a home-grown racing team perform, come and watch the Birchfield Harriers who use the stadium for competitions during the summer. You may see such famous names as Katherine Merry and Daniel Caines, both of whom run for the club. On weekends the stadium is used for casual use and training. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Cuddle a chick |
Middleton Lane, Middleton Tamworth Birmingham, Staffordshire B78 2BL United Kingdom +44 121 329 3240 www.childrensfarm.co.uk |
A fun day out for children, this, especially since the emphasis is on close contact with the animals. Youngsters can hold newly-hatched chicks, take a pony ride and help to feed the animals. All your familiar farmyard friends are here, and some less familiar in the form of rare breeds. There are also demonstrations of traditional crafts associated with the farm, such as wool spinning. The farm is both interesting and educational and parents should enjoy it too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pilot training and plane-spotting |
Visitors Centre, Main Terminal Birmingham International Airport Birmingham B26 3QJ United Kingdom +44 121 782 2112 |
If you not only have no fear of flying, but are prepared to pilot an aircraft, this is the place for you. The Aviation Hobby Centre, situated within the airport complex, sells books, videos, radios and everything the private pilot could need. You don't even need to fly to come here. Plane-spotting is a pastime that has many followers in Birmingham, and knowledgeable enthusiasts love to buy specialist books and equipment. Some fly regularly, but others just prefer to watch and learn about the planes without getting off the ground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Renovated Classics |
Stoke Heath Bromsgrove Birmingham, Worcestershire B60 4JR United Kingdom +44 1527 83 1363 http://www.avoncroft.org.uk/ |
This unusual museum comprises historic buildings saved from ruin and re-erected here. Examples range from a working windmill to a Victorian toll cottage to a variety of timber-framed buildings. The museum also houses the National Telephone Kiosk Collection - a selection of phone boxes of yesteryear in shapes and sizes you never knew existed. Among them is a police box of the type familiar to sci-fi fans as Dr Who's Tardis. The museum is set in the Worcestershire countryside just to the south-west of Birmingham. See website for complete visitation particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Beautiful Midlands golf course |
Wishaw Birmingham, West Midlands B76 9PR United Kingdom +44 1675 47 0301 http://www.thebelfry.com |
"The Belfry is now synonymous with the great European Ryder Cup victories of recent years. The course is famed for two holes in particular: the 10th, where longer hitters can have a crack for the green (if they are feeling brave enough to tackle its hazards) and the magnificent 18th where the drive and the approach to the green are over water - the scene of much drama over the years. To play, you'll need a current handicap and good deal of money. It is advisable to book well in advance due to the enormous popularity of the venue. Those wishing to make a weekend of it can stay in the luxurious Belfry Hotel amid the glorious Warwickshire countryside." Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Vintage buses and other vehicles |
Chapel Lane Wythall Birmingham B47 6JX United Kingdom +44 1564 82 6471 http://www.bammot.org.uk/ |
The regional transport museum for Birmingham and the Midlands began in 1977. It consists of two large halls filled with collections of over 80 buses and coaches from all over the Midlands, including the biggest collection of preserved Midland Red vehicles. There are battery electric vehicles, fire engines and other commercial vehicles on display. If you're a fan of Bedfords and Leyland, they can also be found here. The museum is staffed entirely by volunteers, and if you are lucky enough to go on an "operating day" you could take a ride on one of the vintage buses that have been lovingly looked after. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Friendly canoe club |
c/o Julie Bostock, 42 Millington Road, Hodge Hill Birmingham B36 8VN United Kingdom +44 121 749 6783 |
The Birmingham Lifeguards is a friendly club that offers you the chance to enjoy a variety of canoeing disciplines. Here you can learn vital skills such as how to roll, and trips are taken to various places that offer good sport for the enthusiast. This is also a club that welcomes families and caters for the disabled - telephone for details of the club's current programme of meetings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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King's hiding place |
Boscobel, Bishop's Wood Brewood Birmingham, Shropshire ST19 9AR United Kingdom |
The story of how Charles II hid in an oak tree to avoid his enemies after the Battle of Worcester in 1651 is the stuff of legend and this is where it all happened. The house, and the tree, lie about eight miles north-west of Birmingham on a minor road between the A41 and A5 (signposted) and the site is currently run by English Heritage. Don't expect a huge stately home—the house is a modest timber-framed affair but it is attractive and has been fully refurbished. There are various events, including historic reconstructions, held throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Richard III's Waterloo |
Birmingham, Leicestershire CV13 0AD United Kingdom +44 1455 29 0429 http://www.leics.gov.uk/countr... |
The Midlands, because of its important geographical position, has been the site of many battles and this is of one of them. The Battle of Bosworth took place in 1485, when Henry VII defeated Richard III and founded the Tudor dynasty. It was a turning point in history and it happened within easy reach of Birmingham. The visitor centre is in a country park, offering pleasant walks. You can buy maps and an illustrated Battle Trail explains the finer points of this epic encounter. There are also special medieval re-enactment events which take place in the summer. The centre is open from April until October, but the park is open all year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Animal magic |
Bodymoor Heath nr. Tamworth Birmingham B76 0EE United Kingdom +44 1827 87 3844 |
The farm bills itself as a place where animals and children come first. It's certainly a good place for city children to visit and see animals like goats, chickens, ponies and rabbits at close quarters. Visitors can help to feed the animals under supervision, and there are play and picnic areas. The farm also has a conservation role, holding a number of rare breeds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Scenic beauty |
Birmingham, Shropshire DY3 United Kingdom |
This is beautiful Shropshire hill country to the east of Ludlow - a market town well worth a visit in itself - and a short drive from Birmingham. The hills have long been popular with day trippers from the city and there are lots of pleasant walks. The highest hill, Brown Clee, stands at 1,772 feet above sea level. There is a tourist information point at Clee Hill itself, on the A4117 at Cleobury Mortimer, and at Ludlow. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Natural beauty |
Clent Hills Birmingham, Worcestershire DY8 United Kingdom +44 1384 81 2830 |
A renowned area of scenic beauty, the Clent Hills have long been popular with city people and cover a total of 443 acres. There are pleasant walks marked out, including an ascent of Clent Hill itself which offers fine views of the Black Country and Worcestershire countryside. Once at the top, there is a folly known as the "Four Stones" and a toposcope erected to help walkers identify features on the horizon. The hills are easy to reach by car, and are about 15 miles south-west of Birmingham. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Paintball action for the adventurous |
61 Blackstitch Lane Redditch Birmingham B97 5TE United Kingdom +44 1527 40 1434 http://www.mids.co.uk |
Paint balling is a very popular pastime involving teams of people crawling through woods and shooting at each other with paint pellets. Played by both sexes and all social groups, and particularly favored by stag parties and those on team building exercises, paint balling can be an exhilarating day out. Although it's safe, with protective gear being worn, the pellets do smart a little when you get hit. Call or visit the web site for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Civil War history |
Sidbury Birmingham WR1 2HU United Kingdom +44 1905 355071 |
A timber-framed building in Worcester, less than an hour's drive from Birmingham, houses a museum dedicated to the history of England's great civil conflict. This was the royalist headquarters at the Battle of Worcester, which took place in 1651. This is the country's only museum dedicated solely to the Civil War, and apart from the artifacts on show there is also a beautiful garden here. Open all year round. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steven Suchomski |
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Well-known health club chain |
Shady Lane Great Barr Birmingham B44 9ER United Kingdom |
The David Lloyd chain of health and fitness clubs is well known for the excellence of its facilities. This branch is no exception, boasting indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym facilities, a dance studio, badminton and tennis courts, and a crèche. Users of these clubs benefit from all these facilities and more, and there are lengthy opening hours so you can work out more or less when you want to. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Established theme park |
Birmingham, Staffordshire B78 3TW United Kingdom +44 1827 28 7979 / +44 8708 72 5252 http://www.draytonmanor.co.uk/ |
Drayton Manor Park is a long-established theme park with the emphasis firmly on family fun. A cable car across the park offers stunning views, and as for the park itself there are high-tech and traditional rides offering varying levels of thrills. One of the most popular is Stormforce 10, the UK's fastest wet-knuckle ride. The zoo includes reptile, small mammal and insect houses and there is a farm with rare breeds. There's also a museum telling the story of amusements of the past, featuring lots of old-fashioned slot machines. It can be a little too popular at Bank Holiday periods, so expect queues if you go at these times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Adventure underground |
Vale Street Birmingham DY3 3XF United Kingdom |
The Dudley area, in the west of the Birmingham conurbation, has a rich geological heritage - in other words, it's good caving and potholing country. The Dudley Caving Club meets every Thursday at 8.30 at the address given, which is their clubhouse - you can just turn up and you'll be made welcome. Trips are arranged to many places where there's good caving to be had - visit the web site or telephone for full details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rail excursions |
49 Bodenham Road Northfield Birmingham B31 5DR United Kingdom +44 121 477 4375 http://www.excursions.freeserv... |
Take a step back in time with a journey on a steam train. Luxurious Pullman coaches will be your accommodation as you travel along the Gloucestershire or Warwickshire railway amid attractive scenery. Tours are available at various times throughout the year, and your trip will include a meal. Excursions are ideal for celebrating special occasions or just for those who want to dine in nostalgic style. Visit the web site or send an e-mail for full details of excursion times, dates and prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Garden, shopping and wildlife haven |
Evesham Birmingham, Worcestershire WR11 4TP United Kingdom +44 1386 4 1661 |
This rural attraction comprises a shopping and garden centre as well as a wildlife visitor centre and coarse fishing facilities. The wildlife centre is devoted to native species such as barn owls, foxes, hedgehogs, red squirrels and native birds. It is situated on a 130 acre estate which is pleasant to stroll around. The Vale of Evesham is renowned as a fruit growing area, and a trip in the springtime when the trees are in blossom is particularly recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Stately film set |
Birmingham, Derbyshire DE45 1LA United Kingdom +44 1629 81 2855 |
The Derbyshire town of Bakewell, famous for its tart, is well worth a visit in its own right. Haddon Hall certainly is, especially if you are a film buff. It has been used as a setting for productions such as Elizabeth and Jane Eyre. It's been in the family of the Duke of Rutland for 800 years and boasts fine period interiors and a terraced rose garden dating from the 16th century. A word of warning - disabled access is not good, as there are lots of steps and uneven surfaces, and the house is some distance from the car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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17th-Century House |
School Road Hanbury Birmingham, Worcestershire WR9 7EA United Kingdom http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
This is a delightful house, built in the reign of William and Mary. It's situated to the south-west of Birmingham and is easily accessible via the M5. A National Trust property, the Hall boasts re-created 18th century gardens, an orangery and icehouse. Within the house itself there are period interiors and it is a venue for various events and activities throughout the year. Refreshments are available in the tearoom. See website for complete visitation particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: deegeff |
 Photo: Mary Podesta |
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Popular and historic stately home |
Harvington Hall Lane Birmingham, Worcestershire DY10 4LR United Kingdom +44 1562 77 7846 http://www.harvingtonhall.com |
Parts of historic Harvington Hall, a popular stately home in Worcestershire, are medieval although most of it dates from the 16th century. Its owner in Elizabethan times, Humphrey Pakington, was a catholic and the hall contains what is acknowledged to be the best surviving set of priest holes in the country. Many additions and alterations have been made since and in 1923 it was bought by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham, which restored the building and opened it to the public. A new programme of restoration is currently in progress and activities, including a music festival, are held here. There is also a licensed restaurant on site. The Hall is situated just outside Kidderminster, 17 miles south-west of Birmingham. A phone call is advised before a visit as the hall may be closed to accommodate a social function. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Country life |
Dark Lane Hatton Birmingham, Warwickshire CV35 8XA United Kingdom +44 1926 84 3411 http://www.hattonworld.com |
At Hatton Country World you can see a celebration of country crafts and there are demonstrations of rural skills from sheepdog displays to falconry. Attractions also include a maze made of maize (during the season, of course), an adventure playground and guinea pig village. There's also an antique centre with 20 dealers, a plant centre and a rare breeds farm. Various special events are held throughout the year. This award-winning rural crafts farm park and shopping village lies a little to the south-east of Birmingham off the A4177 Solihull to Warwick Road. Hatton Country World claims to attract 500,000 visitors a year and it can get very busy at weekends in the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Quad bikes and a myriad of animals |
Birmingham United Kingdom +44 1952 67 7917 http://www.hoofarm.com/ |
Placed in a rural area, this farm is full of activities and amusement for young and old. There are quad bikes and many animals including deer, llamas, owls, foxes, ostriches and sheep, which can be seen being fed and shorn (in summer months). Visitors can also see the wool being spun and animals being milked. The farm therefore offers a good introduction to animal husbandry for youngsters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horsing around |
National Exhibition Center Birmingham, South Yorkshire B40 1NT United Kingdom +44 121 780 4133 (box office) http://www.hoys.co.uk |
Celebrating the end of the Equestrian season, this indoor event spans five days and presents some first-class entertainment. From nail-biting competitions to fascinating displays, visitors can expect events, such as the National Show Jumping Finals and International Show Jumping Programme. This show gives horse lovers the opportunity to see some of the most magnificent breeds and top riders from across the globe. The title prize is £250 and there are equestrian shows held every evening; the event ends with a grand dinner on the last day. Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs from the Retail Village on your way out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vintage vehicles from around the world |
Broad Street (NEC Arena) Birmingham B15 1AY United Kingdom +44 0121 767 2772 http://www.classiccarshow.co.uk/ |
The Classic Motor Show is held every November for enthusiasts and collectors of vintage vehicles. You will be able to get a good look at many British sports cars rarely seen on the road today. The cars are not only from museums but are also shown by individual collectors. Feed your enthusiasm for Triumphs, MGBs, Maurauders, Kiefts and many more! There are also stalls selling motor vehicle memorabilia. Admission in advance is GBP6.50 for adults and seniors; GBP3 for children; Car park is GBP6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Industrial heritage |
Shropshire Birmingham TF8 7JP United Kingdom +44 1952 88 4391 http://www.ironbridge.org.uk |
In 1779, a bridge made of iron was built across a gorge in Shropshire. This construction is widely regarded as marking the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and these museums celebrate the momentous effect this had. The details given here are for the Ironbridge Gorge Visitor Centre; there are nine museums in the area, each representing a different aspect of British industrial heritage. Examples include: the Museum of Iron; China Museum; Iron Bridge and Tollhouse; Museum of the Gorge; and Blists Hill - a "working Victorian town" The site has been designated as a world heritage site by the United Nations. Opening hours of some museums may differ from the hours shown, and some may not be open in the winter - check out the web site for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stunning steel sculpture |
Cherry Tree Hill Coalbrookdale Birmingham, Shropshire TF8 7EF United Kingdom +44 7971 25 8267 http://www.go2.co.uk/steelscul... |
Ironbridge, within a 45 minute drive of Birmingham, was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and its connection with iron is maintained through this unique sculpture park. Here in 10 acres of Shropshire countryside is a collection of 60 sculptures, some of which are on a huge scale while others are much smaller. This collection represents the work of 11 different artists, some of whom may be seen renovating their work on site or making new additions. Coalbrookdale, where the museum is located, is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Picturesque ruins with literary connection |
Castle Green Birmingham, Warwickshire CV8 1NE United Kingdom |
Kenilworth Castle, to the south-east of Birmingham, was immortalised in Sir Walter Scott's novel of the same name. The sandstone castle is largely in ruins but remains picturesque nonetheless. Visitors can be entertained, as Queen Elizabeth I was, by an interactive display and audio tour. Special events include medieval entertainments and mock battles between Saxons and Vikings. Admission adults £3.50, concs £2.60, children £1.80 Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fencing, cricket, trampolining |
Shannon Road King's Norton Birmingham B38 9DE United Kingdom +44 121 459 8995 |
This is one of Birmingham's premier leisure centers and it is of particular interest to fencing enthusiasts. The West Midlands Fencing Association has a base here, and classes are available. It's a good place for cricket lovers too, as there are indoor nets. As for other activities, there is an eclectic mix including tap dancing, yoga, trampolining, martial arts and netball. It may be about five miles south of the city center, but enthusiasts shouldn't find this too much of an inconvenience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Walking country |
Comber Kinver, nr. Stourbridge Birmingham, Worcestershire DY7 6HU United Kingdom +44 1384 87 2418 |
Kinver Edge is a sandstone ridge covered in heathland, from which there are views across Shropshire and the West Midlands. Curiosities include the "rock houses" in which people lived until the 1950s. One of these was rebuilt for tenants in the early 1990s, but it is not open to the public. The views and the scenery are open at any time, and are free. This place of outstanding natural beauty is situated about 15 miles west of Birmingham. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful place of worship |
19 The Close Birmingham, Staffordshire WS13 7LD United Kingdom +44 1543 30 6100 http://www.lichfield-cathedral... |
To the north of Birmingham and easily accessible by rail and road, Lichfield is a lovely city. It is a fine place to visit if you are based in Birmingham, not least because of the medieval triple-spired cathedral. Its many treasures include an illuminated 8th century manuscript and rare 16th century Flemish glass. The city was also the site of a Civil War battle in which a Parliamentarian commander was killed by a fluke shot fired from the top of the cathedral. Visitors are welcome, and guided tours for groups are available by arrangement. There is also a coffee shop. Admission: free, but a donation of £3 is suggested. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Country crafts |
Church Lane Nr. Bewdley Birmingham, Worcestershire DY14 9JY United Kingdom +44 1299 83 2834 |
A collection of 17th century barns on an ancient medieval site with views to the Clee Hills, the Mamble Craft Centre makes for an entertaining day out. There are rural crafts demonstrations, a craft gallery and an exhibition room with a continuing programme of shows and events. The village of Mamble is an attractive place to visit, having a 13th century church and picturesque countryside. It is situated less than 30 miles to the south-west of Birmingham. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Home to Wolverhampton's Finest |
Waterloo Road Birmingham WV1 4QR United Kingdom +44 870 442 0123 |
This stadium, which has been serving the public since 1889, has a capacity of just under 30,000. It is home to the Wolverhampton Wanderers soccer club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Children and animals |
Frankley Lodge Road Northfield Birmingham B31 5PZ United Kingdom +44 121 475 1609 |
A good place for a family visit, the farm is on the south-western outskirts of the city and is especially suitable for young children. Most of these should love the chance to handle rabbits and chicks and to see the sheep and goats. There's also a play area, which offers children a fun way to expend any excess energy, and special activities take place during the year. Kids' parties are catered for and there is also a picnic area. The farm is open from March to October, except for Christmas when there are special Santa events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home of Burton Albion |
Princess Way Birmingham, Staffordshire DE13 0AR United Kingdom http://www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/ |
A part from being the home ground for the Burton Albion F.C. and fitting 6,500 (2,000 seated) people in the stadium, it is also open 7 days a week with conference rooms throughout the main stand, the largest holding up to 300 people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Distinguished School |
1 High St Birmingham, Derbyshire DE65 United Kingdom +01283 559200 http://www.repton.org.uk/defau... |
Founded in 1557 Repton is considered to be one of the top schools in the country. It is now a co-educational school and has over 600 pupils; check website for admissions and event details. Hogwarts has nothing on Repton. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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China in your hands |
Royal Worcester Severn Street Birmingham, Worcestershire WR1 2NE United Kingdom +44 1905 23221 |
One of the world's best known names in porcelain opens its doors to the public. See the craftsmen making and decorating fine pieces and have a go yourself. Behind the scenes tours for connoisseurs offer visits to departments not usually open to the public. You can also buy the latest designs as well as cut-price seconds from the shop, and visit the fascinating museum. Children under 11 are not allowed in the factory (for safety reasons). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous writer's home |
Breadmarket Street Birmingham, Staffordshire WS13 6LG United Kingdom +44 1543 26 4972 |
The celebrated Dr. Johnson of dictionary fame and utterer of so many famous quotes, is Lichfield's most famous son. The city in which he was born is but a short drive from Birmingham and his house is now a fine museum to the life and works of the great man. Whilst in the city, make sure you also pay a visit to Lichfield Cathedral. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Age of steam |
The Railway Station Birmingham DY12 1BG United Kingdom +44 1299 40 3816 http://www.svr.co.uk |
Between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, to the west of Birmingham, the Severn Valley Railway is a steam buff's paradise. Steam trains run through picturesque countryside throughout the year, although the most frequent services operate in the tourist season. The journey takes just over an hour. Your return ticket entitles you to unlimited travel on the line for the entire day - and there are lots of places to see and regular events. These include 1940s weekends with authentic costume, Classic Vehicle Day, Severn Valley in Bloom and a Thomas the Tank Engine weekend for the children. Check the web site for full event and timetable details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Winter wonderland |
River Drive Leisure Island, River Drive Birmingham, Staffordshire B79 7ND United Kingdom +44 990 000011 http://www.snowdome.co.uk |
Winter sports are guaranteed here, whatever the weather. A few miles to the north-east of Birmingham lies this winter wonderland, which was the first indoor slope in the UK with "real snow". Snowboarding, tobogganing and of course skiing make for a great day on the piste, with plenty of après-ski options available in a range of restaurants and bars. There are lanes set aside for different levels of experience and expert staff are on hand to help and advise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Medhurst |
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House of Curiosities |
Snowshill Road Birmingham, Gloucestershire WR12 7JU United Kingdom +44 1386 85 2410 http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
Set in the beautiful Vale of Evesham to the south-west of Birmingham, Snowshill Manor is a must for lovers of the unusual. It contains a collections of craftsmanship from around the world. Themed rooms delight the visitor with Samurai armor in one and bicycles in another. Yet another display is of musical instruments. There are also attractive grounds with a cottage garden. The manor is open daily from the end of March until the end of October, and admission is via a timed ticket. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Over 900 years of history |
The Holloway Birmingham, Staffordshire B79 7LR United Kingdom +44 1827 6 3563 |
"Tamworth may boast one of the smaller English castles, but there is nevertheless much to see. The buildings that survive within the fortress walls date from the 15th and 16th centuries and hold period rooms inside. These give visitors a glimpse of the life and times of past owners, most famously the Marmion family who were hereditary Royal Champions to English kings from 1114 to 1327. Permanent exhibitions tell the story of the castle and the town, and the site overlooks an attractive park with a children's adventure playground. A fully refurbished dungeon invitest you to see what it would have been like to be chained up and forgotten. Oh, and if it's ghosts you are after, this claims to be the most haunted castle in England. Tamworth is just 15 miles north-east of Birmingham and the castle is in the town centre. Admission: GBP4 adults, GBP3 OAPs, GBP2 children." Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: peter_branson |
 Photo: annette Morgan |
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Beautiful Blue John |
Castleton Hope Valley Birmingham, Derbyshire S33 8WP United Kingdom +44 1433 62 0571 http://www.bluejohnstone.com |
One of many attractions in Derbyshire's beautiful Peak District, this can truly claim to be unique in the sense that it is the world's only source of Blue John. This mineral, whose name is believed to derive from the French bleu-jaune, or blue-yellow, is a form of fluorspar and was known to the Romans. The mineral was and is made into a variety of beautiful ornaments - 18th and 19th century Blue John urns are highly prized in the antiques trade. Visitors can take guided tours of the cavern and there is a gift shop where you can buy examples of Blue John ornaments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Animal conservation |
Burton Road Birmingham, Warwickshire CV9 3PX United Kingdom +44 1827 880250 http://www.twycrosszoo.com |
A short drive north-east of Birmingham brings you to this well-respected zoo on the Warwickshire/Leicestershire border. It is home to a wide range of animals and places a strong emphasis on conservation. Its breeding programs for endangered species are helping to conserve wild species on the brink of extinction. Animals range from lions to parrots and there is a playground and picnic area as well as a gift shop. There are also feeding shows, special exhibitions and regular talks during the summer season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rural-themed activities for children of all ages |
Butts Lane, Tanworth in Arden Birmingham B94 5AE United Kingdom +44 1564 74 2251 |
Promising a "fun time for kids down on the farm", this is a wonderful place for children's parties and visits. Youngsters can feed the animals, ride on ponies, trailers and tractors and watch the goats being milked. Adults can also enjoy pleasant walks through the fields and there are play areas, a cafe and farm shop on the site. What's more, ferret racing takes place daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Light Fantastic |
The Arboretum Arboretum Road Birmingham WS1 2AB United Kingdom +44 1922 65 3148 http://www.walsallarboretum.co.uk |
They may not be as nationally well known as those at Blackpool, but a trip to the Walsall Illuminations has become an annual pilgrimage for many people from Birmingham and the West Midlands. As darkness falls, so the town's arboretum is lit up with colourful displays - a mix of traditional bulbs and lasers. Children will love it as many of their favourite TV characters are featured in lights and there are street entertainers and fairground rides. It gets busy at peak periods, so be ready to hoist the kiddies on to your shoulders for a better view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of the finest castles in England |
Castle Hill (Castle Lane) Birmingham CV34 4QU United Kingdom +44 870 442 2000 http://www.warwick-castle.co.uk |
Warwick is known as the finest medieval castle in England. Located a 30-minute drive from Birmingham, it encapsulates over 1,000 years of English history. There are ramparts, battlements and even a dungeon and torture chamber;all absolutely authentic and in excellent condition. Displays include medieval weaponry and a waxwork display of a weekend party circa 1898. The grounds, including Peacock and Rose gardens, are especially popular. Numerous events are held each year, including the Mediaeval Festival, Flight of the Eagle and Meet the Castle Craftsmen. Admission: adult GBP10.75-GBP12.50; children ages 4-16 GBP8.10-GBP9.40; senior citizen GBP7.70-GBP9. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wild animals and amusement park |
(Bewdley) Birmingham, Worcestershire DY12 1LF United Kingdom +44 1299 40 0700 http://www.wmsp.co.uk |
This 200-acre safari park is located less than a 60-minute drive from Birmingham. It will take you about an hour to drive through the animal reserves, where you can see elephants, rhino, giraffes, lions, monkeys, wallabies and tigers. The amusement park has many different rides, and a wristband ticket that gives you access to all the rides. Other attractions include a seal aquarium, reptile house and sea lion show. There are also plenty of theme places to eat and buy souvenirs. General admission is applicable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stately home with many art treasures |
Weston-under-Lizard nr. Shifnal Birmingham, Shropshire TF11 8LE United Kingdom +1 44 1952 85 2100 http://www.weston-park.com |
A day out in beautiful Shropshire is enhanced by a visit to this 17th century house set in 1,000 acres of parkland. The seat of the Earls of Bradford for 15 generations, the house includes art treasures by the likes of Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Stubbs. For the children, there is a woodland adventure playground, pets' corner and deer park as well as a miniature railway. There are tea rooms and an ice cream parlour for refreshments, and special events take place throughout the year. These include a classical music festival and rock concert in August, international horse trials in October and a bonfire and firework display in November. Admission: £4.00 adults, £3.50 senior citizens, £2.50 children, and £12.00 family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Picturesque golf course with shop |
Widney Manor Solihull Birmingham B91 3SZ United Kingdom +44 121 711 3646 |
No need to worry if you're not quite Tiger Woods yet, this "pay and play" golf club caters for all levels of golfer. The club offers tuition, annual memberships and a customized clubhouse in which to relax after a round. The club houses a shop selling all the necessary golfing equipment at highly competitive prices. The location is extremely picturesque and will serve as a calming backdrop to the most atrocious of rounds. Advance bookings are welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stately ruins |
Witley Court Birmingham, Worcestershire WR6 6JT United Kingdom +44 1299 89 6636 |
This historic house was once one of the finest stately homes in England. Today it is a ruin, but a spectacular one. Audio tours are available, allowing visitors to listen to imagined memories of serving staff, party hosts and their auspicious guests. Other attractions include the monster gardens, a sculpture park and some fantastic fountains. Special events are held throughout the year, such as open-air Shakespeare productions, a Victorian weekend and falconry demonstrations - ring for full details. There is also a fine baroque church adjacent to Witley Court, which is easily accessible from Birmingham on the A443 near Worcester. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark McQuitty |
 Photo: jw247 |
 Photo: African Star |
 Photo: lucia corral-patterson |
 Photo: Stuart Harley |
 Photo: John |
 Photo: christopher price |
 Photo: peter reynolds |
 Top local speedway team |
Sutherland Road Monmore Green Birmingham WV2 2JJ United Kingdom +44 121 520 2376 / +44 1902 87 0400 (Tickets) http://www.wolves-speedway.co.uk |
Ladbroke Stadium is the home of the hugely successful Wolverhampton Speedway team, which competes in the Elite League - the top league of this fast and dangerous motorcycling sport. Meetings comprise of 15 races covering four laps of the 400m track - each race only lasts between one and two minutes so you get some idea of the speeds involved. The team regularly competes in high profile national races both at home and away; contact the stadium or visit the web site for details of specific races. Review © 2007, Wcities |