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 Gothic mansion |
Nuneaton Birmingham CV10 7PT United Kingdom +44 24 7638 2804 |
Arbury Hall is an Elizabethan mansion that has been in the Newdigate family since 1586. In Victorian times, the house was adapted to the Gothic style and nowadays it is admired for its striking Gothic architecture which includes examples of fan vaulting and filigree tracery. Arbury also has fine collections of glass, china, paintings and furniture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Hall Among Halls |
The Avenue Birmingham, Shropshire TF12 5RX United Kingdom +44 1952 88 2159 http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
This 16th-century manor house has an intricately carved wooden staircase, interesting molded chimneys and elaborately decorated ceilings. The hall stands in a rural setting and is supplemented by a 19th century terraced garden that has herb, rock and rose gardens within it. There is also an attractive Restoration church within the grounds and the site itself is only a mile from the famous town of Ironbridge. 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 |
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Industrial heritage centre |
Tipton Road Dudley Birmingham, West Midlands DY1 4SQ United Kingdom +44 121 557 9643 http://www.bclm.co.uk |
The Black Country is a large industrial area to the north-west of Birmingham and this museum is a reminder of how things used to be here 100 years ago. It comprises many historic buildings, taken down from elsewhere and re-erected to make an authentic town of a century ago. Highlights include an old-fashioned funfair, a narrowboat ride and a trip down a coal mine, light is deliberately kept to the levels that would have been experienced by the miners so it's unsuitable for young children. All children and adults, however, can take a lesson in an 1840s school and tour round a Victorian sweetshop, chemist's, nail-making shop and stables amongst many other exhibits. This is a genuinely interesting living museum and a tour of at least three hours is recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emma-Jo Schmidt |
 Photo: Darren O'Donnell  |
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Imaginative celebration of glass art |
Compton Drive Kingswinford Birmingham, West Midlands DY6 9NS United Kingdom +44 1384 81 2745 http://www.glassmuseum.org.uk/ |
Kingswinford, just to the west of Birmingham, lies within the boundaries of the borough of Dudley - a leading glassmaking area. This museum is housed in a modern glass-fronted (naturally) building and is devoted to the glassmaker's art. It contains examples from various historical periods and has a strong local emphasis. There is an imaginative programme of temporary exhibitions alongside the museum's permanent displays, including shows of work by leading contemporary glass designers. Admission is free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 18th-Century Splendour |
Chester Road Castle Bromwich Birmingham B36 9BT United Kingdom +44 121 749 4100 http://www.cbhgt.org.uk/ |
Castle Bromwich Gardens has over 500 species of plants from the period of 1680-1740. The hall itself dates back to 1599, and its walled gardens have been lovingly recreated within a 10 acre site. In addition there is a Holly Maze that copies a design by George London and Henry Wise, an Orangery, Music Room and new Physic Garden. There is also a coffee shop, gift shop and plant stall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Hartland |
 Photo: bill.dargue |
 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 |
 Photo: Tony Hisgett |
 Photo: James Clarke |
 Photo: Paul Alexander |
 Photo: Peter Lewis |
 Photo: Bluewave |
 Photo: James Pratley |
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Historic parkland |
Brinklow Road, Binley Birmingham CV3 2AB United Kingdom +44 24 7645 3720 |
This parkland covers over 400 acres and contains the historic ruins of the medieval Cistercian Coombe Abbey. The park also contains a large bird hide and boasts course fishing and regular events. These include craft displays, nature studies and car rallies. This is a most relaxing place to visit (even if you bring the children) and the surrounding countryside and country pubs are also worth investigation. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stately home of Throckmorton family |
Alcester Birmingham B49 5JA United Kingdom +44 1789 40 0777 http://www.coughtoncourt.co.uk/ |
This is one of Warwickshire's finest historic houses, 15 miles south of Birmingham. Coughton Court has been the home of the Throckmorton family since the 15th century and among the attractions here is an exhibition on the family's part in the notorious Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Other highlights include a children's clothes exhibition, priest's hiding place and the chemise worn by Mary, Queen of Scots at her execution. Outside are extensive gardens with a gift shop and plant sales, an orchard, river and lakeside walks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Plane spotting and bird watching |
Elmdon Park Road Solihull Birmingham, West Midlands B92 9EJ United Kingdom +44 (0)121 704 6130 |
A sizeable and very pleasant park on the south eastern outskirts of the city, Elmdon Park has mature trees, a good playground for children and a lake. Bird watchers will be interested to know that winter visitors are often seen here, and as it is fairly close to Birmingham International Airport it's the only place in the region where it is possible to go bird watching and plane spotting at the same time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: vitaee™｜Shu Di |
 Photo: MunstiSue |
 Photo: muppet2007 |
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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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Palladian House |
Hall Drive Birmingham, Worcestershire DY9 9LG United Kingdom +44 1562 88 2408 http://www.birminghamuk.com/ha... |
A great Palladian (or neoclassical) house, Hagley Hall was the last of its kind built in England. It was completed in 1760 and boasts remarkable Italian plasterwork and rococo decoration, and holds a superb collection of paintings and furniture. The surrounding park contains temples, cascading pools and even a ruined castle. It lies to the west of Birmingham, a journey of half an hour by car. Phone to check opening times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Coventry's history |
Jordan Well Birmingham CV1 5QP United Kingdom +44 24 7683 2381 |
Free to enter, this art gallery and museum focuses on Coventry's past with exhibitions including Graham Sutherland's sketches for his tapestry in Coventry Cathedral (which is nearby). Other temporary exhibitions detail various aspects of this city's history (most famous for Lady Godiva and its suffering during the Blitz) and works of contemporary art. Coventry is only 25 minutes by road or rail from Birmingham, and although it does not have a great reputation there is plenty more of interest in the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cars & Drivers |
Banbury Road Gaydon Birmingham CV35 0BJ United Kingdom +44 1926 64 1188 http://www.heritage-motor-cent... |
Within easy reach of Birmingham (just off junction 12 of the M40), the Heritage Motor Center has the largest collection of historic British cars in the world. Names from motoring yesteryear such as the Riley Elf and the Morris Oxford are here, as are high performance racing cars. The site extends over 65 acres and includes a four-wheel drive circuit, playground and nature trail. Exhibits are constantly changing, so repeat visits are always worthwhile. See website for complete visitation particulars. 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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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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Popular water-based attractions |
Bodymoor Heath Road Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B76 0DY United Kingdom +44 1827 87 2660 |
Covering more than 600 acres and including 30 lakes, this delightful country park is found on the north-eastern edge of the city. It has been open to the public since 1975, the lakes and pools being formed out of pits created by gravel extraction. Bird hides abound, this being an area of national importance for wild fowl, and there are nature trails too. Broomey Croft Children's Farm (admission charge payable) is centrally located within the site and allows young ones to hand feed its friendly residents. Other attractions include an information center, adventure playground, power boating, jet biking, sailing and angling. Refreshments can be had in The Old Barn Coffee Shop and the Granary Tea Rooms. To put it simply, this is a great venue for a family day out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Reynolds |
 Photo: Paul Reynolds |
 Photo: andy donovan |
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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 |
 Serbian Orthodox worship |
Griffins Brook Lane Bournville Birmingham B30 1QE United Kingdom +44 121 458 5273 |
The well-known suburb of Bourneville is famous as the home of Cadbury's chocolate. It is also home to the main church for Birmingham's Serbian community, most of whom came (or at least, their families did) to Britain after World War II. The church was built in the 1960s, but it is by no means a typical sixties modernist monstrosity. Marble and sandstone for the building was brought from Serbia, and the frescoes are based on traditional designs from the 14th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wild woods |
Warren Lane Rednal Birmingham B45 8ER United Kingdom +44 121 445 6036 / +44 121 447 7106 |
A trip to "The Lickeys" has been a popular day out for generations of Birmingham people. The park itself, covering 524 acres, is a wonderful mixture of coniferous and deciduous trees, bluebells, marshes and heaths. Furthermore, because of this mix of conditions and plants there is a plethora of wildlife to be seen. Lickey Hills is a great place to learn about natural history and is a favourite day trip for schools. It is also a favourite among mountain bike riders, the highest point of the hills being Beacon Hill which reaches 975 feet. The park includes an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts and a bowling green. There is also a well-equipped visitor centre. Lickey Hills Country Park is situated to the south-west of the city, in the Bromsgrove area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tudor Barlow |
 Photo: Rob |
 Photo: Randeep Sami |
 Photo: Tudor Barlow |
 Photo: Rob |
 Photo: David Trippas |
 Photo: David Jarrom |
 Photo: Bob Taylor |
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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 |
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Arts and crafts |
Weeford Road Sutton Coldfield Birmingham B75 6NA United Kingdom +44 121 323 3624 |
Old meets new at the Mitchell Center, which is situated in a semi-rural location in a converted group of Victorian farm buildings. Inside, you will find galleries and workshops demonstrating that the artistry and skills of the artisan did not end with the Victorian age, but are still alive and well. The Mitchell Center also has a tearoom in which you can relax after a leisurely browse, as well as a pleasant walled garden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Elizabethan Elegance |
Moseley Old Hall Lane Fordhouses Birmingham, Staffordshire WV10 7HY United Kingdom +44 190 278 2808 http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
Moseley Old Hall is a beautiful Elizabethan house famous for being the hiding place of Charles II after the Battle of Worcester. The Hall boasts oak paneling and beautiful furniture whilst the enclosed grounds have a walled garden, arbor, herb garden, topiary and knot garden. Not too far from Birmingham, this house is definitely worth a visit and there is an exhibition and tearoom in the barn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic cars |
Hales Street Birmingham, West Midlands CV1 1PN United Kingdom +44 24 7683 2425 http://www.mbrt.co.uk |
Coventry, just 20 minutes from Birmingham by road or rail, has a number of attractions well worth visiting. One such is this museum, which is devoted to British-made motor vehicles in a city famous for its car manufacturers—over 130 have been based in Coventry including Daimler, Jaguar, Rover and Triumph. Here you can see 230 cars, 90 motorcycles and 200 cycles, including some once-famous names that are now no more. There are also Edwardian vehicles as used by royalty and there is a display of model vehicles. More modern exhibits are also on display, such as Thrust 2, the holder of the world land speed record, and prototypes of the latest in car design. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Forest tales |
Valley Road Hednesford, Cannock Birmingham, Staffordshire WS12 5TD United Kingdom +44 1543 87 7666 |
Cannock Chase comprises many acres of woodland and heathland to the north of Birmingham. It has long been a popular local beauty spot, but its museum is also worth a visit. It tells the story of the Chase from its early days as a hunting forest to more recent times when coal was extracted from beneath it. Indeed, the museum is located on the site of a colliery used to train young miners in simulated mining conditions. Formal galleries, complemented by temporary exhibitions, display what life was like for miners and their families and guided tours are led by costumed guides. Special events also take place throughout the year - ring for more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ride Easy! |
Coventry Road Bickenhill, Solihull Birmingham B92 0EJ United Kingdom +44 1675 44 3311 http://www.nationalmotorcyclem... |
The museum houses a collection of over 700 veteran and unusual motorcycles and memorabilia from the 19th and 20th centuries. Unsurprisingly, this is a fascinating place for both children and adults to learn about the history of an industry which once dominated the world. Conference facilities and seminar rooms are also available and various exhibitions (other than of motorcycles) are held here too. The venue is located opposite the NEC and offers easy access to the M42. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Morris |
 Photo: John Morris |
 Photo: Rob Langham |
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Musical instrument collection |
Ashorne Hall Birmingham CV33 9QN United Kingdom +44 1926 65 1444 |
This is the private residence of the Whitehead family, and also the home of an amazing collection of cinema organs and mechanical musical instruments. Revenue gained from visitors goes towards the cost of maintaining these extraordinary instruments. See a cinema organ rising through the floor just like they used to, not to mention Belgian robots playing their own foot-tapping rhythms. There is also a narrow gauge railway for rail buffs. Admission is £6.80 for a cinema organ and the "Nickelodeon tour" with reductions for senior citizens and for tours limited to the gardens and railway. There are also musical tea parties for pensioners. A telephone call to check opening times is always advisable, as it is a small, family-run attraction. 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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Rare 16th century house |
West Bromwich Birmingham B70 8HJ United Kingdom +44 121 553 0759 |
A beautiful gabled timber-framed building, Oak House is one of the finest of its kind in the Midlands. It dates back to the 16th century and has a rare lantern tower which was probably added in the 17th century. There are panelled rooms inside and a fine collection of furniture. The gardens are very pleasant, and John Wesley once preached here. Admission is free, except for special events, and the house closes an hour earlier in winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Johan Maurer |
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Historic schoolhouse |
The Green King's Norton Birmingham B38 8RU United Kingdom +44 121 643 2514 |
One of several half-timbered buildings that survive in various parts of the city, the Old Grammar School is one of the oldest in the Midlands and dates back to the 15th century. Only the upper floor is half-timbered, the ground floor being a later addition in brick. It is thought to have originally stood on stilts. School's been out here for a great many summers but in recent years it has been used by the choir of the nearby church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher M. Bainb |
 Photo: Alice |
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Military & Civilian Aircraft |
Neachley Lane Cosford Birmingham, Shropshire TF11 8UP United Kingdom +44 1902 37 6200 http://www.rafmuseum.org.uk |
The museum is a celebration of classic military and civilian aircrafts spanning a 90 year period of aviation history. These are housed in three hangars, fully heated in winter, and among the military aircraft you will find such evocative names as the Spitfire, Mosquito and Liberator. More recent aircrafts include a Buccaneer and a Jaguar as well as V bombers which once carried Britain's nuclear deterrent. The British Airways hangar has examples of passenger planes dating back to the days when travellers flew from Croydon. There are also displays of rockets, missiles and aero engines, sectioned so that working parts are displayed. RAF Cosford lies to the north-west of the city and is easily accessible by rail. See website for complete visitation particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Palladian house with peacock gardens |
Alcester Birmingham, Warwickshire B49 5NJ United Kingdom +44 1789 76 2090 |
Situated near Alcester, a few miles to the south of the city, Ragley Hall is a beautiful Palladian house which is the home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford. Various events take place throughout the year and the extensive gardens, especially the rose gardens, are particularly recommended. They also abound with peacocks. It will appeal to lovers of stately homes and fine architecture, but the children aren't forgotten as there is an adventure playground. There is also a picnic area and an attractive lake within the grounds. Open from early April until early October. 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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Lord Lichfield's Home |
Milford Birmingham ST17 0XB United Kingdom +44 1889 8 8388 http://www.shugborough.org.uk/ |
The ancestral home of Lord Lichfield, this fine 18th century mansion lies to the north of Birmingham. It is set in some 900 acres of parkland. The estate has many attractions, including a rare breeds farm, a working corn mill and county museum that is strong on social history. The domestic quarters have been renovated so that visitors can see what life was like for the staff "below stairs" in days gone by. Admission: £8 adults, £6 children Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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Tourist information |
Homer Road Solihull Birmingham, West Midlands B91 3QQ United Kingdom +44 121 704 6130 |
Solihull is a Metropolitan Borough on Birmingham's south-eastern doorstep. Its tourist information centre, situated within the Solihull Arts Complex, provides a range of information, maps, guides, etc for Birmingham area and for much of the surrounding Midlands region. Bookings for some main attractions and local events can also be taken. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fortified manor house |
Stokesay Birmingham, Shropshire SY7 9AH United Kingdom +44 1588 67 2544 |
Nestling in the Shropshire countryside to the west of Birmingham, Stokesay is not really a castle but a fortified manor house. It is, however, the most perfectly preserved example of its type. It dates back to the 13th century and its Great Hall has remained unchanged since the lord of the manor feasted here 700 years ago. This beautiful and haunting building is now run by English Heritage and free audio tour guides are available. A lively program of events is particularly strong on medieval and Elizabethan musical performances. 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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Excavated bathhouse and inn |
Watling Street, Wall Birmingham, Staffordshire WS14 0AW United Kingdom +44 1543 48 0768 |
Wall Roman Site was originally a staging post along the Roman road of Watling Street providing overnight accommodation for soldiers and travelers. Now the site consists of an excavated inn and bathhouse and is worth visiting if you are interested in our past, or if you would like to introduce children to history at first-hand. Facilities include parking, gift shop, a tape tour and museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful parkland |
Lichfield Street Walsall Birmingham, West Midlands WS1 1TJ United Kingdom +44 1922 65 3148 |
This is a beautiful Victorian park, covering nearly 80 acres, full of fascinating tree specimens and other plant life. Most famous to people from Birmingham (and beyond) as the site of the annual Walsall Illuminations, it certainly repays a visit in daylight. It is just a few minutes' walk from the town centre, so is easily accessible. There is also boating and fishing on the lakes, which were formed from flooded limestone mines and are now home to a variety of wildlife. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Heaven for leather |
Littleton Street West Birmingham, West Midlands WS2 8EQ United Kingdom +44 1922 72 1153 |
Walsall, to the north of Birmingham, remains the capital of Britain's leather industry. Nearly a hundred companies operate here, making everything from wallets to saddles - the local football team is even known as The Saddlers. The leather museum is housed in a Victorian building that was once a leather goods factory, and tells the story of how and why the industry developed here. There is a shop and cafe on the site. 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 |