It is fair to state that the West Midlands is not primarily recognized as a tourism hub. However, despite the presence of more picturesque cities, Birmingham offers a vibrant nightlife, abundant cultural experiences, and an extensive shopping scene.
Moreover, the significant Indian population in Birmingham has led to the establishment of some of the finest curry restaurants in the UK, including the origin of the “balti” dish. Since the onset of the collieries, lime kilns, and metalworks in the 1700s, this region is more commonly linked with industrial heritage than serene countryside.
Nevertheless, the Black Country should not be overlooked, particularly for those interested in the Industrial Revolution, as towns like Dudley preserve old kilns and factories that reflect the historical reality of that era.
Let us delve into the best places to visit in the West Midlands:
1. Birmingham
Endearingly referred to as “Brum”, Birmingham may not have been highly regarded for its aesthetics; however, the rejuvenation of its city center and extensive canal network have allowed people to perceive Britain’s second city in a new light.
Even prior to this transformation, Birmingham was already cherished for its nightlife, diverse dining options (notably Indian cuisine in the “Balti triangle”), and expansive shopping opportunities.
One could argue that the city served as the crucible of the Industrial Revolution, and for those intrigued by this era, a visit to Soho House, the 18th-century residence of entrepreneur Matthew Boulton, is a must.
This venue, along with numerous engaging museums, provides insights into the wealth generated by industry or, at the Back to Backs, illustrates the living conditions of workers during that time.
2. Coventry
Similar to Birmingham, Coventry’s industrial facilities made it vulnerable to bombing during the Second World War.
This assault notably resulted in the destruction of the gothic Coventry Cathedral, which has been preserved as a memorial with its hollow walls, spire, and tower remaining intact.
Coventry also has a historical connection to vehicle manufacturing, particularly with established domestic brands such as Jaguar and Rover.
For those interested in the automotive industry, the Coventry Transport Museum offers an extensive collection of British road vehicles, the largest of its kind in the world.
Furthermore, aircraft production has a long-standing history in Coventry, dating back to the early days of aviation, with Frank Whittle, the inventor of the jet engine, being a local native.
The Midland Air Museum provides an informative glimpse into this sector.
3. Sutton Coldfield
Located just a few miles west of Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield has a longstanding reputation for affluence.
The gentry and affluent families who established their residences here constructed ornate mansions, many of which have since been converted into hotels that allow visitors to experience a taste of luxurious living.
The town contains two conservation areas that protect homes dating back to the 1600s and 1700s.
Surrounded almost entirely by parks and nature reserves, Sutton Coldfield boasts the New Hall Valley Country Park, which features the New Hall Mill, one of only two working watermills in the Birmingham area.
Additionally, Sutton Park ranks among Europe’s largest urban parks, encompassing over nine square kilometers of woodlands and heathland, inhabited by wild ponies.
4. Wolverhampton
Durring the Industrial Revolution, Wolverhampton gained recognition for its coal mining, steel production, and manufacturing; engineering continues to play a vital role in the local economy.
While many may not consider Wolverhampton a tourist destination, those who do visit are often pleasantly surprised by the range of attractions available.
The city is home to several historic estates managed by the National Trust, including Moseley Old Hall and Boscobel House, both linked to significant events of the English Civil War in the 17th century.
Visitors can also explore Wolverhampton’s industrial past at Bantock House or appreciate the Pop Art and Pre-Raphaelite works showcased in the Wolverhampton Art Gallery.
5. Solihull
In a large urban area such as the West Midlands, it can be challenging to find a town genuinely representative of the countryside.
However, Solihull is one such town that scores well on England’s livability scale.
Situated in a green belt, development is limited, resulting in expansive green spaces like Malvern and Brueton Park, providing a semblance of open countryside along with the convenience of tea rooms.
Additionally, Jaguars and Land Rovers are manufactured at facilities near Solihull, offering opportunities for behind-the-scenes tours of these state-of-the-art production sites.
6. Dudley
Dudley is often referred to as the capital of the Black Country, a region that emerged as a crucial center for the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The limestone quarries, kilns, and ironworks established Dudley as an industrial powerhouse, playing a pivotal role in producing the chain and anchor for the Titanic.
For a deeper understanding of this area’s history, the Black Country Living Museum presents a preserved slice of life from that period, complete with workers’ cottages, shops, cobblestones, lime kilns, and ironmongers.
The Dudley Tunnel, the second-longest canal tunnel in England, also warrants exploration, stretching nearly four kilometers.
Dudley Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and the ruins of the 12th-century Dudley Priory additionally offer a glimpse into the area’s ancient history, with the castle’s grounds housing Dudley Zoo.
7. Edgbaston
The affluent suburb of Edgbaston, located to the south of Birmingham, is notable as the residence of the novelist Tolkien during his teenage years.
The area consists predominantly of tree-lined roads, featuring Victorian mansions and large houses set back from the street along winding drives.
While Edgbaston is primarily residential, there are numerous attractions worth visiting.
During the spring and summer months, cricket enthusiasts can enjoy matches at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground, home to Warwickshire County Cricket Club and a venue for national one-day and five-day matches.
The Barber Institute of Fine Arts, a Grade II listed Art Deco building, houses an impressive collection of artwork from renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Veronese, Rubens, van Dyck, Monet, van Gogh, and Picasso.
Furthermore, their extensive coin collection includes thousands of pieces, predominantly Roman and Byzantine in origin.
8. Walsall
Historically, Walsall was a hub for iron and leather manufacturing, deeply ingrained in its cultural fabric, as reflected in the nickname of the local football team, “the Saddlers.” The town was renowned as a global center for saddle-making, a legacy you can explore at the Leather Museum, housed in an original Victorian factory.
In recent years, significant investment has revitalized the town center, particularly along the canal front.
This regeneration effort has enabled Walsall to unveil the New Art Gallery, featuring an unexpectedly rich collection of artwork, including pieces by Constable, Turner, van Gogh, and Monet.
9. Halesowen
A historical site rich in coal pits and mines, Halesowen also has a more poetic side that visitors can discover at the Grade I-listed Leasowes Park.
Comprising 57 hectares, this park features one of England’s earliest landscape gardens, designed in the mid-1700s by poet William Shenstone.
Visitors can enjoy a piece of history, as many notable figures, including John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the second and third Presidents of the United States, were among its early visitors.
Halesowen also possesses the ruins of an old abbey, which fell into disrepair following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1530 and is now protected by English Heritage.
10. West Bromwich
While manufacturing has diminished across Britain, the chemical and engineering sectors continue to be prominent employers in West Bromwich, as they were in the 1700s.
Located just a few miles from Birmingham’s center, West Bromwich is a modest town that has successfully preserved its historical remnants.
Features of interest include two charming wattle and daub structures: the West Bromwich Manor House, traceable back to the 1200s, and the Oak House Museum, a restored yeoman’s home constructed in the late 1500s.
The local football club, West Bromwich Albion, continues to hold a place in the Premier League and was one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888.
11. Berkswell
Located near Coventry, Berkswell is an exceptionally picturesque village characterized by cottages dating back to the 1600s and 1700s.
The village and its adjacent hamlets offer numerous delightful attractions for exploration and enjoyment.
Among the highlights is the Norman Church of St. John the Baptist, which features a two-section crypt situated between the chancel and the nave.
The churchyard also houses a medieval well that epitomizes the village’s name, and the village green features the original stocks historically utilized for punishing petty criminals.
Additionally, Berkswell Windmill, constructed in the 1830s, is functional, and the 17th-century Ram Hall now serves as a dairy producing ewe’s milk cheese.
12. Stourbridge
From the 1600s to the 20th century, Stourbridge was synonymous with glassmaking, a trade that flourished following the arrival of French Huguenots who sought employment in the coal mines.
The Red House Cone is among the few remaining historical glassmaking kilns, operational until the 1930s.
Visitors can witness traditional glassblowing demonstrations at the Red House Cone, while the Ruskin Glass Centre and Broadfield House Glass Museum hold exhibitions showcasing Stourbridge Glass.
Furthermore, Stourbridge is home to one of the National Trust’s most unique properties, Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, a collection of ancient homes carved from a sandstone ridge below the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort.
13. Hagley
Located on the border with Worcestershire, Hagley functions primarily as a commuter village for individuals employed in Birmingham, though it offers several attractions and points of interest.
One such attraction is Hagley Hall, a Grade I-listed structure that has remained in the Lyttleton family since the estate’s establishment in the early 1700s.
Built in the neo-Palladian style, it offers guided tours showcasing opulent interiors and extensive grounds spanning 350 acres.
While this may not appeal to younger visitors, the Falconry Centre features native UK hawks, owls, and eagles, allowing children to observe these majestic birds up close.
14. Allesley
Arriving in the charming village of Allesley via Birmingham Road is an enjoyable experience.
The village is adorned with historical iron gas lamps, Georgian brick houses, and even older half-timbered structures.
Though it is a small settlement with a population in the hundreds, visitors can easily spend an hour or two here.
The Rainbow Inn has operated on this site since 1680, and the Grade I-listed All Saints Church in Allesley boasts historical roots tracing back to Norman times.
Additionally, guests can enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole course in Allesley Park or rent clubs for a casual game of pitch and putt.
15. Meriden
Situated between Birmingham and Coventry, Meriden is a delightful village nestled within a conservation area, offering a scenic spot to explore.
The village features several timber-framed houses dating back to the 1500s, alongside examples of medieval moated farmsteads and historical manor houses.
Previously, a Triumph motorcycle factory operated in Meriden until 1983; the village also possesses a unique memorial for cyclists who lost their lives during the First World War, situated on the village green.
Meriden provides essential village amenities, including a traditional pub and tea house, in addition to the charming Church of St. Laurence, whose nave and chancel date back to the 1100s.
