West Midlands

Days out in the West Midlands

Step into England’s story in the West Midlands and discover how the region has shaped our history.

From beautiful gardens and fairy tale castles to spectacular ruins and Roman cities, the region is packed with unmissable days out for all ages.

Make the most of your time

The finest surviving fortified manor houses in England

Standing in a peaceful Shropshire valley near the Welsh border, Stokesay Castle has survived remarkably intact since a leading wool merchant, Laurence of Ludlow, built it in the late 13th century.

 

His fine fortified manor house was both comfortable and impressive, designed as a statement of his wealth and power.

Visit Stokesay Castle
A selection of fly presses in the workshop at J.W. Evans Silver Factory

Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter

Birmingham in the 19th-century was hailed as the ‘workshop of the world’. The Jewellery Quarter was its busy hub, producing jewellery, silver and tableware.

 

About 40% of British jewellery is still made there. Behind a frontage of terraced houses, J.W.Evans Silver Factory is among its most complete surviving historic factories. Crammed with tools and equipment, it’s preserved as if the workers might return at any minute.

Book a tour of JW Evans Silver Factory

Wenlock to the Iron Bridge Walk

Walk the picturesque trail from Wenlock Priory to the Iron Bridge and enjoy beautiful views of the Shropshire countryside.

Download the trail (PDF)

Events in the West Midlands

There's plenty for kids and adults alike to enjoy throughout the year. 

Our programme of historical events offer a great way to explore the beauty of our sites and bring our historic places to life.

What's on

More to Explore

  • Boscobel House Family Guide

    View our things to see and do guide for families and make the most of your visit to Boscobel House and the Royal Oak

  • Stop at Stonehenge

    Uncover the story of Stonehenge and take in the unforgettable atmosphere of this World Heritage Site.

  • Kenilworth Castle history and stories

    Much of Kenilworth’s buildings remained unaltered since Elizabeth I’s reign. Learn about how the spectacular ruins reveal Kenilworth’s medieval and Tudor past.