Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
The Riverside Inn serves a wide range of foods, sourced locally when possible, in a relaxed and picturesque environment. You can enjoy lunch seated outside by the river, or you can dine inside surrounded by beautiful oak beams, pine tables and a log fire.
Dine in the restaurant of one of Staffordshire's finest country houses. Dating from the 17th century, the house is set in 8 acres of land with gardens, orchards and a fishing lake.
The Talbot - 26.3 Miles (42.1 KM)
This traditional coaching inn offers a friendly welcome to visitors. It serves good honest food and produces home brewed ales in its brewery behind the inn.
The Bilash - 29.1 Miles (46.6 KM)
Bilash is a Michelin award winning, family owned restaurant serving traditional Bangladeshi and Indian food (not far from Wolverhampton train station).
Fun Days Out
Phil Price Rally School is a long established family run driving school, that extends a warm welcome to all its customers. They provide an ideal venue that allows you to put their fleet of RWD and 4WD Subaru Impreza's to the test, either on the test track or the main rally track. All the staff are highly trained and highly qualified to ensure you get the most from your driving abilities. Additionally they are very friendly, patient and encouraging in boosting your confidence and pushing you to your limits and will have you trying various different driving techniques during the day. Safety is paramount and you are provided with the appropriate equipment and given a full safety briefing before going out in the car. It is a thrilling and invigorating experience where you can really put the car through its paces if you dare. You get the maximum amount of driving during your day and it represents excellent value for money. Phil Price Rally School is a well organised and highly motivated towards providing the best service and customer satisfaction and all the staff are passionate about what they do and this enhances your overall time here. An electrifying jam packed day, highly recommended.
Wonderland - 19.6 Miles (31.4 KM)
An award-winning big park for little people, a place where nursery rhymes and fairy tales come to life in all its themed rides, activities and a maze.
The Place - 20.6 Miles (33 KM)
Drama, comedy shows, musicals and entertainments. Check the website for an up to date listing of forthcoming events.
Enjoying the stunning Herefordshire countryside, Grove Golf and Bowl offers two nine hole golf courses, ten-pin bowling, a first-class restaurant and snack bar. With friendly staff and a peaceful environment, a day at the Grove is perfect for all the family, come rain or shine!
There is always something happening at Hoo Farm for all the kids to enjoy — see and feed the animals, make pottery, play in the gardens, the possibilities are endless.
Don't miss an opportunity to ride a steam train by visiting Severn Valley. Covering 16 miles between Kidderminster and Shropshire this is a brilliant way to travel. Don't forget to stop off at Highley to visit The Engine House with its historic railway exhibits and Buffers Cafe Restaurant. A great day out for all the family!
Come to West Midland Safari Park and see over 600 wild animals roaming free over a vast 100 acres. Learn about creepy crawlies on the Discovery Trail or let go on the rides in the amusement park. So much to do, so little time, one day just won't be enough!
Recently voted Herefordshire Family Attraction of the Year, the Small Breeds Farm Park and Owl Centre is an enchanting mix of animals, birds and beautiful owls. Adults and children alike will be captivated by the antics of these tame animals and the friendliness of the owls which live in the aptly named Owl Garden. A perfect family day out!
Woodland children's play area with easy access path and waymarked trails, panoramic views, seasonal events and licensed café.
Shortwood Family Farm is a must if you have children. This organic dairy farm has free range pigs, sheep, poultry, ponies, donkeys and goats living in an open and carefree environment. There are animal feeding tours and tractor rides giving visitors the opportunity to take part in and learn about life on a farm. There is also a picnic area and a children?s playground.
Enjoy a relaxing day out in the country. Travel by steam train through the beautiful Banwy Valley. Don't miss the very popular tearooms serving homemade cakes.
Quest - 29.8 Miles (47.7 KM)
Quest is a fun and thrilling family entertainment venue that has a choice of activities to cater to all ages. They are located in the Intu Merry Hills shopping centre in Dudley. The activities available here are a Nerf Blaster Target Range, Nerf Combat Arena, Altitude High Ropes Course, Mini Golf, Sky Tykes and Yu Kids Adventure Soft Play, there is something to appeal to everyone. It is the ideal all weather venue and you can choose how long you spend here. They offer special discounts and combo deals so it is worth checking out their website before you go, although the prices are reasonable. The premises are well maintained and the equipment is all in excellent condition. The staff are friendly and helpful and the coffee shop serves a good selection of refreshments where you can sit and relax while the children go play. Quest is a great day out for all the family and you are assured a brilliant time here.
An impressive array of shops in this centre offer hours of happy shopping and browsing. Recharge your batteries at a variety of eateries.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
Kerry Ridgeway - 18.2 Miles (29.1 KM)
A lovely route of about 15 miles encompassing some beautiful countryside and fascinating historical landmarks. The ridgeway follows a gentle trail which is perfect for cyclists, hikers and horse riders alike. Its line can be traced back as far as the Iron Age and along the route visitors can spot Bronze Age burials and remains.
This trail is a route through some of the prettiest villages and landscape in England. The circular route from Leominster passes through fabulous scenery before returning to the town.
Ticknock Mountain Bike Trails in the Dublin Mountains offer a series of single track roads and paths designed especially for mountain bikers. Explore beautiful scenery while enjoying the challenging trail designed to challenge and work experienced riders. The trail starts and ends at a car park and at 8kM in length takes approximately 45 to 90 minutes to complete.
Black Country Canals - 28.3 Miles (45.3 KM)
A 6 hour circular cycle route in Brierley Hill, exploring different canals along the way including Tame Valley, Rushall, Dudley and more. (N.B. cyclists need to obtain a permit before starting your ride)
Cycle, trek or horse ride through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, National Parks, eight counties and two countries. Although 177 miles in its entirety, it is an easy route to pick and choose from depending on how energetic you are feeling!
Golf & Sports
Everyone is catered for at country treks, from one hour to a full day's ride. Have a great day out on a variety of rides, stopping at welcoming country pubs on the way.
Established in 1984 and family owned, this outdoor adventure centre has lots to offer. Set in lovely countryside, its activities include cycling, shooting, canoeing, horse trekking and paintballing.
Designed by the veteran champion James Braid, this course caters for all abilities. You'll be taken back by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this course including the giant mountain peak of Snowdonia. There's a bar and restaurant in which to relax after a round of golf.
Ustrike - 21.4 Miles (34.2 KM)
Freshen up your bowling skills and enjoy an evening at Ustrike - the only ten-pin bowling centre in Mid Wales! If you get a bit hungry or thirsty, a bar and dining area is also available.
Outdoor karting arena for visitors to drive their own fleet of powerful twin engine karts on an arrive and drive basis. Computerised lap timing can do bookings for 1?30 people. See if you can win the Grand Prix!
Whatever your experience or age, Underhill Riding Stables have horses or ponies to suit you. So you can enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mid Wales countryside on horseback.
Set just outside Bromyard in rural Herefordshire, Noakes Farm is a friendly, family run riding school. They provide quality private and group tuition, pony club membership and school holiday fun days! Whether you fancy a hack across the glorious Herefordshire countryside or a horse riding lesson, a warm welcome awaits you at Noakes Farm.
Ledene Golf Centre is an 18 hole, par 3, public parkland golf course that was established in 2000. It is located in the lovely Staffordshire countryside and is not far from Wolverhampton making it very convenient to play. The course offers many challenges and hazards especially the pool, it is fairly flat so not too difficult to walk around. The course is well maintained and the greens and fairways are in good condition. In addition to the 18 hole course there is a 10-Bay driving range that is floodlit and heated for year round play and a practise green with bunker. The Cafe Ledene has a lovely warm and welcoming atmosphere and the food is fantastic, very tasty and beautifully presented, as well as offering great value for money. Staff are very friendly throughout the club, both professional and helpful. The green fees are excellent value for money and a warm welcome is extended to everyone. If you are a novice, looking to improve your game or an experienced golfer head to Ledene Golf Centre where you are assured a great game of golf.
Out To Grass Mountain Board Centre offers hire and ride sessions which include the mountain board, helmet/wrist guard, elbow/knee pads and qualified instructors. All levels are catered for with a gentle grass slope for beginners to a free style area for the more advanced mountain boarder with grind rails, hips and table tops for tricks! A great family day out with a difference!
Great entertainment with 17 computerised bowling lanes, pool tables and the latest video games. Café bar with garden patio as well.
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
Gardens & Woodlands
For a meagre sum you can spend a great day enjoying all that this magnificent 18th century house has to offer, including 500 acres of wonderful parkland commanding glorious views.
A wonderful 4-acre site with a vast array of plantlife, from the native to the very rare. Located in and amongst a collection of medieval farm buildings there are plenty of features to be explored and admired in this lovely garden. Visit the cider press, the pools, the grotto and the kitchen garden.
A network of footpaths and bridleways and 4 waymarked trails cross the park's 180 acres of woodland, meadows and wetland. There is a tea room and visitor centre, which can be hired for special occasions.
One of Britain's oldest and most spectacular arboretums, and home to abundant wildlife, this lovely, tranquil place is now open to the public, and well worth a visit.
The Hergest estate to which these gardens belong sits in the heart of the Welsh Marches. The 6 distinct areas within the gardens, each with a different look and feel extend to over 70 acres. After wandering the gardens, enjoy a scone in the tearooms and pay a visit to the gift shop.
Broadfield Court is a beautiful estate situated in the outstanding North Herefordshire countryside. Wander around the gardens, enjoy lunch in the award winning café and round off your visit tasting Bodenham wines in the 16th century winery.
Formal and informal garden rooms set in 2.5 acres with a lot to see through the different seasons. There are plenty of seats in the gardens to enjoy the view — home-made lunches and teas are also available.
Located at the heart of the Black Country, this enchanting country park started life as Baggeridge Colliery but now encompasses 150 acres of beautiful parkland.
Local Attractions
Ludlow - 9 Miles (14.4 KM)
Set within the beautiful south Shropshire countryside, Ludlow is a flourishing market town famed for its excellent eateries, festivals and castle. Stunning buildings line the winding streets adding to the atmosphere of, according to Sir John Betjeman, ""the most perfect town in England.""
Shopping centre with a difference, 30 unique shops in a Grade II listed Greek Renaissance style building in the heart of Shrewsbury.
Clara House & Spa in Clara, County Offaly is a great place to relax and treat yourself. Treatments include massages, facials, balneotherapy and peat therapy. Take advantage of the on-site accommodation to enjoy a truly relaxing weekend break, 2 bedroom apartments for 4-5 people are available with both catered and self-catered options.
Park Hall the Countryside Experience is located close to Oswestry in Shropshire and is a very popular and highly acclaimed visitor attraction. It offers so much to see and do with frequent hands-on animal activities such as feed, holding, petting, pig racing, milking a cow and much more. There are two huge indoor playbarns, ample outdoor play, including a zip wire, adventure course, play village, nature trails and driving activities with tractor rides, go karts, Landrover experience, diggers and driving school. In addition there is the Victorian School and Museum where you can get an idea of what it was like to be a child during this era, there is also the recreation of a Victorian home and farmhouse complete with authentic furniture and artefacts showing the daily lives of people back then, as well as a collection of Victorian toys and games, writing materials, books, together with an intriguing collection of clothes, boots and shoes. Step back further in time at the Iron Age Roundhouse and see artefacts of this period and get an insight into how these people would have lived. Another exhibit is relating to the Welsh Guards, there is wonderful collection on display of uniforms, artefacts and memorabilia dating from their inception in 1915 to date, an interesting and informative collection. Don't miss the Science Illusion Zone, great fun. The park is well laid out and very clean and well maintained. The staff throughout are excellent, very friendly and helpful. It is open daily from March through to September from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Throughout the year they organise a number of events, activities and experiences, it is worth keeping an eye out for these they are fun and entertaining. There are picnic benches if you want to take along your own food or visit the Tearooms where they serve a nice selection of tasty snacks and lunches that are well priced and offer real value for money. Park Hall the Countryside Experience is a fabulous visitor attraction with so much on offer there is something to appeal to everyone and at really great prices too, a definite if you are in the area.
Set close to the River Severn, the vineyards benefit from the micro-climate created by the river valley site. Established in the 1970s and producing award-winning wines recommended by Rick Stein.
Oswestry Cricket Club is located just outside of the village of Morda in Shropshire. They are a welcoming and friendly club . The clubhouse is open whilst games are on so you can enjoy a drink on the terrace on a nice sunny day. The clubhouse is warm and cosy, the seats are comfortable, it is clean and well maintained. On match days they show sky sports, you can also get a selection of pies and rolls, drink prices are very good. The pavilion bar area look out across the pitch. The staff are lovely, friendly and helpful.
Trains run on regular dates throughout the year offering visitors the chance to board and admire the trains in all their glory.
The Willow Art Gallery is located in the market town of Oswestry. It is a bright and contemporary gallery that hosts a diverse collection of exhibitions from accomplished contemporary local and international artists. The exhibitions consist of a large range of subject matter and media consisting of painting, photography, sculpture, pottery, textiles, illustration and mixed media. They also arrange throughout the year a range of workshops, talks, live music and events that you can get involved in. It is a friendly and welcoming gallery and the exhibits are well displayed. Staff are very approachable and friendly and will happily discuss the items on show or the artists involved. There is also a cafe that is smart and cosy, with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the seating is comfortable and they offer a really nice selection of snacks, lunches and home baked goods, that are delicious, service is very good and prices are very reasonable. The craft shop is lovely and has a nice selection of quality gifts that are well priced, you are sure to find something special. A great place to stop if you are in the town, a real delight.
Wolf Mountain Indoor Climbing and Cave Centre is a premier indoor climbing centre located close to the city centre in Wolverhampton. The centre has excellent facilities, full equipment and the staff are friendly, professional and patient. Safety is paramount here and you are given a full safety briefing before you take part in any activity. They offer a choice of extreme activities that include climbing, indoor caving, abseiling, archery, mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing. If you are prefer to spectate or require a rest after an activity there is a nice cafe where you can relax with a beverage and a snack. There are also a number of viewing areas where you can observe the events taking place. They cater to all abilities from novices to experienced climbers and run classes to accommodate everyone. Wolf Mountain Indoor Climbing and Cave Centre is open every day and the prices are very reasonable and offer great value for money. If you are looking for a challenge or a new experience then get yourself to the Wolf Mountain Indoor Climbing and Cave Centre you are assured a fun and energetic activity in a safe and friendly environment, you will not be disappointed.
West Park is a Victorian municipal park that encompasses around 43 acres and includes a lake and beautifully landscaped green spaces. It is ideally located close to the city centre and is thought to be one of the finest, natural Victorian parks remaining in England. It original purpose was to serve as an area for certain sporting activities namely, bowls, archery and cricket. Today it still serves the community and has tennis courts and a bowling green other features include, a boating lake, children's play area, heated Victorian conservatory that is open from 10am to 4pm most days except Tuesday and Wednesdays. The chalet tearooms are cosy and inviting and serve a nice selection of beverages and light snacks, that are reasonably priced. There are loads of areas to enjoy a picnic and admire the stunning plants, flowers, shrubs and trees as well as the peace and tranquillity the park offers. The park is very popular and enjoyed by joggers, walkers and families who love the attractions and the wide open spaces where children can run about. West Park is beautifully maintained and a great park for the whole family, it makes for an enjoyable day out for all especially on a nice day.
Arena Theatre in the heart of Wolverhampton is an intimate and individual venue that serves as a cultural centre to the local and extended community. They host an interesting and broad variety of theatre, dance, music and comedy shows to cater to all tastes. It is a great theatre with facilities that include a friendly and vibrant bar area that offers the ideal place to meet for pre-show drinks as well as a coffee bar where you can get refreshments and light snacks. The shows they put on are first class and thoroughly enjoyable and offer great value for money. You will find the staff to be friendly and most helpful and enhance your overall experience here. The theatre seating is very comfortable and the offers great views regardless of where you sit, the acoustics are excellent and the overall experience is wonderful. Arena Theatre is a delightful venue and should not be missed if you get the opportunity to go, you will be delighted with the overall experience.
Grand Theatre has had a presence in Wolverhampton since 1894, and the exterior facade remains pretty much as it was when it first opened. The theatre serves as an entertainment venue for the town and the Midlands region. It hosts a diverse programme of events that includes major touring productions comprising of drama, musicals, ballet, dance, opera, variety, concerts and pantomimes. The theatre has quite an intimate feel and consists of a three-tiered Victorian auditorium and a beautiful interior with many fine period features and stunning architecture, particularly the ceiling. The seating is very comfortable and most seats offer unrestricted views of the stage and the acoustics are excellent. The staff are extremely, friendly, helpful and professional throughout the theatre. There rare a few bar areas and you will find them to have a nice relaxed vibe, they are cosy and offer a nice place to meet for pre-show drinks, the bars are well stocked and reasonably priced. The Grand Theatre is a delightful venue that is warm and welcoming and with such a huge range of productions there is something to suit everyone and ticket prices are very reasonable so definitely worth coming to see a show here.
Light House Media Centre is located in the historic Chubb Buildings, it is an independent cinema, complete with two screens, three galleries and a cafe bar, an ideal meeting place if you are in the town. The building has lots of interesting architectural features and has a friendly and welcoming ambience. It Is a cultural centre for the community and proudly hosts a diverse filled programme of events and shows, including opera, ballet, music, theatre screenings, big budget movies, independent productions, foreign films, archive films, contemporary films, indie films and much more. The galleries serve as an ideal backdrop for local and other contemporary artists to exhibit their work. There is a bar cafe that opens throughout the day and serves a good selection of beverages and light snacks and refreshments, with its glass-roofed courtyard you can seat outside regardless of the weather. They frequently hold fairs, and other events so best to check the website to see what is on. Light Media Centre offers so much to its visitors, definitely worth a visit, if you want a bite to eat, see some interesting art or take in a film, it is all here in this delightful venue.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Now ruined, this once fortified manor house was built between 1284 and 1293 by Robert Burnell, the Chancellor of England. He was said to be a good friend of King Edward I. This relationship meant that the castle had a very special purpose in British politics at this time. Legend has it that the first Parliament in which all the Commons were fully represented took place here in 1283.
Built on the former site of a motte and bailey castle in the early 13th century, this Norman castle is located on the Welsh border and commands spectacular views across Montgomery in Powys. Although now in ruins, the site is still worth a visit for the stunning setting and sense of history.
A ruined Welsh castle dating from the 13th century with spectacular views across the Severn Valley. Its complex evolution is a fascinating one; changing between Welsh and English hands, however ultimately it was to be left in a state of ruin by the late 14th century. Due to recent excavations the public can once again view what remains of this fascinating castle.
Set above a wide valley with excellent views to the Brecon Beacons. A great day out for everyone: countryside walks, ornamental gardens and a spectacular house.
The Ironbridge Antiques, Arts and Crafts Centre houses a variety of beautiful and meaningful items. See timeless antiques, furniture, ceramics, glassware and collectibles. The walls are adorned in gorgeous framed photos, all taken in the area as well as beautiful paintings created by local artists. More than 60 stalls and cabinets are on display.
The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust was formed in 1967 to help preserve and share the historic significance of this beautiful area. The collections contain a number of diverse artefacts, documents and much more. Explore the Darby family archives or see the prints, books and paintings in the Elton collection. The Telford collection features manuscripts, prints, drawings and paintings while the George Maw Geological and Mineral collection focuses on the Earth.
Antique collectors and history buffs must see the hidden treasures found at the Curio Centre in Ironbridge. This fascinating landmark was awarded World Heritage status, and for good reason. Established in 1996, the centre offers a wide range of items that can't be found anywhere else. Discover fine China, jewellery, stamps, medals, books and items made of gold and silver.
The Iron Bridge and Tollhouse is one of the 10 fascinating museums located in Ironbridge Gorge. Millions of tourists have explored this important landmark since 1779. The bridge was constructed by Abraham Darby III and is celebrated as one of the symbols of the Industrial Revolution. Learn more about how the structure was built while taking in the best views in the area.
Discover a world of Victorian judges and criminals in this award winning, interactive museum. After undergoing heavy restoration, this fascinating attraction boasts original furnishings and interiors which allow visitors to be transported back in time to the 1870s. Explore the damp and dingy prison cells, the impressive apartments that once belonged to Victorian judges and witness the trial of William Morgan in the courtroom.
Blists Hill - 17.4 Miles (27.8 KM)
Step back in time in the Victorian town. A completely unique museum where all the staff are in Victorian dress. See the Grocers, Bakery, Chemist and even exchange your money into shillings at the bank and purchase old fashioned sweets or traditional fish and chips. Have fun on fairground or trundle over the cobbles on a horse and cart.
Blists Hill Victorian Town is one of 10 museums in Ironbridge Gorge. Explore local history while embarking on an exciting journey that is great for visitors of all ages. Discover what life was like a century ago. Exchange your money for shillings, pence and pounds then sample traditionally prepared fish, bread and other delicious food items.
A wonderful late 17th century mansion housing an important art collection with work by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. It also features a display of Lady Labouchere's childhood clothes, and lakeside gardens for quiet walks.
Housed in a converted 19th Century warehouse alongside the Montgomery Canal, this museum tells the story of Montgomeryshire. There are various exhibitions running throughout the year.
Home to the Herbert family, this medieval castle sits high above some world famous gardens. It's home to a beautiful collection of treasures from India as well as one of the finest collections of paintings and furniture in Wales. (Wheelchair access to ground floor only)
This castle stands in 12 acres of lavish gardens. There is a maze with a Gothic tower at its centre and an underground tunnel that leads to a waterfall in the sunken garden. The orangery restaurant situated in the large conservatory adjoining the castle serves delicious food and drink, much of this fresh from the kitchen garden.
This charming medieval manor house, surrounded by a moat with a timber framed gatehouse, is a truly picturesque home that dates back to the late 1300s. Meander through woodland walks or along the many waymarked trails and spot fantastic wildlife, ancient oaks and beech trees.
Wightwick Manor Gardens is a stunningly beautiful house that celebrates the Arts and Crafts movement. In 1937 Geoffrey Mander MP convinced the National Trust to acquire a house that was just fifty years old at the time but, was already an artefact of a past era owing to the style in which his parents had decorated its interiors, influenced by William Morris and his Arts and Crafts colleagues. The house is very interesting and has lots of lovely furniture. Geoffrey and his wife continued to live in the house as its live-in curators and continued to enhance the collection of art in the house by adding a stunning compilation of Pre-Raphaelite paintings by Rossetti, Millais, Byrne-Jones and their followers. You can take a guided tour of the house, you will find the guides to be friendly, informative and animated about the house, family and its history making for an interesting and informative tour. The gardens are beautiful, they are delightful to walk around and so peaceful and also have picnic areas for your enjoyment. There is also a lovely tea shop that is warm and inviting, it is located in a converted stable block and has some nice features like old saddles and other items of memorabilia, it serves a delightful selection of refreshments, hot and cold meals and light snacks, all reasonably priced. The shop has an unusual selection of gifts and souvenirs to take home with you. Wightwick Manor and Gardens are open throughout the year, although on certain days the house might be closed so best to check the website first. In addition they run events throughout the year and again you can get these dates from the website. Wightwick Manor Gardens is a delightful house full of history and lots of interesting features the perfect place for a day out.
A beautiful grade II listed property and one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in Wales. The hall was originally built in 1834 by Thomas Wilson; however a huge expansion project led by the Philips family in 1869 doubled its size. Recently restored by the current owners, this magnificent house features some beautiful interiors and impressive collections. Take a stroll around 12 acres of gardens overlooking the ?Abbey of the Long Valley? which dates from the 12th century.
Chillington has been the home of the Giffards for more than 800 years. The present owner is the 29th Giffard to own the Hall. There has been a dwelling on the site since the Doomsday Book records in 1086, but over time the building has been replaced and modified until the grand spectacle of today is all that exists.
Hagley Hall - 27.8 Miles (44.5 KM)
Impressive Hagley Hall is a regal house that maintains the classic traditions and styles of the past in a way that's timelessly breathtaking. Visitors can join guided afternoon tours to learn more about the home, property and the family that have lived in and cared for it. Guides share stories of conspiracies as well as a fire that nearly devastated the house in 1925.
Bantock House is situated in 43 acres of parkland and is enclosed by lovely formal gardens. The house has underwent considerable care and restoration to bring it back to its original glory and now it is a valuable part of the history of Wolverhampton. The house offers the opportunity to delve into the history of the town and its people during the Edwardian period, through exhibits. The former home of the Bantock family it is has a delightful interior and many fine features including, carved oak panelled rooms, decorative glass, tiles and period furnishings influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. On display in the house are a diverse collection of items not least locally made enamels, japanned ware, papier mache, jewellery, toys, dolls and pre-Raphaelite paintings. To entertain the younger visitors there are a range of activities taking place all over the house and lots of exhibits that you can touch and even costumes to try on. The Dutch gardens, sunken garden and rose gardens are all beautiful and absolutely stunning when in full bloom and the scents that permeate the air are gorgeous. The courtyard cafe is cosy and inviting and serves a nice choice of beverages and homemade food, The museum shop is a nice place to stop before leaving to pick up a memento or gift, they have a good choice of cards, gifts and traditional children's toys. The staff are very friendly and informative and happy to impart their knowledge about the house and the towns history. Bantock House Museum is open throughout the year, there are different opening times for winter and summer and you can get details from the website. There is no charge for entry to Bantock House Museum although donations are welcome. Bantock House will appeal to all ages and makes for a fun and interesting family day out in beautiful surroundings.
This museum gives a fascinating insight into the life, family and friends, development and inspirations of Sir Edward Elgar, one of England's greatest composers. You can listen to the words and music of Elgar through the audio tour as you wander the exhibitions.
Moseley Old Hall is a 16th century farmhouse that has an integral role in history, it was the place that King Charles II hid after he escaped from Cromwell's troops during the Battle of Worcester in 1651. It is an intriguing house full of original furniture and features, and in many instances it looks like it is still being lived in and the house is further brought to life by the staff who are dressed in period clothes using original equipment and tools. During your visit you will get to see the bed where the King slept as well as seeing the priest hole where he hid. The tour guides will bring the history of the house to life and they regale interesting stories about what life was like in the 17th century, you will find the guides to be friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the house. The gardens are stunning and have lots of lovely features including, a collection of 17th century plants, a fruit orchard and a stunning knot garden as well as the tree hide. There is a tea room that serves a lovely selection of refreshments and light lunches. Moseley Old Hall is open throughout the year and they also run a series of events, activities and demonstrations to cater to all the family, so check out the website for further details. Moseley Old Hall transports you back in time to another era, it is a lovely welcoming and homely house that is brimming with history and is most interesting to visit, highly recommended.
