Discover medieval treasure, surround yourself with hundreds of butterflies and see behind the scenes of the iconic Wedgwood factory with these trips less than 60 minutes from Birmingham.
Out of Birmingham (40.7mi) / Visit the iconic Wedgwood factory in Stoke-on-Trent for a behind the scenes tour that reveals how the famous ceramics are made. This is the place to discover the creation of Jasperware, a unique invention by Josiah Wedgwood I. Guests can indulge in a delicious Afternoon Tea in the Wedgwood Tea Room and if you fancy yourself as the next Pottery Throwdown champion, Wedgwood also offer creative experiences on the potter’s wheel. www.worldofwedgwood.com
Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens
Out of Birmingham (6.5mi) / Visit one of the only unchanged early 18th century formal gardens in the UK. The 10-acre walled garden transports you back to the Dutch and French influenced formal gardens of the late 17th century. A further 30 acres of the former estate’s historic Parkland, now a Local Nature Reserve, encircles the formal garden. With walks, orchards, vegetable garden as well as mud kitchens and wildlife areas, it’s a great place for all the family to hang out. Enjoy a picnic or some homemade cakes, artisan pies and snacks in the outdoor Courtyard Cafe. Dogs are permitted on a lead. www.castlebromwichhallgardens.org.uk
Stratford-Upon-Avon Butterfly Farm
Out of Birmingham (32.1mi) / The UK’s largest tropical butterfly paradise, come rain or shine enjoy the unique pleasure of discovering hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies flying in an exotic environment of tropical blossom with splashing waterfalls and fish filled pools. Also ‘Rainforest Realm’ is a unique exhibit featuring a Spectacled Caiman and other animals that originate from the rainforests of Central America. Open every day, all year round, this hidden gem is situated in the historic market town of Stratford-upon-Avon. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk
West Midland Safari Park
Out of Birmingham (20.5mi) / West Midland Safari Park is an award-winning visitor attraction, located in Worcestershire in the heart of England. Home to a variety of all-weather attractions, including a four mile Safari Drive-through, home to some of the world’s most beautiful and critically endangered animals, a thrilling animatronic dinosaur exhibit, Adventure Theme Park, as well as many incredible up-close animal encounters and walking trails. Prices from £22 for adults and children. Concessions aged 65+ from £19. Free for children under three. Guests can enjoy the thrills of the Adventure Theme Park for an additional charge. Admission includes a free to return visit within six months, only when booking online in advance. www.wmsp.co.uk
Tamworth Castle
Out of Birmingham (16.1mi) / Tamworth Castle is both a museum and a stunning example of an intact Norman motte and bailey castle, surrounded by beautiful grounds. Explore 1,000 years of history and uncover the secrets inside including items from the Staffordshire Hoard and more than 15 fully furnished rooms. Don’t forget to venture up the tower for a 360° view of Tamworth. www.tamworthcastle.co.uk
Coventry Cathedral
Out of Birmingham (22.1mi) / Discover over 1000 years of sacred history across the Coventry Cathedral grounds. Explore the early medieval craftsmanship, see the Ruins destroyed in the Coventry Blitz during WW2, now recognised as an international symbol of hope, and step inside the New Cathedral featuring works by some of the greatest artists of the 1950s and 60s, including Graham Sutherland’s Christ in Glory. www.coventrycathedral.org.uk
