Top Places to See When Driving From Birmingham, England to Long Crendon, England

Welcome to England, where the countryside is a true wonder, and driving around it is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. The drive from Birmingham to Long Crendon, located northwest of London, is a great opportunity to visit some of the country's hidden gems. In this blog post, we will take you through the top places to see on your journey and bring you closer to England's culture and heritage.

Start Your Journey in Birmingham, England

Before starting on your route, make sure you check out all that Birmingham has to offer. Known as the "second city," Birmingham is one of the UK's cultural and industrial hubs. With its rich mix of history, architecture, and the bustling city life, Birmingham is a treasure trove for the curious traveller. Some notable must-see places include:

1. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

   Known for its impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and Staffordshire pottery, the museum and art gallery also offers exhibits related to local history, archaeology, and natural history. Here you can go on a journey through Birmingham's medieval past or marvel at the intricate designs and craftsmanship of the jewelry and metalwork collection.

2. The Bullring Shopping Centre

   Now for something a bit more modern, the Bullring Shopping Centre is the beating heart of Birmingham's retail and fashion district. With over 200 stores, you can find everything from designer brands to high-street fashion and independent boutiques. Don't forget to take a snap in front of the dashing bronze bull statue that's welcomed visitors since 2003.

Heading to Long Crendon

3. Warwick Castle

   A mere fifty-mile drive from Birmingham will bring you to the mighty Warwick Castle, a glorious testament to medieval England's tumultuous past. The castle is complete with ramparts, dungeons, towers, and stunning views over the River Avon. Take a guided tour through the castle and learn about its gory history, try some archery, or see a birds of prey show. Warwick Castle is one of the best-preserved castles in the country, and a definite must-see.

4. The Cotswolds

   You can't drive through the country without taking a detour to see the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds. Here you'll find quaint stone cottages, idyllic streams, and rolling hills covered in luscious greenery. Take a stroll through the Cotswolds village of Broadway and browse the independent shops and tea rooms, or pay a visit to Bibury, often called the most beautiful village in England, and admire the stunning medieval stone bridge and the swans on the River Coln.

5. Bletchley Park

   Finally, in the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside, you'll find the historic Bletchley Park. This once-secret codebreaking facility was responsible for cracking the Nazi Enigma code, leading to the end of World War II. Now a museum, you can explore the codebreaking history and technology that made it happen. See the Nazi code machine, Turing's Bombe, and the stunning Victorian mansion where the likes of Alan Turing and his team worked tirelessly during the war. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Computing on-site after exploring Bletchley Park.

Conclusion

The road from Birmingham to Long Crendon is a fantastic trip that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustle of Birmingham to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, to the secrets of Bletchley Park, you'll come to appreciate the variety and beauty of England. Make sure to plan your journey to maximize your time and enjoyment, and enjoy the many sights and sounds along the way. Safe travels!