Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgwater, England to Wakefield, England

If you're looking for a road trip that will take you through a range of scenery and landscapes, the drive from Bridgwater to Wakefield is a fantastic choice. This route will take you from the rolling hills of the southwest through to the industrial heritage of the north. The journey is around 175 miles, and it takes approximately three and a half hours on the road without any stops. However, that's no way to enjoy a road trip! Here are five unexpected places to stop along the way that will make the journey even more appealing.

Halfway Point: Birmingham, XWM

Before we start with the specific destinations, let's talk about the halfway point of the journey. Birmingham, XWM, is a significant milestone, and it offers a great opportunity for a break. As one of the UK's largest cities, there's plenty to see and do, whether you're interested in history, art, or culture. Some of the top things to do in Birmingham include visiting the Bullring shopping centre, exploring the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, and taking a stroll through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

1. Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester

If you're looking for a stunning piece of architecture and a place to escape the chaos of the motorway, look no further than Gloucester Cathedral. This beautiful building has been a place of religious worship since the 7th century, and it has been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries. Today, it's a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is home to some of the best-preserved medieval stained glass windows in the country. Be sure to visit the Whispering Gallery and take a tour of the medieval cloisters.

Favorite Food: The Cathedral Café serves up delicious homemade cakes and coffee, perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up.

2. The Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford-upon-Avon

If you have even a passing interest in theatre, a visit to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford-upon-Avon is a must. This world-renowned theatre company is known for its innovative productions of Shakespeare plays, as well as new works by contemporary playwrights. During your visit, take a backstage tour to see how the magic happens, or catch a performance in one of the RSC's three theatres.

Favorite Food: The Rooftop Restaurant at the RSC is a fantastic spot for a pre or post-theatre lunch or dinner, offering panoramic views of the town.

3. The Forbidden Corner, Middleham

If you're traveling with kids, or if you're simply a fan of quirky and unusual attractions, the Forbidden Corner in Middleham is a must. This unique attraction bills itself as "the strangest place in the world," and it's not hard to see why. The site consists of a series of gardens, mazes, and follies, all designed to confuse and delight visitors. There are hidden tunnels, secret doors, and unexpected surprises around every corner.

Favorite Food: Middleham itself is famous for its cheese, so be sure to try some of the local Wensleydale cheese. The Blue Lion pub serves up a great selection of local cheeses on its cheese board.

4. The Hepworth Wakefield, Wakefield

When you arrive in Wakefield, make sure to take a visit to the Hepworth Wakefield. This award-winning gallery is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and David Hockney. The building itself is a work of art, with a light and airy design that showcases the artwork to great effect.

Favorite Food: The Hepworth Café serves up delicious locally-sourced food, including a range of freshly-made sandwiches and salads.

5. The Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

Another attraction worth visiting in Wakefield is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. This outdoor museum is spread across 500 acres of rolling countryside and is home to a vast collection of sculptures by internationally renowned artists. There are also regular exhibitions, events, and workshops for visitors to enjoy.

Favorite Food: The Weston Restaurant at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park has a range of tempting dishes, including homemade soups, salads, and cakes.

Why You Should Make This Trip

Overall, this road trip from Bridgwater to Wakefield offers the chance to discover some of the UK's most unique and unexpected attractions. From stunning Gothic cathedrals to the "strangest place in the world," there's something to delight everyone along the way. So pack your bags, fill up the gas tank, and hit the road – you won't regret it!