Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bromsgrove to Stafford

Bromsgrove and Stafford might not be the first places that travelers think of when it comes to road-tripping in England, but this journey through the Midlands region offers plenty of sights and delights. Serving up a generous helping of history, culture, and outdoor fun, this route offers varied opportunities to soak up local life and admire stunning landscapes. If you are planning a road trip from Bromsgrove to Stafford and want to make the most of your adventure, keep reading!

Top Five Things to Do

Visit the Black Country Living Museum

The Black Country Living Museum, located in Dudley, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the industrial history of England. This open-air museum takes you back in time to the 19th and early 20th centuries, when the Midlands was a hub of coal mining, metalworking, and other labor-intensive industries. Visitors can explore fully furnished homes, workshops, factories, and shops, interact with costumed characters, and learn about the lives of working-class people of the time.

Interesting fact: The museum was featured in the hit BBC drama series Peaky Blinders as the backdrop for the Shelby family's illegal activities.

Take a Stroll in Cannock Chase Forest

Cannock Chase Forest, located in Staffordshire, is a vast woodland area that offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers. From hiking, cycling, and horseback riding to birdwatching, picnicking, and even Go Ape treetop adventures, there's something to suit every taste. The forest has a rich history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Mesolithic era, and it's also home to rare species such as the nightjar and the silver-studded blue butterfly.

Interesting fact: During World War II, Cannock Chase was used as a training ground for British soldiers and was also one of the sites where German prisoners of war were held.

Explore the Ancient Ruins of Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral, located in the town of Lichfield, is one of the finest medieval cathedrals in England. It was founded in the 7th century by St. Chad, the first bishop of Lichfield, and has undergone numerous renovations and additions over the centuries. Visitors can admire the unique three-spired facade, which is a rare feature among English cathedrals, and explore the beautiful interior, which includes intricate carvings, colorful stained glass windows, and the famous Lichfield Gospels, an illuminated manuscript from the 8th century.

Interesting fact: The cathedral's central spire, which rises to a height of 77 meters, was once the tallest in England before it collapsed during a severe storm in 1560.

Visit the Birthplace of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon-Avon, located just south of Birmingham, is a charming market town that is famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, England's greatest playwright. Visitors can explore the house where Shakespeare was born and raised, as well as the homes of his wife Anne Hathaway and his daughter Susanna. The town is also home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, which performs world-class productions of Shakespeare's plays throughout the year.

Interesting fact: Shakespeare was not the only famous person born in Stratford-upon-Avon - the town is also the birthplace of Thomas Gainsborough, one of Britain's greatest artists.

Admire the Beauty of the Peak District National Park

The Peak District National Park, located in the northern part of the Midlands, is a stunning area of rugged hills, moors, and valleys that is popular with hikers, bikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. The park covers over 1,400 square kilometers and includes famous landmarks such as Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, and the caves of Castleton. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, traditional country pubs, and charming villages such as Bakewell and Buxton.

Interesting fact: The Peak District is home to a large population of red deer, which are often seen grazing on the hillsides.

Conclusion

The road trip from Bromsgrove to Stafford may cover only about 60 miles, but it packs in a wealth of attractions and experiences that offer something for everyone. From the industrial heritage of the Black Country to the natural beauty of the Peak District, this route is a great way to see some of the best of the Midlands. With a stop at the halfway point of Walsall, it's a journey that can be easily done in a day or stretched out over a leisurely weekend. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and get ready to hit the road - adventure awaits!