A Road Trip from Cardiff to Solihull: Five Unexpected Places to Stop
Driving from Cardiff, Wales to Solihull, England, takes you through some of the most scenic countryside that the United Kingdom has to offer. The route spans roughly 120 miles and passes through several picturesque towns and villages, providing plenty of opportunities to explore delightful attractions. Along the way, you will find pubs, museums, parks, and shops worth checking out. Here are five unexpected places to stop along the way, each with unique experiences to offer.
Halfway Point: Malvern, WOR
Malvern represents an excellent stopping point for refreshments and a visit to the Malvern Hills. The Malvern Hills stretch for over nine miles and offer a spectacular view of the neighboring towns, countryside, and places of interest. Visitors can get lost in the hills for several hours, marveling at the beautiful surroundings, including ponds, woods, and grasslands. Malvern is also home to the Morgan Factory, where visitors can witness the meticulous craftsmanship of the iconic retro sports cars.
Food worth trying: Tea and biscuits at Malvern Hills GeoCentre.
1. Chipping Camden, GLS
Chipping Camden is a well-preserved medieval market town located on the edge of the Cotswold Hills. With a variety of specialty shops, unique boutiques, historic buildings, and a picturesque High Street, Chipping Camden has something for everyone. Visitors can appreciate the town's Saxon architecture, starting with the 14th-century Gothic church, St. James. Chipping Camden has some of the best pubs and restaurants in the region, with classical dishes worth trying.
Food worth trying: Duck breast at The King's Arms.
2. Warwick, WAR
Located in the heart of Warwickshire, the town of Warwick predates the Roman invasion of Britain. Visitors can tour Warwick Castle, a beautifully preserved medieval settlement dating back to the 11th century. In addition to the castle, visitors can explore the picturesque Market Place and the Wood Street's antiques centre. Warwick is an excellent place to grab a drink at one of the town's traditional pubs or enjoy a meal in one of the town's restaurants.
Food worth trying: Mac and cheese burger at Dirty Duck.
3. Bourton-on-the-Water, GLS
Often referred to as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is a stunning village that stands out for its beautiful meandering river, low bridges, and honey-colored cottages built with Cotswold stones. The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection is one of the main attractions in the region, featuring displays of vintage cars, motorcycles, and toys. Bourton-on-the-Water also boasts several art galleries and cafés serving delightful cakes and pastries.
Food worth trying: Scones with clotted cream and jam at The Croft.
4. Royal Leamington Spa, WAR
Royal Leamington Spa is a charming town often regarded as one of the most beautiful in England. Located on the River Leam, the town is renowned for its Georgian and Victorian architecture, glorious gardens, and posh shops. A visit to Jephson Gardens, a sprawling park showcasing the finest seasonal flowers and plants, is a must-do activity in the town. Visitors can also take a dip at the Royal Pump Rooms containing one of the town's most significant art galleries.
Food worth trying: Pacific Rim chicken at Slug and Lettuce.
5. Kenilworth, WAR
Kenilworth is a village nestled on the northern outskirts of Warwick. The town has a storied past, having hosted Queen Elizabeth I during one of her tours of the region in the 16th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of Kenilworth Castle, one of the most prominent attractions in the region. The castle has undergone significant restoration work and now features a lively events calendar throughout the year. Kenilworth has a thriving food scene, with several restaurants and cafés offering creative dishes in an upscale setting.
Food worth trying: Braised lamb shank at The Almanack.
Take the Trip!
The drive from Cardiff to Solihull provides a delightful experience, one filled with surprises along the way. The journey takes approximately three hours, depending on the stops you make along the way. Visitors can expect to find some of the quaintest and most historically significant towns and villages in England, each with its story to tell. Why not take it slow and absorb the beauty of the region? You won't regret the unexpected stops on your journey from Cardiff to Solihull.