Charming English Towns in the West Midlands

Plan your perfect local getaway in Worcestershire and Warwickshire

If you’re looking for local day trips in the West Midlands, we’ve got you covered. We’ve been living in the area for a couple of years and have spent countless weekends exploring both the popular spots and the hidden gems that aren’t usually on the tourist radar. We love authentic places where you can soak up local life simply by wandering down old streets that seem to whisper stories from the past. In this guide, we’re excited to share our favorite towns and attractions in the West Midlands that are perfect for a relaxing getaway.

This charming town is known for its beautiful historic riverside. Take a stroll along the River Severn, enjoy a coffee, or grab some classic fish and chips with a view of the old bridge — which once played a vital role in the town’s river trade.

If you hear the distant whistle of a steam train, don’t miss a visit to the Severn Valley Railway. Bewdley station and vintage trains are maintained as if time has stood still, with volunteers in period costumes and authentic artifacts that make you feel like you’ve stepped into the past.

For even more immersion, the local Bewdley Museum offers exhibits and live demonstrations, giving you a real sense of the town’s history. Add in the lovely gardens and quaint charity shops, and Bewdley is the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy a peaceful day.

One of the oldest centers of salt production in the UK, Droitwich Spa has been known for its salt springs since Roman times. You can explore the town’s history of extracting salt from brine — a process that shaped its economy for centuries.

The Droitwich Canal and the town’s historic High Street are great for a leisurely stroll. Stop by local shops for a unique salty souvenir, and don’t miss Hanbury Hall, a stunning 18th-century estate nearby, famous for its ornate ceiling paintings and beautifully landscaped gardens.

No list of West Midlands gems would be complete without a National Trust or English Heritage site. Witley Court was once a grand Victorian mansion, but today only the outer shell remains after a devastating fire in the 1930s. Despite this, the ruins are mesmerizing.

Take a romantic walk through the gardens and climb the hill to admire the Perseus and Andromeda Fountain. During water displays, the fountain comes alive, offering a magical glimpse into the estate’s former glory. Witley Court is a hidden treasure and a must-visit for anyone in the area.

A peaceful village ideal for a quick stop during a West Midlands road trip. Wander the charming main street, enjoy the calm around the church, and pop into one of the cozy pubs with beer gardens. Occasionally, you might catch a local event, like a classic car show, adding a bit of excitement to your visit.

This quaint town near Stratford-upon-Avon has a wonderfully authentic High Street lined with cafés and boutique shops. Behind the church, the Jubilee Gardens offer a quiet spot to relax. The town is full of picture-perfect houses that look like they belong in a film set — perfect for leisurely exploration.

No West Midlands guide would be complete without Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Having lived here for over two years, we can vouch that despite its popularity, it retains a comfortable and calm charm.

The riverside parks are perfect for gentle walks along the Avon. Don’t miss local theaters, cafés, and bakeries. Highlights include:

• Royal Shakespeare Theatre for a world-class performance
• Shakespeare’s Birthplace and related museums
• Old Garrick Pub for a pint steeped in history
• Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried
• Explore the canals and historic lock systems
• The Boat House, a lovely spot to drink with a view of the river

Nearby, Charlecote Park (National Trust) is a beautiful estate with sprawling meadows and deer, perfect for a peaceful day out.

Alcester was a personal “wow” for us. Its small, historic town center is compact and easy to explore, with a few cozy streets around the church worth discovering. We even saw a film crew shooting in one of the corners, which didn’t surprise us — it’s that picturesque.

One of the most beautiful streets we’ve seen is Malt Mill Lane, lined with flowers that make it feel straight out of a storybook. Alcester is perfect for a gentle stroll and discovering hidden corners at your own pace.

These are our favorite spots to explore in the West Midlands. Alongside more popular places like Warwick or Leamington Spa, these towns offer a glimpse into authentic English life.

For even more inspiration, check out our videos of Worcestershire and the West Midlands on our YouTube channel.