42 million visitors flocked to Birmingham in 2018, reports LTW Media. The city’s numerous attractions, culture and heritage make it an ideal destination for a family day out. But there are also plenty of fun and interesting places to visit just outside of Birmingham. As long as you have a car and don’t mind an hour-or-so drive, you can explore what the outskirts of the city have to offer.
Alton Towers
Alton Towers in Staffordshire is roughly one and a half hour’s drive from Birmingham. Before you leave for the day, it’s important to check that your car’s in good condition, and that you’re using a vehicle that will carry the whole party comfortably and safely. Get it checked over by a mechanic — you want the fluid levels, tires and brakes in full working order. Bring a spare tire, jumper cables, and extra wiper fluid just in case. Once you arrive at Alton Towers, you can have fun on the roller coasters, waterpark, mini-golf course, obstacle course and children’s rides (including CBeebies Land). There’s also the Halloween-themed Scarefest, which is suitable for children, teens and adults. Tickets are £33 per adult (under threes get in free).
West Midland Safari Park
West Midland Safari Park in Bewdley, Worcestershire is just an hour’s drive outside of Birmingham. You can drive through the animal enclosures in your own car (four miles in total). There are various separate areas in the park filled with magnificent animals, including African Plains (zebra, giraffes and baby white rhino), Wild Woods (lions and dhole), Elephant Valley (African elephants), and Wild Asia (Bactrian camels and rare deer and antelope). On foot, you can walk the all-weather Discover Trail, which features a sea lion theatre and 140 different species of animals.
Warwick Castle
A stunning medieval castle, Warwick castle is only an hour’s drive from Birmingham via the M40. Here you can learn about the castle’s colourful 1,000 years of history, which includes viewing the Trebuchet — the biggest working catapult in the world. You can also tour the castle’s beautiful interiors. Caesar’s Tower is a remarkable example of 12th century architecture; it’s as tall as ten double decker buses. Go down to the castle’s original dungeon, the Gaol, and see the graffiti left by prisoners from ancient times past. Warwick castle also provides live entertainment, including birds of prey in the summer, archery and jousting tournaments. Tickets start from £15.
These attractions near Birmingham are well worth a visit, and make for the perfect one-day road trip. Whether you go to just one or all three, they’re bound to be fun for the whole family.