Across the central portion of England is a region generally known as the Midlands. The western half of the area is suitably named the West Midlands, and it is here that you will find Birmingham, the second most populous British city. Scenic rivers and lovely parks also decorate the landscape, even though the West Midlands are still known mainly for industry and commerce. This idea might have some validity, but there are certainly many enticing things to see and do around the West Midlands.
The River Severn is the longest river in the United Kingdom and flows serenely through a location known as Ironbridge Gorge. Today, this pretty spot enjoys a distinction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once known as the Severn Gorge, Ironbridge Gorge is currently named thanks to the iron bridge that was built there, the first bridge of its kind anywhere on Earth. Visitors to the gorge will enjoy a quiet stroll around the woodlands and grasslands that populate the ravine.
Another scenic destination around the West Midlands is Peak District National Park. It was designated as such in 1951, making it the first national park in the British Isles. Heather grows in the moors and blanket bog ecologies are just a couple of the features of the park that make it so attractive. The Pennine Way is also found in the park, the first long distance footpath in the United Kingdom. Visitors will also want to take advantage of the outdoor activities found in Peak District such as paragliding from Mam Tor and mountain biking along the trails.
No stop in the West Midlands would be complete for sports fans without taking in a football match featuring one of the region's popular football clubs like Aston Villa FC and Birmingham City FC. If sports is not your cup of tea, then a trip to the Thinktank Planetarium in Birmingham might be what you are looking for. It is the first purpose-built digital planetarium in the UK and it happens to feature some breathtaking laser light shows.
The West Midlands are a region of variety. Of course, evidence of a heavily industrial past still exists, but everyone from nature lovers to sports fans will find something to enjoy in the area. Besides, one of the West Midlands best features is its many pubs ready to welcome the weary after they have put in a long day. A trip to the West Midlands is one of the most memorable one can take in the British Isles.
The River Severn is the longest river in the United Kingdom and flows serenely through a location known as Ironbridge Gorge. Today, this pretty spot enjoys a distinction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once known as the Severn Gorge, Ironbridge Gorge is currently named thanks to the iron bridge that was built there, the first bridge of its kind anywhere on Earth. Visitors to the gorge will enjoy a quiet stroll around the woodlands and grasslands that populate the ravine.
Another scenic destination around the West Midlands is Peak District National Park. It was designated as such in 1951, making it the first national park in the British Isles. Heather grows in the moors and blanket bog ecologies are just a couple of the features of the park that make it so attractive. The Pennine Way is also found in the park, the first long distance footpath in the United Kingdom. Visitors will also want to take advantage of the outdoor activities found in Peak District such as paragliding from Mam Tor and mountain biking along the trails.
No stop in the West Midlands would be complete for sports fans without taking in a football match featuring one of the region's popular football clubs like Aston Villa FC and Birmingham City FC. If sports is not your cup of tea, then a trip to the Thinktank Planetarium in Birmingham might be what you are looking for. It is the first purpose-built digital planetarium in the UK and it happens to feature some breathtaking laser light shows.
The West Midlands are a region of variety. Of course, evidence of a heavily industrial past still exists, but everyone from nature lovers to sports fans will find something to enjoy in the area. Besides, one of the West Midlands best features is its many pubs ready to welcome the weary after they have put in a long day. A trip to the West Midlands is one of the most memorable one can take in the British Isles.
