The Best Day Trips Within an Hour of Birmingham

About the author: Hi! My name is Tamara Greatrix, but I usually go by Tam, and I’m a 3rd year BA English Literature student at the University of Birmingham. I am currently the Print & Features and Culture Editor for Redbrick Newspaper and writer for The Tab. In my spare time, I ride horses and love visiting the theatre.

Now that the dreaded summer assignment season is winding down, I’m sure I’m not the only one desperate for some much-needed time away from my desk. We all know that petrol can be pricey, but rest assured, there is plenty to do right here in the Midlands.

I’ve collated a handy list to guide you through my top picks for day trips near Birmingham ready for the next time you’re at a loose end.

Stratford-upon-Avon

For all the avid literature fans out there, Stratford-upon-Avon is the perfect choice. As Shakespeare’s birthplace, this cosy town is essentially a pilgrimage for Shakespeare fanatics.

But that's not its only appeal. The scenery is beautiful, with plenty of green spaces to soak up the sunshine; the River Avon runs straight through the middle of the Recreational Ground which is a huge park in the centre of Stratford where you can head out on a boat trip or hire a swan pedalo!

One of the most unique aspects of Stratford-upon-Avon is the canal boats that have been converted into floating cafés and diners – they offer a quirky dining experience right on the Marina (just outside the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre).

Speaking of, while you're there, why not watch Richard Eyre’s The Tempest and make the most of the £10 student-ticket deals?

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Cannock Chase

I grew up next to Cannock Chase so I might be slightly biased, but I truly think it is one of the most beautiful places in the Midlands. Cannock Chase is the smallest Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty in the UK, but don’t let its size put you off. It's a beautiful and tranquil forest, perfect for some much-needed respite after assignment season.

If you're looking for some activities, Go Ape is great fun (sort of like a tree-top agility course), or you can dust off your wellies for some horse riding at Cannock Chase Trekking Centre.

There's plenty of free parking and, as a local, I’d recommend The Punchbowl or Rifle Range Corner for some accessible walking spots (no gatekeeping around here!).

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West Midlands Safari Park

If you think you're too old for the safari park, you couldn't be more wrong. West Midlands Safari Park is a short drive from Selly Oak, and it's a great and affordable day out (especially if you make the most of their discounted student tickets!).

The drive-through safari is great fun, with a huge range of animals that you can view from the comfort of your car.

The park is quiet in the week during term time, too, meaning you can make the most of the variety of amusements; the log flume is great for those hot summer days, and me and my friend rode it 6 times in a row last time we went! It's the ultimate way to release your inner child this summer.

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Ironbridge & Blists Hill Victorian Town

Ironbridge is such a hidden gem, and the best part about it is that it is so near to other places that you can tie them together into one trip.

For the history buffs, Ironbridge is frequently noted as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, but it is also a beautiful place to visit as it's surrounded by a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to lots of lovely shops.

If you fancy something a bit more immersive, not too far away is Blists Hill Victorian Town. Blists Hill is a recreation of a Victorian village, but it's so realistic that you would hardly realise it wasn’t the real thing. They have a fairground, horse carriage rides and an array of actors, making it a super authentic experience. Their Halloween and Christmas events are also great if you are in the market for some winter activities!

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Now the warm summer days are here and the end of assignment season is in sight, there's no better time to put on a cute outfit, grab your friends and enjoy a day out in the Midlands. Whatever you decide to get up to this summer, stay safe, enjoy the sunshine and make sure you find time to celebrate all your efforts this academic year!

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