The West Midlands is packed with towns that have preserved their character and community spirit.
Once the heart of trade and gathering, open-air markets may be fading, but these places still keep that legacy alive.
All under 90 minutes from Birmingham - and easy to reach by car or public transport - these market towns are perfect for soaking up some history, grabbing a bite, and wandering through streets that haven’t forgotten their past.
Here are eight historic market towns near Birmingham to explore in summer 2025.
1. Bewdley, Worcestershire
This town is the gateway to the UK’s largest native woodland, Wyre Forest. It’s a Georgian town nestled on the River Severn. An official market was established in 1376 but a settlement is documented as far back as 1086. It’s less than an hour by car to get there from Birmingham and has much to see and experience. | Neil - stock.adobe.com
2. Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire
Tenbury Wells is located in the northwestern extremity of the Malvern Hills District of Worcestershire. It has been a settlement since at least Anglo-Saxon times. It officially became a Market Town when King Henry III granted a Charter to Roger de Clifford to hold a weekly market in 1249. (Photo- Penny Mayes/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic) | Penny Mayes/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic
3. Stourbridge, Dudley
The town was established in the early Middle Ages. Since then, it has been developed during Roman and Saxon times and during the reigns of Elizabeth and Victoria. Though an agricultural market town it is also renown for its glass-making. Less than 40 minutes from Birmingham, the Hagley Hall is located here and is worth a visit apart from the various glass centres. | Nicola - stock.adobe.com
4. Stafford, Staffordshire
According to legends, this town was founded in about 700 AD by a Mercian prince called Bertelin. Less than an hour away from Birmingham, this town became an important Market Town in the Middle Ages. It’s ideal for a day visit and there is much to see, including the Stafford Castle. (Photo - Val Vannet/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic) | Val Vannet/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic