Spring is here and with that people are looking to go outdoors more often to explore the beautiful landscape of the region. The West Midlands is home to many spots of natural beauty that are welcoming towards visitors.
For English Tourism Week, BirminghamWorld is taking a look at the historic spa villages where the waters were said to have medicinal properties. These villages may not be known as spa towns any more but continue to be incredibly beautiful that is well-preserved.
Birmingham’s prime location makes it easy to access these towns. From Shropshire to the Cotswolds - nothing is more than 90 minutes away. Whether you take a train, coach or drive there yourself, the destinations are worth it.
So, here are seven incredible historic spa towns and villages near Birmingham:
1. Royal Leamington Spa
Royal Leamington Spa has been renowned for its mineral springs since the middle ages, but in 1784 the small village rediscovered its saline springs and began building baths around some of them. It is still known for its natural beauty and is less than an hour from Birmingham. (Photo - gb27photo - stock.adobe.com)
2. Droitwich Spa
Droitwich Spa has had a settled community for the last 2000 years. It is known for its natural brine springs which emanate from subterranean beds of pure rock salt 200ft below the ground. It has many leisure activities available including: guided walks, an open air lido and two well maintained Green Flag parks making it a haven for cyclists, walking, and nature lovers. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
3. Great Malvern
Malvern’s water was believed to have health-giving properties. The quality of the water and natural beauty led to its being developed as a spa, with resources for invalids for tourists. The health benefits of the spring water is famous from the mediaeval times. The town has inspired many writers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein as well, and continues to be a beautiful place to visit. It is a short train ride away and has lovely hills great for long walks. (Photo - Asmita Sarkar)
4. Tenbury Wells
Tenbury Well’s waters were high in minerals and were believed to have medicinal value. In 1839, a Dr. Granville made the discovery. As there was economic potential, a spa facility was constructed in 1850. Pump Rooms were added in 1862 and they still stand. The are a Grade II listed building, owned and managed by Tenbury Town Council. It is less than 90 minutes from Birmingham and the natural beauty is worth exploring. (Photo - Penny Mayes/ Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic)