At BirminghamWorld we love to celebrate the plethora of West Midlands towns that make the region so special and unique.
Last week, we made the case that Stratford-upon-Avon should be in the running for the UK Town of Culture competition. Though, there is another Warwickshire market town that is often overlooked in comparison to Shakespeare’s birthplace that is considering to run for UK Town of Culture.
That town of course is Warwick, the town would like to emphasis the area's distinctive identity and community spirit.
There is definitely more to Warwick than its iconic castle, which at over 1,000 years old is the best preserved fortress in England.
At the moment, residents, businesses and visitors in Warwick are being asked to describe what makes the town special, as part of a potential opportunity to celebrate the town on a national scale.
The council is not committing to a bid at this stage, but is using the programme’s focus on pride, culture and place to start with a conversation with the local community around what makes Warwick such a special place.
Cllr Dave Skinner, leader of Warwick Town Council, said: “Warwick is full of brilliant people, ideas and activity, and this competition offers a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on all of that. What’s particularly exciting is the chance to bring people together - residents, businesses and community groups - to help shape the conversation and celebrate what makes Warwick such a special place.”
1. Interesting history and beginnings
Warwick is a town steeped in history. After a devastating fire at the end of the 17th century, much of the town had to be rebuilt. But one of the oldest surviving buildings is the Lord Leycester - one of Europe's most important medieval buildings and home to the Master and Brethren for over 450 years. Explore its magnificent half-timbered buildings independently or via a guided tour from one of the Brethren themselves, relax in the Tudor gardens and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Great Hall. | Warwick Castle
2. Warwick Castle
Warwick is well known for its castle, which at over 1,000 years old is the best preserved fortress in England - but there’s more to this medieval market town than turrets and jousting. From a wealth of independent shops to a burgeoning food scene, and a town centre that couldn’t get more picturesque if it tried, plus its location in the heart of England. | Warwick Visitor Centre
3. Enjoy nature and Warwick's glorious gardens
Warwick is home to some glorious gardens. Take time to find the restored Victorian hedged gardens and Grade II listed summer houses at Hill Close Gardens. Another hidden gem is Pageant Garden - a garden created for the former gentleman’s residence now known as Pageant House and now the backdrop for civic garden parties and wedding photographs. Warwick’s St Nicholas Park has its own beautiful gardens, but also offers children’s play areas, a fun park, adventure mini golf, and a skate park. You can even hire boats and pedalos and take a trip down the River Avon. An easy walk from the town centre, it has everything for people of all ages and is easy to access. | Warwick Town Council
4. Appreciate Warwick's diverse food and drink scene
Restaurant Hem in the Market Square is listed in the Michelin Guide, while The Four Penny Pub just a stone’s throw from Warwick Racecourse has been included in the Top 50 Gastropubs list and local independent Dough and Brew is a regular in national pizza awards. There are restaurants, cafes, cosy pubs and bakeries galore, along with tearooms, cosy pubs and cuisine from across the world - all making Warwick a foodie-friendly haven. | Warwick Visitor Centre