The winter storms are fading and the evenings are getting bright, so it's a good time plan ahead to create fun memories with your family with day trips and experiences. And, if you don't fancy jetting off to foreign shores and instead stay near home - there are several amazing places near Birmingham to explore.
These destinations, including historic villages, castles, hills and more will keep you on your toes through the summer holidays. Whether you’re looking for a walking holiday or an activity based trip - there are several destinations close to Birmingham. Some take less than an hour to reach!
With Birmingham being well-connected to the rest of the West Midlands and beyond - the options are limitless. From walking in Robin Hood’s footsteps to the closest beach resort or incredible Stuart castles and more - a short car, bus or train ride can get you anywhere for an amazing day trip with your friends and family.
If you have been unable to decide where to head off to, here are 21 amazing towns, villages, castles and more you can visit this summer:
17. Beacon Hill, Leicestershire - arou 10 miles
Lickey Hills Country Park covers 524 acres and is located just 10 miles south west of Birmingham. It includes woodlands, heathland and grassland. There is a lot to do here like walking but the best view is from Beacon Hill. (Photo - joycedholyoak - stock.adobe.com) | joycedholyoak - stock.adobe.com
18. Packwood House, Solihull - around 14 miles
Packwood House is a 16th-century Tudor house that was restored at the beginning of the 20th century by Graham Baron Ash, son of a wealthy industrialist. It has a garden, cafe, and a lot more. It’s great for spending a day out and is located on the Solihull border near Lapworth. (Photo - Wikimedia Commons/Tony Hisgett) | Wikimedia Commons/Tony Hisgett
19. Ludlow Castle, Shropshire - around 42 miles
Perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Ludlow in Shropshire, this castle’s origins dates back to the 11th century. Built by the Norman lord, Roger de Lacy, over the centuries, it served as a royal palace, a military stronghold, and a center of political power, playing a pivotal role in shaping the course of English history. It’s less than two hours drive from Birmingham. (Photo - Colin & Linda McKie - stock.adobe.com) | Colin & Linda McKie - stock.adobe.com
20. Weston-super-Mare - around 113 miles
Known as Weston, this Somerset seaside resort has beaches, hills, a zoo and a waterpark, palace, caves, and more - giving families several options to enjoy. It’s further out from Birmingham with travel of a little more than two hours but if you want to avoid the extreme heat of Europe and still hit the beach - this is the closest one to Birmingham. (Photo - cpphotoimages - stock.adobe.com) | cpphotoimages - stock.adobe.com