The historic neighbourhood of Smethwick has is in rich history and heritage - despite going through so many changes over the years.
It’s where the Smethwick Engine was invented invented by Matthew Boulton and James Watt in the eighteenth century. It’s also where you’ll find some fascinating independent shops on Bearwood High Street.
From parks and big green spaces to independent bookstores, restaurants, curry houses and pubs, Smethwick is a busy neighbourhood. It is also home to several Sikh temples that are open to all and serve free food as Langar - a communal free kitchen.
There are museums and activity hubs to take the little ones for a fun family day. And soon, it will have a massive aquatics centre with an Olympic-size swimming pool, a 10-metre diving board with 25 metre pool, a community swimming pool. Here are 13 fascinating things to do in Smethwick:
9. The Bear Tavern
The Bear Tavern, run by Greene King, is a major landmark on the corner of Bearwood Road and Three Shire Oak Road. They offer a great deal on food every day of the week along with live sports on BT Sport & Sky Sports every week here. (Photo - Google Maps) | gOOGLE Maps
10. Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Smethwick
It was established in October 1958 in a former church building and is a large and modern Sikh temple that welcomes all people. (Photo - Google Maps) | Google Maps
11. Victoria Park
The venue for Birmingham and Sandwell Mela, Victoria Park was laid out in 1887, and opened in 1889. The park had a lodge, boating pool with boathouse and bandstand. You can also visit the Smethwick Heritage Centre Trust on Thursdays & Fridays from 11am until 3pm and is located at the former park-keeper’s lodge in Victoria Park. For over twenty five years they have collected artefacts, memorabilia and photographs connected to Smethwick’s proud and distinctive heritage - which will be on display. (Photo - Google Screengrab) | Googlemaps screengrab
12. Curry restaurants
Smethwick is also home to several amazing curry restaurants like Pure Vegi, Dhamaka, Red Cow that shouldn’t be missed out. (photo - somegirl - stock.adobe.com) | somegirl - stock.adobe.com