With the sun promising to shine over this bank holiday weekend, there are some fascinating towns and villages in our region worthy of exploring this bank holiday weekend.
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West Midlands and Shropshire are home to a number of quaint places so no matter if you’re looking for quaint rural settings, postcard perfect villages, quirky artistic hubs, fascinating historical spots or extraordinary attractions, there is something to satisfy everyone across the counties.
These are some of the quaintest towns and villages to visit across West Midlands and Shropshire this bank holiday – will you be making plans to explore any of them over the weekend?
5. Long Mynd, South Shropshire
Situated in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, reaching 516 metres at its highest point, the heather-covered area known as the Long Mynd has steep-sided valleys, panoramic views, and ancient archaeological sites. It is managed by the National Trust and is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and gliding. | x
6. Bilston, Black Country
A Wolverhampton market town, Bilston is fiercely proud of its Black Country and industrial roots. It has a 200-year-old market, and is famed across the West Midlands for its "orange chips" served up at Majors - often cited as the best fish and chip shop in the region. With live music at The Robin, and a local craft gallery, Bilston is also an easy place to visit thanks to the Midland Metro. | Tim Thursfield/Iconic Media Group
7. Ironbridge, Telford, Shopshire
If history and heritage is your thing, you can’t beat Ironbridge. Ironbridge Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the renowned "birthplace of the Industrial Revolution". Visitors flock here for its unique mix of industrial history, Victorian-themed museums at Blists Hill and to see the iconic 1779 iron bridge from which the town takes its name. | x
8. Dudley, Black Country
The heart of the Black Country, Dudley is famed for its place in the industrial revolution which is celebrated at the Black Country Living Museum, a popular haunt for visitors to the area. Another popular attraction for visitors is the Zoo and Castle that sits overlooking the town. Himley Hall is also just on the outskirts of the town, and the 17th-century country house and park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. | x