Five Unexpected Places to Stop Between Bromsgrove and Dawley

Are you tired of taking the same old route when you drive from Bromsgrove to Dawley? Why not consider making some unexpected stops along the way? From charming villages to historic landmarks, there are plenty of interesting places to check out. This article will give you five suggestions for places to visit, and also tell you about the author's favorite food at each location.

The drive from Bromsgrove to Dawley takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering a distance of 70 miles. To make the journey more exciting, the author takes a slightly unconventional route, which includes stops at some lesser-known destinations. The journey begins by heading north on the A38, then taking the A442 towards Telford. The first stop is a little over halfway through the journey, in the town of Walsall.

1. Walsall, XWM

Walsall is a bustling town with a rich industrial heritage. It is famous for its leather industry, and you can see evidence of this at the Walsall Leather Museum. This free admission museum tells the story of leather making in Walsall and its importance to the town's economy. Another interesting place to check out in Walsall is The New Art Gallery. This impressive building houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on works by local artists. For lunch, the author recommends trying a traditional Walsall pork pie - a savory pastry filled with seasoned pork, often served with English mustard. You can find these at many local bakeries and delis.

2. Ironbridge, TF8

Located on the River Severn, Ironbridge is a small village with a big claim to fame. It is home to the Iron Bridge - a cast iron arch bridge that was built in 1779 and is considered the world's first bridge made of iron. Today, the bridge is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes ten industrial monuments in the Ironbridge Gorge. Visitors can walk across the bridge, visit the nearby museum, or take a boat tour of the river. For a sweet treat in Ironbridge, stop by the Merrythought Teddy Bear Shop and pick up some homemade fudge - the perfect snack for a stroll around this picturesque village.

3. Much Wenlock, TF13

Nestled in the rolling hills of Shropshire, Much Wenlock is a charming town with a long history. It is best known as the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games - its local doctor, William Penny Brookes, was a key figure in the movement to revive the ancient Greek games in the 19th century. Today, you can visit the Wenlock Olympian Society Museum to learn more about this fascinating history. Much Wenlock is also home to some lovely independent shops, including the Wenlock Bookshop, which is housed in a beautiful timber-framed building. For a taste of Shropshire, try a slice of local cheese from Wenlock Edge Farm - their Red Leicester is particularly delicious.

4. Bridgnorth, WV15

Bridgnorth is a town of contrasts - it is split into two parts by the River Severn, with the High Town perched on a cliff and the Low Town at the river's edge. The town is connected by the Bridgnorth Cliff Railway - a funicular railway that has been running for over a century. Once you get to the top, the views are breathtaking - you can see for miles across the Shropshire countryside. Bridgnorth also has a rich history, with many historic buildings and landmarks to explore, including the ruins of Bridgnorth Castle and St. Leonard's Church. When it comes to food, the author recommends trying some locally made ice cream from the Old Castle Shop - their clotted cream flavor is a real treat.

5. Much Wenlock, WV16

If you're looking for a spot to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air, the Wyre Forest is the perfect destination. This huge forest covers over 6,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and foxes. There are plenty of walking trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. For those who prefer to be on two wheels, the forest also has a mountain biking trail that is suitable for all levels. After a day spent exploring the forest, head to the nearby Forest Lodge Farm Shop for some homemade sausages - their Cumberland sausage is a particular favorite.

Conclusion

If you're planning a trip from Bromsgrove to Dawley, why not add some extra stops to your journey? The five locations mentioned in this article offer something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, art, or just enjoying the great outdoors. By taking this route, you'll discover some hidden gems that you might never have known existed. And don't forget to try the local specialties - from pork pies to fudge to cheese, there are plenty of delicious treats to enjoy along the way! So next time you're embarking on a road trip, consider taking the scenic route and discover the unexpected.