Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cardiff, Wales to East Staffordshire, England

Are you ready for an adventure? Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to explore new destinations and discover surprises along the way. In this article, we will share with you five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cardiff, Wales to East Staffordshire, England. This journey will take you through some of the most picturesque countryside in the UK, and you will have the opportunity to visit some hidden gems that most people don't know about.

The total distance of this trip is approximately 130 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive without stops. We recommend that you take your time and enjoy the journey, making each stop a destination in itself. If you have the luxury of time, you can also break up the trip and spend the night in one of the towns along the way. So, let's get started!

Halfway Point: Worcester, WOR

Before we dive into our top five destinations, let's stop at the halfway point: Worcester, WOR. This historic city on the River Severn has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the Roman times. It's a great place to stretch your legs and explore the local museums and art galleries. Don't forget to visit Worcester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that has been standing for over 900 years. For lunch, try the famous curry at Anarkali Restaurant on New Street.

1. Malvern Hills, WOR

Our first destination is the Malvern Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty that stretches for about 8 miles along the border of Worcestershire and Herefordshire. The hills offer spectacular views of the countryside and are a paradise for walkers and hikers. The best way to explore the area is by taking the Worcestershire Way, a 31-mile long-distance footpath that crosses the hills from north to south. For a snack, try the flapjacks at the Malvern Hills GeoCentre or enjoy a beer at the Unicorn Inn in nearby Malvern Common.

2. Croome Court, WOR

Our second stop is Croome Court, an elegant Georgian mansion that was designed by the famous architect Robert Adam in the 18th century. The house is surrounded by a magnificent landscaped park that was created by 'Capability' Brown, one of the most celebrated landscape designers of his time. The interior of the house is filled with exquisite paintings, furniture, and other treasures that give a glimpse into the lives of the aristocracy of the time. For tea, go to the cafe in the basement of the house and try their homemade scones.

3. Ironbridge Gorge, SHR

Our third destination is the Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located in the heart of the Shropshire countryside. The gorge is named after the Iron Bridge, a pioneering piece of engineering that was built in 1779 over the River Severn. The bridge marked a turning point in the Industrial Revolution, and the area became known as the "birthplace of the Industrial Revolution." Today, the gorge is home to a number of museums and heritage sites that tell the story of the region's industrial past. For lunch, go to the Coalbrookdale Inn and try their steak and ale pie.

4. Cannock Chase, STA

Our fourth stop is Cannock Chase, a large forested area that is located in Staffordshire. The Chase is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and foxes. It's a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. If you're feeling brave, try the Go Ape treetop adventure course or go for a segway ride. For a snack, try the famous Staffordshire oatcake at the Brindley Heath Cafe.

5. National Brewery Centre, STA

Our final destination is the National Brewery Centre, a museum that celebrates the rich brewing heritage of Burton upon Trent, a town in Staffordshire that became known as the "beer capital of Britain." The museum tells the story of the history of brewing in the UK and the role that Burton played in this industry. Visitors can also sample some of the local beers and learn how to pour the perfect pint. For dinner, go to The Burton Bridge Inn and try their fish and chips.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Cardiff, Wales to East Staffordshire, England is a great way to explore this beautiful part of the UK and discover hidden gems along the way. From the natural beauty of the Malvern Hills to the industrial heritage of the Ironbridge Gorge, there is something for everyone on this journey. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an adventure that you will never forget!