5 Unforgettable Places to Visit in the Midlands This Summer

Looking for some brilliant days out that aren’t too far from home? No matter if you fancy meeting monkeys, exploring a working Victorian village or soaking up nature in a stunning landscape, the Midlands is packed with ideas that are perfect for a summer adventure.

And today I’ve put together five fab locations to pop on your summer list:

1. Twycross Zoo, Leicestershire

Twycross Zoo is a world-famous primate centre and home to over 400 animals, from lemurs and lorikeets to gorillas and gibbons. New this year is the “Close Encounters” reptile and spider house, adding even more excitement to your visit.

Little ones will love the Gruffalo Discovery Land, splash pad and play zones, while grown-ups can enjoy the wide array of species and walk-through enclosures. It’s a wonderful mix of fun, education and conservation.

Top Tip: Try the lorikeet feeding and don’t miss the walk-through lemur forest!

2. Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

Step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum, where you can stroll through over 50 reconstructed shops, homes and workshops which span over 250 years of history.

Ride a vintage tram, explore a 1930s fairground, try traditional fish and chips cooked in beef dripping, check out the school room and even pop down a coal mine (hard hat included!). It’s living history at its finest and ideal for all ages.

Top Tip: Check out the live demonstrations and chat with the costumed characters, you never know what stories they might tell.

3. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

A visit to Warwick Castle is a full-on medieval adventure! This summer, enjoy live jousting, falconry displays, the Horrible Histories maze, and the brand-new Realm of Zog live stage shows, perfect for fans of the Julia Donaldson story.

Spend time wandering the towers and ramparts, get lost in the peacock garden, and watch the trebuchet launch giant projectiles across the lawn. It’s both epic and enchanting.

Top Tip: Book online for the best deals, and check out combo tickets if you’re planning trips to multiple Merlin attractions.

4. Trentham Monkey Forest, Staffordshire

Fancy walking through a wood which is home to 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques? Well, Trentham Monkey Forest allows you to do just that and is the only place in the UK to offer such an experience. Set in 60 acres of gorgeous woodland on the Trentham Estate, and is both peaceful and magical.

The forest is part of a vital conservation project and research facility, which this year has already seen the birth of some adorable baby macaques, making it a brilliant time to visit.

Top Tip: Go early or later in the day for the best chance to see the monkeys active and playing.

5. Cannock Chase National Landscape, Staffordshire

If you’re after something a little quieter, Cannock Chase offers peaceful woodlands, purple heather, and plenty of space to explore. Established in 1958 as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is packed with walking trails, cycle routes, and even a Go Ape treetop adventure.

With plenty of areas to explore, offering all sorts of sights from flora and fauna to wild deer and the historical Castle Ring hillfort, which offers stunning views.

Top Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy a slow day. There are lots of benches and accessible paths for all abilities.

Ready for a Midlands Summer You’ll Remember?

No matter if you want to spend time with monkeys, time-travel, or take in some fresh air and epic views, these Midlands gems are all within reach and full of warm-weather magic.

So grab your sunnies, gather up a snack bag, and start planning your next adventure. You never know what you’ll discover, just make sure your phone’s charged for all the photos!

What’s your favourite local location to visit?

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