When life feels a bit too busy, Birmingham and the West Midlands is the perfect place to help you hit pause. Think cosy cafes, drinks under the stars, gentle walks, and peaceful getaways. Whether you’ve got a whole weekend or just an afternoon to spare, there are countless ways to press pause, breathe, and reconnect in the region.

 

 

Rural retreats

  • Riverside Cabins, Shrewsbury: Nestled beside a river and surrounded by 10 acres of greenery, these eco-friendly cabins are designed for relaxation. Since opening in 2020, they’ve earned plenty of praise, including a spot in The Guardian’s “Top 30 Cottages and Campsites.” Curl up with a book, listen to the water, and let the world slip away.

 

  • West Midlands Safari Lodges, Bewdley:  Wake up to the sight of elephants and cheetahs in West Midlands Safari Lodges. These beautifully designed lodges provide an unforgettable immersive wildlife experience, complete with park admission, meals, and front-row seats to some of the world’s most incredible animals.

 

  • Hampton Manor, Solihull: A former estate of Sir Robert Peel, this Michelin-starred retreat is set in 45 acres of countryside. You can spend the day exploring the grounds, then settle in for an incredible meal and a glass (or two) of something local.

Reconnect with nature

  • Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens, Birmingham: Hidden on the edge of the city, Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens feels like stepping back in time. The 10-acre walled garden is home to formal gardens, wildlife areas and vegetable plots, and is perfect for a slow afternoon wander and a moment of calm away from the city.

 

  • Birmingham Botanical Gardens: This 15-acre oasis, founded in 1832, is home to over 7,000 plant species - from tiny bonsai to towering tropical ferns. Explore four glasshouses that take you from desert to rainforest, and don’t miss the Japanese Garden or the National Bonsai Collection for a little bit of extra Zen.

 

  • Walks around the region: There’s no shortage of trails and scenic routes across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands. From challenging countryside hikes to gentle park strolls, there’s a walk to suit every pace and mood. 

 

 

Relax and recharge in the region's spas

  • New Hall Hotel & Spa, Birmingham: Surrounded by a lily-covered moat, New Hall feels straight out of a fairytale. Treat yourself to a spa day or weekend stay and let the world drift away - massages, treatments, and pure relaxation are waiting for you.

 

  • The Belfry Hotel & Resort, Solihull: Escape to The Belfry Hotel & Resort, where indulgence meets style. Whether you’re seeking a moment of pure relaxation or a rejuvenating boost, this is your time to indulge, recharge, and leave the world behind. 

 

  • The Spa at Ardencote, Warwickshire: Located in the Warwickshire countryside, The Spa at Ardencote has everything you need to unwind - thermal suites, relaxation lounges, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor hot tub.

Spend time by the water

  • ABC Boat Hire, across the West Midlands: Being on the water has a way of slowing everything down. With ABC Boat Hire, you can explore the canals at your own pace, stop at waterside pubs, and watch the world drift by.

 

  • Dudley Canal & Caverns: For something different, head underground. The Dudley Canal and Caverns take you through limestone mines and tunnels dating back over 400 million years. It’s part history, part adventure, and surprisingly calming.

 

  • Watersedge, Bishampton: Where wellness meets water, Watersedge is an outdoor sanctuary designed to connect you with nature. Whether it’s swimming in an open water lake, relaxing in a wood-fired sauna, or soaking in an outdoor hot tub, this is perfect for moments of calm.

 

 

Slow down at cosy cafes and coffee shops

  • Morridge, Birmingham: This independent café is a local gem, serving up seriously good coffee and creative porridge bowls. Even if porridge isn’t your thing, the pancakes, pastries, and breakfast rolls will win you over. It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up spot.

 

  • Bean & Leaf Coffee House, Coventry: From expertly brewed coffee to homemade cakes and sandwiches, Bean & Leaf is cosy, welcoming, and popular with locals. The staff are as warm as the flat whites they serve.

 

  • The Table, Walsall: Run by Walsall Community Church, The Table is more than a café. Dogs are welcome, conversations are encouraged, and every cup of coffee helps the local community. It’s a place where kindness and calm come together.

Enjoy evening wind-downs

  • Live music: When the sun sets, the West Midlands comes alive with plenty of spots to soak up live music. Enjoy acoustic sets at cosy pubs like The Old Crown in Digbeth, listen to jazz at cocktail bars such as The Jam House, or intimate gigs at venues like Hare & Hounds in Kings Heath.

 

 

  • Relaxing restaurants: Sometimes the best evenings are slow ones. From canalside dining to candlelit bistros like Simpsons, the West Midlands offers plenty of restaurants where you can unwind over food, conversation, and wine.