An historic two days in the West Midlands
The West Midlands has a rich heritage that makes for a great couple of days of exploration. Discover some of the fascinating sites that make our region a must visit for any heritage or culture buff.
Day 1
8am – 9am – Breakfast in Birmingham: Medicine Bakery is an beautiful artisan bakery and café in the heart of Birmingham city centre serving up breakfast, brunch and lunch with cakes and pastries available to takeaway. It’s a 5 minute walk from Birmingham New Street Train Station.
9am – 9.30am Travel from Birmingham New Street to Bournville Station by Train (10 minutes)
Cadbury World is a 15 minute stroll from Bournville Station (Bournville train station has wheelchair access).
9.30am – 12.30pm – Start your historic adventure in the West Midlands with a visit to the enchanting Cadbury World. Located in Bournville, a short train ride from Birmingham New St Station, this chocolate-themed attraction offers a captivating experience for all ages. Explore the history of Cadbury, discover the chocolate-making process, and even indulge in some sweet treats along the way.
3 minute walk to Kafenion
12.30pm 1.30pm – Kafenion: just around the corner from Cadbury world, you can stop off at Kafenion, serving authentic Greek food and barista coffee - high quality product at affordable prices.
2 minute walk to The Button Factory
12.15pm – 1pm – Lunch at The Button Factory: Renovated Victorian factory now housing a contemporary venue featuring coffees and robata grills.
8 minute walk to The Coffin Works
1.15pm – 2pm – The Coffin Works: This unique museum provides a fascinating insight into the city's industrial heritage. Restored by Birmingham Conservation Trust in 2014, the Grade II listed Newman Brothers Coffin Fittings Manufactory is now open to the public. The factory is where the fittings of Winston Churchill and Diana, Princess of Wales were made. Visitors are invited to step back in time and experience the factory as a time capsule, with its original machinery, unusual products and stories of 100 years of operation.
2 minute walk to St Paul’s Square
2pm – 3pm – Explore to St Paul’s Square: The only surviving Georgian square in Birmingham, St Paul’s was developed in the 1770s and 80s on land belonging to the Colmore family. Known as the ‘Jewellers’ Church’, both Matthew Boulton and James Watt worshipped here.
5 minute walk to St Paul’s Metro
3pm – 3.40pm Travel from St Paul’s to Wolverhampton St George’s by Metro (36 minutes)
6 minute walk to Wolverhampton Art Gallery
4pm – 5.30pm – Wolverhampton Art Gallery: Explore more than 300 years of stunning art in this free gallery, located right in the heart of Wolverhampton city centre. Enjoy world-class touring exhibitions, permanent displays, a gallery café and a packed programme of activities.
6 minute walk to Wolverhampton St George’s
5.45pm – 6.30pm – Travel from Wolverhampton St George’s to St Chad’s by Metro (38 minutes)
4 minute walk to Indian Brewery Co
6.30pm - 8pm – Dinner at Indian Brewery Co: Experience a delightful fusion of refreshing craft beers from the Indian Brewery Company and mouth-watering Indian street food at this vibrant venue located beneath the arches of Snow Hill railway station. This must-visit destination is a haven for those who appreciate well-crafted spice-infused dishes. Pair your food with a pint of the locally renowned Birmingham Lager for the perfect combination.
Day 2
8am – 9.30am – Breakfast in Birmingham: York’s Bakery is a rustic cafe for homemade breakfast and cakes located in Birmingham
2 minute walk to Birmingham New Street
9.30am – 10am – Travel from Birmingham New Street train station to Coventry train station (22 – 28 minutes)
4 minute walk to Herbert Art Gallery and Museum
10am – 11am – Herbert Art Gallery and Museum: Begin your day at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in Coventry. Explore their diverse collections, including fine art, archaeology, and social history. Admire the contemporary art exhibitions and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage. Currently home to the world-famous dino-star, Dippy the Diplodocus.
1 minute walk to Coventry Cathedral
10.30am – 11.30am – Coventry Cathedral: a must-visit for all visitors. A wonderful meeting of medieval and modern design, Coventry Cathedral is an international icon of hope that encompasses both the ruins of the old cathedral, destroyed during World War II, and the modern cathedral. Marvel at the striking stained glass windows, contemporary artwork, and the tranquil atmosphere within. Learn about its historical significance and the inspiring story of rebuilding and unity.
4 minute walk to Coventry Trinity Street
11.40am – 12.30pm – Travel from Coventry Trinity Street bus stop to Warwick Castle bus stop (49 minutes on X18 bus)
5 minute walk to Warwick Castle
12.40pm – 13.15pm – Lunch at Warwick Castle: Have afternoon tea at The Conservatory Tea House
13.15 – 4pm – Explore Warwick Castle: Warwick Castle is one of the most exciting historic locations in Europe, set in the heart of Shakespeare’s England with over 1,100 years of fascinating architecture and amazing views in 64 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.
Experience jaw-dropping history; great battles, ancient myths, spellbinding tales, pampered princesses and heroic knights. At Warwick Castle they deliver the Castle of your imagination, whether you’re a 6 year old princess or a 60 year old re-enactor they provide a fun, action packed day out for all.
14 minute walk to Warwick Train Station
4.15pm – 4.45pm – Travel from Warwick Train Station to Birmingham Moor Street by train (31 minutes)
30 minute walk to JuJu’s Café
5pm – 7pm – Dinner Ju Ju’s Café: Ju Ju’s was born out of a love for good old-fashioned home cooked food made from fresh ingredients. Over the last decade we've become renowned for our breakfast and brunch trade at the weekends, our Sunday Roast and fabulous hug on a plate comfort food.
Please note that travel times may vary depending on transportation options chosen. It is advisable to check the schedules and plan accordingly. Our partner West Midlands Railway can help guide your journey.