Top 10 Family Days Out West Midlands [a Local’s Guide]
LOOKING FOR TOP FAMILY DAYS OUT IN THE WEST MIDLANDS?
As a Brummie born and bred, I’ve spent many a weekend exploring the nooks and crannies of all corners of the West Midlands with my family.
Trust me when I say this region is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that’ll have your kids begging for “just five more minutes” before heading home.
From castle conquests to chocolate dreams, I’m about to let you in on the best family days out in the Midlands for adults and kids, that’ll create memories to last a lifetime.
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Overview:
Short on time? Though I thoroughly enjoyed all the activities here, these stand out as my top personal picks for days out in the West Midlands:
1: Warwick Castle, Warwick
Spend an unforgettable day at one of England’s finest medieval castles with 1,100 years of history to discover in the sprawling castle and gardens. Book your tickets HERE.
2: Cadbury World, Birmingham
Step into a magical world packed with interactive and educational exhibits, rides, free chocolate and more, at the nation’s favourite chocolatier. Book tickets HERE.
3: Alton Towers Theme Park
Ride thrilling rollercoasters at Britain’s #1 park like Nemesis, The Smiler and TH13TEEN, or enjoy family favorites like the log flume and carousel at this popular amusement park. Book your tickets HERE (with 33% Discount)
#1. Warwick Castle, Warwick
Warwick Castle is definitely a must-see for any visit in the West Midlands. As one of Britain’s most magnificent medieval castles with over 1,100 years of history, Warwick Castle promises an interactive and educational experience for all.
What makes Warwick Castle so special is that it’s not just a static historic monument – from the moment you step through the gates, you’re transported back in time.
The kids can try their hand at archery, watch falconers command majestic birds of prey, or get lost in the Horrible Histories maze – one of the top outdoor mazes in the region. And let’s not forget the jaw-dropping jousting tournaments that’ll have the whole family cheering for their favourite knight.
Get a 30% discount when you book your tickets in advance on the link below:
With so much rich history and family-friendly activities, I found Warwick Castle to be an unforgettable day out that’s both educational and entertaining for all ages. I’d highly recommend it for any visitor wanting to truly experience England’s medieval heritage.
Warwick Castle (Google Maps)
Admission: From £30 on the official site. Book your discounted tickets HERE
Opening times: 10am–6pm (Apr-Sept); 10am–4pm (Oct-Mar)
How to get there: By car, Warwick Castle is easy to reach just off the M40 motorway at junction 15. Trains also run regularly to Warwick station, with return transports provided to the castle.
Warwick Castle also ranks as the most popular family-friendly activity to do in and around Coventry.
#2. West Midlands Safari Park, Kidderminster
The really cool thing about West Midlands Safari Park is that it combines a sprawling safari adventure with thrilling rollercoasters, promising a uniquely exhilarating day out for all the family.
As you wind your way through the park, you’ll come face-to-face with majestic lions, playful lemurs, and towering giraffes – in fact, there are over 165 species of exotic animals here.
The Safari Park is the first park in the UK to have the African big five game animals: the lion, leopard, black rhinoceros, African bush elephant, and African buffalo.
But the safari is just the beginning. Once you’ve parked up, there’s a whole world of fun waiting to be explored. The little ones can burn off energy in the adventure playground, while thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline fix on the theme park’s rides.
West Midland Safari Park (Google Maps)
Admission: From £19.95 Standard tickets, Carers – Free; Children under 3 years – Free. Book tickets here.
Opening times: Tue-Fri: 10am–5pm (Sat-Mon: 10am-6pm)
How to get there: The West Midland Safari Park is accessible by Bus 125. The nearest train station to the park is Kidderminster Train Station, 10 mins away.
Related post: Best time to visit the West Midlands (Insider Guide)
#3. Baggeridge Adventure, Wolverhampton
If you’re looking for a day out that’ll really get the blood pumping, Challenge Academy at Baggeridge Adventure is the ticket. This isn’t your average family outing – it’s a chance to push boundaries, conquer fears, and cheer each other on.
One of the top things to do in Wolverhampton with kids, there’s everything from high ropes courses that’ll test your balance to problem-solving tasks that’ll spark teamwork, this place is all about bringing families closer through shared challenges.
The activities here are designed to build confidence, improve communication, and create lasting bonds.
Challenge Academy: Baggeridge Adventure (Google Maps)
Admission: Prices start from £7.
Opening times: Fri-Mon: 9am–4pm, Tue-Thurs: 8:55am-2:55pm
Read: Top Free Family-Friendly Attractions in the West Midlands
#4. Alton Towers Theme Park, Stoke
No list of family days out in the West Midlands would be complete without mentioning the granddaddy of all theme parks: Alton Towers. This place is the stuff of childhood dreams, with enough rides and attractions to keep you busy for days.
For the adrenaline junkies, there are white-knuckle rollercoasters that’ll have you screaming with delight. The Wicker Man, with its impressive fire effects, is a must-ride. But if you’re more of a gentle soul – there are plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions too.
Get a 33% discount when you book with the following link:
CBeebies Land is a hit with the younger crowd, bringing their favourite TV characters to life. And when you need a break from the excitement, the beautiful gardens offer a tranquil spot for a picnic and some downtime.
For recommendations on things to do in West Midlands for couples, this is a superb option I can highly vouch for. Not only my favourite theme park in the UK, it’s also one of the best activities you can do in Stoke.
Alton Towers Theme Park (Google Maps)
Admission: From £34. Get 33% off when you book your tickets HERE.
Opening times: Mon-Tue: 10am-4pm, Wed-Thurs: 10am-5pm, Fri-Sun: 10am-7pm
How to get there: Drayton Manor Theme Park is accessible by car/taxi or bus. The nearest train station to the museum is Tamworth Railway Station, 12 mins away.
Read my guide on the best way to get to Alton Towers from Birmingham here.
Staying in Stoke?
◉ Brunswick Place, Hanley (double or twin room) – Very Good 8.3 | £ – great affordable option in the heart of the city
◉ The Upper House, Barlaston (double room with balcony) – Fabulous 8.9 | £££ – an amazing luxury option and former residence of Josiah Wedgwood!
☆ Why not consider a cosy log cabin overlooking the nearby Peak District? Read my recommended 8 best lodges with hot tubs in Staffordshire:
#5. Cadbury World, Birmingham
Imagine a place where chocolate flows like rivers, where the air is thick with the sweet scent of cocoa, and where you can indulge your sweet tooth to your heart’s content. No, it’s not Willy Wonka’s factory – it’s Cadbury World, and it’s right here in the West Midlands.
This is more than just a museum; it’s an immersive experience that takes you through the history of chocolate, from its Aztec origins to the birth of the Cadbury brand.
The highlight is of course the chocolate tasting. The kids will love writing their names in liquid chocolate and creating their own candy concoctions.
★ Pro Tip: Book tickets ahead of time online during peak seasons. Make sure to grab a warm melted chocolate drink and stock up on discounted chocolate in the gift shop!
Tickets start from £25 on the official site, but you can get yours at a discounted price when you book on the link below:
This is the ultimate West Midlands and Birmingham day trip for families and kids, especially at Christmas. There’s even a playground park on-site for the kids in case they’re feeling antsy indoors or are just hyped on all that chocolate.
Cadbury World (Google Maps)
Admission: £25 on the official site. Get a discount when you Book your tickets HERE:
Opening times: 10am–3pm (Mon-Fri), 9am-4:30pm (Sat-Sun).
Where to Stay in Birmingham:
◉ £ Budget option: Wray and Whyte House (double & twin room, family-friendly) – Good 7.6
◉ £££ Luxury option: The Class Place (Apartment with Terrace) – Good 7.9
Related: When is the Best Time for a Trip to Birmingham?
#6. Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site
For a day out that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating industrial heritage, look no further than the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The star of the show is, of course, the Iron Bridge itself – the world’s first bridge made of iron and a true marvel of engineering. Walking across it, you can almost feel the weight of history beneath your feet.
But there’s so much more – the area is home to ten award-winning museums, each offering a unique glimpse into the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. At Blists Hill Victorian Town, you can step back in time and experience life as it was over 100 years ago.
For the little ones, Enginuity is a must-visit. This interactive design and technology centre is full of hands-on exhibits that’ll spark their creativity and problem-solving skills. From building bridges to generating electricity, it’s science and engineering made fun.
More recommended museums to visit:
➤ Coalport China Museum – as well as discovering the region’s pottery heritage, check out the stunning photo opportunies by the canal!
➤ Museum of the Gorge – one of our faves, you can see an intricate 3D display model of the Iron Bridge here.
➤ Jackfield Tile Museum – great for learning about the area’s ceramics industry.
What I love about Ironbridge Gorge is how it brings history to life in a way that’s engaging for all ages. Whether you’re interested in industrial heritage, beautiful landscapes, or just want a fun day out with plenty to see and do, this UNESCO site has it all.
Ironbridge Gorge is also one of the best things to do in Shropshire for families.
► Insider Tip: Ironbridge Gorge Museums are English Heritage Sites – read our guide here on the benefits of English Heritage Membership – how it can save you hundreds of pounds a year, and how to sign up for one.
Location: Hodge Bower, Ironbridge, Telford TF8 7JP (Google Maps)
Opening Times: the bridge is accessible 24/7
→ Related post: 18 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ironbridge
#7. Black Country Living Museum, Dudley
This open-air museum is like walking onto a film set of 19th-century industrial Britain. The kids can experience a Victorian school lesson (complete with strict teacher), ride a tram, or explore an underground mine. And don’t forget to try the famous fish and chips cooked in beef dripping – they’re a taste of history!
What makes the Black Country Living Museum special is the costumed characters who bring the past to life. From the canal boat workers to the shopkeepers, they stay in character and are always ready with a tale or two about life in the old days.
It’s not just fun – it’s a valuable history lesson that helps kids understand where we’ve come from. And who knows? They might even appreciate their modern comforts a bit more after experiencing life without electricity or indoor plumbing!
Black Country Living Museum (Google Maps)
Admission: Standard price £25.95
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily
Related post: Best Family Days Out from Birmingham
#8. WILD Zoological Park, Dudley
For a more intimate animal experience, WILD Zoological Park is hard to beat. This isn’t your typical zoo – it’s a hands-on wildlife centre where getting up close to the animals is actively encouraged.
Imagine your child’s face as they feed a meerkat, or their excitement as they hold a snake for the first time.
What I love about WILD is its commitment to education. It’s a chance to learn something new about the natural world and the importance of conservation – the kind of place that can spark a lifelong passion for wildlife.
WILD Zoological Park (Google Maps location)
Admission: Adults – £15; Children – £10; Concession – £12.50; Family (2 adults, 3 children) – £55; Family (2 adults, 2 children) – £45
Opening times: 11am–3pm daily
See also: West Midlands Maps [Free PDFs]
#9. Go Ape Adventure Park, Cannock Chase
Ever fancied being Tarzan for a day? At Go Ape Adventure Park, you can live out those jungle dreams – and bring the whole family along for the ride.
From wobbling across rope bridges to whizzing down zip wires, it’s an exhilarating experience that’ll challenge you and bring out your inner adventurer.
What I love about Go Ape is how it caters for different ages and abilities. There are courses suitable for tiny tots right through to teenagers (and big kids like me). It’s a fantastic way to build confidence and conquer fears – all while having a whale of a time.
Go Ape is located in the scenic Cannock Chase Forest – an AONB (Area of Outstanding National Beauty) where you can also enjoy other activities like hiking, cycling, camping, stargazing and more!
Go Ape (Google Maps)
Admission: from £20 (over 4 years) Book your tickets HERE:
Opening times: 10am-3pm (Tue-Fri), 9:30am-3pm (Sat-Sun), closed on Mondays
Tip: Couple your Cannock Chase visit with a trip to nearby Chasewater Reservoir, one of the Midlands’ best paddleboarding locations.
#10. Stratford-upon-Avon
Step into the world of the Bard himself with a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon. This charming market town, birthplace of William Shakespeare, promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly attractions.
Start your day at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, where you can explore the house where the world’s greatest playwright was born and grew up. The costumed guides bring the Elizabethan era to life with their stories and demonstrations.
When you’re done, head over to the Butterfly Farm: a tropical paradise that’ll have the kids squealing with delight as colourful butterflies flutter around them.
For a bit of outdoor fun, take a rowboat out on the River Avon or enjoy a picnic in the Bancroft Gardens. And be sure to catch a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre if time allows.
Stratford-upon-Avon (Google Maps)
Get your Shakespeare’s England Explorer Pass HERE to access 12 Warwickshire attractions included the 5 Shakespeare homes.
You can also book a guided tour of Stratford’s famous landmarks, I highly recommend the Stratford-upon-Avon city tour.
What’s more, Stratford is close to the stunning Cotswolds, so its worth spending a day or two exploring this magnificent region famed for its picture stamp villages and Michelin-guide gastropubs.
Further reading: 18 Fun Things to Do in Telford with Kids
Other Recommended West Midlands Day Trips:
★ Enjoy this fun 1-hour Meerkat Experience at Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World in Telford – get up close to these intelligent and cheeky furry creatures for an unforgettable experience that includes feeding, photo op, and more! Book your tickets HERE:
★ Indulge in a luxury Fire & Ice Experience Spa Day at 4* Belfry Hotel after a long day – featuring euphoric treatments, massage, and a 2-course lunch. Book your tickets HERE:
Further reading: How to Claim a FREE English Heritage Family Pass Worth up to £50
What are some cheap family days out West Midlands?
Affordable options include Cannon Hill Park (free entry, small charge for some activities), Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (free), Lickey Hills Country Park (free), and Walsall Arboretum (free). The Black Country Living Museum offers great value with its immersive historical experience. Many attractions also offer family tickets or off-peak discounts for budget-friendly visits.
What’s the best unusual things to do West Midlands?
For unique experiences, try the Electric Cinema (UK’s oldest working cinema), Coffin Works museum, or the Pen Museum. Visit the Custard Factory for quirky shops and street art. Explore the Moseley Bog, said to inspire Tolkien’s works. For adventure, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or caving at the Birmingham Cavern.
What are the best family days out West Midlands for toddlers?
Toddler-friendly attractions include Thinktank Science Museum’s Mini Brum area, Ash End House Children’s Farm, and Telford Town Park. CBeebies Land at Alton Towers is perfect for young children. The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham offers gentle aquatic discoveries. Many local parks, like Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge, have excellent toddler play areas and splash pads in summer.
West Midlands tourist information
How to get there
Air: The main airport serving the West Midlands is Birmingham International (BHX), 14 miles away from Birmingham. Click here for airport transfers to Birmingham.
Getting around the West Midlands
Public transport options link up all the towns and cities around the county, as well as extensive road networks with the M5 and M6 being the main motorways passing through the region.
Cycling: There are new and updated networks of cycle routes in the centre of Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Solihull, and more places.
Bus: Buses are easy to use and run regularly from numerous stops. An adult trip costs £2 (cards are accepted).
Train: The main station is Birmingham Grand Central (New Street) right in the heart of the city and has great transport links to the rest of the UK. You can get a train from London to Birmingham in just 1.5 hours!
Car: The roads here are very easy and convenient to navigate. You can hire a rental car here.
Tram: there is an excellent tram network that connects Birmingham to the Black Country region (Wolverhampton, Dudley, West Bromwich).
Best time to visit the West Midlands
The best time to visit is generally from early May to late September, with July and August being the warmest months. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, but the wettest month tends to be November, while the driest month is July.
