The region of West Midlands is located to the West of central England and is made up by 6 counties, Staffordshire, Shropshire, West Midlands, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Warwickshire. The region includes the second biggest city in Britain – Birmingham which has a population of 1,028,700. 

The West Midlands is also known as the Black Country because of pollution from the heavy industries that covered the area in black soot. The region was intensely industrialised with many coal mines, coal coking operations, iron foundries and steel mills which all produced a level of air pollution that had few equals anywhere in the world.

The region is geographically diverse, from the urban central areas of the conurbation to the rural western counties of Shropshire and Herefordshire which border Wales. The region also includes the longest river in the UK, the River Severn, which worms its way Shrewsbury and Worcester towards the South West.

The West Midlands of England includes 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) including Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, Shropshire Hills, Malvern Hills in Worcestershire and Herefordshire, Wye Valley in Herefordshire and the Cotswolds which worms its way into Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

The West Midlands is a perfect destination for families as there are a wide variety of attractions and activities available within the towns and cities or within the countryside. Food and drink is a highlight with the region, as the majority of the foods that you’ll find in good restaurants are traditional English dishes, made from local and often organic produce. Dishes are fresh and allow you to experience English and local cuisine at its best.  You can further your experience by going to a traditional local pub and sampling the locally brewed ales.

If you head to Birmingham you will find something for everyone, great shopping at the Bull Ring, live music gigs and sporting events at the National Indoor Arena (NIA), large exhibitions at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and great nightlife in Edgbaston.

If you fancy getting away from city based attractions, then why not pay a visit to the famous Stratford-upon-Avon, home to William Shakespeare. Why not stroll though the beautiful town and visit Royal Shakespeare Company in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, one of Britain's most important cultural centres.

The West Midlands of England provides a breathtaking environment for relaxation and a chance to unwind, with the beautiful countryside, quaint villages and peaceful environment. The West Midlands is therefore the perfect holiday destination for any family, or any individual no matter what activity you wish to undertake.

England Holiday and Travel Guide