14 of the best tourist attractions across West Midlands, Shropshire and Staffordshire from Alton Towers to Attingham Park

The following list are places most definitely worth a trip out to if it’s your first time visiting the region. There’s something for everyone - from theme parks and aquariums for the family to castles and ruins for picnic lovers and evening strollers.

And if you already frequent these places, enjoy them while the Spring sun beams down on us these next few months.

Attingham Park

This 18th-century estate in Shrewsbury is a must visit for all seasons with 200 acres of parkland and Regency Mansion.

Now a Grade I listed building, Attingham Park opened in 1785 and is home to a range of concerts and events, acting as a stunning backdrop for some of the best calendar events in Shropshire. 

Lichfield Cathedral 

Situated in The Close, Lichfield, this cathedral is known for its gothic architecture and rich 1300 years of history. 

It is also the only English medieval cathedral to have three spires – known locally as the 'Ladies of the Vale'.

Black Country Living Museum 

This open-air museum of rebuilt historic buildings in Dudley has more than 250-years for visitors to explore and unpack - from the Industrial Revolution to post-war prosperity.

A must for history-lovers, watchers of hit show Peaky Blinders might also fancy a visit to the museum as a number of scenes were shot on the grounds.

Blists Hill Victorian Town 

Another open-air museum, Blists Hill Victorian Town in Ironbridge attempts to recreate the visuals of a Victorian Shropshire town in the late 19th and 20th century. 

It was recently featured on Clare Balding’s new show Tales from the Riverbank on Channel 5 and is perfect for people who want a taste of what life would have been like in the Victorian era. 

Alton Towers 

This theme park in Staffordshire may bring back fond memories of our school days for many of us.

It is still a brilliant spot to take your friends and family this year, with much more on offer than just rides.

Explore three themed hotels, stargazing pods, and an enchanted village in more than 500 acres of beautiful Staffordshire countryside.

For old times’ sake, jump onto world-class rollercoasters for a quick thrill, too.

Dudley Zoo and Castle

This ruined fortification in the town of Dudley was originally built as a wooden motte and bailey castle in 1070.

It was rebuilt as a stone fortification in the 12th century and then demolished under King Henry II’s rule.

Now, the grounds are a must-visit to explore hundreds of different species of animals. Visitors can also partake in ghost walks and this summer, the grounds will be a beautiful backdrop to brilliant films as part of its open-air cinema nights.

Drayton Manor Resort 

Another family theme park, Drayton Manor Resort also features a zoo in the 180-acre grounds of the former Drayton Manor.

It is also home to Thomas Land, a huge play area dedicated to the world's most famous tank engine.

Cadbury World

Chocolate lovers, this one is for you. Cadbury World in Birmingham is an exciting insight into how the infamous chocolate is made.

But there’s so much more on offer too - including exciting rides, meet-and-greets with Cadbury characters and interactive displays.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

This indoor amusement park in Birmingham is not one to miss if you are in the region.

Aimed at children aged 3-10, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre has two rides, cinema screens, play areas, workshops and much more.

Shrewsbury Prison

This tourist attraction in Shrewsbury is one-of-a-kind.

Explore the grounds of a real men’s prison in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, that was only decommissioned in 2013. 

There’s much to do - from escape rooms to dining at the restaurant. There is even a museum and gift shop, making this attraction a fun stop for people of all ages.

National Sea Life Centre 

Those intrigued by water and its secrets will enjoy the National Sea Life Centre.

This aquarium in Birmingham has more than 60 displays of freshwater and marine life in a million-litre underwater tropical tank. There’s even a turtle breeding facility.

Ludlow Castle 

This is one of the finest medieval ruins in England and opened in 1066.

Ludlow Castle, based in the vibrant market town, boasts gorgeous views of the Shropshire countryside - which is an even better experience when the glorious Spring and Summer sun starts setting. 

Iron Bridge 

This landmark brings in thousands of visitors each year.

Made of cast iron - and the first of its kind in the world - this bridge crosses the River Severn in Shropshire and was opened in 1781.

The town has plenty of brilliant independent businesses on either side of the bridge now, all of which are definitely worth a visit.

Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd 

The Long Mynd forms part of the stunning Shropshire Hills, which is always a top-choice to visit in the warmer months for idyllic views. 

Challenge yourself to the Carding Mill Valley Walk is about a 9.2-km circular trail near Church Stretton this Spring.