Taking a Midlands Staycation this Summer
Lockdown restrictions slowly lifting, it’s looking like we are going to have a relative return to normality this summer. However, we must concede that it is currently difficult to book travel abroad. The government is still in the throes of working how foreign travel will work, so many of us are opting to take a staycation here in the UK. If you live in Birmingham, you’re lucky enough to have plenty of activities right on your doorstep. Here is a list of things to check out if you’re planning on staying local this summer.
Explore the Canal System
If a place like Amsterdam was on your travel bucket list for this summer, you don’t have to miss out on your boat trip through the city. Even though the canal system of Birmingham might not be as beautiful as the one of Amsterdam, it still has its charm.
While there are discussions whether Birmingham has more canals than Venice, its 35 miles altogether make the city’s infrastructure unique. If the weather provides some sunshine, then a boat trip through the city might be a great idea. There are probably a lot of canals you don’t know yet, and you will enjoy some different viewpoints of Birmingham’s architecture.
Take Your Family for a Luxury Trip
Kids have had it pretty tough for the last year. With school schedules disrupted and less chances to socialise with friends, many parents will be looking for somewhere fun to take the kids this summer. In the town of Sutton Coldfield, you’ll find the Belfry Hotel that is well set up for luxury family trips. Here you can enjoy the swimming pool, playpark, and nature walks in the stunning grounds of the hotel. It’s the perfect place to spend time as a family.
Go for A Hike
Do you love the outdoors and want to spend some time this summer amongst nature? You don’t need to drive far from Birmingham’s city centre. A 30 minutes’ drive away is The Wreking; a 407 meter-high hill. Located 5km far away from Telford, you will see its shape rising from the fields with a magnificent view from the top.
If you prefer flat land over a hike, then Sutton Park might be something for you. Just outside the city centre is one of Europe’s largest urban parks. A beautiful mix of lakes, forest, wildlife and an old railway line makes the park perfect for a quick escape from the city.
Visit Iconic Sights
If you haven’t had much time yet to explore some of Birmingham sights yet, then that should be definitely on your list of summer holiday activities. For example, you could visit the Sahore Mill, especially if you are a fan of The Lord of The Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien lived across from the mill and used it as inspiration for the mill in Hobbiton.
Another sight which is certainly worth a visit is Ashton House. Although it’s not open yet to the public, you can spend some time in Ashton park and enjoy the view onto the listed building.
Even though Covid-19 restricts us from travelling abroad, there are lots of things you can do in your hometown. If you are from Birmingham, then the suggestions of this article might be an inspiration for your next holiday. From sightseeing to beautiful walks and hikes, there are lots of activities for which you don’t have to travel too far.
