Walsall Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Walsall, England with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and more.


Walsall Travel Guide - A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Walsall, England

Walsall is a town located in the West Midlands region of England. While it may not be as popular as some of the other towns and cities in England, Walsall has plenty to offer to its visitors. From rich history to natural beauty, Walsall can be your perfect destination for a week-long vacation or just a weekend trip. In this travel guide, we will explore all the popular attractions, activities, food, and accommodations of Walsall.

Introduction to Walsall

Walsall is a historic market town situated in the West Midlands district of England. The town is located just eight miles northwest of Birmingham and is part of the Black Country, an area of the West Midlands that got its name due to the soot produced by its heavy industry. Besides its industrial past, Walsall has a rich history, which dates back to the Roman times, and a vibrant cultural scene. Walsall is easily accessible by road, rail, or air, making it a convenient destination for travelers from around the world.

List of Places to Visit in Walsall

Walsall has something to offer to everyone. Here is a list of must-visit places in Walsall:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Walsall Leather Museum: Located in the town center, the Walsall Leather Museum occupies an old Victorian factory building. The museum showcases the history of leather-making in Walsall, which was once known as the leather capital of the world.
  • Walsall Arboretum: This Victorian park, located on the outskirts of the town, is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely walk or a picnic. The park has a lake, a boathouse, a play area for children, and a Victorian bandstand.
  • The New Art Gallery Walsall: The New Art Gallery Walsall is home to a collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by famous artists like Damien Hirst and Yoko Ono.

Natural Attractions of Walsall: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Barr Beacon: Located just a few miles outside of Walsall, Barr Beacon is a hill that offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The hill is also home to a war memorial that commemorates the soldiers who died during the First World War.
  • Cannock Chase: Cannock Chase is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is located just a few miles from Walsall. The area is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. You can also visit the Cannock Chase Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s history and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Walsall

Walsall and its surrounding areas have several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • The Walsall Canal Walk: This 8.5-mile walk takes you through the town’s historic canal system, which was once used to transport goods between cities. The walk is relatively easy and is perfect for families with children.
  • The Midland Metro Cycle Route: This 14-mile cycle route takes you from Wednesbury to Birmingham and is perfect for exploring the area’s industrial heritage. The route follows the Wolverhampton to Birmingham railway line and takes you through a mix of urban and rural landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Walsall: Activities and Tours

  • Walsall Football Club: If you are a football fan, you can watch a game at the Walsall Football Club. The club was founded in 1888 and is nicknamed “The Saddlers.”
  • The Locksmith’s House: The Locksmith’s House is a restored locksmith’s house that dates back to the 18th century. The house showcases the history of lock-making in Walsall and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s industrial past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Walsall

If you are planning to spend a week in Walsall, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Walsall Leather Museum, followed by a stroll in the Walsall Arboretum.
Day 2 Visit the New Art Gallery Walsall, followed by a walk in the town center.
Day 3 Go hiking in Barr Beacon and enjoy the scenic views.
Day 4 Visit the Locksmith’s House, followed by a shopping spree in the town center.
Day 5 Cycle the Midland Metro Cycle Route to explore the area’s industrial heritage.
Day 6 Visit the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Day 7 Catch a game at the Walsall Football Club, followed by dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Walsall

Walsall’s food and drink scene is vibrant and diverse. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Faggots and Peas: This is a traditional British dish that is popular in the West Midlands. It consists of pork meatballs served with mashed peas and gravy.
  • Pork Scratching: It is a snack made from pork skin that has been roasted or fried until it is crispy.

Local Beverages

  • Banks’s Beer: This beer, brewed in Wolverhampton, is known for its refreshing taste and fruity aroma.
  • Scrumpy: This is a type of cider that is popular in the West Midlands. It is made from apples and has a distinctive sour taste.

Where to Stay in Walsall: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Walsall has many accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some popular options:

  • Holiday Inn Walsall: This hotel is conveniently located near the town center and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Walsall Youth Hostel: This hostel is perfect for budget travelers and has comfortable dormitory-style rooms.
  • Beverley Hotel: This guesthouse is located in the heart of the town and offers cozy rooms and an excellent breakfast.

What to Buy in Walsall: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs to bring back home, here are some options:

  • Walsall Leather Goods: Walsall is known for its leather goods, and you can find everything from wallets to belts to handbags made from high-quality leather.
  • Black Country Ale: If you are a beer lover, you can bring back a bottle of Black Country ale, which is brewed in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Walsall

Walsall has a rich cultural heritage, and the town’s people are known for their friendly nature. Here are some customs that you should keep in mind while visiting Walsall:

  • Respect for Elders: The people of Walsall hold great respect for their elders, and it is essential to be polite and respectful to older people.
  • Friendliness: The people of Walsall are friendly and hospitable, and it is customary to greet people with a smile and a greeting.

Best Time to Visit Walsall

Walsall can be visited year-round, thanks to its mild weather. However, the best time to visit the town is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed to the fullest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Walsall

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Walsall:

Do:

  • Visit the Walsall Leather Museum: The museum is a must-visit attraction and gives a glimpse into the town’s rich industrial past.
  • Try the Local Food and Beverages: Walsall has a vibrant food and drink scene, and it is worth trying some of the local delicacies.
  • Be Polite: The people of Walsall are friendly and hospitable, and it is essential to be polite to them.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the Traffic: Walsall can get busy, and it is essential to plan your travels accordingly.
  • Cross the Road Without Looking: The town can get busy, and it is important always to look both ways before crossing the road.

Safety and Health

Safety in Walsall

Walsall is a safe town to visit. However, it is important to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding secluded areas at night.

Health in Walsall

Walsall has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can seek medical help in case of any health emergencies.

Getting to Walsall: Transportation Options and Logistics

Walsall is easily accessible by road, rail, or air.

Airports Near Walsall

  • Birmingham Airport is the nearest major airport to Walsall and is located just 16 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Walsall

  • Walsall Bus Station is located in the town center and is served by many local and national bus services.

Other Options

  • Walsall is well-connected to the national rail network, and the town’s railway station is served by several trains every day.
  • Visitors can also hire a car to explore the area’s countryside and nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Walsall

Walsall has an excellent public transport system, and visitors can use local buses to get around the town. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who prefer to travel independently.

Where to Go Next from Walsall: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions that can be enjoyed from Walsall:

  • Birmingham: Birmingham is just a short train journey away from Walsall and is home to many exciting attractions like the Cadbury World Chocolate Factory, the Bullring shopping center, and the National Sea Life Center.
  • Staffordshire: Staffordshire is a county located to the north of Walsall and is known for its picturesque countryside, historic houses, and theme parks.

Conclusion

Walsall is a historic town located in the West Midlands district of England. The town has a rich industrial past and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an excellent destination for travelers. From scenic natural attractions to exciting activities and tours, Walsall has something to offer to everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you should be able to plan your perfect trip to Walsall.

The Premier Inn in Walsall Town Centre in 2013 The Premier Inn in Walsall Town Centre in 2013