Droitwich Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Droitwich? This guide covers all the essential information you need, including top places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and more. Explore Droitwich like a local and make the most of your trip!


Ultimate Travel Guide to Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa, located in Worcestershire, West Midlands, is a picturesque town with natural saltwater brine springs that have been renowned for their healing properties since Roman times. The town has a fascinating history and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an excellent destination for travelers looking to explore the heart of England. This travel guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Droitwich Spa, from where to stay and what to do, to the best time to visit and important safety information.

Introduction to Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa is a small and charming town, with a population of just over 24,000. It is located approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) south of Birmingham and 121 miles (195 kilometers) northwest of London. The town has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric settlements and Roman spa baths still visible today. Droitwich also played an important role in the industrial revolution, thanks to the salt mining industry that thrived in the area.

List of Places to Visit in Droitwich Spa

If you’re planning a trip to Droitwich Spa, make sure to include the following places on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Droitwich Spa Heritage & Information Centre - Learn about the history of the town, including its Roman roots and salt-mining heritage, at the Droitwich Spa Heritage & Information Centre. The exhibition includes interactive displays, artifacts, and photographs.

  • St. Augustine’s Church - St. Augustine’s Church is a beautiful medieval church that dates back to the 13th century. It is located in the town center and features stunning stained-glass windows and ornate carvings.

  • Droitwich Spa Lido - Built in 1935, Droitwich Spa Lido is one of the few remaining outdoor swimming pools in the UK. It has been beautifully restored and is open during the summer months.

Natural Attractions of Droitwich Spa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Droitwich Canal - Take a leisurely stroll along the Droitwich Canal and enjoy the scenic views. The canal offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town center, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.

  • Droitwich Spa Salt Flats - The salt flats in Droitwich Spa help to create the unique saline waters that the town is famous for. Take a walk around the flats and learn more about the salt-making process.

  • Hanbury Hall - Located just outside of Droitwich Spa, Hanbury Hall is a stunning stately home that dates back to the 18th century. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, making it an excellent spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking, with several routes to choose from. Some of the most popular include:

  • The Droitwich Ring - This 21-mile (33-kilometer) circular route takes you along the Droitwich Canal and through the picturesque countryside surrounding the town.

  • The Worcestershire Way - This 31-mile (50-kilometer) trail starts in Bewdley and ends at the Wyche Cutting on the Malvern Hills. It passes through Droitwich Spa along the way.

Best Things to Do in Droitwich Spa: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Droitwich Spa, including:

  • The Salt Way - The Salt Way is an ancient trade route that has been used since Roman times to transport salt across the country. Today, visitors can follow the route on foot or by bike, taking in historic landmarks along the way.

  • The Droitwich Spa Treasure Hunt Trail - This self-guided treasure hunt is a great way to explore the town and discover its hidden gems. Solve clues to uncover unique facts about the town’s history and culture.

  • Spa Treatments - No trip to Droitwich Spa is complete without experiencing the natural healing properties of the town’s saltwater springs. Visit one of the local spas for a relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Droitwich Spa

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Droitwich Spa, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Droitwich Spa and spend the day exploring the town center, including St. Augustine’s Church and the Droitwich Spa Heritage & Information Centre.

Day 2: Take a stroll along the Droitwich Canal and then visit the Droitwich Spa Lido to cool off.

Day 3: Spend the day hiking along the Worcestershire Way, which passes through Droitwich Spa.

Day 4: Visit Hanbury Hall, located just outside of Droitwich Spa, for a glimpse into the town’s history.

Day 5: Take a self-guided treasure hunt around the town, stopping at local cafes and restaurants along the way.

Day 6: Relax and unwind with a spa treatment that utilizes the natural healing properties of the town’s saltwater springs.

Day 7: Depart from Droitwich Spa and travel on to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties to try. Make sure to sample the following:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Droitwich Salt Lamb - This lamb is reared on the salt flats near Droitwich Spa and has a unique flavor thanks to the mineral-rich soil in the area.

  • Droitwich Salt Potatoes - These small, flavorful potatoes are grown using the town’s natural saltwater brine and are a local delicacy.

  • Worcestershire Sauce - This tangy sauce is world-famous and is made using a secret recipe that includes anchovies, tamarind, and a blend of spices.

Local Beverages

  • Perry - This alcoholic drink is made using pears and has been produced in the Worcestershire region for centuries.

  • Morgan’s Spiced Ale - This smooth ale is brewed locally and has a slightly spicy flavor.

Where to Stay in Droitwich Spa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Droitwich Spa offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels.

  • The Pear Tree Inn - This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Droitwich Spa and offers comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

  • The Chateau Impney Hotel - This grand hotel is located in a beautiful French-style chateau and offers luxury rooms and excellent cuisine.

What to Buy in Droitwich Spa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for souvenirs to bring back home? Check out the local markets and specialty shops for the following:

  • Droitwich Salt - This salt is prized for its unique mineral content and can be found in many local shops.

  • Worcestershire Sauce - Take a bottle of the famous sauce home with you as a reminder of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa has a fascinating history that is tied to its natural saltwater springs. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s heritage and refrain from damaging any historic landmarks or natural sites.

Best Time to Visit Droitwich Spa

The best time to visit Droitwich Spa is during the months of May to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, the town can be enjoyed throughout the year and has a unique charm during the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Droitwich Spa

Do:

  • Do take a walk along the Droitwich Canal and enjoy the scenic views.

  • Do try the local salt lamb and potatoes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave litter or damage any historic landmarks or natural sites.

  • Don’t go swimming in the salt flats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa is a safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping valuables secure and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa’s natural saltwater springs have been renowned for their healing properties since Roman times. However, visitors should consult with a doctor before using any spa treatments or therapies.

Getting to Droitwich Spa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Droitwich Spa

The closest airports to Droitwich Spa are Birmingham Airport and Manchester Airport. Both are well-connected to the town via public transportation or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa is served by the local bus network, which connects the town to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Droitwich Spa via train, with connections available from London, Birmingham, and Worcester.

How to Get Around in Droitwich Spa

Droitwich Spa is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer to travel by car.

Where to Go Next from Droitwich Spa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Droitwich Spa is centrally located and offers easy access to a range of nearby destinations, including:

  • Worcester - A picturesque cathedral city that is located just 6 miles (10 kilometers) east of Droitwich Spa.

  • Birmingham - One of the UK’s largest cities, Birmingham is located just 22 miles (35 kilometers) north of Droitwich Spa.

  • Stratford-upon-Avon - This charming town is known for its connections to William Shakespeare and is located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Droitwich Spa.

Conclusion

Droitwich Spa is a hidden gem in the heart of England, with a rich history and unique local culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s historic landmarks, hiking through the surrounding countryside, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local cuisine, Droitwich Spa has something to offer everyone. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your trip to Droitwich Spa.