Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent
The Trentham Estate (Trentham Gardens) · Photo: Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net).
A morning around the lake and adventure play areas of the Trentham estate, then an afternoon walking among free-roaming Barbary macaques in the woods next door.
Nature & gardens · 10:00–13:00 (3h)
Lakeside walk and adventure play; lunch at the shopping village.
A 725-acre estate with award-winning gardens around a long lake, woodland walks, adventure play areas and seasonal family trails. A shopping village with free parking and cafés sits at the entrance.
Photo: Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net).
Wildlife · 13:30–15:30 (2h)
Stay on the path and keep snacks out of sight.
An outdoor wildlife park in Trentham.
Photo: Martyn Wright
West MidlandsLudlow
Explore the ruined castle at the top of Ludlow, then head up the valley to Stokesay's fortified manor for lunch and its new playground, finishing with the free meadows and exhibitions at the Discovery Centre.
Ludlow Castle → Stokesay Castle → Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre
West MidlandsHereford
See the Mappa Mundi and the chained library in Hereford Cathedral, then drive down to the Wye to climb Goodrich Castle's keep and peer into its dungeon.
Hereford Cathedral, Mappa Mundi and Chained Library → Goodrich Castle
West MidlandsHall Green, Birmingham
Start at the old watermill that shaped Tolkien's Shire, then follow the boardwalks of the wood he played in as a boy. Finish with playgrounds, boats and mini golf in one of Birmingham's best-loved parks.
Sarehole Mill → Moseley Bog and Joy's Wood Local Nature Reserve
