Top Local Attractions in Dudley Borough and the surrounding towns

Dudley Zoo and Castle

DZC is unique: a zoo with Planet Earth’s rarest species set around an 11th century castle incorporating the world¹s largest single collection of Tectons and the country’s only vintage chairlift . . . all sited on a 40-acre wooded hillside with a rich geological history – the limestone of Castle Hill is composed of a 420 million-year-old prehistoric seabed!

In addition to this, you can visit Kira, Bluebird Care Dudley's adopted giraffe, who lives at Dudley Zoo.

Black Country Living Museum

Experience the Black Country of the past covering over 250 years of our history, from the Industrial Revolution to post-war prosperity, through the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley in the West Midlands.

Stourbridge Glass Museum

World renowned for its glass making history, Stourbridge Glass Museum  tells the story and shows visitors about the history of glassmaking in the town and on the right days, you can even have a go yourself.

Dudley Canal and Caverns

You may be aware of the long history of canals in Dudley, with their important role in the industrialisation of the country, but did you also know that you can go on a canal trip here and go back into 428 million years of history? Explore the canals and caverns at the Dudley Canal Trust.

Alternatively, every Thursday you can go for the Chit Chat – Friendly Faces

Every Thursday morning from 10am join us for our always popular Chit Chat. Whether you want to reconnect with old friends or make new ones, you will find a warm welcome from our volunteers and other people who share your interests. There is no pressure or obligation, just a chance to enjoy some good company and conversation. We’ll even give you a free tea or coffee to enjoy as you chat!

 Leasowes Park

The Leasowes is a historic landscape, listed as Grade I on the English Heritage list of parks and Gardens of historic interest in England.

 Birdlife is also in abundance, including Ducks, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Buzzards and many, many more. 

Thanks to its “nationally important assemblage of grassland fungi and species-rich neutral grasslands,” The Leasowes has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is also a site within the Black Country UNESCO Global Geopark. GEOSITE: 26

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Local Nature Reserves

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Nature Reserves are great areas for leisurely walks and picnics along the quiet canal pathways.

They are also home to the Timber Gallows crane which is of a very rare design and is thought to be the only remaining one in the country and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.  It is currently awaiting restoration.  It is a place full of historical bridges, landmarks and beautiful scenery, making it perfect for artists or for someone looking to enjoy the tranquillity.

Dudley Archives and Local History Centre

Dudley Museum at the Archives is the headquarters for the Black Country Global Geopark with the Museum containing information on all 45 geosites.  The Museum  also has a fantastic fossils and minerals collection, a dinosaur gallery, a glass collection, local sporting heroes section, including a selection of Duncan Edwards memorabilia and a small art display.

Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve

Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve is a classic geological site of exceptional importance for the quality and diversity of its fossils and spectacular mining heritage. This is one of the most notable geological locations in the British Isles and visited and studied by geologists from all over the world. 

Over 700 different types of fossil can be found here; 186 types of which were first discovered and described here and 86 are found nowhere else.

Himley Hall Park

Himley Hall is  a lovely place for a walk at any time of the year and maybe you can get an afternoon tea while you are there. Facilities include; parkland, lake, children’s play area, coffee lounge.

Mary Stevens Park

Mary Stevens Park is another lovely place for a gentle stroll or a picnic with a fabulous Café, parkland, pool, bandstand and regular events.

 Places in South Staffs/Near Stourbridge

Baggeridge Country Park

Baggeridge Country Park has something for everyone – from a children’s play area to a miniature railway, walking trails, a tearoom and more. 

The 152-acre Green Flag Park is situated in South Staffordshire close to Wombourne, Sedgley and Himley. 

Clent Hills National Trust

Located near to Stourbridge and Halesowen  the Clent Hills offer miles of walks and amazing, panoramic views over the Cotswolds, Shropshire Hills and Welsh borders.  At the right time of year you can find yourself submerged in a sea of Bluebells.

Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses 

Located on the edge of the village of Kinver is the spectacular Kinver Edge. With beautiful views and historic homes carved straight into the rock, Kinver Edge is an amazing place.

The famous Holy Austin Rock Houses are restored so you can really see what it was like to live in a cosy Rock House.