Free things to see and do Heart of England

Churches & cathedrals

Birmingham Cathedral (www.birminghamcathedral.com/welcome/)
English Baroque style church built in the early 18th century with a beautifully restored city centre churchyard. Famous for its four large stained-glass windows designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones.

Shrewsbury Abbey (www.shrewsburyabbey.com/)
This abbey was a Benedictine Monastery founded in 1080. The most impressive feature is the large window of Heraldic glass from the 14th century, original Norman door and four original nave pillars with connecting arches from the original church building.

Holy Trinity Church (www.stratford-upon-avon.org/) - Stratford
This fine gothic building built between the 13th and 15th centuries is the final resting place of William Shakespeare. The original wooden spire of the church was replaced in the 18th century. £1 donation asked to visit Shakespeare's Grave.

Worcester Cathedral (www.cofe-worcester.org.uk/cathedral/index.php)
Interesting features include, King John’s tomb, Prince Arthur’s chantry, Norman Crypt and chapter house.

Historic buildings & sites

The Old House (www.herefordshire.gov.uk/leisure/museums_galleries/2849.asp) – Hereford 
Built in 1621 and furnished in 17th century style throughout its three floors, the house includes kitchen and bedrooms originally part of Butchers Row. There is also an interpretative display on Hereford during the Civil War.

Moreton Corbet Castle (www.shropshiretourism.info/castles/moreton-corbett/)
At this site you’ll find the remains of the castle with a small 13th century keep and substantial remains of an Elizabethan Mansion.

Clun Castle – Clun
The castle was built after the Norman Conquest to defend the Welsh Borders but was abandoned in the 16th century. Its most striking feature is the huge grey stone tower on a mound.

Caer Caradoc – Church Stretton
This hill fort is reputed to be the site of Caractacus’ last stand. Also linked to King Arthur, the legendary cauldron of Di-Wrnach which contains the treasures of Britain and the magical sword is hidden in a cave below the summit of Caer Caradoc.

Clifford Castle (www.castlewales.com/clifford) – Clifford
Traditional birthplace of fair Rosamund, the remaining ruins of this 11th-century castle comprise of a gatehouse hall and round tower.

Moseley Hall Ice House (www.birminghamheritage.org.uk/icehouse.htm)
This 18th-century ice house was recently excavated and restored by the Moseley Society and is in a remarkably good state of preservation.

Nesscliffe Hill & Kynaston's Cave (www.showcaves.com/english/gb/misc/HumpreysKinneston.html)
Kynaston Cave is where the highwayman Humphrey Kynaston lived and died after he was outlawed for his debts.

Museums

Saint John's House – Warwick
Small museum housing displays of period costume and social history exhibits.

>> For more information visit Warwickshire Museum Service (www.warwickshire.gov.uk/museum)

Gardens, parks & walks

Sarehole Mill (www.birmingham.gov.uk/sarehole.bcc) – Birmingham
This restored water mill dates from 1765 and the mill and surrounding area have close connections with J R R Tolkein. Across the road is a house where he spent 4 years of his childhood. Many of his ideas were inspired by the building and the gloomy lake.

Kenchester Water Gardens (www.kenchesterwatergardens.co.uk/) – Hereford
This water garden centre has a national collection of water lilies. Displays include plants, fountains, landscapes, fish and tropical and marine aquariums.

Ellesmere Mere Visitors Centre
Tourist information and visitors centre with beautiful gardens and woodlands.
>> More information visit Ellesmere Community (www.ellesmere.info/main.htm)

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