Summer is fast approaching, and the school holidays will soon be here. While the months between May and September can feel long, especially with extended daylight, we have curated a list of 23 quirky places across the West Midlands that are well worth a visit. Whether you fancy exploring Birmingham's artistic Custard Factory or ghost-hunting in a former Shropshire prison, there is something for everyone.
1. Custard Factory
Built in 1906 by Alfie Bird to produce the famous egg-free Bird's Custard, this factory now houses unique shops, a food hall, and numerous cafes.
2. Warstone Lane Cemetery Catacombs
Also known as Brookfield Cemetery, this site features a secret catacomb established in 1848, with burials continuing until 1982. The semicircular structure resembles a Roman amphitheatre.
3. Dhamma Talaka Peace Pagoda
Opened in 1998, this golden Buddhist temple sits next to Edgbaston Reservoir, offering a serene escape.
4. Birmingham Back to Backs
A National Trust site preserving 19th-century back-to-back houses, providing a glimpse into historic working-class life.
These are just a few of the 23 quirky destinations that should make your summer bucket list. From hidden catacombs to vibrant cultural hubs, the West Midlands is full of surprises waiting to be explored.
