West Bromwich

West Bromwich is a small town in the West Midlands, situated between Birmingham and Wolverhampton. The town is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086, when it had a population of 70, and the name describes what West Bromwich was at the time - a "little village on the heath of broom". A Benedictine Priory stood on the site of the present town in the 12th century, but little is documented about the settlement until the 1700s, when West Bromwich became an important stopover on the Birmingham turnpike (toll) road. Industrialisation followed, with the discovery of coal and the construction of furnaces and foundries. Canals were built and the construction of the A41 trunk road from London to Birkenhead put West Bromwich firmly on the map. Today, West Bromwich has a population of around 135,000 and is perhaps best known for being home to West Bromwich Albion football club, nicknamed The Baggies.

Attractions

West Bromwich is not what you might call a tourist destination. However, the town has a number of notable buildings and provides several opportunities for a good day out.

In the centre of West Bromwich stands the Town Hall, built in the late nineteenth century in an Italian Gothic style. The main entrance is surmounted by twelve carved heads, each said to denote one month of the year. Inside, you'll find The Grand Organ, built in 1878 and considered by the British Institute of Organ Studies to be of historical significance.

Just outside the town lies [http://www.oakhouse.sandwell.gov.uk Oak House], a beautiful half-timbered building constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries. Originally a Yeoman's house, it is one of the Black Country's best-preserved timber framed buildings, and gives an insight into life in Tudor Britain. Tours and educational activities take place year round, and there is a souvenir shop.

[http://www.sandwellvalley.com/ Sandwell Valley Country Park] makes for a great day out, especially for families. Set in 2000 acres of farmland, the visitor centre at Sandwell Park Farm provides kids with an introduction to farm life. Within the grounds lie a walled kitchen garden, a blacksmiths, a wheelwright's shop and a schoolroom. Summer balls, guided walks and craft fairs take place throughout the year, and entry is free on weekdays.

Football lovers should head to The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion football club. Affectionately known as The Baggies, the club has been playing at the ground for over a hundred years. Opened in September 1900, it was the first Football League stadium constructed in the 20th century and also has the distinction of being the highest Football League ground in England. The atmosphere is as good as ever on match days, go along and join in their unique "boing, boing" celebrations for as little as twenty-three pounds.

Shopping

West Bromwich has a number of shopping centres, and you will find all the usual high street stores in the town centre. Bearwood, a few miles to the south, hosts a monthly farmer's market head there for fresh, local produce.

Nightlife and Eating Out

West Bromwich has plenty of nightlife, with dozens of pubs as well as a couple of nightclubs try Station 21 or Club Arcadia in the centre of town. If you're looking for a bite to eat, you'll notice a lot of Indian restaurants in the town, some serving excellent, authentic cuisine. One of the best is [http://www.shalimarindiancuisine.co.uk The Shalimar] on the High Street.

Tourist Information

West Bromwich does not have a tourist information office. Birmingham is the nearest:Birmingham Tourist InformationConvention & Visitor Bureau National Exhibition Centre Birmingham West Midlands

• Telephone: +44 (0)121 780 4321
• Email: piazza@bmp.org.uk
• Website: [http://www.birminghamuk.com/ www.birminghamuk.com]

Airport

[http://www.birmingham-airport-guide.co.uk/ Birmingham International Airport] lies 25km from West Bromwich, easily accessible by road or rail, although you'll need to change trains twice. The airport has dozens of shops and restaurants, as well as ample car parking space and bureaux de change.

Birmingham International Airport has direct flights to many destinations throughout Europe as well as connections through Amsterdam, Frankfurt or Paris to more far-flung locations.