Dudley Delights: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget
Dudley: Discover family fun in every corner!
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Dudley, located in the heart of the West Midlands, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor fun. Explore the iconic Dudley Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by lush gardens, and enjoy interactive experiences at the nearby Dudley Zoological Gardens, home to a wide variety of exotic animals. For some outdoor adventure, head to the picturesque Himley Hall and Park where kids can enjoy play areas, picnic spots, and beautiful lakeside walks.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the family-friendly Himley House Hotel, a charming countryside retreat with cozy rooms and picturesque views.
- Embark on a historical adventure at Dudley Castle, where you can explore its medieval ruins and catch a bird of prey show.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Dudley Canal, marveling at the stunning limestone tunnels and hopping aboard a canal boat cruise.
- Indulge your taste buds at Mad O'Rourke's Pie Factory, a quirky eatery famed for its giant pies and hearty British fare.
- Unwind in the evening at the Black Country Living Museum, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of an early 20th-century industrial town.
- Get up close and personal with exotic creatures at the Dudley Zoological Gardens, home to over 1,300 animals from around the world.
- Roam through beautiful nature trails at Himley Hall and Park, relishing its serene gardens and idyllic lake.
- Savor a delectable lunch at The Crooked House, an eccentric pub known for its tilted interiors and delicious pub grub.
- Explore the Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, uncovering treasures from Dudley's past and captivating contemporary artworks.
- End the day with a leisurely walk around Dudley's bustling town center, discovering charming shops and local hidden gems.
- Gear up for adrenaline-pumping fun at the Castle Gate Adventure Park, with activities like high ropes courses and zip-lining to keep the whole family entertained.
- Embark on an exciting hike up Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve, exploring its ancient limestone quarry and admiring stunning panoramic views.
- Refuel with a scrumptious lunch at Bostin' Fittle, a quirky cafe serving up tasty traditional Black Country dishes.
- Take a scenic drive to Himley Village, a charming enclave filled with thatched cottages and scenic countryside vistas.
- Uncover a hidden gem for dinner at Fletcher's Restaurant, where you can indulge in modern British cuisine with a creative twist.
- Spend a fun-filled day at the Waterfront Leisure Centre, making a splash in the pools, whizzing down thrilling water slides, and enjoying family-friendly activities.
- Delight in a hearty and traditional Sunday roast at the Himley Country Hotel & Restaurant, savoring its delicious homemade Yorkshire pudding.
- Explore the gorgeous grounds of Himley Hall, with its stunning landscaped gardens and tranquil boating lake.
- Discover Black Country treasures at the Dudley Canal & Tunnel Trust, taking a guided tour through hidden underground waterways and learning about the region's industrial past.
- Bid farewell to Dudley with a final dinner at The Deli in Himley, where you can savor gourmet sandwiches, salads, and delectable sweet treats.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The Birmingham Airport is the closest airport to Dudley. After landing at Birmingham Airport, take a train to Wolverhampton station and then take a bus to Dudley Bus Station. The journey will take approximately an hour and a half.
Car
The M5 and M6 motorways are the easiest ways to get to Dudley by car. If coming from London, take the M1, M6, and then the M5. From Birmingham, take the A456 until you reach Dudley.
Train
The Dudley train station is located in the center of the town and is serviced by West Midlands Railway. You can take a direct train from Birmingham New Street station, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Boat
As Dudley is inland, there are no direct boat connections. If you want to arrive by boat, you'll have to take a ferry to the nearest port, which is Liverpool, and then take a train or bus to Dudley. However, this is a long and costly option and is not recommended.
Bus
National Express coaches are a great way to get to Dudley, with regular services running from various major UK cities. The journey time and price will vary depending on your starting point, but it's generally a cost-effective option.