One of the many advantages of living in the Midlands is its central location. Placed at the midway point of the British Isles, it's the perfect place to travel to a range of other destinations that are dotted nearby. Whether it's a family outing to somewhere new or a solo jaunt to a place you've always wanted to visit, the Midlands - in particular, Wolverhampton - is a gateway to all manner of days out and long weekends away.

If you can't decide where to go, or you need some inspiration for your next getaway, then we’ve listed some top places to visit across the UK that make for great road trip destinations, and even better, they're all only two hours away from Wolverhampton!

Dudley

An unconventional road trip destination for most Wolverhampton residents, Dudley is brimming with fun activities for family days out, and at less than a 30-minute drive away, it’s a breeze to get to. In fact, on a good day you can travel via the A4123 and be there in 20 minutes! Go back in time as you visit the Black Country Living Museum and explore life as it was more than 100 years ago. Or if you’d prefer a wilder experience, a trip to Dudley Zoo offers excitement and discovery for folk of all ages.

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Highlights that Dudley has to offer:

• Himley Hall and Park: Superb all year round, these grounds are a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Time your visit in the spring or summer, when the hall itself is open to the public, and you can check out the exhibitions and refurbished rooms to roam around in.
• Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines: For explorers of all ages, these underground waterways offer all sorts of discovery, with a journey through the full length of the canal filled with all sorts of reconstructions and immersive videos.
• Sycamore Green Adventure Centre: If you'replanning a day out with the kids, then head to this fun indoor and outdoor play area and really get their pulses racing.​

Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury was originally a settlement upon the River Severn, and the largely unaltered medieval street plan makes it a wonderful road trip destination, whether it’s for the day or a long weekend you’ve got planned. With over 650 listed buildings, including the famous Shrewsbury Castle, this quaint market town is a must for budding history buffs. Whether you want to soak up the atmosphere of the local culture at the Shrewsbury Museum or swing by its Tudor cinema for a film, there’s plenty around to entertain the whole family!

Highlights that Shrewsbury has to offer:

• The Shrewsbury Mystery Trail Tour: A journey through Shrewsbury with a difference, this self-guided tour takes you around the town's highlights, which serve as answers to some devilish questions too!
• Battlefield Falconry: If you fancy yourself a keen ornithologist, then make Battlefield Falconry a go-to on your road trip. With a collection of over 30 birds, including eagles and hawks, visitors can stroll through the grounds, learn about new species and even try their hand at a spot of bird handling too.
• Haughmond Hill: For a stunning jaunt in the fresh air, Haughmond Hill offers unrivalled views of the River Severn, along with four walking trails for a range of experience levels. Don't forget your walking boots.

Stratford-Upon-Avon

In the summer months, Stratford is the place to be. Residing slightly southeast of Wolverhampton, this historical treasure is an ideal road trip spot less than 50 miles from the city (take M42 for the quickest route). Surrounded by beautiful Tudor buildings, the birthplace of William Shakespeare is an idyllic place to picnic in the summer. From a relaxing shopping trip to boat rides along the river Avon, Stratford’s picturesque surroundings make it a pleasure to visit whatever you plan on doing.​

Highlights that Stratford has to offer:

• Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall: Let your kids experience a Tudor-era school lesson to see how the famous bard began his education, followed by a roam around the Guildhall, the space where Shakespeare would have watched his first-ever plays.
• Tudor World: An award-winning museum housed in a Grade 2-listed building, see what life was like in the 16^th century; visitors can walk around recreated rooms that add plenty of atmosphere to the stories you'll learn about during your time inside.
• The MAD Museum: For something a little off-kilter, treat your inner inventor to a trip here. Hands-on play is encouraged as visitors can get to grips with crazy contraptions and inventions including The Kitchenator, a rolling ball sculpture made entirely out of everyday items you'd find in the kitchen.

Peak District

If you’re looking to explore the English countryside, we suggest the Peak District as your next mini-break. Just shy of two hours from Wolverhampton, this northern National Park is ideal for couples or families who love to get out in the great outdoors. However long you’re planning to stay for, this short drive is easy to do, especially when you’ve got some of the best views in the country waiting for you at the other end. Surrounded by picturesque spa towns too, the Peak District should be top of your list if you’re planning to get out and about this year.​

Highlights that the Peak District has to offer:

• Peak District Lead Mining Museum: Explore the world of lead mining, and the back-breaking work that families had to toil through at this fascinating museum. With maps, tools and personal items that all belonged to miners, this is a real chance to discover a bygone era up close.
• Alton Towers: For something a little more pulse racing, get the adrenaline rushing with a trip to the iconic theme park based in Staffordshire. With new rides and old favourites to experience, there's never a dull moment here!
• Chatsworth House: Take a relaxing stroll through the grounds of this 16^th-century manor house home to over 30 rooms and some truly impressive exhibitions from an extensive art collection. A great way to cap off your day here!

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