Tamworth, Staffordshire, is a town full of surprises, blending rich history with thrilling adventures. From the medieval charm of Tamworth Castle to the adrenaline-pumping slopes of the SnowDome, this town offers something for everyone. Whether it’s exploring the tranquil canals or enjoying family fun at Drayton Manor Theme Park, Tamworth promises unforgettable experiences.
🏠 Where to Stay in Tamworth
- 🏨 4-Star: Drayton Manor
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Holiday Inn Express Tamworth
- 💸 Cheap: 2 Bedroom Flat in Town Center Staffordshire
- 🏢 Apartament: Victoria Apartments Tamworth
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Globe Inn
- 🏩 For Couples: Oak Barn Wigginton
For those seeking a mix of culture and excitement, Tamworth delivers in abundance. Wander through lush gardens, discover fascinating museums, or take a scenic ride on the Statfold Barn Railway. With so many attractions and activities to choose from, Tamworth is a destination that keeps visitors coming back for more.
Best Things to Do in Tamworth, Staffordshire
1. Tamworth Castle
Castle Basics: Standing proudly on its motte-and-bailey foundations, Tamworth Castle captivated me from the moment I glimpsed its stone walls rising above the town. This remarkable fortress traces its origins back to Anglo-Saxon times when it served as a residence for Mercian kings.
Saxon Story: I discovered that before the current castle, the site held immense importance as the heart of the Mercian kingdom. The Vikings ransacked the original settlement in 874, leading to its temporary abandonment. The Normans later transformed the site, with Robert Despenser constructing a wooden castle in the 1080s, which the Marmion family eventually rebuilt in stone between 1170 and 1190.
Digital Discovery: Today’s castle offers an extraordinary blend of history and technology. The innovative Tamworth AR Explorer app brings the castle’s stories to life through augmented reality. As I wandered through the grounds, I used my smartphone to unlock hidden tales and interact with historical figures.
2. Drayton Manor Theme Park
Park Zones: My heart raced as I explored Drayton Manor’s four distinct themed areas – Adventure Cove, Vikings, Frontier Falls, and Thomas Land. Each zone offers its own unique thrills, making it impossible to get bored.
Thrill Seeker: The newly transformed Wave coaster in Adventure Cove left me breathless, reaching speeds of 85km/h with four heart-pounding inversions. For an extra adrenaline rush, I recommend hitting Maelstrom, which spins you 360 degrees while swinging 22.5 meters high.
Family Fun: The brand new Gold Rush coaster, opened in 2024, promises to be the perfect family thrill ride in the Western-themed Frontier Falls area. I found Thomas Land particularly magical for younger visitors, with over 25 themed rides featuring everyone’s favorite tank engine and friends.
Zoo Experience: Between rides, I found peace exploring the 15-acre zoo. With over 100 species, it’s a perfect way to catch your breath after the thrills.
3. SnowDome
Snow Scene: Stepping into Britain’s first real snow indoor skiing venue feels like entering a winter wonderland, even on the hottest summer day. The massive 170-meter main slope stretches before you with pristine snow, maintained at perfect skiing conditions year-round.
Slope Stats: The main run features an interesting dog-leg turn near the top, adding an extra challenge to your descent. Two efficient lifts – a travelator and a button tow – keep the flow moving smoothly, even during peak times.
Learning Curve: My first-timer tip – book into one of the two Academy slopes for beginners. The professional instructors make the experience less daunting, and you’ll be carving turns on the main slope before you know it.
Family Zone: The Snow Fun Park surprised me with its versatility. Little ones from age 2 can play in the treehouse area, while older kids tackle the tubing rings and sledges.
Outdoor Activities in Tamworth
1. Exploring Local Nature Reserves
Nature’s Welcome: Tamworth’s seven Local Nature Reserves surprised me with their diversity. From the rare lowland meadows to riverside walks, each offers a unique glimpse into Staffordshire’s wild heart.
Wildlife Spots: My morning at Broad Meadow (B79 7YL) revealed black-headed gulls diving near the weir and a flash of electric blue as a kingfisher darted past. The rare snakeshead fritillaries bloom here in spring, creating a purple carpet across the untouched meadow.
Peaceful Paths: Dosthill Park became my favorite afternoon escape. The mix of hedgerows and wet meadows creates perfect walking conditions, and I’ve spotted woodpeckers and nuthatches among the trees. The Wind in the Willows sculpture trail adds a whimsical touch.
River Routes: At Warwickshire Moor, I discovered a network of pools connected by boardwalks. The 6.5-mile circular walk offers stunning views, though wear proper boots – some sections get muddy after rain.
2. River Anker and Canal Walks
Water Ways: The River Anker winds through Tamworth like a silver ribbon, creating a 50-kilometer journey perfect for peaceful walks. I discovered the most picturesque section starts at Castle Grounds, where floral terraces cascade down to the riverbank.
Canal Junction: At Fazeley Junction, I watched narrow boats navigate where three historic waterways meet – the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal, Coventry Canal, and the River Anker. This bustling water crossroads offers some of the most interesting views in Tamworth.
Angler’s Corner: The river teems with impressive pike and chub, while barbel weighing over 15 pounds lurk in deeper pools. My favorite fishing spot sits just downstream from the castle, where the water runs deeper and clearer.
Trail Mix: The Planet Walk sculpture trail alongside the waterways adds an educational twist to your stroll. I particularly enjoyed the riverside path connecting Castle Grounds to Ventura Retail Park – a perfect blend of nature and urban convenience.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
1. The Peel Collection & Police Museum
Museum Magic: Tucked inside Middleton Hall, I discovered a fascinating collection that brings Tamworth’s police history to life. The Peel Museum showcases the legacy of Sir Robert Peel, founder of the modern police force, and his connection to nearby Drayton Manor.
Historic Gems: Walking through the exhibits, I found myself transported to the 1800s. The collection features original police uniforms, equipment, and fascinating memorabilia that tells the story of how our modern police force evolved from Peel‘s vision.
Time Travel: The most captivating part of my visit was exploring the Drayton Manor history section, which reveals how the Peel family’s grand estate transformed into today’s theme park. The Victoria Cross display about William Peel particularly caught my attention.
Collection Highlights:
- Original police artifacts and equipment
- Peel family memorabilia
- Historic photographs of Drayton Manor
2. Statfold Barn Railway
Steam Scene: Nestled in 1,000 acres of Staffordshire countryside, I discovered a railway enthusiast’s paradise at Statfold Barn Railway. The site features three different track sizes, from 12¼ to 2-foot gauge, offering varied experiences across its scenic routes.
Track Tales: My journey began at Statfold Junction, winding through four distinct stations including Strawberry Park Platform and Oak Tree Halt, before circling the impressive Balloon Loop. The newest addition, Mease Valley Light Railway, adds another dimension with its 12¼ gauge track.
Engine Collection: The museum houses over 20 working steam and diesel engines, each with its own story. I spent hours exploring the turntable and interactive displays that bring these magnificent machines to life.
3. Aethelfleda Monument & Heritage Trail
Monument Magic: Standing six meters tall outside Tamworth Railway Station, the striking steel statue of Aethelflaed took my breath away. This impressive monument points visitors toward the town center along Victoria Road.
Saxon Story: The statue commemorates the remarkable ‘Lady of the Mercians’ who transformed Tamworth into a fortified settlement in 913 AD. Walking around the base, I felt transported back to when she built the town’s first defensive walls against Viking invaders.
Historic Heart: Following the heritage trail, I discovered how Tamworth served as the principal royal center of Mercia during the 8th and 9th centuries. The trail reveals fascinating spots where Anglo-Saxon settlers first established their “Tomworðig” settlement by the River Tame.
Family-Friendly Activities in Tamworth
1. Crumb & Play Café
Play Paradise: Nestled in the Heart of the Country Shopping Village, I discovered a chic play café that perfectly balances parent relaxation with children’s entertainment. The split-level venue offers two distinct play zones that kept my little ones entertained for hours.
Adventure Zones: Upstairs, ‘Little Crumbs Lane’ captivated my 4-year-old with its mini role-play village designed for ages 3-6. Downstairs, the soft play corner proved perfect for my toddler, with its carefully curated climbing equipment and slides for under-4s.
Café Culture: While the kids played, I savored a Rainforest Alliance Certified cappuccino and browsed their menu of family favorites. The café impressed me with its variety of gluten-free and vegan options.
Nature Touch: The highlight of our visit was meeting Sandra and Sower, the resident pigs in the woodland garden. It’s a unique feature that adds an educational element to the play experience.
2. NPF Bassetts Pole Adventure Park
Adventure Zone: Set across 200 acres of natural woodland, I discovered an action-packed paradise at NPF Bassetts Pole. With 20 different activities available, this adventure park near Sutton Coldfield offers everything from heart-pumping paintball battles to scenic quad bike treks.
Activity Range: The park’s massive woodland setting creates perfect battlegrounds for paintball missions, while the dedicated archery zones and quad biking trails kept me entertained for hours. Each activity zone is specially designed with safety in mind, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers.
Safety First: Before hitting the quad trails, I received comprehensive training from qualified instructors. The 150cc automatic KYMCO bikes proved perfect for both novice and experienced riders.
3. Ventura Retail Park & NAMCO Funscape
Entertainment Hub: Located in Castle Grounds on River Drive, NAMCO Funscape has become my favorite rainy-day escape in Tamworth. The 26-lane bowling alley buzzes with energy, while the Castle Adventure mini golf course adds a unique local twist to indoor entertainment.
Activity Mix: During my visit, I discovered an impressive range of entertainment options. The center features bowling lanes with adaptive equipment for all skill levels, a ‘Pac-Man Play’ soft play area perfect for children up to age 8, and an engaging mini golf course.
Family Focus: The soft play area opens daily from 9:30 to 18:00, offering a perfect morning activity for families with young children. I particularly enjoyed watching kids explore the separate toddler frame and educational touch screens.
Food & Drink in Tamworth Staffordshire
1. Tamworth Food & Drink Trail
Food Scene: Walking through Tamworth’s bustling streets, I discovered 58 unique eating and drinking establishments, each adding its own flavor to the town’s culinary landscape. The award-winning Tamworth Tap, crowned CAMRA National Pub of the Year, became my first must-visit stop.
Local Flavors: The retro-styled Hissy Fits Café on Peel Street captured my attention with its 60s-inspired décor and loaded tots. Their creative menu includes vegetarian burritos and unique burger combinations that kept me coming back.
Pub Culture: The Tudor Hotel, established in 1835, impressed me with its Jack’s Creek premium beef and the only rooftop bar in town. Their 400-day grain-fed Wagyu rump proved worth every penny.
Dining Style
Average Price Range (£/€)
Casual Cafes
£8-15 / €9-17 per person
Pub Meals
£12-25 / €14-29 per person
Fine Dining
£25-40 / €29-47 per person
2. Traditional English Pubs
Victorian Vibes: The Globe Inn on Lower Gungate captured my heart with its Victorian elegance and completely rebuilt 1901 structure. The traditional Sunday roast here became my weekend ritual, with three courses for £14.95 (€17.50/USD 18.80).
Waterside Wonder: Walking along the Fazeley Canal, I discovered The Tame Otter, serving real ale since the early 19th century. Their crackling log fires and beautiful gardens create the perfect setting for both summer and winter visits.
Garden Glory: The Longwood in Fazeley impressed me with its lush beer garden and extensive selection of cask ales. Their traditional pub food menu runs from 12-9 daily, perfect for late lunch or dinner cravings.
Pub Style
Average Price Range (£/€)
Best Known For
Traditional
£12-25 / €14-29
Sunday Roasts
Gastropub
£15-30 / €17-35
Local Ales
Modern
£10-20 / €12-23
Pub Classics
Practical Information for Visitors
1. How to Get to Tamworth
Train Travel: Tamworth station on Victoria Road (B79 7JT) has become my preferred gateway to the town. With services from London Northwestern Railway and Avanti West Coast, I found connections to major cities like Birmingham New Street and Nottingham surprisingly frequent.
Station Setup: The fully staffed station operates from 6:10 AM to 8:00 PM weekdays and Saturdays, with shorter Sunday hours (9:15 AM – 4:45 PM). The station offers essential amenities including ticket machines, toilets, and a welcoming café.
Road Routes: During my visits, I’ve discovered several efficient driving options. The station car park offers 323 spaces and even includes two electric vehicle charging points.
Bus Links: Local bus services connect Tamworth to surrounding areas, with regular daily routes. I recommend using the Traveline journey planner (0871 200 22 33) for the most up-to-date schedules.
2. Where to Stay in Tamworth Staffordshire
Stay Options: During my explorations of Tamworth, I discovered accommodation choices for every budget, from luxury hotels near Drayton Manor to cozy glamping pods in the countryside.
City Center: The heart of historic Tamworth offers boutique hotels and B&Bs within walking distance of the castle. Most rooms come equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi and flat-screen TVs.
Nature Escape: Just outside town, I found peaceful camping options at Saxon Meadow, where ensuite glamping pods with hot tubs offer a perfect blend of comfort and countryside.
Accommodation Type
Price Range (£/€) per night
Budget Hotels
£32-60 / €37-70
Boutique B&Bs
£55-95 / €64-111
Luxury Hotels
£120-180 / €140-210
Camping Sites
£19-35 / €22-41
❓FAQ
What are the main family-friendly attractions in Tamworth?
Tamworth offers several family-friendly attractions including Drayton Manor Resort featuring Thomas Land, a 15-acre zoo, and thrilling rides. The SnowDome provides the first full-sized indoor ski slope in the UK with skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating facilities. Tamworth Castle, a grade I listed building, offers interactive exhibits and the Battle & Tribute Anglo-Saxon exhibition.
What can visitors explore in Tamworth Castle Grounds?
The Castle Grounds is a beautiful park offering panoramic views and multiple activities including a large adventure playground, Victorian bandstand, outdoor gym, tennis courts, and skate park. Visitors can enjoy river walks along the River Anker, free summer concerts, and the Planet Walk sculpture trail.
What historical sites can you visit in Tamworth?
Tamworth, steeped in history as the former capital of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia, features several significant sites. The grade I listed Tamworth Town Hall, built in 1701, stands in front of the Robert Peel statue, commemorating the founder of the Metropolitan Police. Tamworth Castle, one of the most significant motte and bailey castles, showcases nearly 1000 years of history.
What outdoor activities are available near Tamworth?
Visitors can explore the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal junction, offering narrow boat watching and towpath walks. The area features seven Local Nature Reserves and numerous wildlife sites. For railway enthusiasts and families, Statfold Country Park offers narrow gauge railway experiences and special events throughout the year.
