Tamworth Visitor Guide 2014/15

TAMWORTH Explore.Play.Enjoy 2014 - 2015

Events • Attractions • Shows • Dining Out • Stay www.visittamworth.co.uk

r o th is... w m a T

Great People

and places to visit, with a castle and events

superb shopping

and a theme park!

GREAT COUNTRYSIDE

AMAZING HISTORY DON’T FORGET THE CASTLE!

EATING & RELAxING ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON...

... fun f or

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y l i m a all the f

Our Story

ory 04. Share Our St Remembers 06. Tamworth Trail 10. The Mercian n Times 12. Anglo-Saxo Castle 14. Tamworth worth 16. Active Tam s 18. Outdoor Day ildings 22. Historic Bu 24. Tamworth s– Assembly Room ry sa er 125th Anniv Tamworth 27. Created in 28. What’s On?

ay 35. Places to St e to 40. Somewher Eat & Drink e Shopping 44. Town Centr Retail Park 50. Tamworth Area 52. Explore the s 65. Conference ays 66. Wedding D up Visits 68. Coach & Gro e& 70. Getting Her d un ro A Getting rmation 71. Visitor Info 72. Maps 3

Share our story

.co.uk worth m a t t i s i www.v 4

Tamworth has something for absolutely everyone Tamworth has a unique place in the historical landscape of the UK as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mercia. Today it offers visitors the opportunity to discover this rich past, as well as enjoy the attractions of a thriving and busy town set in the beautiful county of Staffordshire.

From day visits to longer stays, the town offers a rich and vibrant experience with a superb choice of historical sites, as well as attractions such as the famous Drayton Manor Theme Park, the world famous Twycross Zoo, the PGA Golf HQ at the Belfry Hotel and the unique real snow experience at the SnowDome, to name but a few.

With easy access by air, rail and road, Tamworth is a great centre from which to explore the tourism heartland of the UK, including Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Lichfield, Warwick and the Peak District.

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Tamworth remembers 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of WW1. We wish to acknowledge this event by not only recalling the stories of this time, but also by remembering all those brave people of Tamworth, who throughout various times of conflict, have left their mark on history.

When Tamworth took in Children of the Blitz As Hitler’s bombers began the blitz, Tamworth and its surrounding areas largely escaped the wrath of the Luftwaffe, the outskirts of Tamworth were bombed, but the town itself suffered no damage. The sirens and anti aircraft guns could be heard from as far away as Coventry and Birmingham. Local families found themselves dealing with hundreds of evacuated children. They came from all across the country from as near as Coventry and Birmingham and as far as Essex and Merseyside. With luggage label name tags tied to their lapels and clutching their gas masks, children arrived on the railway platforms of Tamworth station, confused, excited and tired. The children carried very little with them as there was a strict list of what they could bring.

In 1940, 518 children from Broadstairs in Kent arrived in Tamworth, followed by 294 from London. The next year, 81 children were evacuated from Liverpool to Tamworth. The whole community pulled together to look after the children. The Vicar, Rev Arthur McCreery greeted the evacuees as they arrived, the youngsters were taken to the Marmion Street Clinic to be examined and treated before being billeted. Elsie Bramble Taylor, head of Tamworth Girls School took on the role of billeting officer.

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Sir William PeeApl ril 1858 2 November 1824 – 27

pient of the Victoria Cross, VC KCB was an English reci Captain Sir William Peel in the face of the enemy ry ant gall for rd stigious awa d the highest and most pre forc h es. He was the thir British and Commonwealt that can be awarded to was educated he er fath his like and l r Sir Robert Pee son of the Prime Ministe at Harrow. the the Naval Brigade during Royal Navy, serving with a up ed pick Peel was a captain in the he pol, asto Sev ober 1854, at the siege of Crimean War. On 18 Oct der cases, threw pow eral sev st ong am burning from live shell with the fuse still For this he was awarded burst as it left his hands. it over the parapet and it ional Maritime Museum Nat the at d is now displaye the Victoria Cross and it in Greenwich, England. some of the officers of the tle of Inkerman, he joined y On 5 November at the Bat of the regiment when the ed to defend the Colours help and rds ult Gua assa ier the nad at Gre scaling party June 1855 he led the first were hard-pressed. On 18 He was made a Knight ed. und wo y erel sev self on the Redan and was him ame Sir William Peel. of the Bath and thus bec Commander of the Order and was wounded at served in the Indian Mutiny After the Crimean War, he llpox at Cawnpore, sma of died the age of 33, he the Relief of Lucknow. At India on 27 April 1858.

Tamworth Volunteer Soldiers On May 14 1940 Anthony Eden, War Secretary broadcast to the nation that all men aged between 17 and 65 who were not in the military but wish to defend their country, should enrol in a new force called the Local Defence Volunteers.

LDV was the brainchild of Sir Winston Churchill.

Within an hour of Eden’s broadcast, 30 men from Tamworth had enrolled at Tamworth’s Police Station. The new force’s job was simple, it would act as Britain’s last line of defence should the Nazis make it across the channel. LDV was later renamed to The Home Guard, emphasising its role as Britain’s last hope.

Supplies for the volunteers were hard to come by.

The volunteers would often fashion their own or follow instructions in the Home Guard manual on how to create weapons and lethal cocktails.

As supplies and equipment improved, the Home Guard began to look like a formidable volunteer force. Hitler described them as ‘murder bands’ and said they would be shot if captured. His threat served only to increase the volunteer’s confidence.

During the summer of 1940, the RAF defended the land from the air and the Home Guard patrols increased. But ‘the few’ of the RAF, held strong and, by the onset of winter the threat of invasion began to evaporate.

Churchill said, “Such a force is of the highest value and importance. A country where every street bristles with resolute armed men, is a country against which the tactics that destroyed the Dutch will not succeed. A country so defended would not be liable to be overthrown”.

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Actor Survived Battlefield to Tread The Boards in POW Camps Local man, Michael Goodliffe, was a young talented actor, who in May 1940 had been reported killed in action in Belgium. However, he was in fact alive and being held in a POW camp. He was to remain in captivity for the duration of the war.

While he was to play no further part in the war, he put his considerable talents to use within the camp – with remarkable results.

The tall, handsome 22 year old made his first stage appearance at the Liverpool Playhouse in 1936. He quickly went on to spend 3 seasons with the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon, appearing alongside the likes of Laurence Olivier and Anthony Quayle.

When war broke out in 1939, he enlisted out of a sense of duty and was commissioned into the Royal Warwickshire Regiment as a second lieutenant. In May the following year during the retreat to Dunkirk, Goodliffe took a bullet in the thigh, it was at this point that the story broke; an actor of ‘brilliant promise’ had been killed in action.

Finding himself in a POW camp in Germany, his senior British officer told Goodliffe, ‘put on some shows as soon as you can’.

The German hierarchy encouraged the shows, believing it would divert energies away from escape attempts. The Munich Opera House provided costumes and makeup was ordered from Berlin. Programmes for each production were professionally printed and orchestral accompaniment provided. For the more lavish productions, German Officers even sat in the front row seats.

By 1945 he was running an organised theatre with a permanent staff of carpenters and electricians, a nucleus of about 2 dozen actors, including professional and amateur and about 4 scenic designers. At the end of the war Goodliffe was liberated and returned to England to continue his acting career. He appeared regularly around the West End and would also act in a number of POW movies, including The Wooden Horse, The One That Got Away, Fifth Day of Peace and The River Line.

Reliant Supporting the Cause In 1938 Reliant workers built around 11,000 respirators in a day, working until 11:30pm that night to get them done. Reliant manufactured well over 1.5 million parts for the war effort for planes, tanks and armoured cars. However, they were not immune to its rules, on one occasion they were fined for leaving a light on during a blackout and on another for a waste fire that flared up in the yard, again during a blackout. They also donated £29 and 9 shillings to the Tamworth Spitfire Fund.

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Tamworth Men at the Charge of the Light Brigade In the Crimea, at an area known as Balaklava, on 25 October 1854 just one hour before dawn, the most infamous, ludicrous and suicidal military action ever was about to take place.

Known today as ‘The Charge of The Light Brigade’ it was a catastrophic blunder which was to become an heroic chapter in British history. English troops were ordered to charge down a valley, flanked each side with Russian cannons with an order to advance to the front to prevent the enemy carrying away the guns. This order – whether it was intended or misinterpreted is still open to debate – sent 673 men charging down a valley made infamous as ‘The Valley of Death’ in Alfred Lord Tennyson’s famous poem.

Tamworth has a great and significant part in this celebrated event, for two of the heroes of ‘The Charge’ were Tamworth men and one of them was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroic action on that terrible day.

John Edden of the 4th Light Dragoons charged at full pelt down this awful valley having two horses shot from under him. The other man, Samuel Parkes, also of the 4th Light Dragoons was the bodyguard of his commanding officer and, like Edden, he had his horse shot from under him as he charged down the Valley of Death.

Many of their comrades didn’t survive the bloody carnage and those who finally reached the guns were ill equipped to carry out the order and had to retreat – retracting their route past fallen comrades whose bodies, along with their horses, had been terribly ripped and torn apart by relentless shelling.

Hugh Crawford, the trumpeter of his regiment also had his horse shot from beneath him and as the horse fell, he became trapped beneath his mount. Crawford also lost his sword and injured his arm. Realising his dire predicament, Samuel Parkes ran to his aid, fought off ravaging Russians and Cossacks, was then joined by John Edden.

As the three men retreated, they came upon their second in command, Major Halket, who was lying on the ground, mortally wounded. Edden and Crawford managed to lift Major Halket onto Samuel Parkes’s back whislt he fought off the Russians and Cossacks, wielding his sword like a madman.

The sight of 6ft 2ins Parkes fighting for his life with an injured man on his back was a sight to behold.

Eventually Parkes was disarmed by his Russian foes and along with Crawford was taken prisoner. His actions at least allowed Edden and others to escape the bloody carnage and reach relative safety of the British lines.

After a year in captivity, Parkes was repatriated – and inexplicably Court Martialled for desertion. However, when the full story emerged, he was cleared of all charges and rather than being punished, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

On Friday June 26th 1857, Queen Victoria distributed the first Victoria Crosses at Hyde Park. On parade were a large body of troops under Sir Colin Campbell which comprised of Life Guards, Dragoons, Hussars, Royal Engineers, Artillery and Line Regiments, together with a detachment of Bluejackets from the Royal Navy.

Just before ten o ’clock in the morning, following a Royal Salute from the artillery, Her Majesty along with the Prince Consort, the Crown Prince of Prussia, the Prince of Wales and the Queen’s son Prince Alfred (Duke of Saxe-Coberg-Gotha) rode into the park and took places near the dais prepared for them. The Victoria Crosses lay upon a small table covered with scarlet cloth.

The 62 recipients stood at ease some distance off and came forward one at a time as Lord Panmure, Secretary for War, read out their names. Of note is Lieutenant Lucas, R.N. who was the first man to be gazetted for the Victoria Cross.

The presentation of the crosses was followed by a military review and the proceedings were finished.

Parkes was only the second man in the British Army to receive this ultimate medal for gallantry under fire and was presented with his medal by Queen Victoria herself in Hyde Park, London on June 26 1857. John Edden escaped on foot and returned to Tamworth where he lived out his long life as a venerated hero. Samuel Parkes, after leaving the army, lived out his life in relative poverty in London. He died in 1864 and was buried in an unmarked pauper’s grave in Brompton Cemetery. Parkes’s great, great nephew, Peter Elkin, discovered where Parkes was buried and made it his mission to ensure his story would become known, remembered and given the honour he so greatly deserved.

The Victoria Cross, Britain’s highest award for bravery, was born out of the Crimean War and the medals themselves are still made from the bronze of cannons which the Light Brigade were sent to retrieve.

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The Mercian Trail, Living History & Ghostly Tales The rich heritage of Tamworth has placed it as one of the most appealing destinations to visit and get a real flavour of different historical periods, all with their own unique story to tell.

The Mercian Trail The Mercian Trail Partnership aims to tell the emerging story of the Staffordshire Hoard and the Anglo-Saxon history of the region, through a series of informative permanent and temporary displays and a programme of outreach activities aimed at residents and visitors alike.

As the ancient capital of Mercia and once home to the King of Mercia’s palace, Tamworth’s history is crammed with stories of intrigue and warfare. Visitors to Tamworth Castle will explore more about the power struggles of the Anglo-Saxon era, the battles, the blows and the bloodshed with new interactive displays and regular historical re-enactments of events.

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The Ghosts of Tamworth Castle The Castle has a number of reported sightings over the years and even when you talk to the locals most will say, “Oh yes, we all know the Castle is haunted.”

Ann’s Story – Museum Assistant The Castle’s alarm had gone off and while Ann was waiting for the engineer to come and reset it, she sat in Reception. She heard some odd footsteps in the 16th century Ferrers’ Room and then sounds of tables and chairs being dragged across the wooden floor. She dashed outside and straight into the alarm engineer. He was shocked to see her because he had just seen a figure standing in the Ferrers’ Room window, which he thought was her! The room had that day been fitted with a new circular table and chairs, yet on investigation nothing had moved an inch!

The Lady’s Chamber (The Haunted Room): 12th century – Solar, The Black Lady Legend has it that the ‘Black Lady’ (a 9th century nun called Editha) haunts this room. Her nuns were said to have been expelled from Polesworth Abbey by the first Baron Marmion.

The continued prayers of her homeless nuns eventually called her from her grave and one night in 1139, after a lavish banquet, the 3rd Baron Marmion saw a vision of her whilst in his bedchamber. She prophesied that unless the nuns were restored to Polesworth, he would meet an untimely and painful death.

Just before she vanished she struck him on his side with the point of her crosier and the wound was so terrible that the whole castle was awoken by his cries. Seeing him so tormented with pain his friends advised him to confess himself to a priest and restore the nuns to the Abbey.

His pain only ceased when this vow was taken and the nuns were allowed to return.

June’s Story – Staff Member 19th century servant’s quarters the face and

was struck in This staff member was opening up the Tamworth Story Exhibition Room when she eyes, she saw a blue mist swirl around momentarily blinded. It felt like sand had been thrown at her. When she cleared her mist was at least six feet high.

The window. the of out disappear and ceramics century 19th the room near a display of

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AngloSaxon Times Tamworth, The Ancient Capital of Mercia The Anglo-Saxons came to Staffordshire in the late 6th century, as groups of settlers or tribes.

Mercia, or Mierce in Anglo-Saxon, means boundary and the area grew from a number of these separate tribal settlements.

The Mercians gradually conquered most of the other Midland tribes to become a powerful kingdom stretching from the Humber to the Thames. The rest of the country was ruled by the kingdoms of Northumbria and Wessex. Tamworth was the heartland of the Mercian Kingdom which had a royal church at Repton, a religious centre at Lichfield and the King’s main residence at Tamworth.

It is certain that the Mercian Kings spent more time at Tamworth than anywhere else, and it is thought that there was a royal palace at Tamworth by the end of the 7th century, situated on the site close to St. Editha’s Church.

Originally, this palace would have been a timber hall with a chapel and somewhere for horses to be stabled. Evidence from signed charters also show that the Mercian royal families were regularly in Tamworth during the festivals of Christmas and Easter, between 751 and 857 AD. The most well known Mercian Kings are Penda (625-655), Wulfhere (657-674), Aethelred (674-704), Aethelbald (716-757) and Offa (757-796).

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King Offa of the Me rcians oversees the building of Offa’s Dyke

Tamworth is also known to have been important within Mercia, as it had a water mill which ground grain for food for the settlement and its livestock.

The mill is believed to be the earliest post Roman water mill found in Britain.

It was powered by the River Anker and used mill stones traded to King Offa from the French King Charlemagne, in exchange for English woollen cloaks.

Mercian power began to decline after the death of King Offa and by the 10th century it lost its independence, becoming part of the Kingdom of Wessex, to create the Kingdom of England.

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Tamworth Castle

perience x E r o t si i V e u q i n AU d n u o R r All-Yea

900 Years of history and a great day out When you visit Tamworth Castle, you are able to enjoy a unique experience revealing the wonderful history of this stunning building, right before your eyes.

There’s a wonderful maze of intact rooms, halls, chambers and ancient walkways that still echo with events from Saxon beginnings, Norman dynasties, Tudor grandeur and great family influences.

It’s a great day out summer or winter. Year-round activities keep families of all ages entertained and enthralled – both inside the Castle and outside in the wonderful landscaped grounds alongside the River Anker.

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Heritage Lottery Fund Project Come and see the new displays in the Castle grounds and the Courtyard and experience the new Armoury!

Get your hands on some living history Tamworth Castle really does bring history to life, with fun re-enactments and superbly staged scenes from the past on our regular Living History days.

Active history doesn’t stop here!

With a range of events happening during half-term and school holidays, including children’s drop-in work shops – great fun and messy – they’ll love it.

Did they really live like this?

Why not ask them yourself as families and servants cook, entertain or eat in period-style right in front of you.

St George’s Day One of our highlights every year is the magnificent medieval festival that celebrates St George’s day in style; with living history in the Castle, and re-enactments around the grounds, with lots of hands-on activities for kids to do.

Look out for demonstrations of armour and period weapons. In the Castle meet characters from the Medieval Castle Household, discover how the master armourer makes chain maille and watch the Lady and her maids go about their business.

Tamworth Castle Holloway, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7NA Reception: 01827 709 626 Information Line: 01827 709 629 (24 hr answer phone) School Visits/Education Team: 01827 709 632 Event Booking Hotline: 01827 709 581/618 email (all services): heritage@tamworth.gov.uk or visit: www.tamworthcastle.co.uk

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Early Years Children & Young People Nutrition Clubs Travel Employment Communities Retirement Families 16

h Active Tamwort

our daily health tive is essential for Being physically ac sitive effect on a known to have a po and wellbeing. It is life. Active Tamworth general outlook on person’s health and and where health ation on how, when will provide the inform be accessed. and diet advice can

316 / 387 please call 01827 709 For more information k hurst@tamworth.gov.u or contact james-hazle

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s y a D r o o d t u O

Castle Grounds

Grounds with the beautiful Castle Take a walk through to a brass en list s, bed r sed flowe their magnificent rai ernoon aft ny bandstand on a sun band playing in the ly stroll ure leis a oy enj or ily picnic whilst enjoying a fam y. pla see all of nature at along the river and tennis or crazy e us, maybe a gam of For the more adventuro of tea at the cup a or am cre ch, an ice golf, followed by lun 14 years, who to e children aged up Pavilion CafÊ. If you hav bing, don’t clim and und aro n tearing love nothing better tha discover can you door play park where miss the enclosed out p. te shi the huge castle and pira access is easy. e paved footways, so The Castle Grounds hav particularly s age all nt for people of They are a regular hau t to a wide hos are y the en wh nths, during the summer mo nts. variety of outdoor eve

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The Bandstand

floral terraces, ated at the top of the The Bandstand is situ Grounds. tle rth Castle in the Cas sitting beneath Tamwo leisurely a oy enj to ich ting in wh A truly picturesque set r blooms. me powerful scent of sum walk and take in the ation worth.co.uk for inform Visit: www.visittam ts. cer con stand on forthcoming Band

al KettlebrookerLvoec Nature Res

e Reserve in 2004. ated as a Local Natur e, Kettlebrook was design ole length of the reserv wh the s run e to, and Tamworth. of tre The brook gives its nam cen the in e ing into Borrowpit Lak plants which eventually flow tland habitat for many the site provides a we es, lak five h lks. wa r Along wit ula circ ny ma be enjoyed on our and animals, which can

cal Hodge LaneeLro Nature Res ve

and woodland with ponds , this site comprises oak aking in k-m bric Located in Amington and tion rac It was a site of clay ext a meadow grassland. and a huge variety of home to newts, birds now is r’s but 0s, the late 180 be seen on a summe can also common here, and wild flowers. Bats are s over the pond. evening catching insect

Borrowpit Lake

For all those keen anglers, Borrowpit Lake is great for that peaceful afternoon waiting for the fish to bite. It’s also a great place to walk the dog or take a leisure ly stroll.

This is just one of the many areas around Tamworth where fishing is allowed and is run by active anglin g clubs.

For more information on fishing please contact Kevin Lee at Tamworth Fishing Tackle Shop , 23 Lichfield Street, Tamworth B79 7QE. Telephone: 01827 66701

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eserve R e r u t a N e id s e Tam

nds. ts and terns on the isla for lapwings, cormoran out k loo and y ele und this site in Faz even grass snakes.

Take a circular walk aro pse of water voles or be able to catch a glim ht mig you t, ien pat dlife, If you are sites for people and wil work to improve these to e tinu con h oug t the Bor Volunteers throughou . out Tamworth’ project thanks to the ‘Wild Ab st, ffordshire Wildlife Tru on please contact Sta ati can orm inf on r ati the orm fur Inf For leaflets and staffs-wildlife.org.uk 100 or email: info@ 0 88 9 88 01 e: e. on ntr Teleph Information Ce m Tamworth Tourist also be obtained fro

erts while Bowling Grcheesearon en and watch the exp und our bowling gre the ben Take a seat on one of afternoon. to spend a summer’s y wa at you relax; a gre

anoe Club ers. Email: aaronstone@hotmail.co.uk Tamworthtre.C new memb Private Club open to y Cen Castle Grounds Activit

Dave Owen Cycles Table Tenntre.is ilability, please call For bookings and ava y Cen Castle Grounds Activit 1 14 4 50 6 89 on 07

Proficiency g n li c y C & e ir H 504 141 Cycle en Cycles on 07896 , please call Dave Ow ility For costs and availab

can dlit to ensure games Tennis ConuCafré ts nis courts that are floo 4 141 50 6 89 07 are the all-weather ten on les ilio call Dave Owen Cyc Situated next to the Pav availability, please ning. For costs and continue into the eve

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Skate Park

e-built rts is the new purpos Next to the tennis cou iasts of all hus ent g din oar teb skate park. For ska ages, this is a must.

The Planet Walk

the the family. Starting from This is great fun for all es you a feel for giv lk wa the re, lptu distinctive sun scu approximately is organised. It takes how the solar system ng and old you ily negotiated by 15 minutes and is eas h. pat the into laid s rocket alike by following red

Pavilion CafĂŠ

d next to Tea Rooms are situate The Pavilion CafĂŠ and Grounds. tle Cas the in a play are the outdoor adventure iting to wa ff sta ek, with friendly Open seven days a we food to d col and hot of n e selectio serve you with a wid eat in or take away.

Crazy Golf

tle Grounds is roundings of the Cas Within the superb sur ting ability put r f course. Test you the nine-hole crazy gol surprises. d cte xpe une and tacles through colourful obs the family.

This is great fun for all ility, please call For costs and availab on 07896 504 141 Dave Owen Cycles

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Historic Buildings We are extremely proud of and passionate about our history and heritage. We hope you enjoy your journey through time, as we share our story of the fascinating buildings within the town.

Tamworth Castle A must-see heritage attraction with a unique herringbone wall and ancient tower that dominates views of the town centre. The site is packed full of fun, mystery and adventure.

Six wealthy and influential families have owned the Castle over the centuries, and the Norman Motte and Bailey Castle has welcomed royal visits from King Henry II, Edward III, James I and his son Prince Charles. More recently the Castle welcomed HRH Prince of Wales as part of the Mercian Regiment formation in 2007.

Almshouses Built in 1678 and funded by Thomas Guy, the Almshouses stand on Lower Gungate and originally only housed poor women, with men accommodated later.

Each resident had their own entrance and living room and a central garden was used for growing vegetables. The facilities also included a large library that housed the books of Reverend John Rawlet.

Although rebuilt and extended, the architecture retains the original look of the centuries-old building. After a disagreement, Guy restricted the use of the Almshouses to his own relatives and people living in the outlying villages.

Strangely this restriction is still in place today, with the stone plaque above the main entrance reading ‘Guy’s Almshouses for relations and Hamleteers’.

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Tamworth Assembly Rooms Built in 1889 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, the Tamworth Assembly Rooms has a rich history of hosting numerous events, including travelling theatre, political rallies along with elegant Edwardian parties and receptions. The Suffragette Movement staged protests on the entrance steps and in the 1920s it held Flannel Dances at half-a-crown a time.

In total contrast it hosted the Duke of York (future King George VI) at a formal luncheon in 1924.

Soup kitchens were run in the building during the General Strike, along with concerts, opera; while at the start of WWII, the building was used for civil defence. In the 1950s, it witnessed the rise of rock & roll, and hosted many famous bands including a sell-out for The Beatles in 1963 and The Rolling Stones later that same year. Today, it remains a vibrant centre for a whole range of entertainment and events.

St Editha’s Church The Parish Church of St Editha is one of the largest, oldest churches in the Midlands and dates back 1,200 years to Saxon times. With a spacious interior, grand arcades and Norman arches, St Editha’s is believed to have been built under the guidance of Robert de Marmion, the King’s Champion and Lord of Tamworth Castle. It has a magnificent double helix spiral staircase and a unique stained glass window in St George’s Chapel, designed by the world-renowned Pre-Raphaelite, Sir Edward Burne-Jones.

Town Hall Built in 1701 and funded by Thomas Guy, the Town Hall’s original design consisted of a single room supported by 18 Tuscan-style stone pillars. A decorative exterior staircase on the east side gave access to the first floor room, which also served as a platform for public announcements and events. In the 18th and 19th centuries more rooms were added, some funded in part by Sir Robert Peel. The hall has served as a butter market and fire station. It is still used today for civic events, some council meetings and is open to the public during the National Heritage Open Day event, which takes place during the middle of September each year.

The Moat House Built in 1572 The Moat House has Elizabethan origins with rumours of priest’s holes in the oak panelling and has always been linked to historical figures and stories. Charles I was once entertained at the house and it has changed hands over the years with some noble families enjoying the stunning building as their home. Its colourful past includes use as an asylum and now a restaurant where you can enjoy the surroundings and hear about the tales of ghostly sightings in the gallery area and in the grounds.

To find out more about the magnificent architecture and historic buildings in Tamworth, please pick up a Tamworth Heritage Trail leaflet from Tamworth Tourist Information Centre, view a copy on www.visittamworth.co.uk or alternatively, download a copy of the from the iPhone App Store.

FREE Heritage Trail App

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Tamworth Assembly Rooms Celebrates

125 years In 1889, work began on the construction of the Assembly Rooms in Tamworth. The Old Lady of Corporation Street was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee of 1887. The building cost £5,500 and was opened by Mr. Philip Muntz who was the first M.P. for the new Tamworth Division of Warwickshire.

Built in the ‘Italianate’ style, the pediment at the front bore the borough emblem, a Fleur-de-Lys supported by two voluptuous mermaids. It was not until 1936, when the council decided to spend the £136 necessary to register this Coat of Arms, that they discovered that Boston in Lincolnshire had been using a similar insignia since 1568.

In 1965, when Trevor Willcocks was Mayor, Tamworth was at the beginning of the great expansion, the Council asked the College of Heralds to design a Coat of Arms which would befit our historic town. The Arms depict the Bear of Warwickshire and the Lion of Staffordshire fighting over the arms, this symbolises when the boundary of these two great shires ran through the middle of the town along Church Street.

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The Local Act of 1889 decreed that towns in this situation should be incorporated into the county in which the majority reside. Staffordshire won with 2,589 inhabitants to Warwickshire’s 2,032. The shield consists of a horizontal band (Fess Vair) which was taken from the arms of the Marmion family who, having been given the Castle by William I, (The Conqueror), ruled Tamworth for 200 years.

The horizontal band consists of a panel with shield shapes, alternating in blue and silver.

Above this is a saltire, an oblique cross in gold on a blue background.

This represents the kingdom of Mercia, whose great King, Offa, made Tamworth his principle town.

Below on a red field is the Fleur-de-Lys which is taken from the Borough seal. The helmet and plumes are those of an esquire or gentleman, and are used for towns and counties who have been granted a crest.

Above this on a wreath of blue and gold, stands Tamworth Castle, with two crossed swords on its green mound.

The Venue

nt occasions, a venue worthy of importa Now that the town had events. us ero num ired to fill it with the townsfolk were insp – the Bensons ies pan com atre the g ellin Here, too, came the trav melodramas. er artistes with popular with Shakespeare and less of the day. tors ora l itica pol at gre r the Crowds thronged to hea re held with we s ball , receptions and Elegant Edwardian parties er. corn ry eve in s palm ted pot cards for every dance and

e Movement The Suffragett hold whilst the put on rted in 1903, was The Movement sta I. After the war WW g rin du Flanders e men folk fought in on the steps outsid ted suffragettes protes the t Miss Pym and the tha til 1918 etings. It was not un 30s. during political me d, but only for over sse pa s wa n me wo the th emancipation of wi ended crimination was am In 1928 this age dis . ion cat alifi qu e abolishing of ag

The Roaring ‘20s The Roaring 20s brought a different scene with Flannel Dances.

The men wore Oxford Bags and the girls had Shimmy dresses and Clara Bow kiss curls. In 1924 ‘The Assems’ had the honour to entertain the Duke of York (the future King George VI) at a formal lunch when he came here to open the War Memorial at the hospital.

After a brief stint as a Soup Kitchen during the General Strike of 12 May 1926. The decade that followed ensured the hall was once again filled with concerts and operatic shows. At the start of WWII in 1939, ‘The Assems’ was used for Civil Defence.

Shannon’s girls, from the local mill, packed respirators for distribution by the WVS, and the supper room, (now the bar area), became the Report Centre.

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Events In the ‘50s ‘The Assems’ witnessed the rise of the Rock & Roll era, and subsequent Pop era of the ‘60s. Vince Barker was instrumental in introducing to ‘The Assems’ many of the bands which are now household names. The Beatles played to a sell-out audience on 1 February 1963, as did The Rolling Stones on 2 December that same year.

Other legends of Rock, who have entertained us include The Hollies, The Swinging Blue Jeans, Eden Kane, The Bachelors, Alvin Stardust, The Ivy League, Joe Brown and his Brothers, The Searchers, The Barron Knights, Georgie Fame, Alan Price, The Fortunes, Brian Poole & the Tremelos, Gerry & the Pacemakers, Bob Geldof and Midge Ure. Over the decades, ‘The Assems’ has been used by the townsfolk for all types of recreation. The young and the not so young have availed themselves of her amenities. Including birthday parties, anniversary parties, public meetings (including a televised broadcast of The BBC’s Question Time hosted by David Dimbleby).

‘The Assems’ has also been home to many public events & services from local elections, the Annual Battle of the Bands and the Tamworth Beer Festival, to Friday afternoon tea dances and local drama group and choir performances.

Tamworth Assembly Rooms has seen many changes throughout the years including new seating, changes to the bar and internal facilities and many a change of colour! Over the years the Tamworth Assembly Rooms has played a vital role in both the civic and cultural life of Tamworth and has many a story to tell. With its flexible space the Tamworth Assembly Rooms can adapt to meet a range of different needs hosting many stars over the years and opening up a range of opportunities for Tamworth residents to shine.

Tamworth Assembly Rooms is currently in the development stage of a Heritage Lottery funded project aiming at celebrating its past whilst invigorating its future. The project aims to ensure the building is protected for future generations, whilst being accessible for all and fit for a modern age. Visit our website to find out more.

With acknowledgement to Mabel Swift and her column in The Tamworth Herald

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What’s On www.whatsontamworth.co.uk

Outdoor Events 2014

National Memorial Arboretum Events 2014 29 March 12 - 20 April 11 May 17 May 24 - 30 May 6 June 28 June 11 July 22 July - 30 August 4 August 4 October 25 October - 2 November 25 & 26 October & 1 & 2 November 9 November 11 November 6 & 7 December 20 December 21 - 31 December

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Launch of World War I Activities Easter School Holiday Family Activities Walk for Remembrance Early Morning Bird Walk Half-Term Family Activities D-Day Landing 70th Anniversary Service Armed Forces Day Poetry Recital Evening Summer Holiday Family Activities WW1 Commemorative Service Ride to the Wall – Fundraising Event Half-Term family activities Bulb Planting Weekends Remembrance Sunday Armistice Day Christmas Food & Gift Fair Christmas Carol Concert Christmas Holiday Family Activities

Town Centre www.whatsontamworth.co.uk St Editha’s Summer Fayre Saturday 12 July 10am - 1pm Spiral Staircase open

Summer Reading Challenge July - September Tamworth Libraries Children aged 4 - 11years

Heritage Open Day event Sunday 14 September Pancake Race, Shrove Tuesday February 17 2015

Bandstand Concerts Concerts 1pm - 4pm 29 June

Tamworth Wind Band

9 August 20 July

Carousel Circus Wilnecote St Johns Band

10 August

Liquid Brass

16 August

My Favourite Things Amington Band – We Love Tamworth Event

23 August 30 August 31 August

The 58’s Blues Band Martin Atterbury

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What’s On at Conkers? www.visitconkers.com

Monday 7 April - Sunday 27 April Easter Holidays Flip and Dippy clown shows, plate spinning, stilt walking and juggling. Trevor Hill’s amazing animal road show and Sublime Science, with their awesome demonstrations are just some of the fantastic extra activities included in your standard day ticket price.

Open: 10am - 6pm. Family of four – £29.95

Saturday 24 May - Sunday 1st June 2014 Whit Week Half Term Whatever the weather, we have something for all the family to do from indoor adventure play through to outdoor ranger activities are just some of the fantastic extra activities included in your standard day ticket price.

Open: 10am - 6pm. Family of four – £29.95

Saturday 31 May 2014 The ELO Experience & T Rex The ELO Experience is a tribute band who clearly adore the music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra. They will be brilliantly supported by T REX. This band have been touring throughout Europe and Japan for the last 20 years.

Doors Open: 6:00pm, Show Starts 6:45pm, Evening Ends 11.00pm, Prices: £23.50 Per Person £1 booking fee will apply when booking over the phone.

3 - 5 May May Day Bank Holiday Weekend Amazing Clown Shows in our covered amphitheatre, Trevor Hill’s falconry show. Ranger led Bush craft training are just some of the fantastic extra activities included in your standard day ticket price.

Open: 10am - 6pm. Family of four – £29.95

28 - 29 June 2014 Viking Weekend Meet the Vikings of Middle England, learn about their lifestyles and see their village. Each day’s events will climax with a thrillingly realistic and entertaining battle display – these extra attractions are included in your standard day ticket price.

Open: 10am - 6pm. Family of four – £29.95

Saturday 12 July - September Summer Holiday Extra Fun Ranger activities, Pirate Pat, Forest Dwellers shows and Falconry displays are just some of the fantastic extra activities included in your standard day ticket price during the summer holidays at Conkers.

24 May 2014 Bon Jovi UK BON JOVI UK, (www.bonjoviuk.com), one of the top tribute bands in the UK, The band cover all the major hits from ‘Runaway’ to ‘Have a Nice Day’ and more in an electrifying, totally live show that will leave you thinking you’ve seen the real thing!

Doors Open: 7:30pm, Starts: 8:00pm, Ends 11.00pm Prices: Adults – £12.00 (£10.00 Member), Child – £7.50 (£6.00 Member) Family – £26.00 (£24.00 Member) £1 booking fee will apply when booking over the phone.

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Open: 10am - 6pm. Family Of four: £29.95

Saturday 19 July Phil Collins + Dire Straits

Saturday 13 September 2014 AC/DC + Thin Lizzy

Phil Collins’ were recognised in 2013, by the Agents Association of Great Britain, as the ‘OFFICIAL No.1’ tribute show to Phil Collins.

This two hour plus spectacular includes all the classic hits together with a collection of classic Genesis songs - performed by a world class, ten piece line-up of musicians.

Live Wire are a unique six man tribute to rock’s greatest band – AC/DC, and offer a brilliant two hours of High Voltage Rock and Roll.

As this is AC/DC’s fortieth year, the band cover both eras with both ‘Jon’ Bon Scott and ‘Pete’ Brian Johnson present to take you on the Rock and Roll train for a night to remember.

Dire Straits - top class musicians make this band a worthy tribute to Dire Straits. Featuring all the hits from their first ever album ‘Sultans of Swing’ to ‘Brothers in Arms’.

The much acclaimed Limehouse Lizzy are renowned for an action packed pyrotechnic-fuelled explosion of a show. They continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band alive and well; dominating stages worldwide.

Doors Open: 6:00pm. Starts: 6:45pm. Evening Ends: 11pm, Prices: £22.50 Per Person £1 booking fee will apply when booking over the phone.

Doors Open: 6:00pm, Starts: 6:45pm.

Evening Ends: 11pm Price: £22.50 Per Person £1 booking fee will apply when booking over the phone

Saturday 2 August 2014 Forever Jackson ‘Forever Jackson’ is the ultimate tribute to Michael Jackson – setting the industry alight and selling out venues wherever they go. The show (now into its third year) has become one of the most in demand tribute shows in the country and is fast becoming THE number one Michael Jackson show to see!

Saturday 6 September 2014 Queen UK One of the best tributes to arguably the Best Rock Band in the world, enjoy and partake in some of the greatest hits of all times including ‘We will rock you’, ‘A Crazy Little Thing Called Love’, ‘It’s a kind of Magic’ and ‘I Want To Break Free’. This high octane show will have you rocking in the aisles from the off.

Doors open: 7:30pm. Starts: 8:00pm. Evening Ends: 11pm Prices: Adults – £12.00 (£10.00 Member) £1 Booking fee will apply when booking over the phone.

Doors Open: 7:30pm, Starts: 8:00pm. Evening Ends: 11pm Prices: Adults – £12.00 (£10.00 Member) Child – £7.50 (£6.00 Member) Family – £26.00 (£24.00 Member) £1 booking fee will apply when booking over the phone.

Saturday 16 August 2014 Talon + The Diablos Now in their 17th year together – Talon have been recognised by the Agents Association of Great Britain as the ‘OFFICIAL UK No. 1’ Eagles tribute show. In 2014 their latest production will feature all the classic Eagles hits from the timeless back catalogue including Hotel California, Lyin’ Eyes, Take It Easy, Desperado, Take It to The Limit, Life In The Fast Lane, The Last Resort and many more. The Diablos – Are something of a rarity on the British country music circuit. They write and play their own brand of rocking country and have won fans all over the UK.

Doors Open: 6:00pm, Starts: 6:45pm. Evening Ends: 11pm Price: £24.50 Per Person

ira, Conkers, Rawdon Road (B586), Mo 6GA 2 DE1 ch Nr. Ashby de la Zou Tel: 01283 216 633

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What’s On For more information or to book online visit:

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St George’s Day Gate Gallop Bandstand Concerts Outdoor Theatre Performance of Robin Hood Outdoor Cinema Screening We Love Tamworth Event Stars & Stripes Line Dancing Zombie Apocalypse Fireworks Spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On

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Tamworth Castle Year-Round l l A – n .co.uk Whatw’osrthO castle www.tam April Egg Hunt 19-21st April, 11.30am - 4.00pm St. George’s Day 26th April, 10.00am - 4.00pm Tamworth Castle and Grounds May Storytelling 5th May, 11.30am - 4.00pm Dragon Hunt 25th and 26th May, 11.30am - 4.00pm June Free Guided Walks 21st and 22nd June, 11.30am - 4.00pm July Saxon Living History 22nd, 23rd and 24th July, 11.30am - 4.00pm Medieval Living History 29th, 30th and 31st July 11.30am - 4.00pm August WW1 Centenary Celebration 2nd and 3rd August, 11.30am - 4.00pm

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WW1 Living History 5th, 6th and 7th August 11.30am - 4.00pm Medieval Living History 12th, 13th and 14th August 11.30am - 4.00pm Saxon Living History 19th, 20th and 21st August 11.30am - 4.00pm

November Fireworks Night 1st November, 6.00pm - 8.00pm Castle open 5.00pm - 8.00pm Tamworth Castle and Grounds Castle by Candlelight 22nd and 23rd November, 5.30pm - 8.00pm

Storytelling at the Castle 25th August, 11.30am - 4.00pm

Christmas Banquets 28th and 29th November, 7.30pm - 11.00pm

October

December

Costume Collection Weekend 4th and 5th October, 11.30am - 3.00pm

Family Santa Trail (Pre-book) 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st and 22nd December, 10.00am - 4.15pm

Haunted Castle 27th – 31st October, 11.30am - 4.00pm Ghost Search 31st October, 9.30pm - 2.00am Children’s Halloween Evening 31st October, 5.30pm - 8.00pm

Prior to visiting the Castle please check dates and times on the Tamworth Castle website.

Places to Stay Steps

With all the superb historical and leisure attractions in Tamworth, you’ll need to give yourself plenty of time to explore, to ensure you don’t miss anything.

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Entertainment

Tamworth is right at the heart of the Midlands motorway network, so it can act as an ideal base to visit other areas or towns, such as Birmingham or Stratford-upon-Avon, that are less than one hour away by car. We can offer you a free accommodation service via our award-winning Tourist Information Centre, so you can quickly find the right hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation that will suit your needs.

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All the accommodation we can help you find has been quality assessed, so we are confident that the service offered is of the highest standard.

If you need advice or would like us to locate your guest accommodation, please call us now on 01827 709 581, email: tic@tamworth.gov.uk or visit: www.visittamworth.co.uk

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Accommodation Advice Service Call us now on 01827 709 581 email: tic@tamworth.gov.uk or visit: www.visittamworth.co.uk

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Donative Holiday Cottages Donative Farm, Warton, Tamworth B79 0JR T: 01827 899 849 or 07973 680 840 E: enquiries@donative.co.uk www.donative.co.uk A pair of very comfortable 2 bedroom barn conversions which offer 4-star self-catering accommodation.

They are based on a working family farm with horses and traditional beef cattle. All home comforts are provided along with panoramic views of the countryside. They are ideally placed for visiting Drayton Manor Theme Park, Twycross Zoo, Conkers and the SnowDome. The cottages can be booked from 2 nights up to a week and we accept most major credit cards. Free Wi-Fi available.

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Drayton Court Hotel 65 Coleshill Street, Fazeley, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3RG T: 01827 285 805 E: info@draytoncourthotel.co.uk www.draytoncourthotel.co.uk Delightful Georgian house hotel, all accommodation recently refurbished and individually designed. Oak panelled bar and restaurant, large private car park.

Nearest hotel outside of Drayton Manor Theme Park – home of Thomas Land.

Ideally located for Tamworth SnowDome, Belfry Golf Resort, Birmingham NEC, Lichfield, National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas and MOD, Lichfield.

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Drayton Manor Hotel Drayton Manor Park, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3TW T: 01827 285 551 E: reservations@draytonmanorhotel.co.uk www.draytonmanorhotel.co.uk The 4-star Drayton Manor Hotel is set in a unique location amongst 280 acres of lakes and parkland close to Drayton Manor Park, home of Thomas Land and Drayton Manor Zoo. With 150 modern guest rooms including Europe’s only Thomas & FriendsTM themed bedrooms, Parklands Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie, Carousel Bar, Conference & Banqueting facilities, complimentary parking and wireless internet access. For the children, and those that are young at heart, Drayton Manor Hotel offers a vibrant video games room, the option for character breakfasts and even a Thomas & FriendsTM Theatre!

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Hipsley Farm Cottages Hipsley Lane, Hurley, Atherstone, Warwickshire CV9 2LR T: 01827 872 437 M: 07717 002719 E: ann@hipsley.co.uk www.hipsley.co.uk Work or play, business or holiday. Seven 4-star cottages in the heart of beautiful North Warwickshire. Relax.

Listen to the birds. Walk round the farm. Try the 9 hole putting green. Only 30 minute drive to Birmingham City Centre, NEC, Coventry or Lichfield. Ample private parking. Fully equipped laundry, also has tourist information, freezer full of meals, games and books. Free Wi-Fi. Open all year; flexible arrival/departure dates. Most credit cards accepted.

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The Peel Aldergate 13-14 Aldergate, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7DL T: 01827 67676 F: 01827 69812 E: enquiries@thepeelhotel.com www.thepeelaldergate.com The Peel is a friendly, family-run establishment offering 4-star accredited guest accommodation right in the centre of Tamworth. Home of the highly regarded Christopher’s restaurant, serving English/European food for lunch and dinner. Featuring 19 stylish en-suite rooms with flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning throughout and hospitality tray. Secure private parking for residents.

The Peel is a 15 mins drive from Drayton Manor Theme Park, 20 min drive from the NEC/NIA/Birmingham International Airport and is a 5 minute walk from Tamworth train station. Rooms starting at £60.00 including full English breakfast (cooked to order) and the best rates are available when booking direct by telephone.

“Great family run hotel” “ Going to Drayton Manor, then stay here” Comments from online reviews H

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Silver Trees Holiday Park Stafford Brook Road, Penkridge Bank, Rugeley WS15 2TX T: 01889 582185 E: info@silvertreesholidaypark.co.uk www.silvertreesholidaypark.co.uk Silver Trees is a quiet quality park located on Cannock Chase in Staffordshire in the midst of an area of protected countryside, with our own nature reserve designated a SSSI from which deer wander onto the Holiday Park.

Enjoy pleasant evenings watching them at close quarters from your own decking or take a leisurely walk through the Chase. The numerous trails take you to Birches Valley, the Visitor Centre or why not burn some energy in our all weather tennis court or swim in our indoor heated pool?

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Upper Rectory Farm Cottages Snarestone Road, Appleby Magna DE12 7AJ T: 01827 880 448 E: info@upperrectoryfarmcottages.co.uk www.upperrectoryfarmcottages.co.uk Skylarks and buzzards soar above these delightful multi-award winning cottages set amid the waving cornfields.

The cottages sleep 2 – 8 (total maximum 26). Just 15 minutes from the centre of Tamworth and within 30 minutes of Birmingham, NEC and Lichfield. With 2 meeting rooms and unlimited parking, they are ideal for business or holidays. They are luxuriously furnished, en-suite throughout, with free Wi-Fi, great walks and fabulous views.

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• 120 Bedrooms all with en suite power showers • Free Continental Breakfast on all rates • 26” TVs in all bedrooms • Entertainment packages available • Free WiFi • Rooms can hold up to a family of 4, Children stay for free when sharing their parents room • 4 Modern meeting rooms available all with natural daylight, air conditioning and lake views • Meeting space holds from 2 - 80 delegates in comfort • Limited evening meals available in our Great room • Licenced bar T: 01827 303 220 E: info.tamworth@holidayinnexpress.org.uk F: 01827 303 221 W: www.hiexpress.com/tamworth

Holiday Inn Express, Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, B79 7ND

Harlaston Post Office Bed & Breakfast Harlaston Post Office offers superb guest accommodation, whilst retaining the traditional charms of a working post office and village store in rural Staffordshire. Whether you’re drawn to the area for business or pleasure, we offer a warm friendly welcome coupled with a helpful and relaxed atmosphere.

Harlaston Post Office is centrally located between Lichfield, Tamworth, and Burton on Trent with road links to Birmingham, Nottingham and other major cities. We are ideally situated for visiting the National Memorial Arboretum, Drayton Manor Theme Park, The National Forest or any one of our local towns or attractions.

We serve a traditional English breakfast, or if you prefer something lighter, we are happy to prepare breakfast to your tastes.

We also cater for any special dietary needs. There are pubs nearby who provide quality evening meals and cater for families as well as individuals. The pubs have excellent reputations and we recommend you call in advance for reservations.

Tel: 01827 383746 Email: info@harlastonpostoffice.co.uk Website: www.harlastonpostoffice.co.uk 38

Moor Hall is a delightful 4 star country house hotel set in peaceful parkland and only a short drive from Tamworth.

• 82 ensuite bedrooms, including four posters, all with free Wi-fi • Ample free parking • Two restaurants and a terrace for alfresco dining • Extensive leisure facilities including indoor pool, sauna, gym and Spa treatment rooms • Licensed for civil weddings • Conference and banqueting facilities for up to 200

• Set in Lichfield city centre • 45 ensuite bedrooms, including four posters, all with free Wi-fi • Cosy lounge bar and pretty patio • Conference and banqueting facilities for up to 100 • Licensed for civil weddings

Visit www.moorhallhotel.co.uk for our current special offers

Visit www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk for our current special offers

Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B75 6LN T: 0121 308 3751 E: mail@moorhallhotel.co.uk

Bird Street, Lichfield WS13 6PR T: 01543 414822

The Gungate 62 Upper Gungate, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 8AA T: 01827 63120 www.thegungate.co.uk The Gungate Guest House is an AA 3 gold star rated Victorian style accommodation and Coach House with a reputation for its friendly and homely atmosphere and professional service. Ideally suited for family, business and leisure customers and situated within walking distance from Tamworth town centre, a half mile from the local train station. All recently refurbished rooms have en-suites, refreshment trays, toiletries, hairdryers, flat screen TV and are designed for comfort, practicality and to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye. In the main building they have a traditional but still modern ambience, whilst in the Coach House they are of a more contemporary style. There are two large family rooms that also have baby cots if required. Choice of Continental or Full English breakfasts, which are freshly cooked to order and sourced from local produce. AA Breakfast Award held.

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Somewhere to Eat & Drink If you are looking for somewhere different for a ack special night out, or for a sn or before you enjoy an event a s attraction, Tamworth ha from. variety of places to choose restaurants and cafés and In the town centre, there are cosy always full of life and are that a selection of bustling bars le local live music. samp to ce chan the with re, atmosphe Italian, Indian and Cantonese The area has a reputation for great g one of these restaurants. tryin out with e food, so don’t go hom Go’, you can pick up a With a wide variety of ‘Food on the many famous brand the of one at k great sandwich or snac and restaurants run by cafés lent excel the from or ts outle our top attractions. se one of the many pubs and Just outside the town, you can choo where you can sit and enjoy restaurants that lie in the villages, heart of the countryside. the in right drink a meal and a quiet local farms. from Many ingredients are often sourced

Don’t miss ...

...our specia list market da ys, where you ca n enjoy even more options from the local supp liers

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MARKET VAULTS The Market Vaults, Tamworth is a traditional town centre pub, which dates back several hundred years and is a Grade 2 Listed Building. The pub provides a traditional, cosy atmosphere, where you escape from the hustle and bustle of the town centre and the historic market. The best kept secret in Tamworth is the large walled garden with garden furniture, a BBQ and outdoor events for both young and old.

Step inside to an authentic tap room bar and a comfortable lounge, both with roaring log fires.

The pub serves a great choice of food, ranging from sandwiches and snacks through to light meals and Sunday lunches.

• Monthly entertainment and special events • Up to six real ales and ciders served • Wide selection of wine • BT Sport shown here

T: 01827 66552 Market Street, Tamworth W: www.marketvaults-tamworth.co.uk

Near Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3TW www.draytonmanorhotel.co.uk Tel: 01827 285551 email: restaurant@draytonmanorhotel.co.uk The Parklands Restaurant & Bar offers you a relaxing and informal approach to dining with a menu for all tastes including a variety of children’s dishes.

Or choose The Parklands Brasserie where a tantalising menu and a warm welcome offer a slightly more formal dining experience.

For a relaxing drink or a snack The Carousel Bar is available for cocktails and coffee or salads and burgers with a comfortable lounge area.

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PORTOBELLO RESTAURANT Traditional Italian Cuisine

With over 60 freshly prepared delicious main courses diners can choose from a wide selection of dishes ranging from fillet steak, fish, pasta, vegetarian options or pizza, all of which are adaptable to suit your own palate. To accompany the food, we have an impressive selection of both traditional Old and refreshing New World wines to suit all pockets.

3 courses set menu from £12.95

Sundays’ any pizza/ pasta £6.00

Opening Hours: Sunday 12:00-20:00, Monday – Saturday 18:00-23:00

Telephone: 01827 54474 www.portobellorestaurant.co.uk 12 Silver Street, Tamworth, Staffs B79 7NH

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The Peel Hotel

13-14 Aldergate Tamworth B79 7DL

01827 67676

www.thepeelhotel.com enquiries@thepeelhotel.com

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Town Centre Shopping

Great local shopping and much more in Tamwor th town centre. bining What could be better than com h some a visit to a historical town wit al leisurely browsing around loc res, sto independent stores, larger for then maybe taking time out ck. a coffee or a sna

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local produce for There has been a real focus on ted in the rural loca h, wort Tam and ping food shop to suppliers right ss acce county of Staffordshire, has by a bustling cted refle is this and step on the door . visit a h wort y shopping area that is reall dates back to Don’t forget the historic market that and Saturday, day Tues y ever place takes 1560, that the very ding inclu ets with several specialist mark er. emb Sept in et mark h Frenc popular e is the Ankerside Also located within the town centr favourite stores, your of 60 over Shopping Centre with , from fashion, ping shop of e choic t grea a ing offer services – food & drink, health & beauty, to those essential all in an enclosed centre.

700 spaces and Parking is easy with a choice of over bus links, and rail , road t grea the town centre has ? now out day your plan not why so

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Roasters Restaurant & Coffee Shops of Tamworth, established since 1992, are local family run businesses, specialising in fresh food, prepared to order, on the premises. Roasters Restaurant & Coffee Shops of Tamworth are located on George Street & Ventura Retail Park, Tamworth. They have the capacity to seat around 100 people, they also cater for takeaway orders, corporate lunches, private outside catering & children’s parties.

As a local family the owners pride themselves on their professional and personal service, as well as the quality and freshness of our food.

All DAy BreAkfAst • Hot roAst CArvery • fresH sAlAD BAr • Junior Menu

• toAsties & PAninis • Hot & ColD Drinks • outsiDe CAtering

Ventura, tamworth 01827 58808 GeorGe Street, tamworth 01827 311 631

www.roaSterSreStaurant.co.uk

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WH Gayton & Sons Bread Worth Waking Up To! Fresh bread delivered daily into Tamworth and surrounding areas. The village bakery opened its doors in 1919 and has kept them open ever since, to ensure that everybody has the chance to taste what real bread tastes like.

We do wholesale and you can come to the bakery as well, if you come early the bread will still be hot! The bakery is at Maypole Lane, Grendon CV9 2BS. The smell will lead you to its doors and you are sure to meet one of the Gayton bakers on your visit!

The bakery is open Monday to Friday 5am to 5.30pm and on Saturday 5am to 3pm. Groups and coach parties welcome – free treat for the bus driver!

You can call us on 01827 712538 and see us on the web www.whgayton.co.uk/specialist_bakery.html Email david.gayton@btinternet.co.uk

Beautiful Hair Happens at Francesco Group, Tamworth • Established over 25 years ago.

• Wide range of experienced team members from Graduate stylists to a Creative Director along with two Wella Master Colour Experts.

• Late night opening throughout the week and earlybird Saturday appointments available.

• Wide range of aftercare available from Wella, Sebastian, GHD and Moroccanoil.

• Belle Allure beauty in-salon on our 3rd floor.

Bring this advert along to your appointment and receive £5.00 OFF any service.

Bringing Beautiful Hair to life.....

3 B o l e b r i d g e S t r e e t , Ta m w o r t h

Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Valid with selected stylists until 30th November 2014 on production of this advert. Subject to avilability.

B 7 9 7 PA

t: 01827 51565 Like Francesco Group, Tamworth on

47

SHOPPING IN THE HEART

OF TAMWORTH

With over 60 fantastic shops and more than 700 car parking spaces, shop local at Ankerside Shopping Centre

ankerside.co.uk

48

facebook.com/ankersidetamworth

@shop_ankerside

TAMWORTH AD:Layout 1 17/02/2014 11:05 Page 1

TAMWORTH GIANT STREET MARKET Over 100 fabulous stalls, selling a wide range of goods, everything you would expect to find on a traditional market with lots more besides.

Plenty of hot food & refreshments, outdoor seating.

A fun shopping day out for all!

OPEN EVERY TUES & SATURDAY IN THE TOWN CENTRE

Head office 01384 877336

Market Manager Tel: 07736 777244 www.lsdpromotions.com in partnership with

lsd black:Layout 1 17/02/2014 13:10 Page 1

Antique & Vintage Market Tamworth Town Centre Tamworth’s fabulous Antique, Vintage & Collectables market is held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

From 9am to 3pm, situated in Lower Gungate, B79 7AL

Head Office Tel: 01384 877336

Market Manager Tel: 07966 436377

www.lsdpromotions.com 49

T A M WORT H

R E TA I L PA R K VENTURA - JO L LY S A I L O R CARDINAL PO INT

Just a short walk or an even shorter car drive from the historic tow n centre is an edge of town shopping area that bo asts all the leading UK retail brands in a purp ose-built area that is easy to access with free parking in front of every store.

There is a choice of two major supermarkets, ASDA and Sain sbury’s, as well as a large M&S store offering a full range including a Food Hall.

The popularity of the location brings customers in from mor e than one hour’s drive away. It has also attracted major expansio n with the addition of new stores including a large John Lewis at Home as well as Next Home, B&Q, Oak Furn itureland and Maplin.

With leisure options close by you can mix some retail ther apy with cinema, bowling or real snow skiing for a perfect, full day out.

Coming Soon in 2014..

Pizza Express Nando’s Costa Coffee

50

All the Big Names McDonalds WH Smith Argos Homebase John Lewis at Home Asda Costa Coffee Currys Boots Sainsbury’s Roasters H&M

Mothercare Halfords Next Toys R Us Maplin M&S TK Maxx Pets at Home Dreams Brantano Matalan Sports Direct Outfit

River Island Blacks Hobbycraft New Look KFC B&Q Next Home Carpet Right Oak Furnitureland Bensons for Beds Poundstretcher

FREE Parking 51

Explore the Area ntryside of Tamworth, set in the rolling cou to act as a ed plac ly Staffordshire, is unique most visited the of one centre for your trip to UK. the and attractive parts of

is also a short distance from both With excellent road and rail links, the town nds Airport. This easy access Midla East and t Airpor l ationa Intern Birmingham and then extend your visit to ions attract local means that you can enjoy all the n and Lichfield with the n-Avo rd-upo Stratfo of ions attract c histori include the afield. r furthe y Derbyshire Peak District only slightl explore the heart of the Close by you can visit the famous Belfry Hotel, the family to see the animals take rs, Conke to visit a with Forest al Nation many specialist farm centres at Twycross Zoo, or the farm animals at the Park.

Water ury Kingsb at farm n’s childre the such as t city centre of Birmingham in less It also means that you can be in the vibran out your adventure-seeking try really can you than 30 minutes by car. Or value offer for a visit to superb a ; Ticket er Hopp Thrill a with ite appet world and the SnowDome.

Water Park, e Them r Alton Towers, Drayton Mano

ut Thrill Hopper tickets, For more information abo Information Centre, contact Tamworth Tourist 581 telephone: 01827 709 affordshire.com or visit: www.enjoyst

ENJOY THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF OUR MIDDLETON LAKES RESERVE

There’s a whole host of family fun activities from bat walks to pond dipping to den building, not forgetting our very popular Wild Wednesdays during school holidays and once again we’re offering a chance to sleep out on the reserve.

THE RSPB BIG WILD SLEEP OUT IS TAKING PLACE ON

SATURDAY 21ST & SUNDAY 22ND JUNE

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

WWW.RSPB.ORG.UK/MIDDLETONLAKES ✂

BROOMEY CROFT

25%

GROUP DISCOUNT on groups of 2 adults and 2 children

www.broomeycroftfarm.co.uk

Tel: 01827 873844 Bodymoor Heath Lane, Bodymoor Heath, Nr Kingsbury, B760EE 52

NO FRILLS BUT PLENTY OF GUTS The museum tells the story of the famous Staffordshire Regiment and its predecessors, while also looking forward to its role in the Mercian Regiment. 300 years of heroic history are shown through exhibits and displays, live interpretation, special exhibitions and a unique full-scale First World War Trench System. The museum is open all year round and runs an extensive event programme. This year’s big weekend events are:

• 12th & 13th July, 10am to 4pm - WW2 Weekend, The Staffords in 1944.

•3rd August, 10am to 5pm - WW1 Edwardian Fete and Fair.

• 20th & 21st September, 10am to 4pm - WWI Weekend.

Please look at our website for details and more of our events. www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com Tel: 01543 434394 Defence Medical Services Whittington, Whittington, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS14 9PY

£5 PaintBalling, laser games, QuaD Bike trek

#1 & inflataBle assault course attraction. activities availaBle from 6 years uPwarDs

great for family fun Days & aDult aDrenaline Days out

BirtHDay & stag/Hen Parties catereD for

Directions - Just off Bassetts Pole islanD on a38, aDJacent to Harvester restaurant/PuB t: 0121 323 1000 e: info@nPfBassettsPole.com | trickley coPPice, lonDon roaD, Bassetts Pole, sutton colDfielD, B75 5sa www.nPfBassettsPole.com 53

The ultimate snow, ice and leisure experience. the real snow, sliding and gliding Whether it’s a fun-packed day on seriously luxurious spa. about on the ice or relaxing in the The SnowDome complex houses a 170 metre indoor slope covered in real snow all year round and two further real snow nursery slopes... providing the perfect facilities for learning new skills such as skiing & snowboarding. It’s not only skiing and snowboarding on the main slope, imagine racing your family and friends down the snow in steerable toboggans! t Or hold on tight for snow tubing, the fastes experience on snow – hurtling down the slope in specially designed inflatable tubes!

In addition to the snow slopes, the SnowDome also features the Ice Arena with an ice rink and the UK’s only ice track... providing unique and unparalleled skating facilities for all ages and abilities!

The children’s snowplay area is the place for children to have fantastic fun with a game of snowballs and a slide about on the sledges.

In addition to the action out on the snow, SnowDome Fitness provides top quality facilities, excellent service and great value.

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The huge open plan gym features the latest hi-tech equipment, presented in a welcoming and sociable environment.

Enjoy the large 25 metre swimming pool, chill out in the truly luxurious spa or get creative with your workout in the multifunctional Fitbox arena. A spacious aerobics studio, dedicated spin zone, free-weights area and TRX Zone complete the varied and unrivalled facilities on offer.

Within the venue there are a selection of bars and restaurants including a Starbucks Coffee lounge and The Aspen Food Company restaurant, serving freshly prepared delicious meals with a menu ranging from light snacks, mouth-watering pastas & pizzas, to chef’s specials and scrumptious desserts!

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting family outing... look no further and bring your sense of adventure for an unforgettable day out at the SnowDome!

Delicious Dining

the SnowDome offers guests The Aspen Food Company restaurant at e & relaxed setting... complete delicious, freshly prepared fare in a uniqu . value great and with friendly service s Aspen inspired style, whilst The restaurant and bar area echoes a 1950’ design features throughout the the signature red colour palette and moose -style seating along the large booth with lete Comp rs. contemporary interio ndings are truly original. surrou windows overlooking the snow slope, the

prepared, home-made menu ranging The head chef and his team offer a freshly pastas & pizzas, to daily specials ring -wate mouth s, snack style from light bar on of beverages, from coffee selecti a and scrumptious desserts. The bar serves beers. ht draug and wines to and soft drinks

s Meetings, Event & Conferfecet locnatiocneto hosst your next event.

per The SnowDome is the 5 to 240 guests. cater for events from The conference suites range of excellent full a e vid pro pany can The Aspen Food Com nts. me t your specific require quality catering to sui of dining ibility, we offer a range d, great service and flex foo ‘real snow’ tic e tas som fan on add sis With the empha banquets. Plus, you can us urio lux to s starts che lun rate te iness erience. The day delega options from light bus te the SnowDome exp ple com to nt eve r activities to you . tact from £24 per person a booking, please con ilities and to make fac the of r tou a k , wdome.co.u For more information ail conference@sno 01827 501750 or em the Event Team on

BUY 1, GET 1 FREE! On fun activities, beginner ski & snowboard lessons and recreational slope tickets Terms & conditions: Promotional code TAMVISITOR2014. Purchase either a single tobogganing, tubing, ice skating, snowplay or swimming session or a group ski or snowboard lesson or a one hour recreational ski pass for one person and another person goes free. Book online at snowdome.co.uk or call 08448 000011 using promotional code TAMVISITOR2014. This voucher must be surrendered to SnowDome reception on arrival to receive offer. Offer valid from 1st April 2014 until 30th September 2014. Higher price ticket prevails. Age and height restrictions may apply. Valid for one person only. Pre-booking recommended.

10% OFF

MAIN COURSES Only available with this voucher, please present to The Aspen Food Company bar when ordering. Valid until 30th September 2014.

Only original vouchers will be accepted.

55

Drayton Manor 2014 Season Drayton Manor Theme Park

The Park, located near Tamworth in Staffo rdshire, will start with four Thomas Land weekends on 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th, 15th & 16th and 22nd & 23rd March and open for the 2014 seaso n on Saturday 29th March.

New for summer is Air Race, a family thrill ride which delivers an exciting ride experience designed to replicate the sensa tions of an acrobatic aeroplane flight.

Drayton Manor is home to Thomas Land, where you will find 21 rides based on the ever popular Thomas & FriendsTM series, including Cranky’s Drop Tower, Harold’s Heli-Tours, Terence’s Driving Schoo l and the Troublesome Trucks Runaway Coaster to name but a few!

Thomas Land has wonderful indoor and outdo or play areas, cafés and the world’s largest Thomas & FriendsTM store where you can choose from a massive range of Thomas & FriendsTM goodies!

The award winning theme park is also home to a 15 acre zoo and has an abundance of places to eat, drink, shop and relax. With the family-friendly 4D film, A Fish Story, showi ng in the stunning 4D Cinema, Drayton Mano r Theme Park really has something for everyo ne!

Drayton Manor Hotel

rooms including 150 bedroom hotel with a choice of family Why not plan a stay in our luxurious, 4-star little ones receive the arrival On . adults the for calm of an area Thomas the Tank Engine themed rooms with g entertainment. evenin with re Theat borrow and there’s a Thomas a Thomas goodie bag and Thomas DVD to ceremonies award choice for conferences, events, weddings, Drayton Manor has always been a favourite including es, faciliti nt excelle these of all with even more choice and corporate events. The hotel now offers . tastes all suit to ges packa free Wi-Fi, as well as accommodation hotel, feel like a taste of luxury in this stunning new So if you are planning a special event or just o.uk Tel: 01827 285551 otel.c anorh tonm .dray www more. out please get in touch to find

nts Drayton Manor Bars & Restaura Parklands Restaurant in the Park itself. In the Hotel we have The

s both within the Hotel and We can offer a wide choice of dining option including a variety of children’s dishes. approach to dining with a menu for all tastes al inform an with relax can you & Bar where slightly more formal dining experience. a offer me tantalising menu and a warm welco Or choose The Parklands Brasserie where a and burgers with a comfortable lounge area.

Bar is available for cocktails and coffee or salads For a relaxing drink or a snack The Carousel produce and open to Park guests and local great g offerin er restaurant called the Grill Inn; Just inside the park entrance, there is anoth the general public. entry tickets visit: r Theme Park or to pre-book discounted For further information about Drayton Mano 472 1960. www.draytonmanor.co.uk or call 0844 r on Manor Theme Park join us on Twitte For regular updates and news about Drayt om/Draytonmanorpark ook.c .faceb www ook Faceb and anor www.twitter.com/Draytonm

56

57

58

10 OFF %

PER PERSON*

Cannock Chase, Staffordshire & Wyre Forest, Worcestershire

k Book at gooracalpl e08.c45o09.u 4 9643 quote TAMW10

at Cannock Chase *Offer valid until 30th November 2014, excluding Saturdays Segway only Forest only.

Segway Forest & ure & Wyre Forest Tree Top Advent ratios apply. available at Cannock Chase. Participation and supervision

59

Tamworth advert.pdf 1 31/01/2014 09:27:03

The Arriva Midlands 4-Weekly Saver allows unlimited travel, all day, every day across the whole of the Arriva Midlands network for 28 consecutive days

Midlands 4-Weekly Saver

C

only

M

£60

10% discount when you purchase online or on your mobile phone

Y

CM

MY

Purchase from your driver, online at arrivabus.co.uk, from your mobile phone, from PayPoint & Payzone outlets or Tamworth Tourist Information Centre

CY

CMY

/arrivamidlandswest

K

@ arrivamidlandsw †Calls charged at 5.11p per minute from a BT landline. Mobile and † other providers’ costs may vary.

arrivabus.co.uk

terms and conditions apply prices correct at time of going to print

NORTHERN

WARWICKSHIRE

TOURISM

Whether you are coming for business or pleasure, the picturesque nor thern par t of a beautiful country has a lot to offer visitors of all ages. A history that dates back to Boudicia, culture from some of the greats of English Literature, attractions for all the family and quality food and accommodation, Nor thern Warwickshire has it all. Located in the centre of the country’s transpor t system, world class attractions include Drayton Manor, Boswor th Battlefield and high profile golf courses.

To find out what is on offer in North Warwickshire, visit our website www.visitnorthernwarwickshire.com

60

EE IO FR ISS M

AD

Where our Nation remembers

N

What’s on in 2014

Experience a place of peace, beauty and Remembrance

With 150 acres of beautiful woodland and gardens to explore and over 300 unique memorials to see, you’re sure to be fascinated by our many memorials and the amazing stories and symbolism behind them.

To help you make the most of your visit we offer guided walks and tours, learning activities, exhibitions, a restaurant and a gift shop.

For more information or to plan your visit, go to www.thenma.org.uk or call 01283 792 333.

Plan your visit:

15 – 22 Feb

Half term family activities

29 Mar

Launch of World War I activities

12 – 20 Apr

Easter school holiday family activities

11 May

Walk for Remembrance

17 May

Early morning bird walk

24 – 30 May

Half term family activities

6 Jun

D-Day landing 70th anniversary service

28 Jun

Armed Forces day

11 Jul

Poetry recital evening

22 Jul – 30 Aug

Summer holiday family activities

4 Aug

WWI Commemorative Service

4 Oct

Ride to the Wall – fundraising event

25 Oct – 2 Nov

Half term family activities

25/26 Oct & 1/2 Nov

Bulb planting weekends

9 Nov

Remembrance Sunday

11 Nov

Armistice Day

6/7 Dec

Christmas Food & Gift fair

20 Dec

Christmas Carol Concert

21 – 31 Dec

Christmas holiday family activities

www.thenma.org.uk or 01283 792 333 Stay connected on Facebook and Twitter

Part of The Royal British Legion family of charities

Charity No. 1043992

61

HBTP Ad 130x95:Layout 1

The Borough of

16/11/10

22:48

Page 1

Hinckley & Bosworth The beautiful countryside has many pretty villages providing perfect locations for walking and cycling.

Encompassing 114 sq miles, Hinckley and Bosworth is fortunate to have a wide range of diverse attractions including a motor racing circuit, historic railway, canals, water parks and reservoirs. We have a zoo, a tropical bird garden, country parks and a Common.

We are the home of Triumph, the Ultima sports car and the original Hansom cab, not to mention the Battle of Bosworth.

You can stay at one of our many accommodation providers ranging from Bed and Breakfasts on working farms to large hotels with superb leisure facilities and eateries. All of the information is contained in our new Visitor Guide to the area.

All the information you need is contained in our Visitor Guide and on our website www.visithinckleyandbosworth.co.uk. For more information contact info@visithinckleyandbosworth.co.uk

Opening hours:

Apr-Sept, 6am-7pm Oct-Mar, Dawn-Dusk

An 18-hole mature and picturesque parkland golfing experience.

The course, now run by Tamworth Borough Council, offers experienced and novice golfers an exciting challenge. There is no need to be a member to enjoy a round, however booking is advisable.

Booking line: 01827 709310

SPECIAL OFFER Pay for 9, play for 18!

Buy 9 holes and be upgraded to 18.

Voucher valid for up to 2 people.

Offer subject to availability.

Find us on Facebook

www.tamworthgolfcourse.co.uk

Tamworth Golf Course, Eagle Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire B77 4EG 62

14 20 MILE Y y A a M W 75 T W ng E NE ORES i en TH F Op ALK ONAL W ATI N

TREE-SPIRITED adventures Visit the National Forest & Beyond You can go wild in the woods on an action-packed family short break or simply enjoy beautiful countryside ideal for gentle walking and cycling.

Seek out award-winning attractions, lovely places to stay and a packed programme of events throughout the whole year.

FIND OUT MORE OR DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY OF THE 2014 GUIDE AT:

www.visitnationalforest.co.uk Tel: 01283 551 211

Tamworth Heritage Trust

Tamworth Heritage Trust aims to ‘Record, Preserve and Safeguard’ the heritage of Tamworth.

Projects completed or currently being worked on are:

• • • •

• • •

Archiving Church records Restoration of Aethefleda monument Securing the bust of William MacGregor Developing a greater awareness of the history of Tamworth by organising and promoting history talks and lectures throughout the year The Amington WW1 War Memorial project The creation of the Tamworth History Group at Tamworth Library Tamworth Blue Plaque Scheme

If you are interested in the history of Tamworth, want to get involved in a history project or just become a member of The Heritage Trust.

Please contact: Diane Wells, Secretary T: 01827 703820 E: dianekeenewells@hotmail.com 63

We have 20 great reasons for you to visit us this year!

An exclusive shopping experience that’s closer than you think...

Set in beautiful rural surroundings and consisting of a select range of 20 independent retailers and eateries, Heart of the Country Shopping Village offers visitors a truly unique shopping experience.

Easy to access off the A38, ample free parking, disabled facilities and all you need to treat yourselves this year.

Heart of the Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, Nr Lichfield, Staffs WS14 9QR (next to Swinfen Hall).

www.heartofthecountryvillage.com

y l i fadavem ntures A whole day of

{

Unde for a f r ÂŁ30 a of fou mily r*

ventures 120 acres of ad tdoor ou with indoor & 0 play and over 10bits interactive exhi

Cafes, picnic areas & free car parking Book online:

www.visitconkers.com CONKERS, Rawdon Road, Swadlincote, South Derbyshire DE12 6GA Just 10 minutes from J11 on the M42. Open daily**

Tel: 01283 216 633 @ConkersCentre * 2 adults and 2 children ** Except Christmas Day and Boxing Day

64

www.facebook.com /visitconkers

Enchant Indoor AdevdeForest nture

Conferences y Communication links and eas a access are vital components for . on successful conference locati

location close Tamworth has superb road links, with its M1. to the M6, the M6 Toll, the M42 and the

coast mainline and the regional It also has good rail links to the national west away by train. Air travel also es minut 15 only rail network, with Birmingham choice of two thriving international couldn’t be easier from Tamworth, with a and East Midlands Airport only t Airpor l airports; Birmingham Internationa a short drive away.

ence centres from the world Add to this the choice of hotels and confer Dome, Holiday Inn Express and Snow famous Belfry Hotel, Drayton Manor, s.

Assembly Room

event or planning If you’re thinking of organising a conference, you are looking for a meeting, let us know what type of venue n for you. and we are sure we will have a perfect locatio ation Inform t Touris Please contact Tamworth 581 Centre for more details on 01827 709 or email: tic@tamworth.gov.uk

Near Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3TW www.draytonmanorhotel.co.uk Tel: 01827 285551email: events@draytonmanorhotel.co.uk Whether you are planning a meeting, a team away day, exhibition, product launch or presentation or looking for a unique venue to host your annual event or conference, Drayton Manor Conference & Events offer creative and flexible venues for up to 500 delegates, and 150 contemporary bedrooms on site.

Our modern air conditioned suites are self-contained and we offer all of our guests FREE parking. Plus with acres of land for team building – and a theme park right on our doorstep, Drayton Manor offers a unique location for successful events!

65

Stunning Wedding Day Locations Weddings at the Castle Just imagine your perfect wedding, standing in a castle where you and your partner can be King and Queen for the day.

Tamworth Castle with its stunning location and Great Hall, is the ideal wedding location and boasts grounds that offer a perfect backdrop for your special day.

With a magnificent oak timbered roof and decorative leaded windows, the Great Hall can seat up to 64 guests giving you a unique setting and memories that will last forever.

After the ceremony, the Castle Grounds are the perfect place to take those all important photographs.

66

A choice of hotels to ct make your day perfe reception facilities. provide a range of wedding rb selection of hotels, that can ate locations intim e mor the Tamworth also boasts a supe to Hall r Moo and at the Belfry, Drayton Manor ts even scale er larg the From le Hotel and The Moat House. such as Lea Marston, The Cast more details on rist Information Centre for Please contact Tamworth Tou tamworth.gov.uk 01827 709 581 or email: tic@

ngs Drayton Manor Wedbratdi e the happiest

is an amazing venue to cele Drayton Manor Theme Park day is for you et how important your wedding day of your life. We never forg needs. your for red tailo lly occasion individua which is why we’ll ensure an sts, and we are s can cater for up to 300 gue Our three air-conditioned suite special day your meaning you can enjoy all of licensed for civil ceremonies rates at tion oda mm acco ial ntage of spec with us. Guests can take adva for the happy couple! room a de inclu even we Drayton Manor Hotel, and anorhotel.co.uk e B78 3TW www.draytonm Near Tamworth, Staffordshir rhotel.co.uk ano tonm dray s@ ding wed Tel: 01827 285551 email:

ding Package The Castle Hotel Wed

– Master of Ceremonies – Colour Co-ordinated Linen

Only

per person*

s

£14.99

date

Cake – Traditional 2-Tier Wedding with Stand and Knife Suite – Complimentary Honeymoon for your – F ree use of Banqueting Suite ple peo 150 to up for y Part ing Even

ted

Coffee – 3 Course Sit-Down Meal and l Mea the with e – Win – Bubbly for Speeches

l * se

ec

Includes:

– Table Centre Candelabras

od and Tudor Suites. view our fantastic Wedgwo 27 317 700 to discuss and hoteltamworth.co.uk stle w.ca ww

Call Nikki or Heather on 018 700 317 worth, B79 7NB Tel: 01827 Tam k, Ban y Lad el, Hot The Castle 67

Coach & Group Visits Visiting Tamworth with a coach party or group?

There is so much to see and do in Tamworth. Whether for just a day visit or for a base to travel from, Tamworth has a rich history, great shopping and it’s easy to get to.

There’s a wide selection of places to visit, superb quality accommodation and plenty of places to eat and drink at prices to suit everyone.

Our Tourism Officer or our Information Staff are more than happy to help you plan your visit and put a package together – free of charge.

Getting Here

Toilets

It couldn’t be easier to get to us, nestled right in the heart of the country, just 18 miles north of Birmingham, the A5 links Tamworth to the A38 and M42 J10. The M6 Toll links the M6 to the M42.

Tamworth is proud of its award winning public conveniences which are clearly marked on the map.

Parking We have seven coach parking bays situated in the Jolly Sailor Coach Park and if you let us know when you are visiting, we can issue a FREE coach pass. You can load and unload in Corporation Street in the town centre. All parking facilities are marked on the map.

68

A Shopper’s Dream Tamworth town centre is a mix of unique and independent shops, Ankerside Shopping Centre boasts more than 60 stores all under cover and there’s a great outdoor street market on Tuesdays and Saturdays. If it’s the larger brand names such as M&S and John Lewis that you’re looking for, then a stroll to the retail park is a must.

Parking FREE

Castle Pleasure Grounds This beautiful, green, open space and park links the town centre to the retail park and a walk between the two takes no more than 10 minutes.

The grounds are famed for their magnificent floral displays, their band concerts in the summer and the many FREE activities including walks to while away the time. The Grounds plays host to an annual events programme. www.visittamworth.co.uk apply for a free coach To book a group visit, request brochures, please contact Stacy Birt ation, inform other any or t, permi g parkin orth.gov.uk tamw birt@ Stacyemail: on 01827 709 583 or

Tamworth Castle Guided Tours This magnificent Norman Castle will take you back more than 900 years as you explore the maze of intact rooms, halls and chambers that still echo with events from Saxon beginnings, Norman dynasties, Tudor grandeur and great family influences.

Castle Costume Guided Tour, min 20 people, £5.50 per person.

th Discover Tamwor Guided Walking Tours with Tamworth’s Green Badge Guides Your Saturday morning town tours begin in April and continue throughout the summer, departing from Tamworth Information Centre at 11am. You can learn the history of our Saxon heritage, local heroes, benefactors and the architect of our modern Police Force.

Your autumn/winter programme will consist of tours of the Medieval Church of St Editha’s starting on October 4th every Saturday until Advent, from 10.00am at the Tamworth Information Centre.

In addition, discover what Tamworth did in the Great War with our specialist First World War walking tours in this, the commemorative Centennial of WW1. Looking for something different? Contact us to enquire about private tours of town, church or castle.

Bookings can be made directly with the guides quoting reference: DT14 Contact Lilian: 01827 875902 or Caroline: 07761 081733 W: www.tamworthtownguides.co.uk E: tamworthguild.townguides@gmail.com Facebook: Tamworth Guild of Town Guides Or via Tamworth Information Centre on 01827 709581/709618

69

Getting Here & Getting Around Getting Here

By Road

corner of Tamworth lies in the South East of Birmingham. h nort s mile 18 just , Staffordshire and M42 A38 the to The A5 links Tamworth M6 to the links Toll M6 The 10.

Junction plenty of central the M42. Parking: There are re. There is free cent n tow the in with car parks ge holders. bad ing parking for disabled park

By Coach

daily return National Express operates a ice 460 service to London Victoria, Serv 81 81 or 81 17 087 call tion For informa om ss.c visit: www.nationalexpre

Getting Around

By Bus

bus companies, Tamworth is serviced by two to local major towns ices providing a range of serv Heartlands Buses. and s Buse a Arriv and villages.

1 200 22 33 087 call For Traveline Enquiries

By Bicycle

etres of cycle paths Tamworth has over 34 kilom n. tow in and around the th Tourist For information call Tamwor 581 709 27 018 Information Centre

unds Cycle Hire in the Castle Gro

Dave Owen Cycles Tamworth B79 7ND Activity Centre, Castle Grounds, 141 504 Call: 07896

70

By Canal

am Fazeley Canal Tamworth sits on the Birmingh abundance of an with al, and the Coventry Can s. ring moo available 252 000 or email: For information call 01827 ritishwaterways.co.uk @b nds idla estm s.w enquirie

By Rail

rs a frequent direct Tamworth Railway Station offe Street and London Euston.

New am ingh Birm to ice serv to major rail networks, Tamworth is well connected Midland. serviced by Virgin and London 08457 48 49 50 call s uirie Enq For National Rail o.uk ail.c nalr atio w.n ww : or visit

Parking

the town centre and There are ample car parks in from the shops and y awa walk t all are just a shor are marked on the s main attractions. All car park 4). Tamworth car 73-7 es (pag town centre map disabled badge. parks are free if you hold a valid apply, except fs tarri al norm , park Ankerside car l 5.

Leve on if you are using Shopmobility

On Foot

and easy to navigate Tamworth town centre is flat h there are varying with dropped curbs, althoug ing, pushing walk ther Whe . paving surfaces ter, you can access a pram or using a mobility scoo pathway to the of n ptio exce all areas with the p incline and may Tamworth Castle. This is a stee ple. present a difficulty to some peo

Disabled Information Shopmobility

s wheelchairs e Car Park, Shopmobility lend Situated on Level 5 Ankersid the town centre. and scooters to aid access to for sale and e of independent living aids Shopmobility also offers a rang - Sat, with some Mon , 5pm 9am n Ope ice. mobility aid maintenance serv th events. Â nings to coincide with Tamwor Sunday and Bank Holiday ope le holiday hire book prior to visit. A bookab It is advisable to check and service is also available. : s, call 01827 709 392 or visit For information and enquirie y bilit /shopmo www.mercian-ability.org.uk

Centre n o ti a rm fo In th r o w m Ta where the th Tourist Information Centre at the award winning Tamwor A warm welcome awaits you ise. adv and will be only too pleased to help expert customer service staff

The Centre is open: , Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am - 5pm. .

Closed Bank Holiday Mondays

How to find us:

the Philip Dix Centre The Information Centre is in osite Tamworth opp n, tow of right in the centre ms.

Roo y mbl Asse

Contact us:

th B79 Corporation Street, Tamwor

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Tel: 01827 709 581/618 www.tamworthtic.co.uk www.visittamworth.co.uk r enquiry to 88020 Text TBCTIC followed by you

sm Gold Award 2013 Staffordshire Excellence in Touri sm Gold Award 2010 Touri in lence Excel Heart of England in Tourism Finalist 2007 Heart of England Excellence ce Mark Award 2007 Quality in Tourism Gold Servi Tourism Silver Award 2005 in lence Excel Heart of England ist 2003 in Tourism Awards and Final Visit Heart of England Excellence mation Centre of the Year 2002 Infor st Touri for rd Awa r Silve

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Our town

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Our region e Proud to be in Staffordshir

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Disclaimer Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure that details in this guide are accurate, Tamworth Borough Council cannot be held responsible for any loss or disappointment arising from the misinterpretation, error, omission, or subsequent change to information.

The council does not guarantee or endorse the suitability or otherwise of the establishments contained in this visitor guide.

Designed and produced by www.gdaltd.co.uk

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Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire B79 7ND