Bromsgrove

The town prospered in the 16th century with the manufacturing of nails, this cottage industry lasted for 300 years until the introduction of machine made nails.  In the nearby Clent Hills where fast flowing streams provided waterpower, a tool with a long handle and a curved blade know as a scythe was produced. 

A major feature of the county is the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, starting at the River Severn in Worcester it passes through the Worcestershire countryside, climbing Tardebigge locks and then on to Birmingham. The Tardebigge Locks are the longest flight of navigable locks in the country, with 30 locks climbing 217 feet (66m)! 

Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside with a trip to the Clent Hills, Waseley Hills Country Park or the Lickey Hills or by exploring the towpaths along side the canals.  Two narrow boat operators offer a selection of boats providing the perfect opportunity to explore rural Worcestershire.

The Bromsgrove Festival covers the musical spectrum, from jazz to classical with many internationally acclaimed artists performing. The creative streak doesn’t end with arts, crafts and music it also encompasses literature with A E Housman, author of ‘A Shropshire lad’ being one of Bromsgrove’s most famous sons.