The history of Walsall goes back some 1,000 years, though it was the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century that transformed the town, sending its population skyrocketing. These days Walsall is a typical English town, with a mismatch of architectural building styles in the town centre, and plenty of shops, restaurants and bars taking up residence within those buildings - though there are many fresh and modern structures cropping up in this forward-thinking destination. 

See the New Art Gallery - it's hard to miss the striking silver cube. There's a wonderful collection housed within, plus a fun, hands-on family gallery that curious children love to explore. It's free to enter, as is the town's museum, which is crammed with stories of Walsall's past as well as an interesting range of clothing in the Hodson Shop Collection. This local shop sold clothing in the mid-20th century and the exhibits are simply unsold stock, making for a surprisingly riveting display. 

Walsall Leather Museum also hosts a range of fascinating pieces. The leather industry has thrived here for 200 years and you can find out more at this free-to-enter museum. 

Football fans might fancy watching a match at Bescot Stadium, home of league-one outfit Walsall FC.

There are many towns and cities near Walsall that are home to some of the most interesting attractions in the Midlands. 

For a wide selection of family days out in just one city, make a beeline for nearby Dudley. It's 10 miles away (a 25-minute drive) and draws visitors to three major attractions: The Black Country Living Museum, Dudley Castle, and Dudley Zoo. If you only have time for one visit, the Black Country Living Museum is highly recommended. This enchanting place unveils the industrial landscape that once blanketed so many parts of the West Midlands - it's like the clocks simply stopped one day in the 1830s. Feel the chill of the underground mines, discover how children were taught in the 19th century, journey by canal boat, see how bread and sweets were made for local residents, and taste some of the best traditionally-cooked fish and chips you're likely to get anywhere in Britain. 

Alternatively, it's a 20-minute drive into Birmingham from Walsall, where shoppers make a day of it in excellent centres such as the Bullring and the Mailbox. Art, history, music, comedy and a tasty multicultural platter of cuisine can be found in Birmingham too. 

If chocolate tickles and titillates your taste buds though, journey to Cadbury World in Bourneville, which is a 30-minute drive south of Walsall. Crammed with cocoa facts and sweet tasters, you should book tickets in advance during school holidays as this attraction is extremely popular.