History
The town became an important Norman defence in the late 11th century, but remained a relatively quiet, unknown community until the Georgian era, when the construction of the Dudley Canal provided revolutionary trading opportunities. By the early Victorian period, Dudley was one of Britain's chief industrial centres, with a highly successful mining industry that prevailed until the late 20th century.
The castle
Built in 1070, this ruined landmark is now protected as a Grade I listed building and was an exclusive residence until the 18th century. Like many other medieval defences, Dudley Castle was targeted in the English Civil War, when the Royalists held the castle for two years, and was partially demolished after the Parliamentary victory. However, the building was reopened to the public in the 1990s and is now one of the Midlands' leading tourist attractions.
The Black Country Living Museum
Showcasing the Black Country's extraordinary heritage as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the Black Country Living Museum opened to the public in 1975. It comprises a special open-air exhibition with numerous preserved former-industrial buildings over an area of more than 10 hectares.
The zoo
No trip to Dudley would be complete without visiting the town's famous zoo. Opened in 1937, this picturesque 200-acre park is overlooked by the castle and exhibits many rare species from all over the world.
Other local places of interest
Visit the vibrant city centre of Birmingham and explore the trendy cafés of Brindleyplace before seeing majestic Victoria Square and the renowned Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Birmingham is also home to the enormous National Sea Life Centre, many bustling nightclubs along Broad Street, an outstanding 21st-century library, and a thriving German Christmas Market.
Further south in Worcestershire, you can visit Hagley Hall, a fine Georgian mansion that is known for its distinctive Neopalladian features. Although still a beloved family home, the building is regularly used as a luxury private functions venue and is within easy reach of all Dudley hotels.
Where to stay
For affordable, elegant accommodation in a contemporary setting, choose the friendly Premier Inn Dudley Kingswinford or the Premier Inn Dudley Town Centre. Other great value-for-money options in the area include the stylish and hospitable Holiday Inn Express Birmingham Oldbury M5 Jct.2 and the Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill Dudley.
