10 Things to Do with An Elderly Parent in Redditch

Redditch, in the very north of Worcestershire, occupies an enviable position between urban convenience and rural countryside. Just 40 minutes from England’s second city, Birmingham, Redditch is prime commuter territory and achieves a balance of small-town intimacy and big city convenience. If you’re looking for days out you can share with all the family, or you’re worried about managing to get out on your own, having visiting or live-in care in Redditch will mean you don’t have to compromise how you like to live.

Explore Arrow Valley Country Park

One of Redditch’s best assets, this 900-acre site has Arrow Valley Lake at the centre, which offers fishing, boating and various other water activities. A popular place for walking, the park also offers excellent wildlife habitats, children’s activities, and café.

Enjoy a Walk Along the River Arrow

The River Arrow meanders through Arrow Valley Park and short walks around there will take in small sections of waterway. However, if you’re looking for something longer, there’s a 5km circular walk near Alcester and a 56km trail for the really adventurous!

Discover Forge Mill Needle Museum

Redditch is famous the world over for its importance to the needle industry over time, and Forge Mill celebrates that with extensive displays and exhibits that detail what life was like for the people who worked there. There’s also a gift shop and café.

Learn About Local History at Bordesley Abbey Ruins

Located just a short walk from Forge Mill, the ruins of the 12th century Bordesley Abbey, where Cistercian monks settled after being granted land. They transformed it from marshland by digging a complex drainage system and diverting the River Arrow.

Stroll Through Morton Stanley Park

Like much of Redditch, the 95-acre park was once a farm, donated to local people by needle maker turned-farmer William Morton Stanley when he died in 1924. The park has many features for visitors of all ages, as well as a café, toilets, and wheelchair access.

Experience a Show at Palace Theatre Redditch

Redditch’s historic Palace Theatre first opened its doors in 1913, but over the years had a very mixed usage. Converted at one time to a roller skating rink, a dance hall, and then Bingo Hall, by 1970 it had returned to a theatrical venue to entertain the townsfolk.

Relax at Redditch Central Library

Opened in January 1976, Redditch Library offers plenty for people of all ages. Whether you enjoy sitting quietly and reading, want to use a computer, do some local history research or take part in family activities with your grandchildren, it’s all here.

Wander Around Kingfisher Shopping Centre

Redditch offers plenty for the savvy shopper, all under one roof. But there’s also a gym, tenpin bowling, and a cinema, as well as restaurants and cafes where you can pause for a breather. There’s even a quiet hour every morning for those who like things calmer.

Admire the Sculptures and Artwork Around Town Centre

Redditch’s historic town centre, circled around St Stephen’s Church and the Church Green, contains war memorials, historic buildings, and many shops and places to eat. It also houses Redditch market, the town’s main library, and other attractions.

John Bonham statue

There are several famous faces who were born in Redditch, including singer Harry Styles, and actor Charles Dance. Perhaps the most famous is Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, and a bronze statue in his honour is situated in the town centre.