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Lying in northern Staffordshire, the town was once inhabited by ancient Celtic tribes. Some believe the town names derives from walh halh, which means valley of the Celtic speakers. The town was documented as early as 1002. Walsall began holding weekly markets in 1220. The diverse trades of the medieval culture endowed Walsall with the nickname "town of a hundred trades."
Queen Elizabeth I visited the town and Queen Mary I constructed the Queen Mary's Grammar School in 1554. The school continues carrying the Queen's emblem.
The Industrial Revolution increased the population of Walsall dramatically. Residents numbered approximately 2,000 during the 1500s, but exploded to over 80,000 two centuries later. Walsall had a nearby limestone quarry and trades in the town itself included buckles, chains and saddles. The town's leather goods industries were renowned for miles around. By 1824, the community had lighting and a gas company.
Over 2,000 Walsall men fought and died in the first World War. A memorial gardens commemorates combat veterans through the history of Walsall. After the war, many old buildings were demolished and replaced. Walsall expanded away from the city centre.
Activities and Attractions
Walsall contains over 200 open spaces and parks where residents and visitors may enjoy the outdoors and the scenic environment. The arboretum itself contains over 181.6 acres (73.5 hectares) of formal gardens, sprawling lawns and wooded areas. Explore the Victorian park and the iconic buildings, which include a clock tower, boathouse and bandstand.
Twenty-three miles of canals and a variety of lakes provide ample opportunity for boating, canoeing or kayaking. Stroll along Bridge Street and Ablewell Streets and see some of the oldest buildings in Walsall.
Walsall was once the centre for leather products. At the Walsall Leather Museum, guests have the opportunity to learn the history of the town's leather crafting legacy and observe artisans performing a centuries old trade. Skilled artisans at the leather museum provide demonstrations of creating a variety of leather products, including belts, purses and wallets. The facility also has a cafe and garden picnic area.
The Walsall Museum contains collections that depict the town's industrial, manufacturing and social history. Exhibits include clothing, bolts and locks, and ceremonial artefacts. The New Art Gallery houses collections that include paintings, photographs and sculptures of contemporary artists. The facility has interactive exhibits and workshops to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests may choose centrally located lodging that provides convenient access to the heart of Walsall, in addition to the Arboretum and railway station. Some facilities, though minutes away from town, provide a relaxing country atmosphere.
American fast food is not hard to find in Walsall. Whether wishing to eat in or take out, the community has a McDonald's and a Kentucky Fried Chicken. Serving meals throughout the day, McDonald's has a vast selection of breakfast and other meal options. Choose from the menu containing traditional burgers and fries, salads and desserts. Grab a bucket of the colonel's famous fried chicken and all the delicious sides at KFC.
Accommodation in Walsall
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