Heart of England

The very heart of Britain captures the very essence of Englishness. It’s majestic yet unassuming, its countryside and traditions are old and quirky, yet its cities are vibrant and cosmopolitan.

Download the Birmingham podcast (3.9Mb) to find out more about the UK's second city. From the iconic Selfridge's Bullring and The Mailbox to the designer hotels and 500 restaurants, Birmingham has everything from top entertainment to a world-famous jewellery quarter.

Download the Black Country podcast (5.4Mb) to learn about the industrial heritage of the area, west of Birmingham in England's Midlands. Visit the intriguing trade museums and explore hidden gems including a canal boat trip through Dudley Tunnel built in 1778 and have a drink in the Crooked House, a 258 year old pub where marbles roll up hill. 

Download the Hereford podcast (5.1Mb) and find out more about the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Exhibition which houses both the medieval map of the world and the chained library. Enjoy the local ciders and explore the surrounding villages boasting black and white half-timber houses and the picturesque Golden Valley.

Download the Ironbridge podcast (5.5Mb) here. Built in 1779, the Ironbridge in Shropshire is a symbol of the industrial revolution and is at the heart of a 6 mile UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience the fascinating period museums including the Ironmasters' homes and the Tar Tunnel.

Download the Lichfield podcast (5.8Mb) to find out about the historic Lichfield Gospels and Herkenrode Painted-Glass window in the Cathedral, the Tudor and Georgian architecture, specialist shops and Samuel Johnson who wrote the first dictionary. There's also information on music festivals including a Folk Festival with workshops and clog dancing.  

Download the Malvern podcast (5.6Mb) for information on this beautiful and culturally rich area in England's Midlands. The Malvern Hills offer inspiring walks with suggested routes and the area is well known for its health-giving spa waters. Birthplace to Elgar, Malvern celebrates its cultural heritage with annual festivals well worth a visit.  

Download the Stoke Potteries podcast (5.2Mb) and find out about the historic heartland of one of England's fascinating old industries - making China. This industry is still a world leader in quality and tourists can now come and see Spode factory and Wedgewood as they are creating their wares.