Here’s a fun day out that’s free and super close to home.
The black-and-white town of Droitwich Spa is set on the banks of the River Salwarpe and has seven miles of canals, making it great for walks and picnics.
It has independent shops to mooch and cute cafes for ice creams and milkshakes, the famous lido for outdoor swimming and a brand new Saltwich Splash Park.
And, just launched for summer 2026, there’s a fairy tale trail for families to follow, exploring each of the 10 beautifully illustrated shop windows
Read more: 20 free things to do around Birmingham for the whole of the summer holidays
Read next: Summer 2026 things to do in and around Birmingham
Once Upon a Trail is free to enjoy and kids can pick up free trail activity books to collect hidden words in each window then turn them into their own story.
A spokesman for Wychavon District Council, which is running the trail, said: “Looking for a fun, free family day out this summer?
“Step into a world of imagination as Once Upon a Trail transforms Droitwich Spa town centre into a magical storybook adventure.
“Explore 10 beautifully illustrated shop windows, each bringing to life enchanting scenes inspired by Droitwich Spa’s unique landscapes and local landmarks, with a fairy tale twist!
“From colourful wildflower meadows and sparkling salt crystals to the shimmering canal, every window has been lovingly created by Worcester-based artist Catt Standen.”
Free activity trail books can be collected from Droitwich Library, the Heritage Centre, or The Crafty Café.
Independent shops in Droitwich Spa include Love Labels outlet store, 360 Thrifts clothing, Hothouse Worcester gifts, Evolve clothing, Smart Ideas gifts, Humphries shoe store and MegsPegs bakery.
Droitwich Spa sits on the River Salwarpe, making it a great place for walks and picnics -Credit:Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live
The Once Upon a Trail has been created by Wychavon, Droitwich Spa Library, and St Joseph’s First School to celebrate the National Year of Reading in a bid to spark children’s imaginations and inspire a love of reading.
One of the art displays has been created by members of Droitwich Youth Council, who worked alongside The Crafty Café to help make the trail even more magical for local families.
Once children have finished the trail, they can head back to Droitwich Library to collect a free book and special treat and take a selfie. The library will be closed on Thursdays and Sundays, so you won’t be able to collect your book prize during these times.
The trail runs from July 3 to September 1 and is recommended for 4–9-year-olds.
The nearby Jinney Ring Craft Centre and Churchfields Farm Shop are well worth a visit for local produce and gifts and the whole family can splash about at aqua-adventure park at Aztec Adventure just down the road.
How to get to Droitwich Spa from Birmingham
It takes just 40 minutes to drive from Birmingham to Droitwich Spa via the M5, traffic permitting.
Or you can hop on a direct train from Birmingham New Street in just 30 minutes.
This is one of many free events happening this summer around Birmingham. And check out our full summer guide too.
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