Wolverhampton has the best name of any English city and that\u2019s just that.<\/p>\n
While you would be forgiven for thinking that this particular English city was full of wolves, Wolverhampton actually has some pretty neat other stuff going for it. We will admit we were more than a little disappointed in the lack of growling animals, though.<\/p>\n
Want to know what the best things are about Wolverhampton are? We asked the locals, and this is what they said\u2026<\/p>\n
Wolverhampton has its beginnings away back in the first thousand years of history. Our story begins with a Mercian king named Wulfhere<\/a>: the first Christian King that Mercia had. Wulfhere was made king in 658 and by 659 had established an Abbey in Wolverhampton\u2026 which wasn\u2019t yet a place. As of yet, no trace of the Abbey has been found. It is speculated that it was built over. Henry VIII had a bit of a habit of destroying Abbeys and relocating their stones\u2026 but we are getting distracted.<\/p>\n Although it is claimed that the Mercians and the West Saxons won a huge battle against the Vikings in Wolverhampton, around 910; they were a little late to do so. Mercia was, at one point, in the hands of Danish kings. Evidence remains all over the region of this. Wednesfield and the Field of Woden, both named after the one-eyed Danish God \u2013 still remain to this day. It was Ivar the Boneless that captured Mercia. It remained in Danish hands until some time in the 9th<\/sup> century. It is said that the last Mercian king died in 879<\/a>.<\/p>\n So we know that Wolverhampton existed before history as we know it. Certainly, the land has been populated since before the Vikings came or it wouldn\u2019t have been absorbed into the Danelaw. Either way, the story gets only more mysterious as we go on\u2026<\/p>\n The town was founded \u2018officially\u2019 in 985 by a Staffordshire landowner named Wolfrun. Some accounts have this person as a woman, some as a man. The name itself is from Old High German<\/a> and combines \u2018wolf\u2019 with \u2018secret\/magic\u2019\u2026 take from that what you will.<\/p>\n In 994 that same person \u2013 be it male or female, or both, or neither \u2013 founded a church and a monastery. Some sources have the founder\u2019s name as Wulruna Heanton, and from that we take Wolverhampton. The church and monastery were given lots of parcels of land over the years and would have sat where St. Peter\u2019s Church<\/a> is nowadays.<\/p>\n In 1086 Wolverhampton made an appearance in the Domesday Survey as being in Staffordshire. It was made up of around fifty houses \u2013 a huge settlement back then, but not a city yet. It is recorded in some places as being a \u2018small\u2019 settlement. To us, fifty houses is small. Back then, your average town was no more than ten buildings.<\/p>\n A little under a hundred years later there is mention of Wolverhampton as a market town. The next occurrence in the annals of time is to record a disgruntled King John of the same time period (the Nottingham<\/a>\/Robin Hood King John) who was annoyed that they were running this market without royal decree. Apparently, the people went ahead and did it anyway. King John never granted the charter out of spite. King Henry the third granted it in 1258\u2026 when presumably nobody cared anymore.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s break up all this history with a few fun facts! Here are some things we at Five Minutes Spare<\/a> are pretty sure you didn\u2019t know about Wolverhampton:<\/p>\n So although it seems like a quiet, calm, uneventful place, some interesting things do happen in Wolverhampton. You just need to stick around long enough to see them. Anyway, back to the five-minute history lesson.<\/p>\n Wolverhampton was a stable market town for two hundred years, selling wool as its primary product. The Wolverhampton Grammar School was founded in 1512. Later that century the first of two deadly fires would ravage the town.<\/p>\n Both fires began in Salop Street. The second was in 1696. Both took unrecorded numbers of lives and both burned for days. The first lasted five days and left countless families without shelter. The second burned through more than 60 houses, killing, injuring, and making homeless as it went.<\/p>\n In 1703 one of the first fire engines in Britain was purchased by Wolverhampton, and the story didn\u2019t repeat itself again.<\/p>\n Wolverhampton was a noted lock making city, as well as having heavy involvement in the automobile industry, back in the early years. There have always been strong links with transport in town, evidenced by the way it lies in the path between London and Ireland. It also did well in the textile sector, making and weaving wool.<\/p>\n In 1772 the first canals were created into the city. This led to proper industrialisation as more goods flowed through it. It gained gas streetlamps in 1821, electricity in 1895, then a railway in 1837<\/a>. They didn\u2019t get sewers until after 1850 though\u2026 this thanks to an 1830s visit from Queen Victoria which had her brand the place as \u2018dirty\u2019 but \u2018friendly and welcoming\u2019.<\/p>\n There were two huge cholera outbreaks in Wolverhampton, one in 1832, another in 1849. After this, the introduction of sewers made things a little better. A dispensary for free medication for the poor opened at the start of the same century, but the hospital was opened in 1849 out of necessity.<\/p>\n Now; there are parts of the midlands, Wolverhampton included, where history goes a little dark around about the time of the black plague. As you can imagine, Wolverhampton was a waystation town; it was a place on passed through if they were travelling west from London. There were many people coming and going, and there are few records of the tow during this time.<\/p>\n Historians speculate that this area of the country was decimated \u2013 at least. Some places recorded death rates of 19% of the population, some (like the Manor of Aston) recorded 80%. We know that the village of Eyam lost 260 inhabitants, and parish records say there were no people left to bury the dead. Afterwards, famine spread. There were no people left to work in the fields.<\/p>\n We can only speculate at the death toll in Wolverhampton. What we do know is that the lands are known as the \u2018Blacklands\u2019 because of both the plague and the cholera outbreaks. History simply doesn\u2019t know what the death toll was, but you can read more about it here<\/a>.<\/p>\n During both wars, deposits of coal and iron in the area made Wolverhampton of great importance to the war effort. Women served at home, producing munitions, while the men went overseas to bravely fight for their country.<\/p>\n To this day, heroes of the town are remembered. One was Mrs MG Nicklin,<\/a> who had eleven children and a 50 hour a week job. The other, a pilot named Harry Smith. Harry was just 20 years old when his plane crash-landed a few miles from the Dutch\/German border. He was buried in an anonymous grave until his dog-tags and a cigarette case belonging to another of the crew was found at the crash site. He died in 1944\u2026 only months before the war ended.<\/p>\n Wolverhampton was bombed in WWI, back when the Germans were still perfecting the technique. They used zeppelins back then which were fortunately far from efficient or stealthy meaning weren\u2019t able to do too much damage. This also had a positive knock-on effect in that by the time they had rolled out the bomber plane in WWII, Wolverhampton had built plenty of air raid shelters As a result, there were very few casualties in Wolverhampton from air raids. Casualty wise they did much better than most cities during the war although the structural damage was still significant.<\/p>\n It is thought that the combination of air raid shelters along with the proximity to Birmingham sort of cushioned Wolverhampton from the worst of the blitz; that being said, in 1942 they were bombed heavily enough for 17 houses to be wrecked. Some of which had to be completely demolished and rebuilt. The fact that we can tell you these houses were on St. Giles Crescent<\/a>, and that numbers 2, 4, 33, 34, and 35 were the ones that needed rebuilding, speaks volumes for the relative lack of damage the city took.<\/p>\n Wolverhampton played its part in the effort though produced armaments, \u2018war materials\u2019 and engineering works. Their contribution has never been forgotten \u2013 either in terms of the thousands of young men they sent to the front nor in terms of their industry. Without important towns like these things would probably not have turned out as they did.<\/p>\n Some of the best-known famous people from Wolverhampton are:<\/p>\n There have been several hundred famous people to come out of Wolverhampton over the years. Such an old town was bound to produce a few stars. You can check out the Ranker list by following this link<\/a>.<\/p>\n So now that we know how the city came to be what it is today; let\u2019s look at the best attractions in Wolverhampton\u2026 as told by the locals themselves; in list format – because everyone loves a list right!<\/p>\n The city is a bit of a football hotbed and is home to the World Famous Wolverhampton Wanderers, whose home stadium Molineux has stood on Waterloo Road since 1889. Formed way back in 1877 they have the distinction of being one of the 12 founder members of the Football League, although it did take them until 1954 to win it for the first time. They were “The Team” for much of the 1950s winning three league titles and an FA Cup, and although things have honours wise been a bit leaner since they are currently (2019-20) doing well in the top flight.\u00a0 They also hold a classic “Not a lot of people know that” distinction in that they have won five different divisional titles… Five I hear you asking? Yes, each of the four current divisions and the old Third Division North back in 1923-24. No other team has or is likely to ever match that distinction – although Portsmouth<\/a> holds the same honour, but theirs includes the Third Division South, ironically also via winning it in the 1923-24 season. Honestly, you couldn’t make it up.<\/p>\n Anyway if you fancy taking in a game then consider going to one of the local derby matches. Sadly they rarely play their closest neighbours Walsall but they do often clash with West Brom and matches against Birmingham and Aston Villa are also ones to experience.<\/p>\n As befitting a club with such a history the team even has its own museum which is open Friday to Sunday and also on match days. They also run stadium tours on Sundays which are very popular – probably as they encourage you to take photos and selfies. These can be combined with a museum visit and if you do fancy one we would recommend that you book online<\/a> rather than just turning up as they do tend to sell out.<\/p>\n Finally, before we leave this bit of our whirlwind guide we would add that as football fans go Wolves supporters tend to be the nicer type being welcoming to neutral supporters and friendly enough to away fans; not something you can say for every team.<\/p>\n If sports and recreation are your thing, then Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre<\/a> has a pool with your name on it. You can also check out Alderley Leisure Village<\/a> \u2013 which isn\u2019t as extensive a complex as it sounds, but does get slightly better reviews.<\/p>\n We already mentioned St. Peter\u2019s Church before, but it is a bit of a landmark because of its age. It is still in use, too. Check out the Wightwick Manor and Gardens,<\/a> which falls on the top landmark in Wolverhampton according to Trip Advisor. It was built during the \u2018arts and crafts period\u2019 between 1880 and 1920. It\u2019s Victorian, the owners loved the arts. It also has a second-hand bookshop that reviewers love.<\/p>\n The Moseley Old Hall<\/a> is another fascinating sight to see. It has plenty of gardens for you to roam. It was built to accommodate Bonnie Prince Charlie while he was hiding after the Battle of Worcester. Bonnie Prince Charlie gets a lot of hate in England. We\u2019d like to point out that not all Scots were Jacobites\u2026 Clan Campbell chased him just as hard as anyone else did. Anyway\u2026 we are getting distracted again.<\/p>\n The Essington Fruit Farm<\/a> makes for another landmark you can go see \u2013 but this one has its own fruit picking season. Show up in late spring, or anytime during the summer, and pick enough fruit to make your own jam. Alternatively, find a forest and do it for free. Up to you.<\/p>\n Bilston market<\/a> is just outside of the city \u2013 but so worth the effort of travelling. It has all sorts of nick-nacks, some brilliant bargains, and is all outdoors. If you want a traditional marketplace instead of a big shopping centre, then head to Bilston on any day of the week. If you want to stay in the city then check out the Mander Centre<\/a> as an alternative for finding the best fashion.<\/p>\n The Wolverhampton Art Gallery<\/a> has beautiful exhibits, plenty of open spaces, and is available for hire if you need a corporate event space. It is run by the Wolverhampton Arts and Culture department, who have a whole range of sights to see. The Wolverhampton \u2018Wolves\u2019<\/a> have their own museum if you want to learn about the history of football. You can have your choice from the Bantock House Museum<\/a>, the Locksmith\u2019s<\/a> preserved house, or the Black Country Living Museum<\/a>. There are a half a dozen more but you get the idea. The Arts and Culture dept. have news on them all. If the theatre is more your thing then check out the Grand Theatre<\/a>, Wolverhampton\u2019s best place for catching a show.<\/p>\n As far as outdoor spaces in Wolverhampton go, you still have a good deal of choices. Check out David Austin Roses<\/a> for some of the prettiest flowers in town, or take the kids to the Wild Zoological Park<\/a> to see some small animals. You can also visit West Park for a picnic, or the Racecourse<\/a> for a day out you can rely on. They hold a regular lady\u2019s day and have fun days for the little ones. We hear there are dinosaurs\u2026 They also do venue hire if you need to book somewhere for your wedding.<\/p>\n West Park<\/a> itself has a little history to it. It was originally known as the People\u2019s Park and was opened in 1881. It was built on a layout designed by \u00a350 grand prize\u2026 In those days that would have equalled a small fortune. The layout includes ornamental flower beds and space for archery, cricket and bowls.<\/p>\n For something a little different to eat, Locals recommend the African Village<\/a>. It has a variety of full flavours and spices that will rock your taste buds and make you fall in love with African cuisine. If you want something closer to home, then the Burger House<\/a> is a great place to take the kids of a weekend. Baego\u2019s<\/a> is better for catching a quick bite while you stroll around the shops.<\/p>\n For a night on the tiles then the Bohemian Bar<\/a> is a firm favourite. The Royal London Bar<\/a> is where you go if you are over seventy and want a stiff pint, and the Grain Store<\/a> is a gin bar that sells food. If you prefer to dance the night away, then Wolverhampton doesn\u2019t disappoint. You can visit the Slade Rooms<\/a> for a high-end party. The Hummingbird<\/a> is also a local favourite for those that love a good dance.<\/p>\n As to where to stay, well you have all the usual suspects. You will find a premier inn and a Travelodge just like you will find in any other city. If you are anxious for some five-star treatment then we would suggest you stay at the Coleman Studios<\/a>. It\u2019s sleek, elegant, and chic. Likewise, if you are on a budget try the Solace Community.<\/a> We do notice that the cheaper hotels in Wolverhampton beat the hostel prices so do keep an eye out.<\/p>\n So as you can see \u2013 Wolverhampton has it all! From places to stay to places to see\u2026 You could spend months here and never get bored!<\/p>\n So now you know everything that we know about Wolverhampton \u2013 except how to get there. We don\u2019t want to leave you hanging, so here goes!<\/p>\n Take the M54 west out of Birmingham, or head north from London until the M1 becomes the M5. You can take the ring-road east around Birmingham<\/a> and you will hit Wolverhampton<\/a>, too.<\/p>\n Wolverhampton is approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes from London<\/a> by train.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t be silly\u2026 although if you have a houseboat you can genuinely get there on the Worcester Canal. However Wolverhampton has its own boating club, so it isn\u2019t that far beyond the realms of possibility. Pretty far from the sea though, so maybe leave the yacht in the docks.<\/p>\nWhat we Know about Wolverhampton\u2026<\/h2>\n
Interesting Wolverhampton Facts<\/h2>\n
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The Fires of 1590<\/h2>\n
The Industrial Side of the City<\/h2>\n
A Diseased Town<\/h2>\n
Wolverhampton During the War<\/h2>\n
Famous Faces from Wolverhampton<\/h2>\n
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Wolverhampton Attractions<\/h2>\n
1 – Football<\/h3>\n
2 \u2013 Sightseeing<\/h3>\n
3 \u2013 Shopping in Wolverhampton<\/h3>\n
4 \u2013 Art Galleries and Museums<\/h3>\n
5 \u2013 Parks and Nature<\/h3>\n
Where to Eat, Drink, Party, Then Stay, in Wolverhampton?<\/h2>\n
How to Get To Wolverhampton<\/h2>\n
By Road<\/h3>\n
By Rail<\/h3>\n
By Boat<\/h3>\n
By Air<\/h3>\n