Redditch is a small town and local government district in North East Worcestershire, England, approximately 24 kilometers south of Birmingham. According to the 2005 census, Redditch has a population of 79.216 residents. In the past, in the 10th century, Redditch had become an international center for the needle and fishing tackle industry. Redditch offers its tourists a wide array of accommodation venues: five star hotels, B&B's, inns or cottages. The social venues are also diverse: elegant restaurants where you can enjoy a fine selection of European and Asian food, funky coffee shops where you can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or a tea, or fun filled nightclubs where you can dance the night away.
Redditch grew up from a small hamlet known as 'La Rededich' that was developed around the Abbey at Bordesley and built by Cistercian Monks in the 12th century. The first documented reference to the settlement dates back to 1348. Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre displays amazing artefacts from the sites first archaeological dig in 1864 and from more recent digs.
Kingfisher Shopping Center has been open since 1976, and has become the primary source of retail shops in Redditch. The Shopping Center is best known for the palm trees in the center of Worcester Square. Recently, the shopping center has been declared one of the biggest malls in the United Kingdom.
Arrow Valley Country Park stretches on a surface of 3.6 square kilometers of public open space. The Country Park is a wonderful place to visit, because it has a lakeside café, a gift shop and an interactive exhibition. There are many tracks for cyclists, paths for the people who enjoy a quiet, relaxing walk in the park. The lake can also be used for practicing water sports. Alongside the lake there is a skating area and a playing area for children.
Forge Mill Needle Museum is a historic museum which depicts the Redditch Industrial Revolution. It was opened in 1983 by Queen Elizabeth II. The venue provides a vivid portrayal of how needles were made. The museum organizes, on an annually basis, exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops on how needles were used in the textile industry.
Redditch and its surroundings is a charming city to visit, because of its many attractions, its nice people and comfortable accommodation. You will not regret your time spent here, in Redditch, for you are going to leave this place with many pleasant memories.
