Redditch City Guide

About Redditch – History and Culture

Redditch, a town in Worcestershire, United Kingdom, has a rich industrial heritage that shaped its identity. Originally a small rural settlement, it became the world's leading centre for needle and fishing tackle manufacturing during the 19th century. The industry brought prosperity and growth, with hundreds of factories producing needles, fish hooks, and other precision metal goods. This legacy is preserved in the National Needle Museum, which tells the story of the town's craftsmanship and innovation.

The town's history dates back to medieval times, with landmarks such as Bordesley Abbey (founded in 1138) and the remnants of a Cistercian monastery. The dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII led to the decline of the abbey, but its ruins remain an important heritage site. Redditch's modern development accelerated in the 1960s when it was designated a New Town, undergoing planned expansion to accommodate overspill from Birmingham. This resulted in carefully designed residential areas, green belts, and modern infrastructure that blend with historic pockets.

Today, Redditch is a vibrant community with a strong cultural identity. The town hosts various festivals, music events, and theatre performances at venues like the Palace Theatre and Artrix. Its cultural scene reflects a mix of traditional British values and contemporary diversity, with residents from various backgrounds contributing to a lively social fabric. The balance of industrial heritage and modern living makes Redditch an intriguing destination for visitors and a comfortable home for residents.

• National Needle Museum – dedicated to the needle and fishing tackle industry.
• Bordesley Abbey ruins – medieval Cistercian monastery.
• Arrow Valley Park – large park with lake, trails, and visitor centre.
• Palace Theatre – historic theatre hosting comedy, drama, and music.
• Artrix – arts centre with cinema, gallery, and performance spaces.
• Kingfisher Shopping Centre – main shopping destination.
• Forge Mill Needle Museum – part of the needle museum complex.
• St. Stephen's Church – parish church with historic architecture.
• Redditch Library – modern library with community facilities.
• Morton Stanley Park – park with sports fields and children's play areas.

Did You Know? – Facts about Redditch

Redditch is a town of many interesting contrasts. It combines medieval monastic ruins with New Town planning, and its industrial past is now a tourist attraction. The town's central location in the West Midlands makes it a strategic base for exploring the region.

• Redditch produces 80% of the world's needles at its peak industry.
• The town has one of the largest single-site shopping centres in Worcestershire.
• Arrow Valley Lake is man-made and used for watersports and fishing.
• Redditch's road network includes the M42 motorway, providing quick access to the national network.
• The town has a population of approximately 85,000 (2021 census).
• Redditch is twinned with Auxerre, France, and Mölndal, Sweden.
• The phrase 'Redditch Sun' refers to the frequent cloudy weather, but summers can be warm.
• The town has over 100 hectares of parks and green spaces.
• Bordesley Abbey is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
• Redditch United Football Club plays in the Southern League.
• The town's eastern bypass (the A441) was opened in 1992.
• Redditch has a strong cycling network with dedicated paths.
• The 'Redditch Standard' is a local newspaper covering community news.
• The town's music scene includes the Redditch Symphony Orchestra.
• Redditch's climate is temperate, with average highs of 21°C in summer and 7°C in winter.

Geography and Climate of Redditch

Redditch is situated in the northeast of Worcestershire, near the border with Warwickshire. The town lies in the valley of the River Arrow, a tributary of the River Avon. The landscape is gently undulating, with the town centre at around 100 metres above sea level. Surrounding hills provide scenic views, particularly from areas like the Lickey Hills. The town's New Town planning incorporated extensive green corridors, blending urban development with nature.

The climate is typical of the English West Midlands: temperate with moderate rainfall spread throughout the year. Summers are generally mild to warm, while winters are cool but rarely severe. Snowfall is occasional, and the area is sheltered by surrounding hills. The growing season is long, supporting the many parks and gardens. Redditch enjoys about 1,500 sunshine hours annually, slightly below the UK average due to its inland location.

• Average summer high: 21°C (July).
• Average winter low: 1°C (January).
• Annual rainfall: approximately 650 mm.
• Nearest large city: Birmingham (15 miles north).
• Major water body: Arrow Valley Lake (80 hectares).
• Geographic coordinates: 52.3065° N, 1.9466° W.
• Wards include: Batchford, Church Hill, Crabbs Cross, Greenlands, Lodge Park, Matchborough, Oakenshaw, Winyates.

Things to Do in Redditch

Redditch offers a variety of activities for visitors and residents, from exploring industrial history to enjoying outdoor recreation. The town's parks, cultural venues, and dining options cater to all ages and interests.

Food & Dining

Redditch's culinary scene is diverse, with a range of eateries from traditional British pubs to international cuisines. The Kingfisher Shopping Centre and surrounding streets host chain restaurants, while independent cafes and takeaways offer local flavours. The town has seen growth in fine dining options, particularly along the Evesham Road and in the Church Hill area.

Local specialities include Worcestershire sauces (the famous Lea & Perrins is produced nearby), and traditional pub fare like fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and ale. Ethnic restaurants include Indian, Chinese, Italian, Turkish, and Polish, reflecting the town's multicultural community. For a quick bite, the 'Bacon butty' is a local favourite at many cafes.

• Zizzi – Italian chain restaurant at Kingfisher Centre.
• Harvester – family-friendly grill with salad bar.
• Redditch Tandoori – popular Indian restaurant on Unicorn Hill.
• Pizza Express – located near the shopping centre.
• Miller & Carter – steakhouse in a converted mill.
• Bombay Delight – well-regarded for Bangladeshi cuisine.
• Frankie & Benny's – American-Italian chain.
• Costa Coffee and Café Nero for casual coffee.
• Local pubs: The Golden Cross, The Boat Inn, The Hop Pole.
• Fish and chips shops on every neighbourhood high street.
• Farmers' market (monthly) for local produce.

Festivals & Events

Redditch hosts several annual events that celebrate community, arts, and heritage. The Redditch Festival is a highlight, featuring live music, dance, food stalls, and family activities in Arrow Valley Park. Other events include the Redditch Christmas Lights Switch-On, the fireworks display on Bonfire Night, and the Easter Fun Day.

The Palace Theatre offers a packed programme of shows, while Artrix hosts film festivals, comedy nights, and live performances. The Needle Museum runs special exhibitions and craft workshops. Sports events include the Redditch Half Marathon and various charity runs in the park.

• Redditch Festival (August).
• Redditch Christmas Market and Lights Switch-On.
• Bonfire Night at Arrow Valley Park.
• Easter Fun Day at Morton Stanley Park.
• Redditch Half Marathon (May).
• Worcester Warriors Rugby training camps (nearby).
• Summer concert series at Palace Theatre.
• Artrix Film Festival.
• Redditch Art Trail (annual).
• Charity events: Race for Life, Colour Run.

Cultural Attractions

The National Needle Museum is the foremost cultural attraction, housing collections of needles, fishing tackle, and commemorating the town's industrial past. Bordesley Abbey ruins offer a medieval monastic experience with gardens and a museum. The Palace Theatre and Artrix are hubs for performing arts, hosting local and touring productions.

The Redditch Heritage Trail links key historic sites, including the Church of St. Stephen, the Town Hall, and the old needle mills. The town also has a library with local history archives. Art galleries at Artrix and the library exhibit works by local artists.

• Forge Mill Needle Museum – working watermill and museum.
• Bordesley Abbey ruins and visitor centre.
• Palace Theatre – comedy, drama, music.
• Artrix – contemporary arts centre.
• Redditch Heritage Trail (self-guided walk).
• St. Stephen's Church – historic building with stained glass.
• Redditch Library – local history collection.
• Kingfisher Shopping Centre – architecture and sculpture.
• Museum at Forge Mill – interactive displays.

Outdoor Activities

Arrow Valley Park is the outdoor heart of Redditch, offering a large lake for fishing, sailing, and birdwatching. There are walking and cycling trails, a play area, and a café. Morton Stanley Park provides football and cricket pitches, tennis courts, and a skate park. The park hosts junior sports coaching.

The surrounding countryside offers numerous walking routes, including the Heart of England Way and the Arden Way. The nearby Lickey Hills provide more challenging terrain with panoramic views. Golfers have several courses within or near the town, such as Redditch Golf Club and Abbey Hotel Golf Club.

• Arrow Valley Park: sailing centre, bird hides, pedalos.
• Morton Stanley Park: sports pitches, outdoor gym.
• Redditch Golf Club (18-hole course).
• Abbey Hotel Golf Club.
• Heart of England Way long-distance footpath.
• Winyates Green conservation area.
• Batchford Brook nature trail.
• Crabbs Cross Park.
• Lickey Hills Country Park (6 miles).
• Clent Hills (10 miles) for hiking and paragliding.
• Arrow Valley Sailing Club.
• Fishing permits available at Kingfisher angling shops.
• Cycling routes within town and to Bromsgrove.

Economy and Key Industries

Redditch's economy has evolved from its needle manufacturing base to a diverse mix of services, retail, and light industry. The town is an important commercial centre for northeast Worcestershire, with significant employment in public administration, health, and education. The Kingfisher Shopping Centre is a major employer and retail destination.

Manufacturing still plays a role, particularly in precision engineering, metalworking, and automotive components. Several business parks, such as Enfield Industrial Estate and Moons Park, host companies including Halfords, GKN, and NHS Supply Chain. The town benefits from its proximity to Birmingham, attracting businesses that need access to the M42 corridor.

The service sector is the largest employer, with the Alexandra Hospital, Worcestershire County Council, and various call centres providing jobs. Redditch also has a growing digital and creative sector, supported by co-working spaces and the nearby University of Worcester's campus at Birmingham. Small businesses and startups are encouraged through local enterprise initiatives.

• Halfords (national headquarters in nearby Birmingham but large distribution in Redditch).
• GKN Automotive – manufacturing plant.
• NHS Supply Chain – logistics hub.
• Alexandra Hospital – major NHS trust.
• Kingfisher Shopping Centre – retail and leisure.
• Redditch Borough Council – local government.
• Bombardier Transportation (historical, now Alstom) – rail engineering nearby.
• Industrial estates: Enfield, Moons Park, Washford, Lakeside.
• Small business parks: Ridgeway, Park Farm.
• Digital and creative sector emerging with co-working spaces like The Weir.

Where to Live in Redditch

Redditch offers a variety of residential neighbourhoods, from New Town estates to older suburbs. The town's planning included distinct districts such as Church Hill, Winyates, and Matchborough, each with its own character and amenities. House types range from 1960s semi-detached to modern apartments and executive homes.

For families, areas like Crabbs Cross and Woodrow offer good schools and parks. Young professionals often prefer apartments near the town centre or in the Church Hill area for convenience. More affluent housing can be found in the outskirts like Feckenham and Callow Hill, which are villages within the borough. The town's green spaces mean most homes are within walking distance of a park.

Renting is popular due to affordability compared to Birmingham. The average rent for a two-bedroom house is around £650-750 per month. Buying a three-bedroom semi-detached house costs approximately £200,000-250,000, making Redditch one of the more affordable places in the West Midlands. New developments are ongoing at sites like Brockhill and Winyates Green.

• Church Hill: central, good schools, close to Arrow Valley Park.
• Crabbs Cross: residential, with local shops and pubs.
• Winyates: estate with lake and green spaces.
• Matchborough: eastern edge, close to M42.
• Woodrow: family-friendly, primary school.
• Lodge Park: near town centre, mixed housing.
• Oakenshaw: south of town, semi-rural.
• Greenlands: modern development with new homes.
• Feckenham: village with character, period properties.
• Callow Hill: luxury homes, countryside views.

Formalities and Visas in Redditch

As Redditch is in the United Kingdom, immigration rules are standard for the UK. Non-EEA nationals generally need a visa to enter and stay, whether for tourism, work, study, or family reasons. The UK's points-based system applies for skilled workers, students, and others.

Tourists from many countries can visit visa-free for up to 6 months, but cannot work. For longer stays, the most common visas are the Skilled Worker visa, Student visa, and Family visa. The nearest visa application centre is in Birmingham, but applications are made online. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens now require a visa or EU Settlement Scheme status post-Brexit, but many can use the electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system in 2024.

For those moving to Redditch permanently, indefinite leave to remain (ILR) can be applied for after 5 years on most work visas. British citizenship requires further residency and language tests. It's advisable to consult the UK Government website or an immigration solicitor. Redditch has a Citizens Advice Bureau offering free guidance on formality matters.

• Tourist visa: required for some nationalities; check gov.uk.
• Standard Visitor visa: for business, leisure, or medical treatment.
• Skilled Worker visa: for those with a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
• Health and Care Worker visa: faster route for medical professionals.
• Student visa: for courses longer than 6 months at a licensed institution.
• Graduate visa: for students after graduation to work for 2 years.
• Family visa: for spouses, partners, or dependent relatives.
• EU Settlement Scheme: for EU/EEA/Swiss residents before 2021.
• Biometric residence permit (BRP) required for many visas.
• NHS surcharge: paid as part of visa application.
• English language requirement: for work and settlement visas.
• Visa processing times: standard service is 3-8 weeks, priority available.
• Immigration advice: Citizens Advice Redditch (free drop-in).
• Birmingham visa application centre: for biometrics.
• Nationality checking service: for British citizenship applications.

Working in Redditch

The job market in Redditch is varied, with opportunities in retail, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and services. The town's economy has been stable, with lower unemployment than the national average. Major employers include the NHS (Alexandra Hospital), Halfords, GKN, and the local council. The nearby Birmingham conurbation provides additional commuting options.

Salaries in Redditch are generally in line with the Midlands average. A typical full-time salary is around £25,000-35,000 per year, though senior roles can exceed £50,000. The minimum wage for over-23s is £11.44 per hour (2024). Many jobs are in the public sector, which offers good pensions and stability. Working culture is typical British: professional but friendly, with a focus on work-life balance.

Networking opportunities exist through local chambers of commerce and business groups. Jobseekers can use online portals like Indeed, GOV.UK's Find a Job, and local recruitment agencies such as Pertemps, Reed, and Office Angels. Apprenticeships are promoted for young people and career changers. The town has a Jobcentre Plus office for support.

• Top sectors: healthcare, retail, manufacturing, logistics, education.
• Average salary range: £25k-35k; professional/managerial up to £50k+.
• National Living Wage: £11.44/hr (2024).
• Common job types: customer service, warehouse, nursing, teaching, engineering.
• Major employers: Alexandra Hospital, Worcestershire County Council, Halfords, GKN.
• Recruitment agencies: Pertemps, Reed, Office Angels, Hays.
• Jobcentre Plus: on Market Place, for benefits and job search.
• Working hours: typically 9am-5pm, 37.5-40 hours/week.
• Annual leave: minimum 28 days including bank holidays.
• Sick pay: statutory sick pay after 4 days.
• Pension: auto-enrolment for eligible employees.
• Union presence: Unison, Unite, and GMB active in public sector.
• Self-employment: growing, particularly in trades and digital.
• Business support: Redditch Borough Council economic development.

Studying in Redditch

Redditch offers a range of educational opportunities from primary schools to further education. The town has several highly rated state schools, including St. Bede's Catholic Middle School and Arrow Vale RSA Academy. For post-16 education, Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) has a campus in Redditch, offering A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships.

Higher education options require travel to nearby universities. The University of Worcester has a campus in Birmingham (about 20 miles), and the University of Birmingham, Aston University, and Birmingham City University are within commuting distance. Many residents also study part-time at the Open University or via distance learning. The college also offers foundation degrees validated by universities.

For international students, the Student visa allows study at approved institutions, including HoW College if it is a licensed sponsor. The college's many courses cover business, IT, engineering, health & social care, and creative arts. Student life in Redditch is centred around the college, with events, clubs, and support services. The town's affordable cost of living is a benefit for students.

• Primary schools: Holyoakes Field, Mappleborough Green, Oak Hill, St. Stephen's, etc.
• Middle schools: St. Bede's, Ipsley CE, Birchensale, etc.
• Secondary schools: Arrow Vale RSA Academy, Tudor Grange Academy Redditch.
• Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) – Redditch campus.
• Courses: GCSEs, A-levels, BTECs, NVQs, apprenticeships.
• Higher education via University of Worcester Birmingham, or local universities.
• Student support: college has a careers and welfare team.
• Library: Redditch Library with study spaces, free Wi-Fi.
• Buses connect college to residential areas.
• Cost: tuition fees for under-18s free; apprenticeships paid; higher education fees vary.
• Student accommodation: private rentals in town, shared houses.
• Transport: train to Birmingham for university campus.
• English language courses available at HoW College for international students.
• Part-time work: international students can work up to 20 hours/week (student visa).
• Childcare: several nurseries and pre-schools.

Finance and Banks in Redditch

Redditch has a well-developed banking sector with branches of major UK banks located in the town centre and Kingfisher Shopping Centre. These include Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, Santander, and HSBC. Building societies such as Nationwide and Coventry also have presences. Most offer current accounts, savings, mortgages, and investment advice.

Digital banking is widely used, with apps from Monzo, Starling, and Revolut popular among younger residents. Cash machines are plentiful. For international money transfers, services like Wise or PayPal are common. Taxation for residents includes income tax and national insurance, with tax codes issued by HMRC. The town has a few independent financial advisers.

• Barclays branch: Kingfisher Centre.
• Lloyds Bank: Market Place.
• NatWest: Church Green.
• Santander: Kingfisher Centre.
• HSBC: Unicorn Hill (limited hours).
• Nationwide Building Society: Kingfisher Centre.
• Coventry Building Society: Kingfisher Centre.
• Post Office: provides basic banking services.
• Cash machines (ATMs) widely available, mostly free.
• Online banking: most banks offer comprehensive apps.
• Contactless payments: widely accepted.
• Financial advice: IFA firms such as Redditch Financial Planning.
• Tax: income tax rates 20% basic, 40% higher, 45% additional.
• National Insurance: 12% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270.
• Opening a bank account: need ID and proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement).

Health Care in Redditch

Redditch is served by the NHS, providing free healthcare to residents. The main hospital is the Alexandra Hospital, which offers accident and emergency, maternity, and a range of specialist services. The hospital is located on Woodrow Drive and is part of the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. For primary care, there are many GP surgeries across the town, such as the Redditch Health Centre and Church Hill Surgery.

Visitors from outside the UK may need travel insurance or reciprocal health arrangements (e.g., European Health Insurance Card for EU citizens). The NHS provides emergency treatment regardless of nationality, but non-residents may be charged for non-emergency care. Pharmacies are available in every neighbourhood for prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.

• Alexandra Hospital: A&E, inpatient care, outpatient clinics.
• Minor Injuries Unit: at the hospital or nearby urgent care centres.
• GP surgeries: Redditch Health Centre, Church Hill Surgery, Abbey Medical Practice, etc.
• Dental practices: Bupa Dental Care, Smile Dental Practice, etc. (NHS and private).
• Opticians: Specsavers, Vision Express, independent opticians.
• Pharmacies: Boots, LloydsPharmacy, Well Pharmacy, local chemists.
• Mental health services: Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust.
• Health visitor and school nursing: provided by the trust.
• Vaccination centres: GP surgeries and local pharmacies.
• Emergency: dial 999 for ambulance. Non-emergency: 111.
• Walk-in clinic: Alexandra Hospital for minor illnesses (limited hours).
• Private healthcare: Spire Hospital in nearby Little Aston (10 miles).
• Health insurance: common for faster access to consultants and surgery.
• Maternity: Alexandra Hospital maternity unit.

Accommodation in Redditch

Accommodation options in Redditch include purpose-built flats, houses, and bungalows. The town centre has a number of apartment blocks, while suburban estates offer traditional houses with gardens. New-build homes are being developed on former industrial land. The housing market is more affordable than many parts of the West Midlands, attracting first-time buyers and commuters.

Renting is popular, with a mix of private rentals and a small amount of social housing. Letting agencies include Leaders, Connells, and local companies. The average rent for a one-bedroom flat is around £500-600 per month, and for a two-bedroom house, £700-800. Buying costs: typical price for a terraced house is £150,000-200,000; semi-detached £200,000-280,000; detached £300,000-500,000.

• Short-term: Redditch has hotels (Premier Inn, Travelodge) and B&Bs for temporary stays.
• Rental agencies: Leaders, Connells, Your Move, Trueman Estates.
• Property websites: Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket.
• Social housing: via Redditch Borough Council or housing associations like Bromford.
• Student housing: private houses in town, especially near college.
• New developments: Brockhill East, Winyates Green, Park Farm.
• Home buying: solicitors and conveyancers local, e.g., Mackintosh Law.
• Deposit: usually 5-10% of purchase price; Help to Buy schemes available.
• Council tax: bands A to H; average Band D around £1,800/year.

Planning Your Move to Redditch

Moving to Redditch requires planning, especially for international relocations. Key steps include arranging a visa if needed, securing accommodation, opening a bank account, registering with a GP, and understanding the local transport system. It's advisable to visit the town beforehand to get a feel for different neighbourhoods.

Logistically, hiring a removals company or renting a van is straightforward. Many services are available online. Setting up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) can be done after renting contracts are signed. The town has good schools, so families should contact the council for school applications. For employment, start job hunting early as the local market is competitive but accessible.

• Check visa requirements: work or family visa as needed.
• Find accommodation: start searching 2-3 months before move.
• Register with a GP: use NHS website to find local surgery.
• Open a UK bank account: some allow remote account opening (e.g., Monzo).
• Arrange school places: through Worcestershire County Council admissions.
• Transport links: Redditch station has direct trains to Birmingham.
• Driving: UK driving licence after residency; exchange some foreign licences.
• Utilities: compare providers on Uswitch or MoneySuperMarket.
• Broadband and TV: providers include Virgin Media, BT, Sky, TalkTalk.
• Council tax: register with Redditch Borough Council.
• TV licence: required for live TV or BBC iPlayer.
• Waste collection: bimonthly recycling and general waste; food waste weekly.
• Emergency services: dial 999; non-emergency police via 101.
• Local contacts: join Facebook groups like 'Redditch Community' for tips.
• Settling in: explore Arrow Valley Park and town centre first.

Leisure in Redditch

Redditch has a range of leisure activities for all ages. The nightlife scene revolves around pubs, bars, and the occasional club. The Kingfisher Shopping Centre is the main retail destination, complemented by smaller high streets in each neighbourhood. For cinema, the Palace Theatre and Artrix show films, and there is a Cineworld multiplex in nearby Shirley.

Sports and fitness are well catered for with leisure centres and gyms. The Abbey Stadium sports centre offers a swimming pool, gym, and fitness classes. Private gyms include PureGym, DW Fitness, and independent studios. Bowling, axe throwing, and escape rooms are available for group entertainment. The town also has a library with events for children and adults.

• Abbey Stadium Leisure Centre: swimming, sports halls, gym.
• PureGym: 24-hour gym in town centre.
• DW Fitness: at Kingfisher Centre.
• Redditch Bowling Club: outdoor and indoor.
• Tenpin Bowling: at Hollywood Bowl (nearby Shirley).
• Escape rooms: Escape Now Redditch.
• Axe throwing: Hatchet Harry's (in Birmingham).
• Palace Theatre: live shows and occasional club nights.
• Artrix: cinema and bar.
• Pubs: The Golden Cross (real ale), The Boat Inn (riverside), The Redditch.
• Nightclubs: only a few, e.g., The Venue; most go to Birmingham for clubbing.
• Shopping: Kingfisher Centre (M&S, Debenhams, Primark, Next).
• Retail parks: Enfield Retail Park, Oakenshaw Retail Park.
• Farmer's market: first Saturday of the month on Church Green.

Transportation Options in Redditch

Redditch is well-connected by road and rail. The town is served by the M42 motorway (junction 2 and 3), providing fast access to Birmingham, the M40, and the M5. The A441 and A448 are main roads through the area. Redditch railway station is on the Cross-City Line, with frequent trains to Birmingham New Street (about 50 minutes) and Bromsgrove. The line continues to Lichfield.

Local bus services are operated mainly by First Bus and Diamond Bus, covering all districts and connecting to surrounding towns. The town is cyclist-friendly, with dedicated cycle paths and the National Cycle Network (Route 5 passes nearby). For air travel, Birmingham Airport is about 30 minutes by car or train (via Birmingham International station). The nearest ferry port is not local; major channel ports are 3-4 hours away.

• Train: Redditch to Birmingham (direct, every 30 minutes).
• Road: M42 junction 2 (east) and 3 (west).
• Bus routes: 57, 58, 57A, 150, 149, etc., connect all areas.
• Cycle paths: along the River Arrow, and to Bromsgrove via dirt track.
• Walking: pedestrianised town centre and park paths.
• Taxi: local firms (A2B, Redditch Cars) and Uber available.
• Airport: Birmingham (BHX) – 20 miles.
• Coach: National Express stops at Redditch Bus Station.
• Park and Ride: none currently, but car parks in town.
• Parking: numerous car parks in town centre (