Smethwick factfile

How to get to Smethwick
Smethwick is a town in the West Midlands, lying in the borough of Sandwell. Adjacent to Birmingham and West Bromwich, it's easily reached via the M5 motorway and the A4030.

Smethwick through the ages
Formerly an Anglo-Saxon hamlet, Smethwick owed its industrial growth to its links with the canals (from the 1760s) and the railways (from the 1850s).

These developments led to the building of the Soho Foundry, which produced steam engines that were exported worldwide. Smethwick later became a world leader in the production of engines, brass and guns.

Although manufacturing declined in the last 30 years, Smethwick has adjusted well and new housing, facilities and parks have replaced the old industries.

Famous people from Smethwick
Oscar-nominated star of Educating Rita Julie Walters hails from Smethwick, as do fellow television star Liza Goddard and R&B singer/songwriter Jamelia.

How Smethwick got its name
Recorded in the Domesday Book as "Smedeuuich", Smethwick's name is thought to mean "smiths' workplace".

Things to see and do around Smethwick
Galton Valley Canal Heritage Centre offers an introduction to the area's canals with displays, audiovisual shows, artefacts and information.

Famous landmarks in Smethwick
The Grade 1 listed Galton Bridge spans the New Line canal and railway. When it was constructed in 1829 by Telford, it was the longest single span bridge in the world.

Sports and Leisure in Smethwick
Victoria Park in Smethwick has a wide range of facilities including football and cricket pitches, a play area, a lake and the Smethwick Historical Society House.

Warley Woods Golf Club offers a challenging pay-as-you-play nine-hole golf course in an attractive woodland setting. It's open all year, with a pro shop and lessons available daily.

Natural beauty spots around Smethwick
Warley Woods has been a public park in Smethwick since 1906. Its 100 acres take in a meadow, large woodlands and a golf course. It is Grade II listed on the English Heritage Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.