Redditch has a rich history that we can explore in many different ways. However, you might not be aware of some of the most interesting ways that you can now discover timeless games and activities with a modern twist.
Live Casino Games Have Updated the Industry
Various types of gambling have been popular in the area over the centuries, from sports betting to card games and bingo. The long-gone Redditch racecourse held horse races in the 19th century, while the Redditch Local History Museum recently reminded locals of the thrilling air race held in 1931 between Benfield Hucks and Gustav Hamel that ended here, although it isn’t clear whether locals had bet on the outcome of this event.
The modern approach to betting in Redditch involves updated casino games, such as roulette and blackjack, that can be played online at sites like Paddy Power. Check the live casino bonus at Paddy’s to see how you can get started with free golden chips. These classic games have been updated for the digital age but still feature a human presenter live-streamed onto the screen, and in some cases a new type of game show-style gameplay has been introduced to engage the modern audience.
The Game Fair Has Versions of Many Old-Style Events
The Game Fair took place at Ragley Hall near Alcester in July, with more than 100,000 visitors making it one of the country’s biggest events of this type. Running over three days in the heat of summer, the Fair has a long history that goes back 65 years after it started life in Suffolk. Ragley Hall was its location in 2023 but Blenheim Palace is listed as the location for next year’s event.
The 2023 event included timeless games and sports such as fishing, falconry and shooting, with celebrities like Paul Whitehouse and James Martin turning up to help boost its appeal. One of the modern twists this year was the fact that noted environmentalist Jim Murray spoke to anglers on how to carry out their hobby without damaging the planet, giving us an idea of how this Fair may continue to evolve without losing its countryside roots.
A Fascinating Needle Museum with Modern Stitched Textile Work
For some locals, the Forge Mill Needle Museum may provide a few surprises. This tourist attraction reveals that the Redditch area was once the world’s leading supplier of needles and fishing tackle, with around 90% of the global supply of needles once coming from here.
A variety of special events and exhibitions at the Needle Museum let visitors appreciate modern uses for some of the materials that were mass-produced here in the 19th century. Later this year, the Stories Captured in Thread exhibition will include some amazing stitched textile work, while the Elemental exhibition takes place as its inspiration to provide a selection of outstanding modern pieces of work.
It’s fascinating to see how these traditional activities and games have been updated in and around Redditch, while often retaining the historic feel that helps to give a sensation of transporting us to a different age when we take part or just watch.
