Our journey through lesser-known towns continues with stories from Dudley, Enniskillen, and Middlesbrough, three UK towns with untold histories.
Dudley, located in the West Midlands, is a place where the past is almost palpable. It was the home of Duncan Edwards, the legendary Manchester United footballer, whose statue stands in the town square, a silent tribute to his legacy. The town’s industrial past still echoes in the sounds of its canals, which once carried goods like coal, limestone, and iron across the region. Walking along the towpaths, you can almost hear the clanging of hammers from the factories that once defined Dudley’s economy. The Black Country Living Museum provides a vivid snapshot of the industrial era, with recreated period streets, shops, and even a 1950s sweet shop that evokes childhood memories for many visitors. The museum, alongside local highlights like Himley Hall and Park, offers a deep dive into Dudley’s rich past, where tradition and local pride are still very much alive.
Further north, Enniskillen in County Fermanagh presents a completely different atmosphere. Situated at the convergence of Lower and Upper Lough Erne, Enniskillen is an island town, surrounded by water and steeped in history. The town was founded in 1612, and remnants of its early days can be seen in the streets, with names like Barracks Street and Gaol Street reflecting its military and judicial past. The town’s murals and plaques tell the stories of its former residents, such as Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett, who once studied here. Enniskillen’s Workhouse, a powerful reminder of the famine era, now serves as a heritage center, preserving the voices of the past. The town also features impressive Victorian pubs like Blakes of the Hollow, described by John McGahern as the “cathedral” of Irish pubs. Despite the rain that often falls, creating a shimmering landscape along the River Erne, Enniskillen is a town where history and modern life blend seamlessly, offering visitors a unique glimpse into its rich and sometimes troubled past.
Middlesbrough, in North Yorkshire, is a town that has long been associated with industrial might. Once a quiet village, its transformation into a heavy industrial hub was driven by the discovery of iron ore in the Cleveland Hills in the mid-19th century. This spurred the creation of enormous foundries, and the Tees Transporter Bridge, built in 1911, still stands as a testament to the town’s engineering prowess. The town is also known for its connection to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which was constructed by Dorman Long & Co Ltd in Middlesbrough. Despite the town’s industrial decline, the spirit of the “Smoggies” a nickname locals wear with pride endures. The town’s gritty history is reflected in its architectural landmarks, such as the Italianate-style town hall and the former National and Provincial Bank. Visitors can explore the Dorman Museum and the modern MIMA art gallery, and for those who want to escape into nature, the North York Moors National Park is nearby, offering sweeping views over the town’s industrial landscape.
All three towns Dudley, Enniskillen, and Middlesbrough offer rich histories that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism. Each has its own unique story to tell, from the industrial revolution in Dudley to the literary connections in Enniskillen and the heavy engineering legacy in Middlesbrough. While they may not always be on the typical tourist trail, they provide a fascinating insight into the lives and struggles of those who helped shape the UK’s past.
