The quirky homes carved into sandstone less than an hour away from Birmingham

The area has some of the most ideal autumnal walks

Located on the sandstone ridge near Stourbridge lies some of the most unique homes found anywhere in the UK, and they’re less than hour away from Birmingham.

These are the Rock Houses found at Kinver Edge, a perfect location to explore as the autumnal months roll in.

The Holy Austin Rock Houses are historic dwellings carved directly into the red rock face that were inhabited until the mid-20th century.

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You can even step inside two restored homes outfitted with period-appropriate Victorian and 1930s décor.

They are complete with cosy coal stoves and audio recordings of former cave dwellers sharing their experiences.

Also on site is the Rock House Café is built right into the sandstone structure, a perfect location to enjoy a warning cup of tea as we adjust to the colder temperatures.

In autumn, it serves warming soups, luxury hot chocolates, and freshly baked bakes made with fruit harvested from the Rock House allotments.

Outdoor seating overlooks the valley and looking down onto the rock dwellings below. Tucked inside the cave complex is also a small second-hand ‘Book Nook’ shop.

Autumn is arguably the best time to get out for a hike, and Kinver Edge offers plenty of options.

There’s the Kinver Edge Ridge Walk, a short climb up steep steps leads past an Iron Age Hill Fort to panoramic viewpoints looking out across Shropshire, Worcestershire, the Malvern Hills, and the Cotswolds.

Or, there’s Nanny’s Rock Loop, a 2.5–3.5 mile circular path through Kingsford Forest Park. There’s you’ll discover ‘Nanny’s Rock’, an un-restored, wilder cave dwelling hidden deeper in the woods with its own chimney cut into the rock.

These walks are of course completely free, but if you want to step inside the rock houses, there is an admission fee.

Adults get in for £9, while children cost £4.50. Under 5s are free.