A new heritage animation installed at Tower Hill Brine Pump is helping visitors discover the surprising story behind one of Droitwich Spa's best-known features – its famous wonky buildings.
The short film explores how centuries of salt production shaped the town, from medieval brine wells and industrial salt works to the operation of Droitwich Spa's only working brine well today.
Visitors can watch the full animation at Tower Hill and uncover the fascinating link between the town's salt heritage and the distinctive buildings that have become a well-known part of Droitwich Spa's character. The animation marks the final stage of a wider programme of improvements celebrating Droitwich Spa's unique salt heritage.
It follows several phases of work at Tower Hill and surrounding heritage sites. Earlier work included repairs, cleaning, repainting, enhanced planting, festoon lighting, and new heritage interpretation around the town. The animation is the final phase of the project, delivered by Wychavon in collaboration with Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre.
The project also links with wider work to improve heritage interpretation around the town, including new interpretation boards in the brine pit at Vines Park and planned boards at Gurney’s Lane.
Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre has also expanded its Guided Town Walk to include an exclusive look inside Tower Hill, giving people the chance to learn more about the salt extraction process and how it continues to fuel Droitwich Lido today.
The project was started by Droitwich Spa Place Board and supports the aims of the Droitwich Spa Town Centre Prospectus, which seeks to enhance the town’s heritage, improve the public realm and create a more welcoming experience for residents and visitors.
Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council and Executive Board Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, said: “Tower Hill is one of Droitwich Spa’s most important historic landmarks, and this project helps bring its story to life for residents and visitors alike. The improvements delivered over recent years, culminating in this new heritage animation, have transformed how people can experience and understand our unique salt heritage.
“Working with partners, we are continuing to invest in projects that celebrate the town’s history, improve the public realm and support Droitwich Spa’s future as a visitor destination.”
Rebecca Butler, Manager of Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre, said: “ “Droitwich Spa’s salt story is really special, and we’re passionate about helping people discover and enjoy it. The new animation brings the story of Tower Hill to life in a way that is easy to understand, engaging and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. We’re delighted to have been part of this project and look forward to welcoming more people to explore Tower Hill through our guided heritage walks and experience first-hand the remarkable history that makes Droitwich Spa unique.”
Visitors are encouraged to visit Tower Hill Brine Pump to watch the animation and discover the fascinating story behind Droitwich Spa's salt heritage – including the answer to why some of the town's buildings are famously wonky.
Notes
The video is available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/s_UTNJOuezw
The guided walks can be booked by calling or emailing the Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre.
