Walsall is a town in the West Midlands, close to Birmingham and Coventry. The town has a history of coal mining and metalwork but after the coal mines dried up in the 19th century, Walsall became famous for its role in the leather industry with products ranging from bags to horse saddles being exported throughout the world. Modern Walsall has a range of attractions which delve into the towns past and present industries such as the Leather Museum and the Local History Centre. Walsall is also home to the stunning New Art Gallery which hosts exhibitions of both tradtional and contemporary art.