Birmingham
In the 18th and 19th centuries the city was the centre of the industrial revolution, when the factories dominated, making major developments in the fields of technology and science. Today, Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK. Still, it’s easy to explore thanks to an efficient public transport network of trains and buses. Or you could always explore by boat using the canals of the city, old relics of the industrial revolution.
Victoria Square is the focal point of the city and many of the major attractions are within walking distance of here. Discover Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, scour The Mailbox in search of fancy clothes and admire the 18th-century architecture of the Cathedral of Birmingham.
Discover the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum and learn all about the impact of the industrial revolution on the city and further afield. For younger visitors there are interactive activities like a giant hamster wheel and a cart with square wheels.
Go to the Jewellery Quarter, just west of the city centre, to buy original and authentic handmade jewellery. Want something a little more mainstream? At the Bullring Shopping Centre, just south of centre, you can find all the major label stores and independent boutiques.
The music scene in Birmingham comes alive in the summer months. Enjoy during the Birmingham Jazz Festival free concerts, head to Symphony Hall for top orchestras and world-renowned musicians, with hundreds of events held every year.
Take time to explore the approximately 3237 acres of public parks, hit the golf courses and try your hand(s) at rowing the ponds in Sutton Park, or step in the footsteps of JRR Tolkien in Sarehole Mill. All these locations are just a short train ride from the city centre.
Birmingham is a food-lover’s heaven, with African, Caribbean, Chinese and Indian cuisine on offer everywhere. In the south of the city you will find the Curry Mile, which takes its name from the many Indian restaurants - something you should not miss. Then for desert visit a chocolate tastings kick in Cadbury World – what a way to end the day.
