Get to the heart of England – geographically and culturally – in this cool city where canals and heritage buildings are the backdrop for museums, shopping districts and year-round festivals.
Birmingham is one of the UK’s biggest cities with big-name attractions to match. For one, it has Cadbury World, which draws tourists from around the world who are keen to see how the famous chocolate is made (and to taste samples of course).
Visit Birmingham for more sweet treats during one of its festivals. Summer months ring with the music of events including the Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival. In winter, Bonfire Night fireworks kick off dazzling seasonal celebrations and the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market brings the best of German traditions. No matter when you visit Birmingham, prepare for itineraries of gallery-hopping and shopping.
Things to do in Birmingham
A great way to start exploring Birmingham is to hop on a narrowboat tour to navigate the city’s historical canals. Many depart near Brindleyplace, a canalside recreation area that’s ideal for dining with views. Within walking distance is Arena Birmingham, where you’ll find a year-round schedule of concerts and sporting events.
At the heart of the city is Victoria Square with the grand Birmingham Town Hall that opened in 1834. On Cathedral Square, admire St Philip’s Cathedral and its stunning stained-glass windows. History and nature combine at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, which first opened in 1832. Among around 7,000 plants, see Victorian Glasshouses and the Alpine Gardens.
Set aside the better part of a day to visit Cadbury World, where you’ll make your own chocolate treats and enjoy the Cadabra ride. There’s plenty more to do to ensure the kids are smiling, such as playing with thousands of LEGO bricks at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham. Meander around the colourful flower beds and enjoy the putting greens at Cannon Hill Park, and don’t miss a ride on the lake in a Swan Pedal Boat.
Art and culture in Birmingham
It’s easy to fill your itinerary with trips to galleries and museums. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is home to ancient artifacts and historical collections including Victorian art. For a unique experience, visit the Coffin Works to see historical tools of the coffin furniture trade. Science fans of all ages love the Planetarium and dinosaur exhibits at Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum.
Picture yourself living in the Jacobean style Aston Hall, built between 1618 and 1635. It’s said that its more than 30 rooms are haunted. Though it’s an easy day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon to see Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Blakesley Hall offers a glimpse of Tudor times just outside the city centre. At Selly Manor Museum, two buildings highlighting the dress and cooking styles of the Tudors.
The acclaimed Ikon Gallery presents exhibitions of top visual artists in a Victorian building that was once a boarding school. Here, take a ride in Turner Prize-winner Martin Creed’s singing lift. At the Pen Museum, write with a quill and ink, and analyse your handwriting with graphology. The museum is located in the iconic Birmingham Jewellery Quarter for spectacular shopping.
Dining and nightlife in Birmingham
From prestigious Colmore Row to the Jewellery Quarter and trendy Westside along the canals, you’re spoilt for choice with dining districts to choose from. Follow your nose to curries in the Balti Triangle and find decadent afternoon teas at many of the city’s top hotels. Visit the Bull Ring Indoor Market for fish, fruits and vegetables. It’s just a short walk from Digbeth, a cool and creative neighbourhood with weekend street food markets and buzzing bars.
Book tickets to see the Birmingham Royal Ballet at Birmingham Hippodrome or at Symphony Hall for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Commonly called The Rep, the Birmingham Repertory Theatre entertains with dramas and musicals across three stages. With canalside bars, comedy clubs, cinemas and pubs, Broad Street offers large doses of everything fun after dark.
Getting around Birmingham
Birmingham Airport is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, connected by rail and buses. Once in town, the excellent network of buses, trams and trains helps you get around with ease, along with taxis and ride share options. Many fantastic hotels are located within walking distance of attractions and restaurants. One of the best ways to explore Birmingham is via cycling routes along canals and lush parks.
