birmingham england tourism

14 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Birmingham, UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited England in the spring of 2022 exploring The Midlands, including the city of Birmingham.

Birmingham is Britain's second largest city , and its location in the West Midlands makes it a great place to begin exploring popular tourist spots such as the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills areas. It's especially fun to embark on tours by canal boat : Birmingham's canals were a byproduct of the Industrial Revolution, and today this extensive canal network is used mostly for pleasure boating.

The city has a larger canal system than Venice. Little wonder then that one of the top free things to do in Birmingham is exploring the preserved canals and historic buildings of the iconic Gas Street Basin .

These days, the city is best known for its jewelry and food stuffs, as well as its numerous cultural activities and festivals, and, most recently, for having hosted the 2022 Commonwealth Games. A popular annual event here is the world's largest St. Patrick's Day Parade .

To ensure you can cram as much as possible into your itinerary, be sure to refer to our list of the top attractions and things to in Birmingham, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Birmingham

1. Explore Victoria Square & the City Center

2. see the birmingham back to backs, 3. visit the roundhouse & gas street basin, 4. take a tour of birmingham museum & art gallery, 5. see the blooms at birmingham botanical gardens, 6. get smart at thinktank, birmingham science museum, 7. take the family to the national sea life centre birmingham, 8. wander the jewellery quarter, 9. enjoy a concert at st. philip's cathedral, 10. barber institute of fine arts, 11. take a fun trip to the nec & resorts world birmingham, 12. see the cute creatures at birmingham wildlife conservation park, 13. satisfy your sweet tooth at cadbury world, bournville, 14. step back in time at black country living museum, dudley, where to stay in birmingham for sightseeing, birmingham, united kingdom - climate chart.

The heart of Birmingham revolves around the pedestrian-friendly Victoria Square, an area that can be explored via the Birmingham City Centre Path. Along the way, you'll discover the attractive old Town Hall , built in 1832 and a masterpiece of Victorian architecture. Resembling a Roman temple, this impressive structure features 40 ornate Corinthian columns made of Anglesey marble.

It's been the center of the city's music scene since hosting the first performance of Mendelssohn's Elijah in 1847. Nowadays, its impressive Symphony Hall, with its world-class acoustics and stunning auditorium, regularly features A-list singers and performers and is also home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Adorning the forecourt are two memorials, one to Queen Victoria and another to inventor James Watt. The Renaissance-style Council House , built in 1874, with its famous "Big Brum" clock (a slang phrase for Birmingham) is close by.

Other old-city sites to visit include pedestrian-only Chamberlain Square and the Central Library. The library is home to the largest Shakespeare collection outside the United States, boasting 50,000 volumes in 90 languages.

Well worth visiting and within easy walking distance of the city center, the Birmingham Back to Backs attraction is a unique collection of the small back-to-back homes once so prolific throughout the city. Built around a central courtyard — in this case, Court 15 — in the mid-19th century, these homes offer a unique insight into the often difficult conditions in which the working classes lived.

Interesting displays also provide an insight into these workers' important contribution to city life. Other highlights include a traditional 1930s sweet shop, along with a souvenir shop, or participating in one of the fun workshops held here regularly.

For a first-rate tourist experience, consider booking one of the attraction's two cottages for an overnight stay. Admission is by guided tour only.

Address: 50-54 Inge Street, Birmingham

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/birmingham-back-to-backs/

Birmingham is justifiably proud of its industrial heritage. Nowhere is this more evident than along its extensive canal network. Highlights of this remarkably well-preserved canal system include the Roundhouse.

Built in 1874 and originally used as a storehouse and stables, this horseshoe-shaped building today makes for a perfect base from which to explore the canals, whether on foot or from one of the fun guided kayak and bike sightseeing tours available. A small museum on-site shows the development and later preservation of the building.

After a pleasant waterside stroll along Canalside Walk , you'll find yourself in Gas Street Basin. Constructed as an inland port for horse-drawn barges hauling cargo, this wide basin's surrounding old warehouses have been carefully restored and now house everything from restaurants to cafés and boutique shops.

Address: 1 Sheepcote Street, Birmingham

Official site: https://roundhousebirmingham.org.uk

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, opened in 1885, is considered one of the finest such museums outside of London. Its art treasures include a collection of works by Pre-Raphaelite painters, as well as artwork from the 17th to 19th centuries and sculptures by Rodin and James Tower.

There are also interesting displays related to the city's history, including archaeological finds dating back to the Stone Age, along with the impressive Pinto Collection with its 6,000-plus toys and other items made of wood. A gift shop is located on-site, and if you're interested in a great high tea experience, the exquisite Edwardian Tearooms is worth a visit.

If there's time in your schedule, pay a visit to The Ikon Gallery , a contemporary art museum located in a heritage building that's worth exploring.

Address: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag

Another great tourist attraction that should be included on your West Midlands travel itinerary is The Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Spread across 15 acres in the affluent suburbs of Edgbaston, these 19th-century gardens are easy to get to from the city center and home to countless species. A visit is very much like stepping back in time, thanks to the perfectly preserved Victorian-era glasshouses and other period park features.

It's particularly well known for its collection of bonsai trees, including one that's over 250 years old. In addition to the more than 7,000 plants from across the globe, you'll also enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife, including rare tropical birds and a butterfly house. Other on-site amenities include a gift shop, a tearoom, plus playgrounds for the kids.

Address: Westbourne Road, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Families traveling with budding young scientists won't want to miss Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum. This award-winning museum includes a large number of fascinating science-related exhibits, many of them hands-on and interactive.

Highlights include an impressive collection of steam-powered machines, from locomotives to tractors, as well as industrial machinery, many related to Birmingham's important role as an industrial center through the centuries. Other fun displays include a chocolate packaging machine and the Spitfire Gallery, with its authentic WWII-era aircraft (including one of 10,000 Spitfires made locally).

Be sure to also visit the Science Garden, with its human-sized hamster wheel and kids' adventure playground. The Thinktank Planetarium, with its fascinating tours of the stars and planets, is another great way to keep the whole family entertained.

Address: Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank

One of Birmingham's most-visited tourist attractions, the National SEA LIFE Centre is home to an impressive 60-plus exhibits related to marine life. Pride of place goes to the aquarium's massive million-liter ocean tank, with its unique underwater tunnel, which allows visitors an uninterrupted view of the diverse sea life on display, including everything from reef sharks to giant turtles.

All told, some 2,000 critters call the aquarium home, including numerous rare seahorses, giant octopi, lobsters, crabs, and stingrays. The attraction's big stars, though, are its playful otters (look out for Mango and Starsky), along with its penguins.

Housed in the impressive Penguin Ice Adventure habitat, these fascinating creatures are fun to watch as they frolic. A 4-D cinema is also on site and offers regular educational programming. If time and budget permit, book one of the fun behind-the-scenes or penguin-feeding experiences.

To make a full family day out of it, pop across the canal to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre . In addition to plenty of hands-on building brick experiences to enjoy, there's a fun 3-D cinema, an indoor playground, along with a café and a LEGO shop.

Address: The Water's Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham

Official site: www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/

The Jewellery Quarter is an area of Birmingham that is steeped in tradition. Here, more than 200 jewelers' workshops and silversmiths produce 40 percent of Britain's jewelry, chiefly in the vicinity of the Clock Tower on the corner of Vyse and Frederick Streets and around the Georgian church of St. Paul's.

Be sure to visit the area's top sightseeing spot, the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter , which offers an insider's look at the trade in the fascinating Smith & Pepper Factory. Also worth checking out is the nearby Hall of Memory opposite Baskerville House, erected in 1925 to commemorate the 14,000 city men who lost their lives in WWI, and St. Paul's Square with its attractive church.

If time permits, be sure to pop over to the Pen Museum . Situated in the Jewellery Quarter's old pen factory, this first-rate museum showcases the city's former role as a hotbed of pen making along with the history of writing instruments. A special treat is having the opportunity to make your own steel nib using the same machinery and techniques used in the 19th century. Also fun is the reproduction Victorian schoolroom, where guests can practice their penmanship using traditional quills.

Address: Vyse Street, Hockley, Birmingham

Official site: www.jewelleryquarter.net

Built in 1715, St. Philip's Cathedral, the third smallest in England, began life as a parish church and was elevated to its present status in 1905. The cathedral was gutted during a bombing raid in 1940, but foresight saw its famous stained-glass windows by Burne-Jones (1884) removed a few weeks prior.

Returned to their rightful place when the cathedral was rebuilt in 1948, these significant treasures are now a highlight of any trip to Birmingham. Be sure to check the cathedral's website prior to your visit for details of talks, seminars, exhibits, and concerts.

Another religious structure worth visiting is St. Martin's Church . Dating from the 13th century, it also features windows by Burne-Jones.

Address: Colmore Row, Birmingham

Official site: www.birminghamcathedral.com

Located close to Birmingham University, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts houses an excellent collection of art from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Highlights include masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Bellini, Tintoretto, Rubens, Rembrandt, Watteau, Manet, Monet, Gainsborough, Constable, and Degas.

The building itself should also be explored, especially for its excellent statue of George I. If time permits be sure to check out the institute's schedule of classical lunchtime and evening concerts. Guided tours are available, and a shop and café are located on-site.

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham

Official site: http://barber.org.uk/

A visit to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and Resorts World Birmingham makes for a fun day out. They are located a 25-minute train ride east of Birmingham, near the city's airport. Opened in 1976 and one of the country's largest and most important exhibition centers, the NEC regularly hosts musical concerts and a wide variety of consumer shows.

The real fun, though, takes place next door at Resorts World Birmingham . Opened in 2015, this large entertainment complex offers plenty of fun things to do for all ages. Designed to resemble a cruise ship, the attraction's seven-story-tall centerpiece is home to numerous restaurants, shops, a spa, and a hotel. If you've time, book a sumptuous afternoon tea in the ritzy Sky By The Water restaurant, so named for its great views over the complex grounds and its large lake.

A must-visit for families, the new Bear Grylls Adventure offers plenty of exciting experiences. Located between the NEC and Resorts World Birmingham, this thrilling indoor/outdoor attraction features everything from an assault-style climbing course to high ropes, axe throwing, archery, and even a shark dive, to name but a few.

Address: Pendigo Way, Marston Green, Birmingham

Official site: www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk

A fun creature-focused attraction that's well worth seeing for those traveling with kids is the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park . This city-run attraction on the edge of Cannon Hill Park is a small zoo that's home to a variety of animals including red pandas, lemurs, and meerkats.

Established in 1964, the zoo has also become important for its research and breeding programs. A variety of fun experiences are available for kids, including some that allow unique hands-on experiences based around the care and upkeep of a variety of the gentler species.

At the very least, be sure to check the zoo's website for details of feeding times, when you can often see these cute creatures at their liveliest.

Address: Pershore Road, Birmingham

Official site: www.birmingham.gov.uk/conservationpark

Located in Cadbury's Bournville manufacturing site, just a short drive from Birmingham, Cadbury World is one of the area's largest and most popular attractions. It welcomes more than 500,000 visitors each year. With a focus on fun, visitors get to discover the history of chocolate, as well as the manufacturing process through a number of excellent themed interactive exhibits.

Along the way, guests learn the story of the Cadbury business, one of the world's largest confectioneries, as well as having a chance to enjoy theme-park-like attractions suitable for families. A highlight is exploring the Bull Street attraction with its replica shops reminiscent of the 1820s.

Be sure to also try your hand at making your own confectionary, as well as getting in some shopping in the world's largest Cadbury's sweet shop. Afterwards, be sure to spend a little time exploring the picture-perfect village of Bournville itself, built by the Cadbury family after 1860 specifically to house their large workforce.

Address: Linden Road, Bournville

Official site: www.cadburyworld.co.uk/

In the town of Dudley, just nine miles west of Birmingham, The Black Country Living Museum occupies a 26-acre site and offers visitors a vivid insight into the history of mining (hence the "black"). An old mine shaft and reconstructed turn-of-the-century industrial community consisting of 50 authentic buildings, many of them dismantled and rebuilt on the property, can be explored.

It's also fun to wander around the neighboring network of canals, a part of the adventure that takes place in an authentic narrow boat once used to transport coal.

Other highlights of this fascinating open-air museum include the chance to interact with costumed guides well-versed in the histories of the local people. There are also plenty of unique shopping opportunities, vintage trams, buses, and commercial vehicles, as well as a traditional English fun fair from the 19th century.

Located between Birmingham and Coventry, Sarehole Mill Museum is an old water mill that dates back to the mid 1500s. Located on the River Cole in Hall Green, it's fun diversion if you're able to get here, and contains fascinating exhibits on its history, as well as one that deals with J.R.R. Tolkien, who as a child lived only a few hundred yards away.

Address: Tipton Road, Dudley

Official site: www.bclm.co.uk

If you're looking to spend a few days sightseeing in Birmingham, we recommend these centrally located hotels in Birmingham located close to popular museums and tourist attractions such as the National Sea Life Centre:

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxurious Hyatt Regency Birmingham is a high-rise hotel in the city center that's well worth staying at, featuring excellent city views, contemporary décor, spa facilities, an indoor swimming pool, and whirlpool.
• Another good luxury option is the Genting Hotel , a four-star property that offers a mix of rooms and suites, a restaurant with great views over the city, and a spa.
• The Edgbaston should also be on your list and is a delightful boutique hotel featuring elegant en-suite bedrooms, a great restaurant, and a posh afternoon tea.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The wonderfully named Staying Cool at Rotunda is a great centrally located mid-range-priced hotel offering a sleek design, serviced apartments, floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable beds, and incredible city views. Fresh fruit for juicing is a nice added touch.
• Hipsters and those who enjoy attractive old buildings should look into the Frederick Street Townhouse located in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, with cozy rooms, great beds, and old-style bathtubs.
• For a truly unique experience, book into the new Boatel Birmingham , featuring accommodations for up to eight guests in three rooms aboard a classic canal barge.

Budget Hotels :

• The Staybridge Suites Birmingham is a great choice for those seeking a cheap Birmingham hotel and features affordable suites with kitchenettes, a free breakfast, and fitness center.
• So, too, is the Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre , with its budget-friendly rates, central location, wonderful staff, and great breakfast.
• Be sure to also look for hotel deals at the Hilux Birmingham , an apartment-style hotel within walking distance of top attractions that offers quality bedding and clean accommodations.

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Easy Day Trips : The city of Manchester makes for a fun day trip from Birmingham, with its museums and revitalized city center being easy to get to by car or train. Lovely Liverpool is about the same distance (and as easy to get to), and is popular for its many Beatles-related things to do. Although a little further afield, Bristol can also be enjoyed in a day, with a stop at the beautiful Cheddar Gorge being a must-do along the way.

Great Weekend Getaways : The charming city of Chester makes for a great weekend getaway when in England, and is famous for its historic city walls and medieval architecture. Another historic cathedral city worth staying at is Durham , which also features a well-preserved castle and numerous cobbled streets. The northern city of Hull is not without its charms, too, including its museum quarter and excellent maritime museum.

England Travel Ideas : Be sure to set vacation time aside for a visit to England's capital, the city of London , a popular place to visit for its ancient castle (the Tower of London) and Buckingham Palace. The English Lake District makes for another great place to stay, famous for lovely Lake Windermere and its endless water sports and hiking opportunities. The lovely city of Winchester is another great option, especially as it's located close to the country's top tourist attraction, Stonehenge.

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Britain’s second largest city, Birmingham is an industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart. There’s a whole host of quirky adventures waiting to be discovered – from cultural festivals to unique street art tours. Find a funky scene at the Custard Factory, home to up-and-coming designers, artists and independent cafes and bars. Or satisfy your fashion fever at the Bullring, Mailbox Malls and the achingly cool Grand Central complex.

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A 200-year-old stylish part of the city that’s home to more than 500 jewellery shops, lots of small galleries, bars and swish restaurants. It also houses some decent budget and mid-budget gems - all very close to the city centre.

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Getting to Birmingham

Located just outside of the city, Birmingham International Airport receives flights daily from European and international destinations. Hop on a West Midlands Train direct to the city centre.

With two major stations – Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International – it’s easy to reach the city by train from destinations across Britain. The fast train from London Euston to Birmingham New street takes 1 hour 15 minutes. Chiltern Railways serve Birmingham Moor Street station from London Marylebone.

Getting around

An extensive bus, tram and train network means it’s easy to travel around Birmingham 24/7. If you’re a keen cyclist, there’s many traffic free bicycle routes – Birmingham’s beautiful when explored by bike.

Find the best fares and discounts for train travel around Birmingham and the region at West Midlands Railway .

Fancy sightseeing as a cyclist? Check out the city’s best cycling routes and all the bike hire options at PushBikes .

Want to travel by tram or bus? Visit Swift and discover the easiest way to pay as you go for single, return and day travel tickets.

Want to know more?

Get top tips on places to visit and things to do from those in the know at Visit Birmingham.

Places to visit in Birmingham

Find the best things to do in Birmingham throughout the year with our guide to England’s second biggest city. Packed to the brim with museums, mega arenas and fashionable shops, the city is ideal for a romantic weekend break or a getaway with the kids. Take a boat trips on the canals, treat yourself to the finest Michelin-starred restaurants that the city can offer. Visit the world-famous Cadbury's World and indulge your sweet tooth, then head to the city centre for a shopping session at the Bullring.

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Top things to do on a city break in Birmingham

From panoramic hotel views to pinball-themed bars, find the best places to visit in England’s second-largest city.

Visit Europe's largest library

The Library of Birmingham houses a million printed volumes, the largest number held by any public library in the UK.

Location: Birmingham, West Midlands

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Uncover hidden treasures in the historic Jewellery Quarter

Explore this creative industrial hub in Birmingham and admire Georgian and Victorian architecture.

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15 of the best things to do in Birmingham

Discover the best things to see and do on a break in birmingham, from world-class sporting events to chocolate factory tours and more.

B irmingham: it’s either undiscovered or underrated. This former industrial powerhouse in the West Midlands is one of Britain’s most culturally influential hubs and with the 2022 Commonwealth Games shining a light on the city it’s only going to become stronger. From Gas Street Basin to Bournville and back, Birmingham has recreational canals, unrivalled chocolate, Lord of the Rings landscapes, world-class sporting venues, more green space than any other European city and a dish that’s been done the world over, but never better than here.

Overlooked region? Not any more. Accent jokes? Not here, bab. Welcome to Birmingham, the UK’s proud second city. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

Main photo: Birmingham Canal Old Line and the Library of Birmingham (Alamy)

1. Kayak the canals

Speak to any Brummie and they’ll gush about Birmingham having more miles of canal than Venice, so why not kayak its once-bustling industrial canals? Thanks to a partnership between the National Trust and the Canal & River Trust, one of the city’s most well-known buildings has been brought back to life as a discovery centre for locals and visitors, and as a starting point for tours by foot, bike and on water. Two regular kayak tours depart from the Roundhouse; take in the city centre’s most prominent sights including Gas Street Basin, or opt for a tranquil wildlife tour on the outskirts.

2. Visit Birmingham’s museums

There’s no time like the present to visit Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. Following a two-year closure the world-renowned museum and gallery is back open with a local twist: the reigns have been handed over to local creatives. Here you’ll find exhibitions with Birmingham and the wider region at its heart, with other top museums in the city including the brand new West Midlands Police Museum, opened off the back of Peaky Blinders ’ success, and Brum’s long standing interactive science museum, Thinktank.

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3. Explore Birmingham’s favourite park

With an arts centre, café, cinema, swan boating lake, mini golf, grade II listed bandstand, and an adjoining nature centre home to adorable wallabies and red pandas, it’s no surprise that Cannon Hill Park is Brum’s most popular green space. A couple of miles outside Birmingham city centre and a short walk away from Edgbaston cricket ground, this family-friendly park is a Brummie staple and well worth a day out.

4. Jog around the sights

Juggling a career as cabin crew and an enthusiasm for fitness isn’t easy. Run of a Kind founder Lucy Canham’s quest for keeping fit on her travels has seen her jogging around the likes of Las Vegas, Cape Town and Shanghai. Having always wondered why there was nothing similar back home, Canham decided to set up running tours of her beloved Brum; think local street art, chocolate and leafy routes, all of which are fairly priced and suitable for all abilities.

5. Join a quirky walking tour

Most cities have walking tours, but few can rival those in Birmingham. On Kevin Thomas’s Heritage Walking Tours you’ll learn about the history of the city and the people that made it, and delve into Birmingham’s oddball (and often gruesome) quirks such as its letterboxes, lost pubs, hidden catacombs and even its plague pits. Yes, really. Sure, you could plod around on a generic tour of the major city sights but why do that when you could tag along with a character like Kevin?

6. Go back in time at Aston Hall… if you dare

This 17th-century Jacobean mansion house on the city’s edge is one of the West Midlands’ finest — and most haunted — buildings. Built for local landowner Sir Thomas Holte, Aston Hall was constructed between 1618 and 1635 and would later house the son of famous engineer James Watt. Several spooky spirits are supposedly spotted at Aston Hall, making it one of the UK’s most haunted historic sites. Daily tours are available, but visit at Halloween for a fright.

7. Go for a Brummie balti

It would be sacrilege to visit Birmingham and not enjoy its most famous dish: the balti. The dish is only authentic if it’s cooked and served up sizzling hot using the same steel pan throughout. Thankfully, many balti houses in the city keep up this practice; head to Shababs or Shahi Nan Kebab House in the Balti Triangle, or Royal Watan in Selly Park.

8. Soak up England’s best cricket atmosphere

No sporting fan should visit Birmingham without soaking in the unbeatable atmosphere in the Eric Hollies Stand at Edgbaston. Dubbed “The Fortress”, 25,000-capacity Edgbaston Stadium has played host to many a memorable England victory but is predominantly the home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and T20 team the Birmingham Bears, whose regular matches attract fans in their thousands. Don’t forget to join the conga.

9. Experience 1800s Brum

Step back into the 19th century at this unassuming local history bolt hole. Located on Hurst Street in the city centre, the Birmingham Back to Backs is the city’s last remaining example of back-to-back houses: a series of terraced, multi-storied houses centred around a communal courtyard for its residents to enjoy. On your visit, a local tour guide will help you retrace the footsteps of those who endured cramped conditions in these small houses — original artefacts are still in place — from the mid-19th century until as recent as the 1970s. Don’t miss the second-hand bookshop as you leave.

10. Gorge on chocolate at Bournville

A lot can be said for a stereotypical chocolate box village, but Bournville really is one — in every sense of the word. Built for the workers of the Cadbury factory in 1895, Bournville Village is a picture-perfect suburb home to quaint shops, a tranquil park and, of course, the factory itself. Tours of Cadbury World include chocolate samples and a walk through some of the chocolatier’s most famous television adverts, gorilla included.

11. Go wild in Sutton Coldfield

Proudly one of Europe’s largest urban parks, Sutton Park sprawls over 2,400 acres of woodland, wetland and rare lowland heathland. It’s officially designated as both a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest and houses wildlife rare to the region, such as muntjac deer and wild ponies. Several waymarked walking trails take you around its lakes and ponds — and a handful of pubs and restaurants also make Sutton Park worth going out of your way for.

12. Go even wilder with Bear Grylls

Bear Grylls is renowned for his outdoor survival practices, and thanks to his adventure centre in Birmingham you too can now learn the ins and outs. Unleash your competitive side in the survival-themed escape rooms; release your inner child on the outdoor high ropes or beat your fears by snorkelling with sharks — yes, in Birmingham. The choice is yours, but remember, in the words of Bear himself: “If you risk nothing, you gain nothing.”

13. Trace Tolkien’s footsteps

Few outside of Brum knowJRR Tolkien grew up in these parts, but even fewer know that the characters and locations of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were inspired there. Living in the then-Worcestershire hamlet of Sarehole between the ages of four and eight, a young Tolkien would play in the land surrounding the mill and roam the expansive forest-like wetland of Moseley Bog, the latter being the inspiration for The Shire region of Tolkien’s fictional Middle-earth. Tours of Sarehole Mill and LOTR-themed walking tours run regularly.

14. Sample the West Midlands’ best street food

Birmingham may have five Michelin stars but it’s the street food that’s enjoyed a revolution over the last decade, with Digbeth Dining Club firmly at the forefront. Having left Digbeth to branch out across the city, DDC now has two permanent street food hubs in Herbert’s Yard (Longbridge) and Hockley Social Club (Jewellery Quarter). Each week, resident and guest vendors sling everything from fried chicken to bao buns, and loaded dogs to handmade cheesecakes into starving mouths. Not literally.

15. Search for gold in the Jewellery Quarter

Whether you’re after a gold ring or a pint of golden ale, the Jewellery Quarter has it all. Housing Europe’s largest concentration of jewellers, this relatively small district produces 40 per cent of the UK’s jewellery and is your one stop shop for that wedding ring or anniversary present. All shopped out? It’s also home to a fairly large concentration of bars, pubs and restaurants. Handy, that.

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10 reasons to visit Birmingham, Britain's second city

Feb 7, 2019 • 5 min read

Grand Central shopping and transport hub is a suitably impressive welcome to Birmingham © James March / Lonely Planet

Birmingham has never been a city to show off, despite its fascinating history, unique architecture and arguably the finest gastronomy in the UK outside of London. With a new high-speed rail connection and the Commonwealth Games on the horizon, its modesty is being put to the test as Britain’s second city becomes a place that gets better and better. Here are 10 reasons to visit it now.

Grand Central

Birmingham is constantly evolving, and perhaps no experience exemplifies that more than standing on the upper floor of Grand Central looking out into the vast atrium of New Street Station as the world rushes on below. What was a tired, grim train station has gone through a remarkable £600 million facelift over five years to become a major transport and shopping hub with over 60 outlets in a grandiose space that is bathed in natural light from above. As distinctive from the outside as it is inside, it’s the place that many people first see when they arrive in the city and acts as a great introduction to Birmingham.

Jewellery Quarter Museum

Birmingham was known as ‘the city of a thousand trades’ during the Industrial Revolution, and its Jewellery Quarter was a prominent manufacturing hub. The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is a wonderful time capsule, an immaculately preserved workshop that is a visceral manifestation of what life was like for the employees who toiled away for years in gruelling conditions so their creations could be sold around the world. Its remarkable story and live demonstrations make it a special place to learn about how Birmingham came to be the city it is today.

St Paul’s Square

Also in the Jewellery Quarter, just a short walk from the bustle of the city centre, this secluded Georgian square provides one of Birmingham’s most elegant settings. It’s surrounded on all four sides by tree-lined streets featuring wine bars, cafes and gin parlours, and has the handsome St Paul’s Church residing in the centre. The rolling lawns become a hive of gentle activity in the summer months.

Digbeth Dining Club

Birmingham boasts four Michelin Star restaurants, but really its gastronomic epicentre is the Digbeth Dining Club , an award-winning street food event that has been running regularly since 2012. It takes place every weekend underneath the stately Victorian railway arches of Lower Trinity Street in Digbeth, a cultural hotspot just south of the city centre. Birmingham’s independent food scene is something locals have become fiercely proud of, and here dozens of stalls showcase some of the most creative dishes the region has to offer amid a busy, hedonistic atmosphere soundtracked by live bands and DJs.

Aston Hall is a beautiful curiosity; a 400-year-old Jacobean mansion with exquisitely manicured gardens located in a gritty inner-city suburb. Built originally as a status symbol for the enigmatic Sir Thomas Holte, it has welcomed the likes of Charles I and Queen Victoria as guests and was attacked during the English Civil War. It still bears cannonball-shaped scars on the main staircase. A museum since 1858, visitors today can enjoy strolling through the ornate rooms and majestic Long Gallery.

The Electric Cinema

Historic charm is on display everywhere at The Electric , the UK’s oldest working cinema. Dating from 1909 and just a few steps from New Street Station, its charming Art Deco exterior is unmissable. The two auditoriums contain luxury sofas, have waiter service and are fully licensed. Christmas is a particular delight, with classic festive films and special theme nights accompanied by seasonal food and drink. There are plenty of cinemas in Birmingham, but there are none as iconic or alluring as this one.

The Balti Triangle

Birmingham’s food scene has broadened immeasurably in recent years with a staggering amount of choice available now to consumers, but there’s still one dish synonymous with the city: the balti. A type of curry cooked quickly with the freshest ingredients over a searing hot flame, it was developed by the local Pakistani community over forty years ago, and it’s only right that it should be eaten in its spiritual home to be truly appreciated. That home is the Balti Triangle, a frantic and friendly neighbourhood of shops and restaurants two miles south of the city, where Adil's was a pioneer of the scene, and is still a good option out of the many in the area.

Cannon Hill Park

Of the many green spaces in Birmingham (more than any other equivalent-sized European city), Cannon Hill Park is perhaps the most compelling, thanks to its lush setting and wide variety of things to do. Only two miles from the city centre, the park is home to an arts centre, a wildlife conservation park, tennis courts, crazy golf, a boating lake and much more. Throughout the summer, there are open-air cinema screenings as well as theatrical and musical performances in its quaint amphitheatre. Once the outdoor fun is over, the colourful bars and cafes of bohemian Moseley are only a short walk away.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts is a small but hugely rewarding gallery housed in a splendid Art Deco building in the serene grounds of the University of Birmingham. Just a short train ride from the hum of the city, it boasts an impressive collection of work for its humble size, including pieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Turner and Canaletto. It’s free to enter, and only a ten-minute walk from University train station.

The Secret Garden – Library of Birmingham

Time matters little in the Secret Garden, a tranquil outdoor haven located on the seventh floor of the distinctive Library of Birmingham . Opened to great fanfare in 2013 to replace its now-demolished and unloved predecessor, the library has myriad reasons to visit, but the Secret Garden is perhaps the finest. This quiet green spot is a great place to bring a book on a warm day, high above the din and commotion of the city below. It also offers great views of Birmingham, a metropolis in flux, with a skyline that seemingly shoots new branches every passing year.

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48-Hour Itinerary

48 Hours in Birmingham, England: The Ultimate Itinerary

The West Midlands destination of Birmingham is often known as England's second city. Located north of London, the city is known for its industrial history and thriving food and drink scene. It has several great museums, lots of shopping and a Premier League football team, which means there's a lot to experience when visiting. If you only have a few days to explore the best of Birmingham, it's important to hit the highlights, including the historic Jewellery Quarter and the beloved Cadbury chocolate factory . To make the most of a few days in the city, here is a complete 48-hour itinerary featuring Birminghams's best museums, shopping, pubs and restaurants.

Day 1: Morning

Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Birmingham

9 a.m. You can arrive to Birmingham via plane or train, with most travelers heading into the city via London. Drop off your bags at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham and get settled before starting your weekend, opting for public transport from the airport or from one of the city's train stations. This centrally-located hotel overlooks Birmingham's picturesque canals and has a fitness center, restaurant and spa, although you may be too busy exploring the local area to want to stay in. Opt for a room with a canal view to take full advantage of the location.

10 a.m. Grab a coffee at the nearby Floating Coffee Company , found inside a canal boat, before walking over to Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery . The museum, known as one of Birmingham's best, features extensive displays of both British and international art, as well as historical objects and sculptures. It can take a while to fully explore, so give yourself at least two hours to see every room. When you're done, pop in to The Library of Birmingham , a contemporary public library that is worth a visit for its architecture alone.

12:30 p.m. Book a table for lunch at Dishoom , one of England's most popular Indian restaurants. It has outposts in several cities, including London and Manchester, and the Birmingham location is a quick stroll around the corner from the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery . Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, although you can always chance it last minute.

Day 1: Afternoon

2 p.m. After lunch, head to the Jewellery Quarter , a historic area just outside central Birmingham. There you'll discover several museums, including Museum of the Jewellery Quarter , Newman Brothers Coffin Works and The Pen Museum . The area also has tons of art galleries and boutique shops. Look for the music-driven St. Pauls Gallery and Artfull Expression , a boutique that sells jewelry from over 60 local designers. There are, of course, plenty of traditional jewelry stores to peruse, as well.

4 p.m. Keep the shopping spree going at the Bullring , a retail hub in the center of town. It hosts brands like Michael Kors, Whistles, Zara and Kurt Geiger, as well as beloved British department store Selfridges. Next door, the Bullring Open Market sells fruit, vegetables and other food six days a week, while the Bullring Rag Market is filled with vendors selling clothes and homeware. If you need a pick me up, pop by the Gran Cafe Selfridges for a coffee or a sweet treat. Afterwards, head back to the hotel to get ready for your first night out in Birmingham.

Day 1: Evening

Isaac's Restaurant Birmingham

6 p.m. Start the evening off right with a cocktail (or two) at The Botanist , a hip spot with upscale drinks and a well-designed atmosphere. The bar, which also serves food, has an expansive cocktail and drinks menu with something for everyone. While England is known for its classic pints of beer, the country also enjoys a well-made cocktail, making it a must-do on your itinerary.

7:30 p.m. For dinner, score a table at Isaac's , a New York-inspired brasserie that offers lunch and dinner, as well as bar snacks. The menu will suit any eater, with upscale dishes like a massive seafood platter included alongside more casual fare like roast chicken. The restaurant has plenty of vegetarian options for those who don't eat meat. Be sure to order one of the local draft beers, like Attic Intuition, to go with your dinner, although there are also non-alcoholic drinks available for those who prefer it.

9:30 p.m. If you're not ready to call it a night following your meal, The Cuban Embassy is the place to go. Part restaurant, part bar and part live music venue, this venue is always bustling late through the night. The bar boasts over 120 rums from around the world, as well as Cuban-inspired cocktails. Live music is on six nights a week, with resident musicians playing Latin tunes at the downstairs bar during the week and the house band, Rhythms Del Toro, performing on Fridays and Saturdays.

Day 2: Morning

Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

10 a.m. Get in the swing of things with brunch at Gas Street Social , which is famous for its bottomless brunch. It includes unlimited bellinis, mimosas, Bloody Marys and beers, and the restaurant's menu caters to vegetarians and vegans. Gas Street Social's location is blessedly close to your hotel, which means you don't have to get up too early. Bottomless brunch kicks off at 10 a.m. on the weekends, but the restaurant also serves up an all-day menu.

11 a.m. After breakfast, hop on a train at Birmingham New Street station to Cadbury World , home of the famed Cadbury chocolate. It's a quick journey from the center of town, and once there visitors will get to tour the factory, learn about the process of making the sweets and even try your hand at creating your own. The attraction is tailored to families and kids, but adults will love the behind the scenes look. There's also a cafe and the world's largest Cadbury shop, which means souvenirs for all your friends back home. When you've had your fill, take a train back to central Birmingham.

Day 2: Afternoon

Chris Hepburn/Getty Images

2 p.m. After a classic pub lunch at The Bartons Arms , a historic Victorian pub, head to Aston Villa , home of Premier League soccer team Aston Villa F.C. If there's not a game on, sports fans can tour the stadium, which is one of England's most historic pitches. Visitors can see the locker rooms, dugouts and more, and even get exclusive photo opportunities. Tours, held on both weekends and weekdays, should be booked online in advance.

4 p.m. Finish your second afternoon in Birmingham off with a bang: on a walking tour of Birmingham. Look for one with Brum Tours , which offers Peaky Blinders-themed tours, as well as pub tours and historic treks. If you prefer to plan your own exploration of Birmingham's history, head to a few of the city's oldest pubs: The Old Crown , The Great Stone Inn and Lad In The Lane . Grab a pint or a snack at one (or all) of the locals before returning to the hotel to get ready for the evening.

Day 2: Evening

Allan Baxter/Getty Images

7:30 p.m. Book tickets for a show at the Birmingham Hippodrome . The venue hosts live music, comedy, theater and more, with an ever-evolving calendar of events. Other great Birmingham theaters include The Alexandra and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre , both of which are a good option for visitors looking for some live entertainment. Another favorite is Symphony Hall , home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra . Some of the theaters may have last minute tickets available, so try your luck at the box office if you didn't book in advance.

9:30 p.m. Grab a post-show bite to eat at Bacchus Bar , found in the center of town near most of the theaters. It has an eclectic feel and an expansive menu of food and drink. Closer to your hotel, The Canal House is a hip bar and restaurant that stays open until 11 p.m. on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends. It's a great place to toast a successful 48 hours in Birmingham.

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BIRMINGHAM, UK: ONE DAY ITINERARY & THINGS TO DO

WHY VISIT BIRMINGHAM, UK

I’ve visited Birmingham from London more than seven times already and lived there for a couple of weeks while I was renovating my Airbnb . When I asked in my Instagram stories I realised no one really visits Birmingham, but it’s quite an interesting city! Some of the things that make it special are that it’s actually the second largest city in the UK and also the youngest city with over 40% of the population being under 25 (fun! right?).

Also, Birmingham is home to more canal waterways than Venice and is home to the Bullring Shopping Centre which is one of the biggest shopping centres in Europe. If you ask me personally, I really like the industrial vibe of Birmingham, the mix of old and new architecture and the artsy vibe the neighbourhood of Digbeth breathes. On top of that, Birmingham boasts of fine arts, fine dining and greenery . It is the home for some of the most ground breaking music in the world (metal was born here!), Cadbury’s chocolate factory and the Peaky Blinders!

BIRMINGHAM BUCKET LIST: THINGS TO DO IN BIRMINGHAM UK

Take a walking tour.

Find out how Birmingham grew from a small market town to the second largest city in the country on this guided walking tour of the city center. Gain authentic insights into modern life in the city and explore some hidden gems along the way. Book it here , or below:

Explore the Bullring

Birmingham has been a marketplace since the 12th century, and this legacy has ownly grown with the years. The Bullring is the shopping area around the Grand Central station, and it includes various department stores as well as shopping arcades. The most iconic building featured is the Selfridges , which looks like a spaceship, but my favourite one is the Western Arcade for its splendid architecture and its independent stores. If you are looking for something fancy visit The Mailbox , a shopping centre for luxury brands.

Take a selfie with The Bull

The Bull is a 6 tonne sculpture by artist Laurence Broderick which symbolises the importance of the Bullring for Birmingham. Located in Rotunda Square, it’s undoubtedly the most photographed spot in the city. If you want to prove you’ve been in Birmingham you need a photo with it!

Explore the canal quarter and Brindleyplace

Birmingham’s vibrant canal quarter houses the city’s best bars, restaurants, and views and just makes for a lovely stroll! Within the canal quarter you’ll find the National Sealife Centre, the IKON Gallery, as well as Brindleyplace a beautiful square with restaurants, bars, shops and cafes.

Admire Victoria Square and discover the treasures of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Victoria Square is best described as the Trafalgar Square of Birmingham. At its edge you’ll find the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, home to the largest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world and occupying one of the city’s finest buildings. A must visit for art fans.

Look up at the frescoes of Picadilly Arcade

Located opposite New Street Station, this picturesque arcade offers beautiful architecture and an eclectic mix of independent stores. But what called my attention is its handpainted ceilings which are rather unusual. Don’t take my word for it, see it for yourself!

See Tolkien’s inspiration for ‘The Lord of the Rings’: the Moseley Boga

The Moseley Boga is a green idyl on the fringes of the city on the site of an old millpond.  JRR Tolkien, ‘The Lord of the Rings’ author grew up around Moseley Boga in the 1890s, and it’s said to be the inspiration for hobbit-hangout The Shire . Down the road in Edgbaston, a Victorian waterworks is said to have formed the basis for the evil Sauron’s towering lair. Wander around this nature reserve full of plants, animals and insects, gnarled old trees and gorgeous carpets of bluebells each spring. The site also has great archeological interest, having two burnt mounds, the remains such of an old mill dam and the foundations of Victorian greenhouses.

Admire the street art in Digbeth, Birmingham’s hip neighbourhood

Recently named the Coolest Neighbourhood in Britain by the Sunday Times, Digbeth less than ten minutes walk from Bullring & Grand Central. Head to the Custard Factory to hit one of its cafes, independent shops, cinemas and arts venues, and the district’s weekly food and drink festival, Digbeth Dining Club. Digbeth is also Birmingham’s street art hotspot which makes a walk around it double fun!

Eat & drink from one of Birmingham’s craft breweries

If you follow me, you know I’m a craft beer fan ! My proud discovery is Indian Brewery in Snowhill a craft brewery that created the Birmingham Lager. But the brewery is not the only thing good about this place, the food

Visit Birmingham’s oldest pub, The Old Crown

The Old Crown is Birmingham’s oldest secular building and has existed since 1368. Having stood the test of time during the English civil war the pub & events garden now stands proud in the heart of Digbeth, Birmingham’s thriving creative quarter. Fun fact: it has the coolest, most original bar snacks!

Feel like Charlie at the Chocolate Factory in Cadbury World

A chocolate-focused attraction? I’m in! Only 13 minutes by train from New Street will take you to the red-brick, old-world Bournville village which was built for the workers of what was the centre of England’s chocolate empire, Cadbury. There are tours available and you can have your Willy Wonka experience in the demonstration area (molten chocolate is involved; and you get to eat it). But that’s not all, the world’s biggest Cadbury store also awaits, boasting concoctions unavailable anywhere else.

Follow the footsteps of Birmingham’s meanest gang on the Peaky Blinders tour

Learn about the real Peaky Blinders in this tour , where you’ll get to stalk the very same streets the gang frequented.

Visit a music album cover fine art gallery

St Pauls Gallery is the World’s leading retailer in signed limited edition album cover fine art. With well over 100 signed prints on permanent show and sale, the gallery is a place not to be missed if music is your passion. Also on show are exclusive collections of signed limited edition musician portrait photographs and fine art prints. The gallery is pretty mad, specially if you are into 60s or 70s rock, with prints signed by Pink Floyd, Deep Purple and many others being sold here.

Sip a clandestine cocktail in the city’s speakeasies

Some of Birmingham’s best bars are hidden behind unassuming storefronts and doorways which makes it all the more exciting to have a cocktail in one. Channeling that 1920s American prohibition spirit is the super-cool  18/81  (somewhere on Thorp Street, just ring the bell) and  40 St Pauls  (there’s no sign, look for the door with number 40 off St Paul’s Square).

Have a curry!

Birmingham is the original home of the Balti. The Birmingham Balti originated in the city during the late 70s, when curry chefs started to make their dishes lighter, healthier and served faster to suit Western tastes. There’s even an area called the Balti Triangle, just to the south of the city centre along Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane and Stratford Road, which was named for the number of eateries serving up curries using the balti method. Try Opheem , Lasan , Raja Monkey , Asha’s , Itihaas , Tamatanga or Rajdoot and you won’t be disappointed.

BIRMINGHAM BUCKET LIST: ONE DAY ITINERARY

If you only have one day, my suggestion is to start at The Bullring , stroll around making sure to visit both arcades ( Picadilly & Western Arcade ), then walk through the canal quarter and drop in St Paul’s Gallery, then have a curry for lunch, then head to Digbeth for another stroll some drinks and food in the evening at Digbeth Dining Club and make sure to pop by The Old Crown . All these activities are described above.

If you make a weekend of it (which I recommend) use the second day to visit the Moseley Boga , Cadbury World and the Peaky Blinder’s tour .

WHERE TO STAY IN BIRMINGHAM, UK

Make a weekend of it! Why not get to Birmingham on a Friday and stay over Saturday to have two full days of exploring? If you do, then stay at my serviced apartment which is awesome and has the best location. I personally refurbished it so make me proud and book it, and if you have any feedback on the decorations or finish send them my way. It’s literally 1 minute fron Birmingham’s Central Station so perfect for exploring and then hopping on the train wasting zero time.

Is it booked? Then you can find other options here , sorted by best reviewed and cheapest.

HOW TO GET TO AND AROUND BIRMINGHAM, UK 

You can take a bus or train from wherever you are in England. Use  Trainline  that shows you bus and train options in the same search so you can choose the cheapest, fastest option. You can also rent a car which means you’ll get more flexibility!

WHAT TO EAT IN BIRMINGHAM

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This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I might make a small commission, at  no  extra cost to you in order to help support my blog.

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Femme luxe haul xiii, 10 comments.

Amazing blog, really interesting blog, I loved reading it and it is very well written, please keep on writing blogs like this.

Amazing and very amazingly written and I would love to see more like this in future as well.

Beautiful blog, really interesting, I loved reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this in future.

May I know at which street you took the picture with the wall art? It’s so pretty I would like to visit it when I’m there too!

It’s called Bath Place (the one I’m walking in front of)

The list of things to do sounds fab. Thank you!

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Home » Travel Guides » 25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK)

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK)

Birmingham can be found within the West Midlands, a county full of character. With a population of 1,101,360 residents as of 2014 it is the biggest city outside of London, and also the largest. Due to this it draws the attention of a wide number of travellers from around the world. The soul of this city really started with the Industrial Revolution, where it earned its place at the forefront of scientific developments. Now, it attracts the creative and the innovative, fuelling their minds with a wide variety of museums, parks and beautiful music halls. Read on to find out more about the adventures that you could have in Birmingham with our list of the 25 best things to do!

1. Symphony Hall

This concert hall really does reflect the sheer innovation and creativity that has gone into making Birmingham the city that it is today. Not only is it the UK’s finest concert hall, but it’s also well regarded to be one of the best in the world. With its picturesque auditorium and stunning, world class acoustics, it isn’t to be missed. Not only does it present some of the most prestigious international orchestras, it also houses a beautiful programme showcasing many different styles of music; everything from jazz to rock, and stand- up comedy! So there really is something for everyone with this beautiful building, and seen as it shows a show of some form or another almost every day of the year, it’s well worth having a look at what might be happening when you plan your trip.

Recommended tour:   Birmingham: Victorian Canals to Today’s City Walking Tour

2. National Motorcycle Museum

Featuring more than 1000 motorcycles, all restored to the manufacturer’s original specifications, this Birmingham based museum attracts more than 250,000 visitors a year from around the world. The earliest machine within the 30 year old museum dates back from 1898, and stands out among the machines of a museum that also houses modern day superbikes. With more than 1000 motorcycles within the walls of the museum it is well worth a visit, showcasing the hard work of the family that put their efforts into creating the museum that they imagined more than 30 decades ago. This museum is well worth a visit for people who have a liking of beautiful machines.

3. National Sea Life Centre

As the most loved family day out in Birmingham, the National Sea Life Centre has really earned its place on this list. We all know just how hard it can be to keep children amused while travelling, with them getting bored at the drop of a pen, this place will surely capture their imaginations. With many events running throughout the year there is always something to do within the centre for children, involving everything from Dinosaur Detective events to events featuring their state of the art interactive rockpools. Within the giant tanks there are a wide variety of animals, from Jellyfish to Nurse Sharks, Octopi to Black Tip Reef Sharks, you can walk through a corridor with a glass top, running underneath an aquarium full of these creatures. But over the past several months, they’ve introduced an attraction that really will get many children excited, featuring the beauty of an Antarctic landscape…and Gentoo Penguins. You can stand and marvel and the cheekiness of these feathered friends. It should also be added that there are options to pay for VIP feeding experiences within the centre, but standard packages start at £12.50 per person, going up in price to add things such as collectables and photo packs.

4. Damascena Coffee House

Situated within the heart of Birmingham, this beautiful, little delicatessen is quickly building a pleasant reputation for it. While out shopping within the city centre it is well worth a visit, even if only for a quick drink. Step inside and you will immediately get a feel for the authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere that this coffee house presents. With pleasant waitresses who will more than happily make recommendations for you should you require them, they also cater for many specific dietary requirements. It’s well known that they’re also one of the most inexpensive places to eat at within the city, and if you’re just popping in for a warm drink you shouldn’t be spending more than £3 or £4.

5. Shakespeare Express

Steam trains form one of the great British institutions, with just a handful of working steam railways still running throughout England. This is one of the most well known ones, capturing tourists simply with its beauty. Running from the heart of Birmingham to Stratford Upon Avon it really gives you the chance to see the best of both worlds. From the fascinating industrial past of Birmingham to the beautiful countryside of Warwickshire, where large amounts of land still go untouched. You can sit back and relax while going past working farms, stylish villages, stations and waterways that make up Shakespeare’s county. Dependent upon the time of day, you also get served a delicious meal with your journey. From a full English breakfast to a freshly cooked Roast Dinner with all the trimmings. Or if you’re travelling in the afternoon, you can experience another great British institution, High Tea. A wide selection of wine, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages is also available. So if you’re looking for a beautiful day that allows you to sit back and relax, look no further!

6. Escape Games

Strictly for adults, the Escape Games are quickly spreading throughout the UK. Taking the locked in a room style games just one step further. Up to a group of 6 people are locked into a room, where a specific event plays out, one of the most notorious involves playing the part of an undercover detective who is captured by triads, locked in a room, and given an hour to escape. Another, not for the faint of heart, involves a murder taking place within a haunted house. This will give even the best of travelling puzzle takers a challenge! Prices do fluctuate throughout the year, so it’s worth checking before you make your trip.

7. Winterbourne House and Garden

The  beautiful thing about Birmingham has to be the amount of picturesque houses and gardens that it has to offer, and Winterbourne House is at the top of its league. Restored to its original Edwardian era arts and crafts splendour it really does prove itself to be a rather unique heritage attraction. You can look through the house and the intense number of beautiful antiques, or take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, featuring more than 6000 plant species from around the world. Within the grounds you will find everything from a woodland walk, with numerous routes, to a 1930’s style Japanese bridge.

Book online : Winterbourne House and Garden Admission Ticket

8. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

For families travelling with children, do you often find that due to different tastes keeping your children entertained within museums can be quite a hard task? This museum might just be the one that wins them all over. Featuring beautiful collections of art, social history, archaeology and ethnography there really does seem to be something for everyone. It covers centuries of European history and culture, as well as being home to collections of international importance. Step through the doors and you can see everything from the most highly valued hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold, to the largest known collection of complete  Indian bronze sculptures. For the little archaeologists among you, there is a whole collection of Egyptian mummies and coffins, we would suggest that you look at current exhibits before making your trip, throughout the year dinosaur exhibits will pop up!

9. Birmingham Hippodrome

Perfectly complementing the creative nature that Birmingham has to offer is the Hippodrome, as said by The Independent, ‘Birmingham Hippodrome pantomime, thank goodness, always one of the best in the land’. This famous pantomime venue features everything from ballet and opera, to family pantomimes and comedy. It is well worth looking at what might be coming up while you’re travelling, as they’ll even provide booster seats for small children who are sat behind tall guests. For the adults, pre-order interval drinks can be ordered at any of the bars, ready for you to collect from the foyer, so you won’t have to keep standing in a queue. If you arrive well before your show is to start, they also have their own independent restaurant with fantastic ratings that open two hours before each performance, but their menus are finalised a month before each show, so it’s worth looking on their website first!

10. Sheldon Country Park

If what you’re looking for is a beautiful walk, then look no further. Set in 300 acres of open grassland, wetlands, old hedgerows and some mature woodland, Sheldon Country Park is the perfect place for both short and long walks. Some walks are specifically designed, featuring 2km to 5km trails, although there are also some shorter ones. By the main entrance of the park, you can find the Old Rectory Farm, a 17th century dairy farm. The farm itself has been fully restored and operates as a demonstration farm, showing city dwellers traditional methods of farming. Animals kept there include Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, ponies, ducks and chickens. There are also plenty of lovely activities for young children there, especially in spring when the ducklings and chicks are around!

11. Grand Prix Karting

For both children and the big kids among us. The Grand Prix Karting venue within Birmingham is arguably one of the best within the UK, and one of the most famous outdoor go kart raceways. Situated just one mile outside Birmingham City Centre, it’s easily accessible by both the motorway, and public transport. Boasting state of the art race karts designed by professionals in the industry, it really isn’t an attraction to be missed!

12. Aston Hall

Situated within a public park on the north side of Birmingham, Aston Hall is one of the most important buildings within the city. As one of the last great Jacobean houses to be built, this seventeenth century red-brick mansion has stood the test of time, earning its place as a Grade I listed building. Perfect for adult travellers and families, this venue features a full programme of events, activities and trails that vary and change throughout each season. One of the most notable permanent features involves the display rooms that Aston Hall played during the Civil War, and throughout other notable moments of history. But one of the features that attracts the most tourists is Lady Holte’s garden, designed in breathtaking symmetrical patterns, and split into quarters with a water feature running in between each section before finally meeting in the middle, it was designed with the key intention of being both beautiful and peaceful.

• 13.  Cadbury World

Cadbury really are the heart of British chocolate production, with many of us still mourning the loss of their older, discontinued chocolate products. Perfect for anyone who likes chocolate, this chocolate themed day out isn’t to be missed. Starting with a 4D cinema experience you’ll be diving into a bowl of liquid chocolate milk, riding a Crunchie rollercoaster and taking to the skies in a Cadbury creme egg airship piloted by the caramel bunny. All without even leaving your seat! Both informative and fun, you’ll be finding out the secrets to why Cadbury chocolate is so delicious, and exploring the Aztec jungles to discover the origins of the cocoa bean, amidst trees and waterfalls. You can also take part of the tour with a live actor, playing John Cadbury, the man who opened the original Cadbury shop back in 1824. But the most important part of the day trip involves the world’s biggest Cadbury shop, and the Cadbury World cafe! Good luck not buying too much on that heavenly day out!

14. Great Western Arcade

The Great Western Arcade is situated within the heart of the retail district of the city. As a Victorian shopping arcade it really has seen the test of time, suffering bomb damage in WWII that led to the rebuild of the original arched, glass roof to an apex construction. We would suggest visiting this arcade during the Winter months, when the Christmas decorations are simply stunning, giving a classic feel to this beautiful place. Featuring many independent retailers, spas and shops specialising in many different food areas it really is worth a visit on your trip, we’re sure you’ll find something that captures your fancy there!

15. Jewellery Quarter

The name of this beautiful quarter really does leave no room for mystery. Known as the gem of Birmingham it is steeped in history, and forms one of the most vibrant and lively locations. It dates back more than 250 years and still to this day is home to over 500 different jewellery businesses. Described by English Heritage as, ‘a unique historic environment in England – a national treasure’, which has a few, if any, parallels in Europe. Attracting thousands of tourists from all over the world, it is also frequented by journalists, keen to visit this historic, yet developing area. Art galleries can be seen on almost every corner.

Related tour : Discovering Birmingham Walking Tour

16. Two Cat’s Kitchen

Do you enjoy fine dining, or have an occasion coming up that requires a beautiful surrounding and nice food? If so, this really is the place for you, with fine dining and surprisingly generous portions it certainly stands up among other restaurants within Birmingham. You get a small menu at the start of each meal, and servers who provide just enough service, but not too much, as well as a full wine list. What most people tend to love about this place is the atmosphere, it’s pleasantly warm but the dining room echos ever so slightly, making it seem incredibly sociable.

17. Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Do you love animals? Well this small, family run conservation park might be just the thing to add the beauty to your holiday. Featuring a wide range of animals, as well as plenty that are on the endangered list you really can see the effort that they’re putting into conservation. They have everything from ocelots to meerkats, from utila island iguanas to yellow breasted capuchin monkeys. Although not the biggest of zoos, they do charge a humble admission price of £5.50 per person, meaning that they should certainly be on your list of places worth stopping at!

18. Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses

Are you looking for a place that is both stunning and has places for children to play safely? This is that place. Four stunning glasshouses are surrounded by a large lawn with a range of beds and shrubberies, inside the glasshouses you can find an exotic tropical house, a subtropical house, a mediterranean house and arid houses. Within the Victorian public park there are 15 acres of landscaped greenery, a beautiful bandstand and plenty of play areas, although near the main entrance there is also a playroom for children connected to the tearoom. Events run in the gardens throughout the year, with the most notable ones celebrating the Chinese New Year and Christmas. But due to stereotypical British weather, this is one of those places you’ll need to make weather plans for, we would advise carrying an umbrella! Just incase!

19. Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

Do you like jewellery? Are you perhaps fascinated by the thought of how jewellery was once made? The building features a guided tour around a real jewellery factory where very little has changed since the early part of the last century. You can see demonstrations of jewellery making techniques at the jeweller’s bench, where you might be taught a handy trick or two.  Perhaps the most fascinating part of the factory is the ‘Earth’s Riches’ showcase gallery, where you can see jewellery made from materials found in the natural world. From whale tooth and coral, to diamond and platinum. Original jewellery from local designers can also be bought within the museum shop. Entrance is just £7 for visitors aged 16 and above, including the guided tour, but anyone under 16 can get in for free!

20. Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Both a home for lovers of art, and lovers of architecture. This is one of Birmingham’s finest Art Deco buildings, purpose built and opened by Queen Mary in 1939. Designed by Robert Atkinson, one of Britain’s leading architects, you’ll walk through the doors and meet a central music auditorium, surrounded by corridors leading to separate parts of the gallery. Housing many world class painters it’s a gallery not to be missed. Including exhibits from artists such as Claude Monet and Frans Hals, you can find some of the most well known artists within each room. They also cater exhibits on other forms of art, including Ancient Roman coins, and Treasures of Ancient Egypt.

21. Gas Street Basin

If you find yourself in Birmingham, looking to rest and break up your day, you should consider a stunning walk in the heart of Britain’s canal network. Days gone by it was alive with the sound of cargoes as diverse as chocolate crumb, glass and coal getting loaded and unloaded. Today surrounding the basin are modern bars and restaurants, providing a unique experience where industrial heritage meets modern, cosmopolitan living. It’s a great stop on your way to the heart of Birmingham’s shopping centres, as it’s just a five minute walk away from the shops that surround New Street Station.

22. Baddesley Clinton

Baddesley Clinton is an intimate estate set in the heart of the Forest of Arden, with over 500 years of fascinating history and unexpected sources. As a National Trust venue, it provides both a calm experience, and a learning experience. Over centuries it has protected those seeking to escape the outside world, and over the course of 2016 it focuses on the story of the Tudors and the Catholic priests, who lived there during a time when their faith, could have meant there life. Go from learning to strolling through the tranquility of the beautiful countryside, away from the centre of the city, life really is different, everything seems slower. It would be worth experiencing both sides of that coin on your trip.

23. St. Philip’s Cathedral

An architectural splendour, this is one of the few churches built in the English baroque style which on its own sets it alone. But add to this that it’s one of the smallest cathedrals in England, cathedrals in general are ginormous buildings, almost touching the sky, this one is incredibly different. Situated just a short way off of the Jewellery Quarter, it is worth having a stroll to see if you’re within the area. If you do venture inside the cathedral, you’ll see the beautiful art installation of 2000 soul boats that now hang from the ceiling. Certainly a part of your trip that you’ll want to have your camera to hand for.

24. Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park has something that a lot of recreational parks don’t, which makes it an incredibly tourist decorations for thousands of tourists over the summer months. Unlike most large parks, it was built specifically for the recreation of the people of Birmingham, leaving it a beautifully structured feel over the 80 acres of formal parkland, but alongside that lay 120 acres of conservation and woodland plantation. If you have children, we would suggest taking them to look for the animals that live within the woods there, you could see anything from frogs to hedgehogs. We would also suggest going with young children on a sunny weekend, as there’s a mini fair that is weather permitting, and pedalo boats operate on the lake during the Summer. If you do find yourselves caught in a summer shower, then there are plenty of tea rooms where you can take refuge until it decides to stop.

25. Hen and Chickens PH

While you’re travelling, it can be really easy to judge a book by its cover, we all do it. But this is one of those situations where you should completely ignore what it looks like outside, it was derelict for quite some time and the outside still looks tired. But upon stepping inside you will completely forget what the outside looks like. Providing a perfect atmosphere, and friendly service, you’ll quickly feel comfortable within the bar/grill. They serve a pleasant mixture of both English and Asian food, with something to satisfy your tastebuds. Generally it costs around £10 to £15 per person, not including your drinks, but if you ask the chefs there really nicely, they can also make you food that isn’t on the menu. It’s also situated just off of  the Jewellery Quarter, where you can find a wide range of nice pubs, so if a night out is what you’re looking for, it’s a great starting point.

25 Best Things to Do in Birmingham (UK):

• Symphony Hall
• National Motorcycle Museum
• National Sea Life Centre
• Damascena Coffee House
• Shakespeare Express
• Escape Games
• Winterbourne House and Garden
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
• Birmingham Hippodrome
• Sheldon Country Park
• Grand Prix Karting
• Great Western Arcade
• Jewellery Quarter
• Two Cat’s Kitchen
• Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
• Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses
• Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
• Barber Institute of Fine Arts
• Gas Street Basin
• Baddesley Clinton
• St. Philip’s Cathedral
• Cannon Hill Park
• Hen and Chickens PH

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You are here > Home > Things to do > Tours & Sightseeing

Tours & Sightseeing in Birmingham

It’s hard not to fall in love with Birmingham and the surrounding area and it's never been easier to travel around and explore some of our hidden gems.

Spend some time on a walking tour in Birmingham , and join one of our professional tour guides who will share their passion for the city and the region with you. For a different pace experience the city skyline from the water whilst enjoying a slow cruise on a Birmingham canal tour .

And book onto one our special interest tours to learn about some of the fantastic things Birmingham has to offer.

You'll be Birmingham ambassadors in no time!

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Visit the West Midlands Police Museum at the Lock-up, Steelhouse Lane and discover what it was…

Step into Selly Manor Museum to discover how the Tudors cooked, dressed and lived over 500 years…

Centenary Square and Canals’; Virtual walking tour of Birmingham Following the success of the…

Enjoy a little adventure exploring green spaces and a lovely stretch of canal as well as…

Discover where William Shakespeare was educated and inspired to become the world's greatest…

A great tour of the city this route boasts all sorts of interesting highlights from the Harborne…

The free Walk Run Cycle Birmingham app of self-guided walking, running and cycling routes is all…

Rich cultural Heritage walks from an African Caribbean perspective

RUN OF A KIND is the first and only running tour team in the West Midlands. We help runners…

Beneath the surface of modern, bustling Birmingham lies a long history of dark deeds. Let us take…

Join the Locationist - Birmingham, for this brand new tour, as you discover these epic filming…

As you walk in William Shakespeare's footsteps from birthplace to grave, along the historic spine…

An almost completely traffic free route from Birmingham city centre using shared paths, greenways,…

A lush and leafy route taking you across Birmingham from North to South. Expect mixed terrain as…

Come with us and do a great walking tour of Birmingham city centre today without breaking those…

Join Walking Tours in Birmingham every day at 10:30am (all year) & 5:30pm (May-Oct) for a walking…

Enjoy a lively and informative guided tour of the Grade 2* listed Moseley Road Baths, the only pool…

Hire a Brompton bike from Birmingham Snow Hill Station and cycle along the canal to Wolverhampton…

• 1 West Midlands Police Museum
• 2 Selly Manor Museum
• 3 Centenary Square and Birmingham Canals Virtual Walking Tour
• 4 69wards Cycle and Walking Routes - Balsall Heath - Moseley to Brandwood to Kings Heath
• 5 Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
• 6 69wards Cycle and Walking Routes - Harborne - Ladywood - Edgbaston - City Centre - Jewellery Quarter
• 7 Walk Run Cycle Birmingham App
• 8 Black Heritage Walks Network
• 9 RUN OF A KIND
• 10 Birmingham Ghost Walks
• 11 The Locationist Walking Tour
• 12 Stratford Town Walk
• 13 69wards Cycle and Walking Routes - City Centre to Yardley to Birmingham Airport to Acocks Green
• 14 69wards Cycle and Walking Routes - North to South Birmingham
• 15 Self-Guided and Virtual Walking Tour - Birmingham's Central Squares
• 16 Walking Tours in Birmingham
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• 18 Brompton Bike Hire

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Walking Tour

Join Walking Tours in Birmingham every day at 10:30am (all year) & 5:30pm (May-Oct) for a walking tour with a local guide.

Step into Selly Manor Museum to discover how the Tudors cooked, dressed and lived over 500 years ago.

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Experience sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Black Country as you explore shops, houses and industrial workshops rebuilt in our canalside village.

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Shakespeare

Discover where William Shakespeare was educated and inspired to become the world's greatest playwright.

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Walking Attraction

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Tours and Guides

Mary Moore is a professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide offering coach and walking tours of Birmingham and the Jewellery Quarter.

Sports Ground

Villa Park is one of the oldest and most famous stadiums in Europe.

"There are football grounds and football grounds. Then there is Villa Park." - Simon Inglis It is no stranger to major events, either, having hosted matches at both the 1966…

Cycling Tour

A short 10mile route with a lot to offer. From Sutton Park this route takes you on a tour of the local area heading out to New Hall Valley Country Park and returning via Four Oaks using quiet roads. Enjoy the green spaces and the tree lined streets…

Enjoy a little adventure exploring green spaces and a lovely stretch of canal as well as experiencing great local neighbourhood vibes in Balsall Heath, Moseley or Kings Heath.

A great tour of the city this route boasts all sorts of interesting highlights from the Harborne Walkway and lovely blossom trees to dinosaurs at Lapworth Museum and ‘one of the finest small art galleries in Europe’, The Barber Institute of Fine…

A short 4-mile route exploring a mixture of canal towpath, quiet roads, parks and shared paths. Starting from Kings Norton Junction, this is a handy route for those wanting to build confidence cycling or enjoy a stroll away from the hustle and bustle

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STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

As you walk in William Shakespeare's footsteps from birthplace to grave, along the historic spine of ancient Stratford, your guide will unravel the Shakespeare story.

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RUN OF A KIND is the first and only running tour team in the West Midlands.

We help runners explore Birmingham, so that they can learn, socialise and have fun whilst keeping fit. 

Nature Trail

Why not explore Solihull on this self-guided treasure hunt themed treasure trail?

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Long Distance Walking Trail

Guided walking tours in the southern Cotswolds

At 30 miles this route takes you on a little adventure from Pype Hayes Park exploring north of the city

Walking Route

LEAMINGTON SPA

Riverside Walk is a lovely figure of eight circuit around the Warwickshire town of Royal Leamington Spa.

An almost completely traffic free route from Birmingham city centre using shared paths, greenways, canal towpaths and parks. This is a fantastic route for all the family.

Expect a grand day out on this longer 28mile route from Birmingham City Centre with lots to see and do as well as glorious scenery along the way.

Explore South Birmingham’s picturesque heritage sites with this fun-filled route. Mostly traffic-free using shared paths, parks and only a few roads.

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Is Birmingham Worth Visiting? Top 27 Things To Do – By A Local

Thinking of visiting Birmingham? Read on for the top things to do!

I have lived close to Birmingham for the majority of my life and with there being a plethora of interesting and diverse cities in England, I can totally understand why people may be wondering: is Birmingham worth visiting?

Based in the West Midlands, 100 miles north from London, Birmingham may not be the most obvious tourist destination in the UK.

But you would be surprised at just how much the city has to offer. With over a million people living in the city, Birmingham is a diverse, modern and lively place and is arguably nicer than other big UK cities such as Manchester.

In this blog post, I’ll answer if Birmingham really is a nice place to visit, list what are my top 27 things to do in the city and more.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Birmingham over the years and in my experience it really has developed into one of the UK’s best cities to visit.

Short on Time? Book the Top Things to do in Birmingham: ⭐ Take a fascinating Birmingham Walking Tour ⭐ Experience the Amazing Cadbury World ⭐ Go Kayaking on the Birmingham Canals

Is birmingham worth visiting.

The answer to that question is definitely YES , Birmingham is indeed worth visiting when in the UK. England’s official second city has had a long reputation for being a somewhat drab, uninspiring and depressing city to visit.

Many Brits still have that same perception of Birmingham, which is a massive shame. Many people believe Birmingham to be overrated as well, which I definitely don’t believe to be true.

Over the past 10-15 years, the city has experienced quite a huge transformation. It has become increasingly modernised, revamped and regenerated, making it an impressive place now unrecognisable from its past.

Birmingham is home to a major train UK train station, a major shopping centre and a tram line connecting it to other parts of the Midlands, such as Wolverhampton and West Bromwich .

And the city’s reinvention in recent years saw it become home to the Commonwealth Games in 2022, a hugely important international athletics event which showed off how great the city really is and attracted more investment and visitors.

In all honesty, Birmingham is now one of the top cities in the UK, not just England , and people are slowly realising this.

Birmingham is a brilliant night out too and has 5 Michelin starred restaurants and countless top rated bars and pubs.

The second city is only going to continue to grow at a rapid rate and become more popular – which is fantastic to see!

Top 27 Things To Do In Birmingham

So now we’ve answered that yes, Birmingham is indeed worth visiting, what is there to do there? Well, let’s see what the top 27 things to do in Birmingham are, in no particular order:

1. Go on a Walking Tour of Birmingham

A walking tour is always the best way to discover a new city, and this is most definitely the case for Birmingham too.

With Birmingham being such a big city and with so many places worth seeing, a walking tour is perfect to get an understanding of the layout and history of the city and see some of it’s many iconic landmarks.

➡️ Go on the Discovering Birmingham Walking Tour Book your ticket easily by clicking here

2. visit the bullring shopping centre 🛍️.

Birmingham is home to one of the best major shopping centres in the whole of the UK; the iconic Bullring shopping centre.

Located in the heart of the city centre just a couple of minutes walk from the train station, the Bullring has over 160 shops .

Featuring every type of shop from high end clothes stores to jewellery shops to restaurants, there is something for everyone here.

The Bullring actually dates all the way back to the Middle Ages , with the first records of the Bullring Market dating to 1552.

3. Learn about the Gangs of Birmingham with a Tour

Birmingham is synonymous with the hit TV series ‘ Peaky Blinders ‘ which is all about the gangs that operated in the city back in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

If you’re a fan of the show then you may want to experience a tour all about the real life Peaky Blinders when visiting Birmingham.

This 2 hour walking tour is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the history of Birmingham’s ‘ slogging gangs ‘ that the Peaky Blinders was based on.

➡️ Experience the Birmingham Slogging Gangs Tour: Book your ticket hassle free by clicking here

4. enjoy a concert at the birmingham symphony hall 🎵.

This impressive venue is a 2,262 seater concert hall that is also home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

There always a lot of events on at the Hall, from classical orchestral musical acts to comedians, so keep an eye out when visiting Birmingham!

5. Visit Birmingham Botanical Gardens 🌷

These gardens located just on the edge of the city centre is a perfect oasis away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

It features Victorian glass houses that are home to exotic flora and birds and the surrounding gardens are a delight to wander around, especially on a nice sunny summer day.

6. Experience Cadbury World 🍫

Birmingham has it’s very own chocolate factory! Yes, the second city is home to Cadbury , the UK’s number one chocolate brand.

You can go on a self guided interactive tour here and learn all about the history of Cadbury. The majority of visitors at Cadbury World spend a good few hours here and the best thing of all is that each visitor receives free chocolate!

Here you can experience the chocolate dipping zone, take a ride and learn exactly how your favourite chocolate bars are made – an ideal family activity in Birmingham.

➡️ Experience the Amazing Cadbury World! Book your ticket straight away by clicking here

7. discover trendy digbeth.

A short 10 minute walk from the city centre is the interesting, trendy area of Birmingham; Digbeth.

Digbeth is home to many local Birmingham creatives and is known as the coolest part of the city as well. Some people have even dubbed Digbeth as the coolest neighbourhood and place to live in all of England.

Here you will find plenty of really nice bars, cafes and awesome street art too. There is an amazing JFK mosaic memorial artwork as you enter Digbeth which is a beautiful piece of art.

Digbeth has a fascinating history too – it is a former industrial area and was the first area of Birmingham to be settled in the 7th century.

8. Enjoy a Theatre Show at the Birmingham Rep 🎭

The Birmingham Rep, or just ‘ The Rep ‘ as it’s known to locals for hosting innovative, fascinating theatre plays near the centre of the city in Centenary Square.

It’s a great location, has a nice bar with food options and often hosts diverse theatre shows for adults as well as youngsters. It’s a perfect night out if you’re in the mood for some drama.

9. Walk the Birmingham Canals

Birmingham has a huge network of canals running through the city, over 35 miles worth of canals in total – which is more than Venice in Italy!

Walking through the intricate canals in Birmingham is a really fun and interesting way to see a different side of the city.

Here you will get to see countless barges, narrowboats and more. The canal side area in Birmingham known as: ‘ Brindley Place ‘ is home to a lot of fantastic restaurants and pubs, making for a pleasant visit.

10. Get Cultured at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Although temporarily closed at the time of writing (it’s undergoing renovation), the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is known to be one the best museum and art gallery in the city.

It’s planned to reopen at some point in 2024 – the exact date is yet to be confirmed. But it is free to the public and showcases exemplary, world class museum exhibitions.

11. Be Fine Dined at a Michelin Starred Restaurant

As mentioned earlier in this post, Birmingham is home to a total of 5 Michelin starred restaurants and has a fantastic culinary scene.

Probably the most well known Michelin starred restaurant in Birmingham is Purnell’s , which is located centrally and run by TV cooking personality and well known Brummie Glynn Purnell.

If Michelin starred restaurants sounds a little too fancy for your liking, then you can find every other type of restaurant within the city, whatever you’re in the mood for.

12. Go Luxury Shopping at the Mailbox

You really are spoilt for choice if you’re a shopaholic and visiting Birmingham! Not only does it have the Bullring shopping centre, but also The Mailbox , situated near the canal side area in the city.

The Mailbox is home to luxury clothing brand stores but is also home to more top quality restaurants, cocktail bars, BBC TV studios, offices, apartments and more.

It’s location is quite idyllic as well with beautiful canal side views, making for a nice alternative from the city centre.

13. Relax at St. Paul’s Square

Talking of idyllic, the St. Paul’s area in Birmingham is probably the most peaceful part of the city in my humble opinion.

Located just outside of the city centre and the start of the Jewellery Quarter , St. Paul’s square is a very serene location.

At the centre is the church it is named after which dates back to the 18th century, and it is the last Georgian square in the city.

There are plenty of nice restaurants and bars here too of course, but it’s a less crowded and more quieter affair compared to the centre of the city.

It’s a very beautiful place to stroll through as well, especially during the autumnal months.

14. Discover the Inspiration for: ‘Lord of the Rings’ – Moseley Bog

If you’re a fan of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie/book series, then you will really enjoy a visit to Moseley Bog.

Moseley Bog is a nature reserve area in the Moseley district of Birmingham. A little known fact is that this was the childhood playground of the Lord of the Rings author J.R.R Tolkien and served as inspiration for writing the books.

Walking through the forestry area is a pleasant experience away from the crowds of the city centre and a fascinating insight into Tolkien’s past.

15. Get Lego Building at Lego Land

If you have kids who are lovers of all things Lego, then you most definitely should plan to visit Lego Land when in Birmingham.

Aimed at young children, Legoland is a discovery centre that features rides, play zones, a 4D cinema and of course Lego building workshops.

This is a 2-3 hour experience (depending on how much your children love Lego!) and is a perfect family orientated way to spend an afternoon in Birmingham.

16. Experience the magical National Sea Life Centre

Right next door to Lego Land is another perfect family orientated experience; Birmingham’s National Sea Life centre .

There are several Sea Life centres in other cities throughout the UK (my favourite one being in Weymouth ), and they are always great fun and excellent value for money.

The Birmingham National Sea Life centre is rated as one of the best in the UK and features over 60 displays of freshwater and marine life.

With every type of sea creature from tropical fish to sharks and turtles, this is a fantastic experience when visiting Birmingham.

17. Watch a Premiere League Game at Villa Park ⚽

If you’re a fan of football then going to a live Premiere League game when in England is a must!

And in Birmingham you can do exactly that, with Aston Villa currently doing extremely well in the English Premiere League.

Games at Villa Park happen regularly mostly at weekends, though check the football fixtures in advance and book a ticket early if you plan on watching a game.

If there are no games scheduled during your Birmingham visit, then you can go on a tour of Villa Park stadium and learn all about the club’s history and past successes.

18. Watch a Show by the Birmingham Royal Ballet

One of the five major ballet companies in the UK, the Birmingham Royal Ballet is a touring company but often put on performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome .

With performances such as ‘ The Nutcracker ‘ and ‘ Sleeping Beauty ‘, this is a great cultural experience when in Birmingham that is not to be missed.

19. Enjoy the Nightlife 🍻

Birmingham is a fantastic night out (arguably it has the best nightlife compared to any other UK city), especially on weekends but it is also pretty lively on weeknights too.

The city has countless drinking places worth visiting in absolutely beautiful historical buildings, such as classy cocktail bars like ‘ Lost and Found ‘ to more traditional pubs such as ‘ The Wellington ‘.

Birmingham can get quite crowded however, so an alternative option is to visit Wolverhampton close by and experience some of the many cocktail bars and hidden gem food places that this city has to offer as well.

20. Visit Birmingham’s Christmas Market

Perhaps surprisingly, Birmingham is home to the largest and most authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria.

Each November and December, the main shopping streets of the city centre is transformed with outdoor food and drink merchants selling beers, German hot dogs and lots more.

The city centre does become extremely crowded during the run up to Christmas, especially in Victoria Square . But it’s a great way to get into the Christmas festive spirit.

Birmingham rivals most other UK tourist destinations during the Christmas period, including Blackpool , which is famed for it’s Illuminations light show at this time of year.

21. Experience Winterbourne House & Garden

Winterbourne House and Garden is a beautiful heritage site and botanical garden situated in Edgbaston on the outskirts of the city centre.

The botanical garden is seven acres in total and features over 6,000 plant species . Needless to say, visiting the gardens is a delightfully tranquil experience, as is Winterbourne House itself.

The house is an Edwardian building that dates back to 1903 and features two floors of exhibition rooms.

This is an absolute hidden gem in a quiet part of the Birmingham and a great escape from modern life for a few hours.

22. Go Kayaking on the Birmingham Canals

If you’re looking for a totally unique way to see Birmingham, then it is possible to go kayaking on the Birmingham canals!

This private kayak tour is unlike any other tour of the city and allows you to learn all about the history of the canals from a different perspective.

This is a fantastically fun activity that lasts for 2 hours , with skills instruction provided by the tour guide.

➡️ Go on a Private Kayak Tour of the Birmingham Canals Click this link here to book your ticket hassle free

23. watch some cricket at edgbaston 🏏.

Home to Warwickshire Country Cricket club and the T20 team Birmingham Bears , the Edgbaston cricket ground offers another fun experience in the city.

Cricket may not be the easiest of sports to follow if you’re not familiar with it, but the atmosphere is always good with lively crowds. And if you are a cricket fan, then definitely pay a visit!

24. Go Window Shopping at the Jewellery Quarter

The Jewellery Quarter is just a short walk from Birmingham city centre and is one of the most fascinating areas in the whole city. It’s viewed as a national treasure in England because of it’s rich heritage.

It’s a historical, industrial area with Victorian buildings and over 100 jewellery specialist retailers . Although that is a far cry from the area’s heyday of the 19th century, when there were over 30,000 workers in the area.

Over 40% of the UK’s jewellery is produced here and the area has over 250 years of history . Walking through it does indeed make you feel like you’re walking through a different era altogether.

25. Take a Day Trip to the Cotswolds

Less than two hours south from Birmingham is one of the most beautiful regions in England; the Cotswolds.

If you’re looking to escape city life for a day and visit an authentic place of England with lovely countryside and quaint villages with stoned buildings, then look no further than the Cotswolds.

It’s a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing place and ideal for a hike through the many surrounding hills, or just a stroll through the towns and villages stopping off at traditional pubs along the way.

26. Marvel at the Library of Birmingham Building

One of the most iconic and impressive looking buildings in the whole city is the Library of Birmingham.

Based in Centenary square next to the Birmingham Rep and Symphony Hall, this library is very modern, having opened only in 2013.

The architecture is what really makes this building special however, featuring patterns of gold, silver and glass rings.

It’s possible to visit the terrace at the top of the library as well, for the most breathtakingly panoramic views of Birmingham you’ll find.

27. Take a Day Trip to Shrewsbury

And finally, another good day trip option from Birmingham is to Shrewsbury, an absolutely beautiful medieval town based over an hour away by train in the Shropshire region.

Shrewsbury is a hidden gem not only in the midlands but the whole of England. Located around the River Severn, this market town is famous for being the birthplace of Charles Darwin .

There are plenty of historical buildings and quaint streets to wander through, with architecture from the Tudor and Edwardian eras. Shrewsbury Abbey and Shrewsbury Castle are both worth checking out when visiting.

Where To Stay in Birmingham

Finding the right place to stay in Birmingham is not an easy choice as the city is full of fantastic hotels and accommodation. Let’s take a look at three possibilities with different price points, simply click on the link of each hotel for more info:

📍 Budget Recommendation: Birmingham Central Backpackers

Located very close to the National Express bus station , Digbeth and just a few minutes walk from the city centre is the Birmingham Central Backpackers hostel.

This hostel is very cheap with a lot of different sized dormitory rooms as well as private rooms, so is perfect if you’re visiting Birmingham on a budget.

📍 Mid-Range Recommendation: The Cube Hotel

The Cube is quite an iconic looking building based near the Mailbox area, with a very modern, unique looking exterior and colourful décor.

This is a 4 star hotel with panoramic views of the city on the 25th floor, which is where Marco Pierre White’s restaurant is also based.

📍 Luxury Recommendation: Radisson Blu Hotel

Unmissable on Birmingham’s skyline, the Radisson Blu Hotel is an impressive 39 story glass skyscraper which obviously features some of the most stunning views of the entire city.

It is a 4 star hotel, located very centrally and features a gym, bar and restaurant and is one of the best hotel options in the whole of the city.

Birmingham FAQ’s

Still not sure if Birmingham is worth visiting? Let’s answer some commonly asked questions tourists have about England’s second city:

Is Birmingham better than Manchester?

This question is very much open to debate! Most Brits would say that Manchester is the better city to visit and it is certainly the more popular option.

But with Birmingham’s reinvention over recent years, the answer is not so clear cut. In truth, I would say that both cities are on an equal par with each other.

Everything that you can do in Manchester you can find in Birmingham, and Birmingham is the larger of the two and they both have very similar population numbers.

When is the best time to visit Birmingham?

As previously mentioned in this post, the Christmas period and weeks leading up to it are an exciting time for the city.

This is because of Birmingham’s German market , which is absolutely huge and attracts large numbers of crowds every year.

The summer period is also a good time to visit the city, as the weather is usually at its best. And the spring/autumn seasons are good options too, with the weather being a little more unpredictable but still having decent temperatures.

How many days should you visit Birmingham for?

This really depends on how much you want to do when you visit Birmingham, as there are so many activities and interesting parts of the city worth exploring.

I would recommend a minimum of two days is perfect in order to really get a feel of the city and it’s people, whether travelling there alone or with friends/family. One day is a little too short, while 3-4 days are good options too.

Conclusion: Is Birmingham Worth Visiting?

If you’ve made it this far to the blog then you’ll have realised that yes, Birmingham is most definitely worth visiting.

It is without a doubt one of the most interesting, dynamic, modern and diverse cities in the UK, rivalling London with so much to offer in terms of activities and things to do for the whole family.

Whether you want to learn about the historic Jewellery Quarter, discover why Digbeth is so trendy, or you just want to experience the fantastic night life, you have a lot of options in England’s second city.

So you should really consider a trip to Birmingham when planning your next trip to the UK, and you can discover for yourself why it is for sure worth visiting.

You might also like these blog posts about Birmingham: ➡️ Discover The Top 13 Birmingham Walking Tours In 2024 – Reviewed By A Local ➡️ These Are The 25 Best Day Trips From Birmingham That Are A Must In 2024 ➡️  15 Top Things To Do In Birmingham Alone: The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide (From A Local) ➡️  Birmingham vs London: Which City Is Better To Visit? A Surprising Answer From A Birmingham Local ➡️  Is Birmingham Overrated? A Local’s Verdict On Visiting England’s Second City ➡️  Where To Go For The Best Whisky Tasting Experience in Birmingham, Recommended By A Brummie ➡️  6 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Digbeth: Birmingham’s Trendiest Neighbourhood Reviewed By A Local ➡️  Is It Better To Visit Wolverhampton or Birmingham? Why This Answer From a Local May Surprise You

Planning your trip? Here are my favourite resources: 🛏️ Accommodation – Find the best place to stay with Booking.com 🚗 Rental Car – Use Discover Cars for the best car rental prices ❤️ Travel Insurance – I recommend using Visitors Coverage ✈️ Flights – Use Kiwi.com for the best prices

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Hi! I’m Mark from Wolverhampton in England and I’m a travel blogger! Back in 2013 I decided to quit my boring day job and travel the world solo for nine months. Ever since then I’ve continued my travels whenever possible and so far I’ve visited over 40 countries, mostly as a solo traveller!

THE 10 BEST Birmingham Cultural Tours

Cultural tours in birmingham.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking Tour with Edward Shelby

2. Birmingham City Centre Daily Walking Tour (10:30am & 5pm)

3. From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour

4. Cotswolds Full-Day Tour From Birmingham

5. Discovering Birmingham 2 hour Walking Tour to the Jewellery Quarter

6. Birmingham's Public Art - City Centre Walking Tour

7. 2.5-Hours Walking Tour of Birmingham into Black Heritage Madiba

8. Red Brick Heart & Soul 10.30 - 12.15

9. Birmingham Walking Tour: Migration Stories from the Stratford Road

10. Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour

11. Pride History of Birmingham Tour

12. Birmingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

13. Guided Tour of Street Art in Birmingham

14. Private Birmingham City Walking Tour

15. Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham: A Walking Adventure

16. Unique Corners of Birmingham – Walking Tour for Couples

17. Private 3 Hour Birmingham City & Jewellery Quarter Tour

18. Iconic Birmingham: A Journey Through Heart & Heritage

19. Private Birmingham Family Walking Tour

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