Birmingham
Birmingham is a city and metropolitan borough in the West Midlands, England. With a population of 1,140,000 it is the largest and most populous British city outside London. Birmingham's metropolitan area is the second-largest in the United Kingdom with an estimated population of 2.2 million.
The place is breathtakingly beautiful and filled with culture and history. It is also a city which serves the regions of the West Midlands, a centre of higher education and a major economic driver. Its industries include aerospace, automotive, engineering, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Birmingham is the only major British city with a Muslim majority.
Birmingham contains a wide range of cultural attractions which makes it a very diverse and unique city. Some of the major attractions of the city include the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, which is the largest in Europe and the National Sea Life Centre which is located at the city centre.
Birmingham's culinary scene has progressed enormously over the last few years and is now an established and popular part of the city's cultural history and social life. The success of restaurants such as Gilroy's, Little Barbecue, Aspery's, including their various spin-offs - Battersea Park Hotel, Parlour Bar & Brasserie and Flat Iron - has meant that Birmingham has become known as the National City of Gastronomy.
The place offers a lot of interesting and fun activities to do including playing football or rugby in one of the many parks in the city or taking in the beauty of the lovely botanical Gardens at the place. One can also explore the brindleyplace or the canal quarter or discover the city on a walking tour.
The weather at the place is generally warm and temperate. Birmingham experiences all four seasons, which is predominantly conditioned by the mass of the ocean and latitude. The local climate is hot-summer Mediterranean and its summers are notably warmer than London and other places in the United Kingdom, although they are affected by frequent minor rainfall. Winters in Birmingham tend to be mild with infrequent heavy periods of rain and snow every few years. Heavy snowfall has been experienced in Birmingham; however it rarely settles on the ground for more than a few hours.
Birmingham Packages
Birmingham FAQ's
Which are the best places to visit in Birmingham?
1. Birmingham Hippodrome: Birmingham Hippodrome is a modern theatre and entertainment complex in Birmingham, England that opened in 2001. Its Art Deco style building was designed by architect Sir Basil Spence and it is the only surviving element of the Central Plaza Shopping Centre originally built in 1960. Its main auditorium can accommodate up to 1,400 people and it has a 250-seat studio theatre.
There's also an education centre for children and adults to indulge into, a food court with two bars and nine restaurants as well as cafes packed with all the deliciousness that one could think of, shops and nightclubs for all the party lovers. It was designed by Sir Basil Spence who said: "It is my hope that those who enter will find themselves transported into another world." which stands true as the studio has everything to offer that one wishes to find for a getaway.
Location: Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham B5 4TB, United
2. Cadbury World: Cadbury World is a small, but highly-popular chocolate exhibition in Birmingham. It's easy to get to, has a lot of fun attractions and tasty food options, and will teach you everything about the history of one of the world's most famous brands.
The exhibition has been around for many years, but Cadbury just opened their first Cadbury World in America — it should be visited by everyone who loves chocolates as the visit would be fascinating as well as tasteful.
Location: Linden Rd, Birmingham B30 1JR, United Kingdom
Timing: 9 AM to 3 PM; On Saturday & Sunday - 9 AM to 12 PM
3. Library of Birmingham: Library of Birmingham, the world’s largest public library, has become one of the most amazing destinations in Birmingham city to visit for both locals and tourists alike. Designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, it is located in the heart of Birmingham on Centenary Square.
The library’s brutalist architecture matches beautifully with its iconic cylindrical-shaped exterior as well as the striking interior design which pays tribute to well-known figures from Birmingham’s literary, musical and sporting history. It now welcomes over five million visitors every year from across the world which makes the place well worth a visit.
Location: Centenary Sq, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EA, United Kingdom
Timing: 11 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Sunday
4. Birmingham Museum: The Birmingham Museum has an extensive collection of items relating to the history of the city and events in its past, all showcased for it's visitors. These range from artefacts related to World War Two, Birmingham's industrial past, and Political propaganda which puts you in touch with the dramatic times in which they lived.
The museum also has a present day collection that includes artwork by local artists. It offers guided tours that are led by experts for groups of 10 or more people every day at 12pm and 2pm. Groups can also make their own private tour of up to 40 people which can be booked anytime between 12pm-5pm on Mondays & Tuesdays only with advance notice.
Location: Chamberlain Sq, Birmingham B3 3DH, United Kingdom
Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM
5. Black Country Living Museum: The Black Country Living Museum is not any basic museum. It's situated on 150 acres of land, right in the heart of the historic West Midlands region known as the Black Country. The museum has been given all sorts of awards for its contributions to education, culture, science and heritage.
What really makes this museum unique though is the way it brings the past to life and allows visitors to learn and engage with their history and culture in a fun and exciting way. One can learn all about life as a miner, how to survive a blast furnace, or make their very own museum exhibit at this place.
Location: Tipton Rd, Dudley DY1 4SQ, United Kingdom
Timing: 10 AM to 4 PM; Closed on Monday to Tuesday
6. Cannon Hill Park: Cannon Hill Park is a large public park in Birmingham, England. It is located on Mackenzie Hill and provides breathtaking views of the city center.Here at Cannon Hill Park there are numerous activities that you can be a part of, from playing sports to eating candy apples, from taking a picnic lunch to enjoying the best view of the Birmingham skyline.
The park is for both locals and visitors alike with its beautiful landscape and architectural features making it an ideal place for relaxation or playing sports.
Location: Russell Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8RD, United Kingdom
Timing: 7.30 AM to 9 PM
7. Jewellery Quarter: Jewellery Quarter occupies the entire floors of an imposing Victorian building which was once the headquarters of Birmingham's gas company. Here you can see that the building has also housed the city's first public library, which still has many original books and documents on display for one to marvel at.
The centre's wealth of exotic jewellery stores offers every kind of hues that range from dark bronze to shimmering silver-plated pieces. One can also pick up unique bracelets and tiaras for strictly minimalistic reasons, or rediscover their own personal style with a little help from the knowledge-able staff at the museum shop.
Location: 75-80 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6HA, United Kingdom
Timing: 10 AM to 4 PM
8. The National SEA LIFE Centre: The National SEA LIFE Centre in Birmingham is the largest inland aquarium in Europe. The centre houses more than 8,000 marine animals and displays 12 themed zones, including an amazing Amazon Quest zone letting you in for a fascinating experience.
The National SEA LIFE Centre in Birmingham provides a unique and engaging experience to its visitors. Featuring a stunning 63ft underwater tunnel, monster touch pool and much more, one will be able to witness over 500 species of sea life from across the globe. From the smallest seahorse to huge sharks this world-class attraction has something for everyone!
Location: Eleven BrindleyPlace, The Water's Edge, Birmingham B1 2HL, United Kingdom
Timing: Monday to Friday - 10 AM to 4 PM; Saturday - 10 AM to 6 PM; Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM
What are the best things to do in Birmingham?
1. See the inspiration for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ at Moseley Bog: It's a dream come true to visit these famous Middle Earth site, that is 'The Moseley Bog, which turned out to be an inspiration for the amazing novel, "The lord, of rings", where Sir William wrote his poetry and where you can now stroll through nature and explore plants, animals, insects, old trees, and stunning bluebells all around this fascinating archaeological greenhouse.
You can also see the beautiful old mill dam and two burnt moulds that surround it, which give it an ancient texture. While admiring the beautiful views, you can also marvel at the JRR Tolkien theme of the place.
Location: Yardley Wood Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 9JX, United Kingdom
2. Explore Brindleyplace and the canal quarter: One of the most interesting things to do in Birmingham is to explore Brindleyplace and the Canal Quarter. You'll be able to enjoy the scenic beauty of Birmingham's vibrant canal quarter as well as the breathtakingly beautiful surroundings, which are often referred to as the Cinderella part of the city.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the historic roundhouse building, which you can see by taking a relaxing boat ride or by biking or walking. Finally, while marvelling at the amazing interiors of three brindleyplace from central square, you can enjoy a delicious bite at some of the authentic restaurants around brindley place.
3. Take the energetic, a running tour: One of the most enjoyable things to do in Birmingham is to participate in a 5-kilometer street art running tour. During this run, you will have the opportunity to see some of the city's most beautiful sights while admiring the town's lovely small houses.
You'll also have the chance to discover Birmingham's beautiful, inspiring, and little-known street art while admiring the scenic beauty of the beautifully decorated canals that serve as the epicentre of the city's street art scene. You can also stop by to admire and photograph the city's incredible street art while learning about it.
4. Sink a pint in grand Victorian pub The Bartons Arms: Visiting the Barton Arms, a grand Victorian pub in Birmingham, is one of the most exciting things to do in the city. You can marvel at the stunning architecture of this place, which has been serving people for more than 100 years, while enjoying some delectable food.
You'll be able to taste authentic Thai cuisine such as the Barton Arms platter, prawn crackers, spring rolls, sweetcorn croquettes, and succulent chicken wings. You can also sample award-winning beers and red and white wines, such as Carnevale Veneto Chardonnay IGT, Sereno Pinot Grigio, Inkosi Shiraz, Central Monte Merlot, and others.
Location: 144 High St, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UP, United Kingdom
Timing: Monday to Saturday - 12 PM to 11 PM; Sunday - 12 PM to 10 PM
5. Try out VR in immersive 4D: You can now get indulged in a unique activity in Birmingham city at digbeths floodgate Street where you can marvel at the amazing combination of theater, Vr and films. Here you will see a whole new world with each experience lasting for about 60 minutes. You will get an opportunity to witness augmented virtual reality with multisensory AR and VR technology which makes the experience all the more interesting.
6. Lend an ear to the city’s homegrown musical talent: The homegrown harvest season, which also happens to be Birmingham's music festival season, brings the city's beauty to life. You will have the opportunity to see rising regional talent on two stages, as well as a diverse mix of styles and genres throughout the festival.
You'll get to see everything from Jason Grubbs' skilled guitar work to The Yellow Dandies' eccentric bluegrass, all the different sounds and sensibilities, making it one of the best things to do in Birmingham city.
How is the nightlife in Birmingham?
1. The Mailbox: This high-end restaurant has it all from open view bars over the canal to fashion boutiques and even the BBC studios making it a perfect nightlife spot to be at while in Birmingham. Here you can even enjoy tasting a number of cuisines ranging from Italian to Indian and Indica.
2. Arcadian: This country yard offers all that is needed for a stunning nightlife experience including pubs, cocktail bars, international cuisine restaurants, and even the Glee club. Here you will be accompanied with a good crowd and even professionals to mix with and enjoy a fun evening.
3. Broad Street: Located in the heart of the city, this street offers you a thoroughfare packed with numerous clubs and bars including Pitcher & Piano and Revolution Birmingham. Here you can give yourself a treat and enjoy the famous Balti Curry and a lot more places with good food.
4. Star City: Star City has 25 screens and even VIP theaters making it the best cinema in the city. Here you can enjoy dining at restaurants, or watch a movie, or indulge into some games like 10-pin bowling and mini golf, or play laser tag too, making sure you have an amazing night out at Birmingham.
5. Digbeth: This lively night place of the city is where you can enjoy a pop-up street, food market and urban art. You can even relish old boozers and bars with a tint of the past. It also offers craft bars and different cuisine all in the 50 stalls presented here for you to enjoy while socialising with the locals as well as other friendly visitors.
What is the best time to visit Birmingham?
While visiting in April you can even participate in events like the earth day and the music festival held during this month. Besides that, you can take advantage of free museum days that would allow you to spend less money on attractions.
What is Birmingham famous for?
There are plenty of things you can do whilst visiting Birmingham. You can check out some of the museums like The Barber Institute of Fine Arts which contains more than 16,000 famous fine art pieces including Rembrandt’s ‘The Anatomy Lesson’ painting or visit some of the many talented artists working on display at Moseley Art Trail or visiting The Mailbox Gallery for an exhibition by an artist living locally.
How many days are enough for Birmingham?
Which are the best historical places in Birmingham?
1. Weoley Castle, The Remains Of A Fortified Manor: The historic house was originally built before 1185 as a motte and bailey castle. And now, the main building has since been converted into a museum displaying local archaeology, geology and anthropology exhibits for its visitors from around the world. The castle site is nearby to other attractions including Birmingham Cathedral, St Philip's Cathedral, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall and Mere Green Shopping Centre.
2. Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium: On your visit to the historic Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium in Birmingham, you can watch the amazing dog races and several others. The most popular sport at this stadium that you can not miss while in Birmingham is greyhound racing and you can even kick back on one of the comfortable greyhound benches while enjoying a pint at The Greyhound Pub Garden next door.
3. Winterbourne House And Garden: Winterbourne House is not only a famous historic place, it was a suburban residential area back in the 20th century and also hosts some of the best garden design invitations in Britain, so it's no wonder so many people come to see what the place has to offer during festivals.
This place offers a number of fun activities for the visitors including planting up yarrows which will then hopefully carry flowers into bloom which will contribute to the scenic beauty of the place even more.
4. Birmingham Back To Backs: Birmingham Back to Backs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a local landmark in the city’s Jewellery Quarter. It’s a preserved example of the early 19th and 20th century slum, with six back-to-back houses from this period.
A visit might include exploring your way through bygone streets into 1920s terraced house interiors, going underground to see the remains of nearby factories and mines, or visiting one of Birmingham's oldest schools.
5. Sixteenth Street Baptist Church: Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham is one of the most famous landmarks in Alabama. Here you can see that the church has beautiful stained-glass windows, a beautiful pipe organ, and a lovely sanctuary with arched ceilings and oak pews which makes the place well worth a visit.
Which are the best places for shopping in Birmingham?
1. The Bullring: The Bullring Shopping Centre boasts one of the widest choices of shopping items in the Midlands, with over 100 shops. The Bullring offers something for everyone, from big name brands like Apple, Reebok and House of Fraser to more niche stores like Florian's shoes, Red or Dead or Pajama Sam. There are plenty of other options for foodies, with well-known high street names such as Yo! Sushi alongside independent cafes and restaurants.
2. Birmingham Rag Market: The Birmingham Rag Market is a monthly market held on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm at Digbeth. It's a vibrant, exciting and fun place that offers visitors a chance to buy handmade items from individual artists and crafters along with vintage items from local traders.
3. Great Western Arcade: Great Western Arcade is one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings. Built in 1876, it has served as a retail space ever since. Today, its interior is divided into three floors- G1, G2 and G3 with an eclectic mix of retail shops including independent boutiques, cafes and restaurants. No matter what your tastes are, there’s something for everyone at the Great Western Arcade.
4. Grand Central: At Grand Central Station there's much more than just the fashion stores inside! The number of things you can do at Grand Central are practically endless. There are over 400 shops for fashion accessories, food and drinks, jewellery, gifts and souvenirs, household goods such as cleaning products, games and music.
5. Birmingham Christmas Market: The Biggest Christmas Market in Birmingham has over 80 stalls of lovely handmade crafts, international gifts and food stalls by award winning traders all set around the iconic Rotunda and even festive holiday funfair, Santa’s Grotto and ice rink. Pop in here for a hot chocolate with marshmallows on top or some fresh roasted chestnuts.
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