Birmingham is a city in England, found in the West Midlands region. It holds the record as the largest city in the UK outside of London and stands at the geographical center of England.
Known as ‘the city of a thousand trades’ Birmingham’s fame began in the Industrial Revolution when it rose to become a powerhouse of manufacturing. Since then, it has spearheaded innovation in science and technology, as well as creative pursuits.
Today you’ll find many 18th century landmarks still exist to illuminate Birmingham’s fascinating history, as well as modern art galleries, museums, symphony halls, and old manor houses from every era.
Whether you’ll be there for a week or just a weekend, Birmingham has plenty to offer. Here are some of the most popular attractions…
Cadbury World
This one is for all you chocolate lovers! While Birmingham may be known for its scientific innovation and industrial progress, it is also home to the world’s largest Cadbury shop, and there is now an entire exhibition to celebrate that.
Cadbury World is mostly aimed at kids, with an exciting 4D animated cinema experience, but anyone will enjoy the free chocolate samples throughout.
You’ll also learn about the history of the Cacao bean, and the process this small, unassuming bean goes through to become the velvety chocolate we all know and love. End the tour with a look around the onsite shop and a trip to the Cadbury cafe.
Brindley Place
Brindley Place is built around Birmingham’s historic canals. It is a popular tourist destination, showcasing plenty of restored original buildings, boats, and more, giving visitors a charming peek back through time.
This landmark has 27 bars and restaurants to choose from, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. Remember to book a table in advance, because it gets busy quickly here.
This hidden gem with its bright colors and old canals may not be what you expect of Birmingham, in some ways it feels like you’ve arrived at a smaller, and more British, Venice, but it is without a doubt one of Birmingham’s most beautiful attractions.
Great Western Arcade
The Great Western Arcade is a Victorian shopping center found in Birmingham’s retail district. As you walk by the different shops, it feels as if you’re walking down an ancient Victorian street, except with more brand names.
The Arcade has everything from spas to independent shops and specialist gourmet venues.
This antique shopping complex is certainly worth a visit during your trip, especially if you’re thinking about buying some souvenirs to take back home with you.
Jewellery Quarter
This ‘gem of Birmingham’ is over 250 years old, and today it is home to over 500 jewelry businesses.
This is a truly unique place, where history has been preserved and modern developments have merged gracefully to keep the original concept intact.
Whether you’re looking for that perfect necklace or pair of earrings, or you just want to browse, this historical Quarter should absolutely be on your list.
Barber Institute of Fine Arts
This Art Deco building was designed by Robert Atkinson in the 1930s and was first opened by Queen Mary, the wife of George V, in 1939. It sits inside the University of Birmingham campus.
Today the building serves as an art gallery and concert hall. In the book, Britain’s Best Museums and Galleries the Barber Institute earned its place as one of only five British art galleries outside of London to have ‘outstanding collections of international significance.
If you’re interested in art, or architecture, you should add the Barber Institute to your itinerary asap.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens has four separate glasshouses, interspersed with manicured lawns and well-maintained shrubberies and rose bushes.
Each of the four glasshouses is dedicated to a different environment. There is a tropical house, an arid house, a subtropical house, and a Mediterranean house.
The entire Botanical gardens are located inside a Victorian park that stretches over 15 acres, making it the perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
Aston Hall
Aston Hall is located inside a public park towards the north of Birmingham. This Grade 1 listed building is a Jocaboean marvel that dates from the 17th century.
With a variety of display rooms showing everything from the original decor and table settings to exhibits on the Civil War, Aston Hall provides an intriguing look back through history.
As well to the interior, Aston Hall is renowned for its garden, designed by Lady Holte, which is divided into sections by a water feature that runs from the center outwards. This stunning symmetrical garden creates an instantly peaceful atmosphere and is a favorite with visitors.
Winterbourne House and Garden
This Edwardian-era house is a must-see heritage site. It has been carefully restored to its original splendor, and today you can see inside and peruse the traditional decor and antiques.
The grounds which surround the house, and have now been converted into a small botanic garden, are also a draw. They contain over 6,000 plant species spread throughout the grounds and are a delight for any horticultural enthusiast.
Sheldon Country Park
Sheldon Park covers 300 acres of woodland, wetland, grassland, and old hedgerows. This is the place to go for long walks and short walks alike, with designated trails and paths to guide you.
Next to the main entrance of the park is a 17th-century dairy farm, the Old Rectory Farm, which has been restored and is now used as an exhibit of traditional farming methods.
You’ll also see the cattle, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks that live there, which make it a popular place for a family day out.
Soho House
Soho House used to be the home of industrialist Matthew Boulton. Today it has been restored and renovated in the original Georgian style, so you can look around at the old-fashioned decor, silverware, vases, and other artifacts.
One of the main attractions is the exhibit explaining the history of the steam engine, which was invented by Boulton along with his friend, James Watt.
Soho House is also said to be a favorite meeting place of the Lunar Society, an enlightenment group that would meet every month on a full moon to enjoy fine dining and lively philosophical debates.
Lickey Hills Country Park
Despite being one of the UK’s largest cities, Birmingham is full of parks and woodlands perfect for any nature lover.
Lickey Hills Park spans a range of 520 acres, including forests and marshes that are home to a wide variety of indigenous wildlife.
If you’re looking for somewhere to hike or bike, Lickey Hills is a good option. There’s a mix of terrain here; some are flat and easily accessible, and other areas require more effort and are perfect for the ambitious mountain biker.
Selly Manor
Selly Manor is a traditional, timber-framed Tudor manor house, found in the historic Bournville district. It is one of Birmingham’s oldest buildings and is always a popular attraction for tourists.
Inside, the house has been converted into another museum and has a wonderful range of antiques, including the Cadbury collection of period furniture.
Selly Manor is also a licensed venue for marriage ceremonies and is a popular choice to bring some extra magic to that special day.
Cannon Hill Park
This beautifully landscaped park features a gorgeous collection of plants from around the world and spans over 250 acres.
As well as the natural beauty here, you will also find recreational and sports areas, including a tennis court, mini-golf course, bowling, boating, and fishing areas, as well as designated picnic spots.
If you manage to pick a good day weather-wise, this idyllic park is truly a beautiful place to spend the day.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
The Birmingham museum and art gallery have just about every exhibit imaginable. There are sections on social history, archaeology and ethnology, and beautiful artworks.
You can see ancient Anglo-Saxon gold, Egyptian mummies, Indian bronze sculptures, and much more.
This vast, fascinating museum is the perfect indoor activity for a rainy day, or if you want a break from walking about the city.
Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall is renowned as one of the UK’s finest concert halls. The acoustics here are second to none, and the auditorium is both spacious and beautifully decorated, seating over 2,000 people.
Symphony Hall hosts a range of events, from international orchestras to jazz performances to ballet to stand-up comedy nights. It is also used as a venue for private business conferences and graduation ceremonies.
Whatever your taste in music and entertainment is, there’s sure to be something on the program here that will peak your interest. Just be sure to book any events well in advance, as tickets sell out quickly.
Villa Park Stadium Tour
If you’re a football fan, this will probably be at the top of your list when visiting Birmingham. The Villa Park Stadium tour allows you to truly soak in the atmosphere of this historic venue, with exclusive access to all the ‘backstage’ areas.
You’ll also discover more about the stadium’s history, most famous matches, and biggest wins. The stadium is well worth a visit, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment you walk through the tunnel.
Library of Birmingham
The Library of Birmingham is an absolute haven for all book lovers. The building from the outside is very modern and utilitarian, but when you venture inside you’ll find there is still that classic and traditional library atmosphere.
On the top floor, you will find the Shakespeare collection, which is sure to be enjoyed by any classics fan.
There is also an outdoor terrace that looks down on Canterbury Square and offers a great view of the city from above, as well as a small herb garden. A visit to this beautiful library is exactly what you need to recover from a day of walking around the city.
