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West Midlands Growth Company

Why we love Birmingham

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.

From cruising down the city’s forgotten underground canals with an expert guide to checking out the home of the infamous Peaky Blinders, or celebrating the city’s eclectic cuisine with an unforgettable meal on the Balti Triangle, Birmingham’s blindingly brilliant!

Peaky Blinders

Step back in time at the Black Country Living Museum to discover the inspiration behind the hit TV series Peaky Blinders. Follow in the footsteps Thomas Shelby as you uncover a world of gangs and crime.

©VisitBritain/Nemorin

Michelin Dining

Boasting the most Michelin -starred restaurants outside of London, Birmingham brings the foodie game to the West Midlands. From decadent local eats to top-class fine dining, you’ll find the city bursting with places to tuck into delicious delights.

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Birmingham Pride

Discover dance tents, fabulous cabaret shows and dramatic drag queen performances at Birmingham Pride . See the city’s streets awash with rainbow flags, celebrating unity, equality and love in the West Midlands.

Retail therapy

Why just shop, when you can enjoy movies, festivals and restaurants too? Maybe you’ll take a drag makeup masterclass, kick back at a luxurious day spa, or check into a swish canal-view hotel. The Mailbox has top designer and high-street brands, shoulder to shoulder.

VisitBritain/Storyman

Birmingham, West Midlands

Flavours to savour

Hot, spicy and utterly moreish, the balti is a dish unique to Birmingham. It was invented in the 1970s by a Pakistani-British chef, who blended the flavours and ingredients of the two nations. In the south of the city, this district is the best place to try it!

Things to do in Birmingham

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Black Country Living Museum

Known as the ‘Black Country’ for the soot produced by its iron foundries, this open-air museum brings local history to life.

The Black Country Living Museum

From Michelin’s Best Young Chef 2021 to street food and Instagrammable cocktails, Digbeth is full of culinary delights.

Birmingham Mela

Experience the sights and sounds of the UK’s biggest South Asian music festival, held every summer.

VisitBritain/Mela Festival

Bullring & Grand Central

Visit Bullring & Grand Central for top-notch shopping and dining, with leading fashion brands and restaurants galore.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Ikon Gallery

Featuring contemporary art from all over the world, this internationally-acclaimed venue focuses on works by indigenous and migrant creatives.

Ikon Gallery/Handover Agency

Bustling Birmingham Kayak Tour – Roundhouse

Did you know that Birmingham has more canals than Venice? Take a closer look on this adventure…

Roxy Ball Room

With bowling, American pool, beer pong and more, this adults-only playground is full of competitive fun.

The Roxy Ballroom

Go Ape Cannock Chase

You’ll swing, leap and climb through the trees, braving wobbly rope bridges and thrilling zip wires.

From Shakespearean plays to stand-up comedy, live interviews and classical ballet, this venue has it all.

Graeme Braidwood

This art gallery, music venue and events space celebrates the vibrant cultures of Central and Eastern Europe.

Birmingham Library

This striking building features a theatre space, observation deck and peaceful wildlife gardens.

Cadbury World

Calling all chocoholics! Every inch of this museum and experience is dedicated to our favourite treat.

Balti Triangle

Hot, spicy and utterly moreish, the balti is Birmingham's signature dish – and this area is the best place to try it.

With chef Aktar Islam at the helm, this was the first Indian restaurant outside London to receive a Michelin star.

VisitBritain/Nemorin

With A-list performers, glittering cabaret and a vibrant parade, this is always an incredible show.

Hurst Street

Also known as Gay Village, this city-centre area is famous for its LGBTQIA+ scene – with clubs, pubs and bars galore.

VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

Symphony Hall

From gospel singers to famous rock legends, this magnificent venue hosts live music of all descriptions.

VisitBritain/Motionhouse Iain_Jamieson

Frankfurt Christmas Market, Birmingham

With street food, craft stalls, twinkling lights and live music, this is a little slice of festive Frankfurt.

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Birmingham Comedy Festival

From big-name stars to hot new talents, this line-up features stand-up, slapstick, musicals and more.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

This horticultural haven features four glasshouses, filled with plants and trees from all over the globe.

Gas Street Basin

This isn’t only the heart of Birmingham’s canal network: it is a historic hotspot for drinking and dining.

Edgbaston Reservoir

Fishing, sailing, rowing, bird-watching: this forest-fringed wetland is full of outdoor adventures.

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Dudley Canal and Caverns

Cruise through underground tunnels to discover fossils, wildlife and relics of the Industrial Revolution.

The Floating Spa

This city retreat offers state-of-the-art floatation tanks, to ease away the stresses of everyday life.

Video by Rob Abdul from My Love Photography

This extensive spa hotel features 12 biothermal rooms, a swimming pool, beauty salon and more.

Sherborne Wharf canal tours

For sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and private waterway charters, you’ve come to the right place.

Sherborne Wharf

The Mailbox, Birmingham

Alongside top designer and high-street shops, this mall features festivals, movies and great dining too.

Great Western Arcade

Independent boutiques rub shoulders with cocktail bars, beauty salons, artisan bakeries and more.

Secret Birmingham - cycling tours

Follow a self-guided bike trail at your own pace, and enjoy insightful history snippets on video, too.

ecobirmingham

Postiviely Birmingham walking tour

Delve deeper into the city’s most fascinating and culturally-enriching corners, on these expert-led walking tours.

Positively Birmingham

It’s 100% vegan, but this restaurant’s menu is enough to tempt even the most dedicated meat-eater…

BA-HA Birmingham

The Floodgate

Great cocktails, street food and ball games: is there a better combination for a winning night out?

Birmingham, England

Warwick Castle

Spectacular shows and spellbinding storytelling bring history to life.

gary718/Shutterstock

Warwick, England

Adam’s Restaurant

Having won multiple awards, including a Michelin star, this fine-dining spot celebrates British cuisine.

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

This is the place to meet – and help to protect – red pandas, lemurs, meerkats, monkeys and more.

Alamy Stock Photo

Cannon Hill Park

This conservation area offers tennis courts, a boating lake, fairground rides and a mini golf course.

Rebecca Lambert

Red Brick Market

From vinyl records to 1950s fashions, this characterful market has a huge range of vintage treasures.

Carters of Moseley

Opt for a tasting menu at this Michelin-starred spot, to enjoy up to 12 courses of top-quality British fare.

Good Food Show Summer

The highly anticipated Good Food Show Summer is an annual summer foodie extravaganza!

Good Food Show

Featured things to do

Jansch Aza Greatrix, 2020

Get your adrenaline pumping

Take to the high ropes, dive deep with the sharks or try your hand at axe throwing at The Bear Grylls Adventure. Tackle the climbing wall to free fall like a parachutist.

Go for a paddle

Test your balancing skills with stand-up paddle boarding on the picturesque Edgbaston Reservoir – escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the surrounding woodlands and wildlife.

Have a right laugh

Get ready for some big laughs in Birmingham – with 40 shows in different venues around the city and some big comedy names this festival will certainly put a smile on your face.

A Christmas in Birmingham

Marvel at a performance of The Nutcracker from Birmingham’s Royal Ballet, to getting a taste of Germany at the annual Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market.

Places to stay in Birmingham

Here you’ll find streets buzzing with nightclubs, bistros, cocktail bars and Birmingham’s brilliant Gay Village. You’ll also find Chinatown and Cadbury World here. And for those who fancy something more laid-back, there’s The National Sea Life Centre and plenty of parks and woodlands.

From the heart of this industrial centre into what’s transformed into the city’s cultural epicentre for arts and indie sellers. It’s a vibrant and happy place where you’ll find vintage to vegan, music to breweries all around budget-friendly stays.

Jewellery Quarter

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.

Explore nearby

The birthplace of 2-Tone music, and home to a bohemian village and a showy modern cathedral.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare, fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th century town.

Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

projecthoop

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

From a Medieval monarch found under a car park to the city’s celebration of multicultural modern life, Leicester has it all. See the top things to do here.

Visit Leicester

Leicester, England

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.

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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.

More on England

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The 27 best things to do in Birmingham

From winding canal walks to some of the country’s finest restaurants, these are the best things to do in Birmingham

Birmingham is a vast place, and you’ve got to know where to look. But among its miles of gorgeous canals and awesome greenery, you’ll find characterful pubs, fascinating museums and some of the best restaurants in the country.

Here you’ll find heavy metal music, a nationally adored chocolate company, the world’s biggest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings, several high-flying football teams (need we go on?) and more. It doesn’t have a bit of everything – it has a lot of it. Ready to explore? Here are the best things to do in Birmingham right now.

RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Birmingham 🍻 The most charming pubs in Birmingham 🛏 The best hotels in Birmingham

This guide was recently updated by Birmingham-based writer  Lauren Potts .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Top things to do in Birmingham

1.  Explore Brindleyplace and the canal quarter

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What is it?  Birmingham’s vibrant canal quarter is home to some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, the  National Sea Life Centre  and the  Ikon Gallery .

Why go?  The oft-quoted ‘more canals than Venice’ claim is a bit misleading – Birmingham is  much, much bigger – but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on a walk around the canal quarter. It’s a real Cinderella part of town, having been hugely redeveloped and crammed full of restaurants and bars.

Don’t miss:  Use the historic  Roundhouse  building as a base from which to explore by boat, bike or foot.

2.  Satisfy your sweet tooth at Cadbury World

What is it?  England’s number-one chocolate-focused attraction. 

Why go?  For the best views of Brum’s chocolate factory, arrive by train (13 minutes from New Street) and take a deep breath – a sweet haze envelopes the red-brick, olde-worlde Bournville village, which was designed and built for the workers of England’s flagship chocolate brand. Cadbury World is the public bit of the factory: tours include a deep dive into the history of cocoa, a 4D cinema and a ride in the self-styled ‘Beanmobile’.

Don’t miss:  Have your Wonka experience in the demonstration area (yes, molten chocolate is involved; yes, you get to drink it). The world’s biggest Cadbury store also awaits, boasting concoctions unavailable anywhere else.

3.  Mooch around the Jewellery Quarter

What is it?  Pack a full day – and night – of fun in this increasingly popular part of town, where you’ll find everything from exhibitions to nightclubs.

Why go?  With more than 200 listed buildings and more than 250 years of history, Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter should be on any Brum itinerary. According to English Heritage, Europe’s largest cluster of jewellery businesses is a ‘national treasure’. Museum nerds will love the  Museum of the Jewellery Quarter , the  Pen Museum  and  Newman Brothers Coffin Works . And with all the pubs, restaurants, galleries and independent boutiques here, there’s something for everybody else too.

Don’t miss:  If you’re making a night of it, check in to  BLOC , close to the ever-popular JQ nightclub. Try  Jam House , or if you have something even later and livelier in mind, Brum’s up-for-it generation descend upon the  Actress & Bishop  from about 1am, with no intention of making it a quiet one.

4.  Find tropical plants, birds and butterflies at the Botanical Gardens

What is it?  Fifteen acres of ornamental gardens, glasshouses and exotic birds in indoor and outdoor aviaries.

Why go?  The Botanical Gardens ’ exotic world of tropical plantlife makes for an excellent family day out. The glasshouses are filled with all manner of strange flora, while the lawns and shrubbery outside are perfect for a stroll during the sunnier months.

Don’t miss:  The butterfly house full of tropical insects from as far as the Philippines, Central America and tropical parts of Africa.

5.  Soak up the views from Orelle

What is it? A French fusion restaurant with some extraordinary views across the UK’s Second City.

Why go? Perched on the 24th floor of the imposing 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham simply doesn’t have anywhere else like Orelle . Huge floor-to-ceiling windows mean the city fans out below in all directions, while at night its twinkling lights look even more evocative. The food isn’t cheap but it’s well made and beautifully presented, but really, you’ve come here for the views, so drink them in. 

Don’t miss:  If you don’t want to eat, there are a few seats at the well-stocked bar available but bear in mind they’re first come first serve, and obviously busier at weekends. 

6.  See contemporary art at Midlands Arts Centre

What is it?  Known to locals as the MAC, the Midlands Arts Centre has spent six decades celebrating contemporary art at its light and airy venue on the edge of Cannon Hill Park - one of Birmingham’s most popular green spaces.

Why go?  The MAC is a one-stop-shop for art, film, and hands-on courses that showcase creativity, culture and the community, with an ever-changing programme of events. Those wanting to explore the surrounding 80 acres of Victorian parkland can take in the listed bandstand, a 16th Century timber house, a lake full of swan-shaped pedalos and a 36-hole mini golf course.

Don’t miss:   MAC’s on-site food and drink choices are plentiful. Its restaurant, Kiln , was transformed during the pandemic and now offers a bright and modern space, with a bar down below. 

7.  Discover city secrets on a walking tour

What is it?  If the weather holds out, there is no better way to see Birmingham than on foot.

Why go?  There are some excellent guided walking tours, from  Positively Birmingham ’s Edward Burne-Jones pre-Raphaelite art tour to  Get Your Guide ’s  Discovering Birmingham Walking tour through the historic Jewellery Quarter.

8.  … or, for the energetic, a running tour

What is it?  Founded by an air steward with a passion for running in cities all over the world, Run of a Kind offers those with a bit of energy a great alternative way to get to know the city.

Why go?  With runs between 5km and 11km for beginners and those a bit more confident, the team sprint across Birmingham on a whistlestop tour of landmarks and hidden gems, including legendary LGBTQ+ venues, notable architecture and eye-popping street art.

9.  Fill up at one of Birmingham’s Michelin-starred restaurants

What is it?  Seriously good Michelin-starred dinners with a real range of price points. 

Why go?   Purnell’s ,  Simpsons ,  Adam’s ,  Carters ,  Opheem  and – if you’re prepared to head just outside the city –  Peel’s , will all bamboozle you with their culinary delights. And with more high-end independents opening all the time, you could get in before the Michelin inspectors do. A quiet food revolution has been rumbling through Brum – now’s your time to sample it.

10.  Sample sours and stouts on the Stirchley Beer Mile

What is it? A journey through the creative craft beer joints dotting the Stirchley neighbourhood.

Why go? Stirchley might look like ordinary suburbia at first glance, but it hides a plethora of taprooms serving an eyewatering amount of styles. Enjoy waterside pints at Glasshouse and Birmingham Brewing , while Attic Brew Co’s spacious site is good for large groups and Cork and Cage do a fine line in lambics and gueuzes. Newcomers Deadbeat bring a low-key dive bar vibe.

Don’t miss:  If you’re hungry, then Eat Vietnam’s wonderfully rich noodles, curries and small plates are the perfect way to soak up all that beer.

11.  Lend an ear to the city’s homegrown musical talent

What is it?  While London and Manchester will always get more attention when it comes to music, Birmingham has given the world its fair share of talent, including UB40, Duran Duran and Black Sabbath – and it’s still bubbling up at the present with a thriving local music scene.

Why go?  Whether it’s house at The Mill , indie at The Sunflower Lounge , the Night Owl ’s northern soul or jazz at The Jam House , you’ll find something interesting within walking distance of the high street. 

12.  See the inspiration for ‘Lord of the Rings’ at Moseley Bog

What is it?  A green idyll on the fringes of the city on the site of an old millpond. 

Why go?  Wander around this nature reserve full of plants, animals and insects, gnarled old trees and gorgeous carpets of bluebells each spring. The site is also of great archaeological interest, having two burnt mounds, the remains of an old mill dam and the foundations of Victorian greenhouses.

Don’t miss:  Book a JRR Tolkien-themed tour at Sarehole Mill , on the fringes of the bog: the ‘Lord of the Rings’ author grew up around Moseley Bog in the 1890s, and it’s said to be the inspiration for hobbit hangout The Shire. 

13.  Tour the hallowed grounds of Villa Park

What is it?  Take a tour of Aston Villa’s hallowed ground, or even catch a game. 

Why go?  There aren’t many football grounds in the world like Villa Park. The 42,000-capacity stadium has been home to the Villa since 1897, and it has an aura that few sporting institutions can match, especially when the Holte End is packed out and chanting along. Sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour or catch the boys in claret and blue play a Premier League game. 

Don’t miss:  Fancy a real treat? You can watch the match in comfort at  Eighty Two , the plush centre of football hospitality at Villa Park. 

14.  Meet the city’s creatives at the Custard Factory

What is it?  A restored Victorian factory, now a hub for creatives and independent businesses. 

Why go?  Alfred Bird invented custard powder in Birmingham in 1837, but these days, the old Custard Factory is a studio complex at the heart of Birmingham’s creative community. It’s home to many artists and is full of galleries, independent shops, cafés, restaurants, bars and the  Mockingbird Cinema . With its graffiti-strewn walls and regular arts events, the whole area is well worth a few hours of mooching.

Don’t miss:  Look out for regular open studio events to meet the designer-makers who make this place so special. 

15.  Go behind-the-scenes at Edgbaston cricket ground

What is it?  The home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, plus numerous England fixtures. 

Why go?  There’s nothing as quintessentially English as a game of cricket, and Birmingham boasts one of the very best places to watch one. Edgbaston is renowned as one of the country’s most atmospheric international test grounds. 

Don’t miss:  Take a  tour of the stadium  to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warwickshire and England changing room, the field, the media centre and more. 

16.  Sink a pint in grand Victorian pub The Bartons Arms

What is it?  A grand Victorian pub with original stained glass, engraved mirrors and snob screens.

Why go?   The Bartons Arms is a rare treasure among the mean streets of Newtown. Established in 1901 as a Victorian gin palace, it’s still beautifully ornate with original features such as Minton tiles, a grand horseshoe bar and a stunning wrought iron staircase climbed by the likes of Laurel & Hardy and Charlie Chaplin.

Don’t miss:  Book a tour or choose a pint from its fine range of Oakham ales and something spicy from the Thai menu.

17.  Time travel at the Birmingham Back to Backs

What is it? A quirky window into the living conditions of ordinary Brummies over the last 200 years.

Why go? Flanked by the colourful Hippodrome Theatre on one side and the lively LGBTQ+ bars of Hurst Street on the other, the Birmingham Back to Backs are in an unlikely location for a heritage site. But this communal courtyard with back-to-back houses is where ordinary folk once lived and guided tours take visitors on a journey from 1840 to 1970, to see how homelife evolved long before Nextflix and smartphones.

Don’t miss Not only does Court 15 Books have some fine second hand books for sales, there’s also regular free exhibitions upstairs.

18.  Fill your bags at one of the city’s iconic shopping destinations

What is it?  A marketplace since the twelfth century, Birmingham is still a city for shoppers. 

Why go?  The  Bullring  is now a giant mall incorporating the iconic Selfridges building (looking like a part-amorphous blob, part-crash-landed UFO). Across town, the  Mailbox  is a classier joint with the likes of Harvey Nichols and Emporio Armani.

Don’t miss:  Most interesting are the independents, which you’ll find scattered all over town and in places like the splendid  Great Western Arcade .

19.  Wine and dine at the Grand Hotel

What is it?  A Grade II-listed Victorian hotel in the city centre

Why go?  The legendary Grand Hotel reopened in the summer of 2020 following an 18-year closure and a painstaking multi-million-pound restoration. The building has hosted a plethora of historical figures, from Winston Churchill to Malcolm X, and now you can explore its striking Victorian and art deco interiors, including the jaw-dropping Grosvenor Ballroom and a new rooftop garden terrace.

Don’t miss:  The brand new outdoor terrace in the central courtyard. 

20.  Discover the treasures of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

While the current exhibition in the Gas Hall is open for visitors, t he main museum and art gallery building is currently closed for refurbishment.

What is it? BMAG is full of treasures – from Anglo-Saxon gold to more contemporary pieces. 

Why go?  Housing the largest collection of pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world and occupying one of the city’s finest buildings, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is not to be missed. Head up to the third level for a detailed, hands-on history of Birmingham and its people. 

Don’t miss:  The domed Round Room is often the location for free musical performances. Make time for a slice of cake at the refurbished Edwardian Tea Room.

21.  See world-class theatre at the Rep

What is it?  The Rep is the jewel in the crown of Brum’s theatre scene; it’s a lively venue with an emphasis on diverse programming.

Why go?  A production house for well over a century, it’s got more decades under its belt than the National Theatre in London or its West Midlands neighbours the RSC. And with major-league director Sean Foley in charge, it shows no sign of slowing down.

Don’t miss:  While there’s edgier programming the rest of the year, its annual production of ‘The Snowman’ is a delightful seasonal cuddle.

22.  Fill up on thalis at Raja Monkey

What is it?  A South Indian restaurant with a canteen vibe. 

Why go?  If you  really  want to dine like a Brummie, then a trip to a curry house is mandatory. The Balti Triangle – located south of the city centre – is famed for its long-established restaurants, but we suggest you head to Raja Monkey. This Hall Green spot serves thalis and street-food snacks like dosa and uttapam with cheerful informality. 

Don’t miss:  Try the thalis for a taste of what's on offer.

23.  Marvel at the Birmingham Royal Ballet

What is it?  One of the five major ballet companies in the UK producing jaw-dropping shows. 

Why go?  The tenure of Carlos Acosta as artistic director is a major coup for Birmingham Royal Ballet . The company has an illustrious history, but the celebrated Cuban dancer has implemented bold plans to re-energise it. Expect plenty of risks and surprises, plus a mix of classic revivals and ambitious partnerships.

Don’t miss:  A single second of the action. No, seriously.  

24.  Treat your ears to a concert at Symphony Hall

What is it?  Opulent concert hall that is home to the  City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra . 

Why go?  This grandiose venue was opened in 1991 and has delivered a rich programme of gigs and concerts ever since. Fun fact: it was recently voted as having the seventh-best concert-hall acoustics in the entire world. 

Don’t miss:  If you don’t know your Schubert from your Haydn, ease yourself in by visiting during the festive December programme. The Hall looks even better for candlelit carols.

25.  See the largest collection of British motorcycles at the National Motorcycle Museum

What is it?  The world’s largest collection of British motorcycles.

Why go?  A must-see for all petrolheads, this Bickenhill museum has more than 1,000 different motorcycles, dating back to an 1898 Beeston Humber Tricycle. There are also plenty of pretty serious modern superbikes.

Don’t miss:  Book a guided highlights tour with an experienced guide to get a behind-the-scenes look. 

More great things to do in Birmingham

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Regeneration, renewal and grand-scale construction continue apace in Britain's second-largest city. A state-of-the-art library, gleaming shopping centre atop revitalised New St station and beautifully restored Victorian buildings are just some of the successful initiatives of its Big City Plan, following on from the striking Mailbox and Bullring shopping malls and the iconic Selfridges building's 'bubblewrapped' facade. Work is underway on extensions to the Metro (light rail/tram) network, and on the centrepiece Paradise development's new hotels, public spaces, and glitzy residential and commercial buildings, with final completion due in 2025.

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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

Discover green Birmingham

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Step into the magical world of JRR Tolkien

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Enjoy a 360-degree Champagne view of Birmingham

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Boat through the history of a worldwide treasure

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Fall in love (all over again) at Malmaison Birmingham

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Get clued up on healthy cooking at Harborne Food School

Learn how to cook healthy, sustainable food at Birmingham’s newest food school.

Experience an on-stage extravaganza at the Birmingham Hippodrome

Plan a theatre trip to Birmingham and enjoy classic performances by the famous Birmingham Royal Ballet, comedy, drama, opera and fun-filled musicals.

Visit world-renowned artefacts on a budget break in Birmingham

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Birmingham's Bullring, books and boutiques

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Enjoy a weekend of free outdoor arts across Birmingham

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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

• United Kingdom
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Birmingham, UK

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Home to countless museums, arts venues, heritage sites and family attractions , the UK’s “second city” has way more to offer than a good balti. From stunning architecture to world-class art legacy, Birmingham is an amazing place to visit. Read on to plan your perfect weekend in Birmingham.

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Winterbourne House and Garden

A unique Edwardian-era site, Winterbourne House and Garden is situated in Edgbaston near to the University of Birmingham campus. Events there include art exhibits, theatre, craft workshops and live music – something for everyone. The main building was built in the Arts and Crafts style for John and Margaret Nettlefold in 1903, and has its own rustic outbuildings, large gardens and even a selection of 19th-century printing presses.

Birmingham Back to Backs

The Birmingham Back to Backs are one of the must unique attractions to the city. Situated near the Arcadian, this 19th-century courtyard of working-people’s houses was painstakingly restored by the National Trust to offer an atmospheric and educational experience to visitors. Guided tours show how Birmingham residents in bygone years lived and worked, before a visit to the classic 1930s sweet shop on the way out.

The Coffin Works

Have you ever wanted to visit the firm that produced the coffin furniture for the funerals of Joseph Chamberlain, Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother? Now you can! The Coffin Works , home to the Newman Brothers Museum, is situated in Bimingham’s picturesque Jewellery Quarter. Visitors can enter this time capsule, preserved by the Birmingham Conservation Trust, and see how the factory was in its 1960s heyday, complete with the music of the period.

Library of Birmingham

Europe’s largest public library, the Library of Birmingham can be found in the centre of the city, in the impressive Centenary Square. As well as a huge collection of books, the library also houses the British Film Institute National Archive, an international photography collection and historical archives and collections. Visitors can take guided tours of the library using the Dozens and Trails app, and see all of architect Francine Houben’s ‘eople’s palace’.

Brindleyplace

Home to a range of restuarants, cafes and bars, the Brindleyplace estate showcases the regions canals in all their glory. Enjoy a bowl of ramen while you watch the narrowboats glide past, or sip a hand-crafted cocktail in the cool breeze coming off the water. Home to events such as an open-air film festival, Birmingham Chilli festival and the BP Dragonboat Race, there’s always something to see or do.

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Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

Another attraction based in the Jewellery Quarter, this museum displays collections of locally crafted jewellery and has a full programme of adult and family workshops all year round. The story of the historic Jewellery Quarter is told in a fully interactive exhibit, where visitors can learn how the area came to have its own assay office.

The Pen Museum

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter was once home to over 100 factories manufacturing the Birmingham pen – now it’s home to this museum that tells the tale. Housing over 5,000 objects, visitors can learn how Birmingham’s steel pen trade supplied 75 percent of the world’s pens during the 19th century. The museum also runs a range of calligraphy classes in the Callicreative Room, designed for both beginners and more experienced calligraphers.

mac theatre

The mac theatre sits on the edge of the picturesque Cannon Hill Park, and is home to two theatres, a cinema, a gallery, various studios and rehearsal spaces, a community learning area and its own bar and cafe. There are numerous performances, workshops, exhibits and screenings to take in every day. Visitors can also sign up for courses in visual and performance arts, health and wellbeing, or digital media skills, and there are sessions for families and young people, too.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Sitting on the edge of the University of Birmingham campus in Edgbaston is the Barber Institute of Fine Arts . An ever-changing range of exhibits alongside the museum’s permanent collections always offers a fascinating afternoon out to visitors, including the museum’s historic coin collection and regular free lunchtime tours and talks.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is the centrepiece of Birmingham’s famous Chamberlain Square, and houses over 40 galleries of art and historic artefacts. The world-class collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings offers visitors the chance to take in works by Rossetti, Millais and Hunt up close, before enjoying afternoon tea in the stunning Edwardian Tea Rooms.

Lapworth Museum of Geology

Hidden away inside the historic Aston Webb Building on the University of Birmingham campus, the Lapworth Museum of Geology underwent a huge £2.7m redevelopment in 2017 and was subsequently shortlisted for an Art Fund Museum of the Year Award. Allowing students, researchers and the general public an opportunity to examine 250,000 geological specimens, the Lapworth Museum encourages visitors to consider how the Earth formed and changed through time, and how life on earth has developed and evolved since then.

Cannon Hill Park

Home to the mac theatre and the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Centre, Cannon Hill Park is made up of 32.4ha (80 acres) of formal parkland and 48.5ha (120 acres) of conservation and woodland plantation. Visitors can fish, rent a pedalo or enjoy a game of tennis or minigolf; and there are two children’s play areas on-site, as well as a mini funfair on weekends. In summer, Cannon Hill Park hosts the annual Foodies Festival, as well as a host of other family events.

Birmingham Science Museum

A short walk from Moor Street Station, Thinktank is an award-winning science museum full of exhibits for the whole family. The Spitfire Gallery tells the story of the famous plane’s role in World War II and its legacy in Birmingham, and the Marine Worlds Gallery houses an Icthyosaur displayed in full for the first time. Visitors can also take in a show in the on-site Planetarium, with shows that take you from our night sky to the very edges of the universe.

National SEA LIFE Centre

The National SEA LIFE Centre , situated on the edge of Brindleyplace, offers a unique aquarium experience. Home to sharks, penguins, sea turtles and more, visitors can learn about the organisation’s conservation projects and explore the new octopus hideout. For a really special experience, it’s possible to feed the residents, take a behind-the-scenes tour, or even book a sea life sleepover.

Cadbury World

For many, Birmingham means chocolate. The famous Cadbury World experience in historic Bournville allows chocoholics to take a self-guided tour behind the scenes of their favourite treat. Featuring exhibits on the history of chocolate, the story of the Cadbury Family and the science of chocolate making; and there is even a 4D Chocolate Adventure. Don’t forget to pick up some treats in the world’s biggest Cadbury shop.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens features four glasshouses each with its own climate: tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean and arid. Set in 6ha (15 acres) of landscaped greenery, the gardens host a range of events including plays, educational courses, live music and even a water slide.

Victoria Square

Home to the famous River statue – more commonly known as ‘the Floozie in the Jacuzzi’ – Victoria Square in the city centre features an impressive collection of public art. Its namesake, Queen Victoria, is portrayed in an imposing bronze statue, and the square is flanked by the two ‘Guardians’ – sandstone sculptures by Dhruva Mistry. The square is also home to Antony Gormley’s Iron: Man.

St Paul’s Church

On the edge of Birmingham’s picturesque Jewellery Quarter, St Paul’s Church is a Grade I listed church in Birmingham’s only remaining 18th-century square. It was built in 1779, and in 2000 had a new stained-glass window fitted, the design of which represents the local jewellery trade. Visitors can enjoy the architecture alongside live music events and guided tours.

The Custard Factory

Situated in trendy Digbeth just five minutes’ walk from the Bullring, the old Bird’s custard factory is now home to over 500 businesses. Take in a film at the Mockingbird Cinema, grab a craft beer at Clink, or even invest in some new body art from Holly and Rob at House of Thieves Tattoo Parlour. The Custard Factory also acts as a venue for a number of events, including Birmingham Coffee Festival, the Mockingbird’s outdoor cinema and The Gin To My Tonic Christmas Festival.

Ikon Gallery

Visitors can enjoy two floors of contemporary art exhibits at the Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace. Current exhibits feature the spray paint portraits of Sidney Nolan and the metalwork of Sheela Gowda. With print workshops, parent and toddler mornings, teacher retreats and family Saturdays, the Ikon Gallery offers events for all ages and abilities.

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Birmingham, England

Birmingham is one of England's most up-and-coming cities. Located in the West Midlands region, the city was formerly an 18th-century manufacturing center, with many traces of its industrialization still seen today. It's found midway between London and Manchester, making it a great destination on a longer England trip, or Birmingham is great as a long weekend stay. From its museums, like the expansive Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, to its culture, like the renowned Birmingham Symphony Hall, Birmingham has a lot to offer its visitors. Here are ten of the best things to do in Birmingham.

Explore Cadbury World

Courtesy of Cadbury World

England's most famous (and most beloved) chocolate comes from Cadbury, which American visitors will know for their Cadbury Cream Eggs. Birmingham is home to Cadbury World, a popular visitor attraction that details the history, making of and legacy of Cadbury. It features a self-guided tour through several whimsical exhibitions, and you can even visit the world's biggest Cadbury shop. It's best to book tickets in advance online, especially if you prefer to visit on a specific date, and don't miss Cadbury World's afternoon tea, which includes several chocolate treats. Kids will also enjoy the character dining opportunities with Cadbury mascots, like character breakfast or character afternoon tea.

Visit the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Courtesy of Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

The Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery houses a vast collection of international objects, from fine art and ceramics to natural history and archaeology displays to exhibitions on local and industrial history. The museum, which opened in 1885, is housed in Grade II listed landmark building, an experience in itself. Explore more than 40 galleries, or enjoy a treat in the museum's Edwardian tea rooms. It's great for kids and adults alike, and it's best to give yourself a few hours to see everything in the building. Best of all: The museum is free for all visitors.

Go Back in History at the Black Country Living Museum

Black Country Living Museum, found about 10 miles west of Birmingham, is an open-air living museum that details the area's history. It features 40 carefully reconstructed shops, houses, and industrial areas that represent the Black Country's story, and visitors get a tangible experience with the smoke, smells, and noises of the time. Opt for the audio tour to better understand how Black Country was developed and scour the buildings for over 80,000 authentic items. The museum will be of particular interest to fans of "Peaky Blinders" as you can book tickets to its special Peaky Blinders Nights, which tell the tales of Birmingham's famous street gangs. Drive to the museum or take a train from central Birmingham to Tipton, a quick mile walk away.

Stroll Around the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Located in Edgbaston, on the edge of Birmingham's city center, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens make for a great day out, especially during the spring and summer. The 15-acre botanical garden features four large glasshouses, which contain several types of climates: tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean, and arid. There is also a playground, gift shop, and tea room, as well as a garden center, in case you get inspired to do some gardening of your own. The gardens also host family-specific activities, like annual events and special children's trails through the plants. Tickets can be booked online in advance, but you can also show up the day of.

Tour Aston Hall

Courtesy of Birmingham Museums

Immerse yourself in the 17th century at Aston Hall, a historic manor house with over 30 rooms to explore. The surrounding gardens are particularly picturesque, and it's a great place to learn more about Jacobean England. Aston Hall, which is supposedly one of the most haunted places in England, often hosts special events, augmenting a visit to the house. Look for family-friendly offerings, as well as literary-themed events throughout the year. The estate can be accessed by car, but visitors can also take public transport from central Birmingham. Walk from Witton Station or Aston Station, or hop on the number 65 bus from the city center.

See a Show at Birmingham Symphony Hall

Birmingham Symphony Hall, home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, is a renowned concert hall, ideal for visitors interested in seeing live music during their stay in town. The hall is relatively new, opened in 1991, and it hosts all genres, from classical to kids music to country. There are also recurring live poetry events, comedy, dance and theater performances, and more. Check the calendar for what's on during your visit. The venue is also located centrally, with lots of restaurants and bars nearby to enjoy before or after a show.

Go Underwater at the National Sea Life Centre

Head to the center of town to discover the National Sea Life Centre, an immersive aquarium that boasts the U.K.'s only 360-degree underwater tunnel. Inside, there are sharks, giant turtles, sea otters, penguins, and dozens of colorful fish. There are numerous types of tickets available for the family-friendly attraction, including general admission, multi-attraction tickets that include Sea Life and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham, and a parent and toddler ticket. Be sure to check the aquarium's website for any current promotions or discounts before booking.

Hike Through Sheldon Country Park

Take a quick drive out of town to Sheldon, home of Sheldon Country Park, for some nature and fresh air. Spanning 300 acres, the park consists of open grassland, wetlands, and woodland and also boasts the Old Rectory Farm, which is open to visitors year-round. There is a scenic nature trail that threads through the park, an ideal hike for travelers of all abilities, and regular ranger events for kids. Old Rectory Farm is a working farm that showcases traditional farming, so you can get up close and personal with Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, and ponies with free admission. Follow the Sheldon Country Park's walking route for a laidback stroll.

Ride the Shakespeare Express

All aboard the Shakespeare Express, part of Vintage Trains. The historic steam train takes guests between Stratford upon Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace, and Birmingham, with a dining car onboard that offers breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Tickets are available on select dates only, so be sure to plan well ahead of your desired journey. If the train isn't available, Stratford upon Avon is less than an hour's drive south from Birmingham, making it an easy day trip for those who want to learn more about the Bard's life.

Visit Gas Street Basin

tupungato/Getty Images

The vibrant Gas Street Basin neighborhood of Birmingham is perfect for a night out or a shopping spree. Located in the city center, where the Worcester and Birmingham Canal meets the BCN Main Line, the area is filled with local pubs, cocktail bars, restaurants, and shops. It has a cool industrial feel, and boats still use the canal today. Look for the Canal House, a vibrant pub, and Mediterranean eatery Noel’s Bar and Restaurant. Because Gas Street Basin is so central, there are also many hotels in the neighborhood, including the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, which overlooks the basin.

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Stay in this home of a former British prime minister to discover the Welsh region of Flintshire

Visit this North Wales county to sleep on William Gladstone's country estate, hike mountains and go foraging or wild swimming.

Mention Flintshire to most people and they might struggle to pinpoint it on a map. The county sits just on the Welsh side of the border with England, with Liverpool to the east and the mountains of Eyri (Snowdonia) to the west. It’s a place of quiet beauty, where small villages punctuate rolling farmland and you’ll likely get stuck behind a tractor if you spend more than 10 minutes on the road. Heather-clad hills along the Clwydian Range and broad, windswept beaches to the north provide some drama. Fans of country strolls, sustained by a pint and a pie in a local pub, will find plenty of appeal here.

Close to the English border is the Hawarden Estate, the former home of William Gladstone, who served as prime minister to Queen Victoria four times between 1868 and 1894. His great-great-grandson, Charlie Gladstone, has set about turning the estate into a celebration of the good life, with a focus on slow food, nature and traditional skills. Among the rambling grounds are all sorts of accommodation, plus a walled garden school and farm shop. It’s a great base for wider exploration of the region but it’s easy to enter through the gates and find no decent reason to leave for a few days.

Where’s the best place to stay in North Wales?

There are plenty of options spread over the 3,500 acres of the Hawarden Estate. A campsite with well-spaced pitches and pre-erected bell tents opens in a meadow from May to September. There are also two historic self-catering properties ideal for groups: choose between the wing of an 18th-century castle, sleeping up to 10, or an elegant, four-bedroom Georgian house that was once home to the estate’s head gardeners. The top choice for couples is the Beekeeper’s Hut, a sweet little shepherd’s hut in its own Victorian walled garden, with a private sauna, hot tub and outdoor kitchen. The real highlight of a stay here, though, is the luxury of space: by day, you can pretend all the grounds are yours; at night, the only thing likely to disturb the peace are the hoots of the resident tawny owls.

What about dining?

Quality local produce is the name of the game here. The Hawarden Estate has a deli and farm shop that stocks artisanal produce from local suppliers as well as homegrown bounty, which might include pear cider, sourdough bread, strawberries and asparagus, depending on what’s being made in the bakery or is in season. The cafe, open from 9am to 5pm, can sort you out for meals between breakfast and afternoon tea, from a rhubarb pastry to a Welsh rump steak sandwich. Beyond the estate, the 200-year-old Glynne Arms is a handsome coaching inn in Hawarden village itself, about a 15-minute walk away. It serves inventive seasonal dishes, such as pine- and juniper-cured pork chop or Korean fried celeriac burger, eaten inside by the fire or outside in the courtyard.

What’s there to do?

Get your bearings at Moel Famau, a 1,818ft peak with far-reaching views on a clear day, accessed by a five-mile walking trail. It’s topped by the partially ruined Jubilee Tower, completed in 1817 to celebrate the golden jubilee of King George III. In good conditions, you’ll spot the much higher peak of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) to the west; it’s around a 90-minute drive if you’d like to take a closer look. For less rural escapades, head to Chester, 10 miles away, which has an extraordinary array of medieval half-timbered buildings as well as unique galleried ‘rows’ housing shops and cafes. On the Hawarden Estate, there are enough trails to fill a day’s rambling, and a calendar of activities that includes foraging walks, fermenting workshops and guided wild swims, as well as seasonal events such as midsummer feasts.

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Win a free stay at The Belfry if England qualify for Euro 2024 final

The Belfry Hotel & Resort , in the tranquil North Warwickshire countryside, is kicking off Euro 2024 by giving guests the chance to win a complimentary stay if England make it to the final of the UEFA European Football Championship. Guests should book the resort’s It’s Coming Home package to automatically qualify for the offer.

The hattrick of a package includes a relaxing overnight stay in one of the resort’s bedrooms, a screening of England’s opening match against Serbia on the widescreen TVs in premier sports bar, Sam’s Club House, and a delicious full English breakfast the following morning. Available on Sunday June 16 only, and priced at £159 per room for two people, it is the perfect gift for Father’s Day which falls on the same day.

Guests can also make the most of full access to The Belfry’s premium leisure facilities which include a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpools and state-of-the-art gym facilities.

After their opening game against Serbia, The Three Lions will face Slovenia and Denmark in the group stages for a place in the last 16. If the England squad qualify for the final, which is being held in Germany on July 14, guests will be welcomed back for a free stay to end their Euro journey where it began and watch the final match in style.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort is home to over 300 luxurious bedrooms and suites, several restaurants and bars including 2AA Rosette The Ryder Grill and Brabazon Bar, an opulent spa and state-of-the-art Leisure Club, 22 adaptable meetings and events spaces, three world-class golf courses including The Brabazon and PGA National and an exhilarating Toptracer Driving Range.

For more information, or to book, please visit: https://www.thebelfry.com/offers/it-s-coming-home/ .

For more information, please visit www.thebelfry.com Telephone: +44 (0) 1675 238600 | Email: [email protected] Instagram: @thebelfryhotelandresort | Twitter: @TheBelfryHotel |

Facebook: The Belfry Hotel & Resort | LinkedIn: The Belfry Hotel & Resort

Millie Poat

Content Executive at Visit Birmingham and West Midlands Growth Company

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