The 10 things to do in Birmingham

Visit Birmingham: what are the best things to do and see in the largest metropolis in England?

Located in the South-West of England, in the Midlands region of the West, Birmingham is a destination rich in history that must not be underestimated. A true multicultural and vibrant neural centre that houses an urban population of more than 1 million inhabitants, the city offers a wide variety of activities. A key element of the industrial revolution in Great Britain, many technological advances were developed in its factories, and it was overnamed “The City of Thousand Trades” or “Workshop of the World”. This industrial city has been able to reinvent itself and revitalize itself, and its rich architectural heritage, concert halls, commercial districts and many restaurants are now attracting many tourists. Maybe you'll be next!

Are you wondering what to do in Birmingham? This way:

1. Walking on the canals of Birmingham

One of the best ways to visit Birmingham is to board a boat to discover the must-sees of the city through its channels. These same channels, which alone form an even more important network than Venice!

2. Shopping trip

Fashion lovers will be served! The Bullring shopping centre, in addition to being the temple of shopping, is a real modern art work. This “bubble” as inlaid with diamonds is part of a renovation project designed to transform the centre. Are you pretty vintage? Don’t hesitate to lose yourself in the surrounding streets that are full of small trendy boutiques and sinters of all kinds. For a high-end shopping day, head to The Mailbox gallery. Finally, besides its jewels, the jeweller district will charm you by its romantic setting and beautiful Georgian-style buildings all around Saint Paul Square.

3. Gourmet visit to Cadbury World

If you are wondering that doing in Birmingham, Cadbury World is one of the must-sees! Located in Bourneville, this museum will allow you to discover the history of the famous Cadbury chocolate family that revolutionized the manufacture of chocolate in the UK. Prepare to enter the magical universe of “Charlie and Chocolaterie”...

4. Birmingham Cathedral

Visiting Birmingham is also dazzling in front of the superb baroque architecture of its cathedral, built between 1709 and 1715. Also known as St. Philip’s Cathedral, it has four spectacular stained glass windows. A free visit that will charm young and old.

5. Discover the treasures of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

The 40 exhibition rooms of this renowned museum will allow you to discover the largest treasure of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found in the United Kingdom, but also fabulous Egyptian and Roman treasures. One floor is entirely dedicated to the history of Birmingham and its inhabitants.

6. Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

It is well known, the industrial revolution is at the heart of British history. To imitate you in this historical period, the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum takes you on its tracks. More than a museum, it is also a real city of very playful local sciences!

7. Vibrating in the heart of the musical scene

What to do in Birmingham during the summer? Explore the music scene of the city that is simply incredible! If you have the opportunity, and you’re on your way to July, don’t miss the unmissable Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival where many free concerts are organized. Fan de Jazz, de rock, de folk ou bien de musique classique, découvrir la programmation sans comme de la salle Symphony Hall !

8. Get green in the parks of the city

The city has over 3,000 hectares of public parks. The largest of the city is Eastside City Park, a true haven of peace. Sports enthusiasts will prefer Sutton Park, north of the city. Jogging, cycling, rollerblading or golf... Your choice! Fans of the Lord of the Rings will discover Sarehole Mill, a mill near which author J.R. Tolkien spent part of his childhood and which strongly influenced him in the writing of his successful book. The Birmingham Botanical Garden has a wide variety of plants and promises a moment of calm and serenity.

9. Discover the gallery IKON

If you’re going to visit Birmingham, don’t forget to take a tour of the Ikon gallery, located in Brindleyplace in the city centre. His works of contemporary, recent and innovative art are exhibited in sublime neo-Gothic buildings of an old school. The Spanish restaurant is worth a visit!

10. Take a photo of Ozzy Osbourne’s house

Rock & Roll fans will not be able to resist the idea of taking pictures of the outside of the house where Ozzy Osbourne lived his first years of life. It is located at 14 Lodge Road, but be careful: it is obviously forbidden to enter.

How to get to Birmingham?

Birmingham has an international airport. As a result, you will easily find a flight from France. Do not hesitate to compare prices according to your dates of stay on Ulysses . The Air Rail Link, a tram system, connects the airport to Birmingham International Station for free and within 2 minutes. Many train lines allow you to reach London direct, and connections are also provided for large cities such as Manchester , Leeds and Newcastle .

Where to stay in Birmingham?

If you choose to visit Birmingham, know that staying there can quickly come back expensive, as in all the cities of England. Different neighborhoods offer to you , like downtown, Moseley, Selly Oak or Edgbaston. Bed & Breakfast, youth hostel or luxury hotel. You must find something that suits you! To find a cheap hotel in Birmingham, do not hesitate to search this Compare hotels .

Come and visit Birmingham, known at the time as the “workshop of the world” and go to the assault of all the treasures that composed it. One thing is for sure, you can't ask yourself to do in Birmingham!