If you’ve been thinking about booking a weekend away, Birmingham may not have crossed your mind. But, in fact, this city, which was once the centre of the Industrial Revolution, is full of things to do and see and is thoroughly deserving of a weekend visit. With lots of classically beautiful architecture, a colourful history and a famous arts and night-life scene, there’s plenty to keep you busy. If you book a room in one of our Birmingham hotels, you’ll be in prime position for exploring some of these highlights:
Culture
The Birmingham Symphony Orchestra is world-renowned, and the Symphony Hall is hailed as the finest concert hall in Europe, so is definitely worth a visit. The Barber Institute of Fine Arts is similarly celebrated, and makes a lovely afternoon of wandering around the Art Deco building. The third floor of the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery plays home to the new “Birmingham, its history, its people” exhibition, which brings the fascinating and unique story of the town to life.
Sight-Seeing
Old Iron Bridge is a must see in Birmingham’s Ironbridge area, because it was, as its name suggests, the world’s first iron bridge. The Gas Street Basin is a nice area to go for a wander, to see where the city’s thriving port used to be. From there, make the trip to St. Martin in the Bull Ring to see the odd contrast between the beautiful gothic church and the surreal modern buildings surrounding it.
Family Fun
The Thinktank Planetarium is an absolute must for any family visiting Birmingham. This first purpose-built digital planetarium is fascinating and informative, capturing all visitors’ attention with spectacular interactive shows. Learn about the solar system, watch psychedelic light displays and explore the museum which is full of cleverly displayed historical information.
Nightlife
Birmingham is a hot spot for musical talent, having produced the likes of UB40, Duran Duran, Jamelia and Ozzy Osbourne. Have a look at what concerts are going on at The National Indoor Arena and the LG Arena, as well as smaller venues like The Hare and Hounds, or Scruffy Murphys. But the city is also a great place to see live comedy, particularly at The Glee Club in The Arcadian.
Food
The home of Cadbury’s and HP Sauce, Birmingham is the place for simple, English deliciousness. Here’s some inspiration for where to find the best of it at any time of the day.
Breakfast:
There’s nothing like a Brummie brunch, particularly the one titled “The Brummie” at The Lord Clifden, which is also home to an impressive collection of urban art.
Lunch:
Birmingham means pies, and pies means Urban Pie in the Bullring Shopping Centre. Whether you choose to eat in or take away, make sure to order with mash, mushy peas and, of course, accompanied with dollops of HP Sauce.
Tea:
Typhoo tea actually originates from Birmingham, so the Brummies like a cuppa. The Hylton Café in the Jewelry Quarter is the perfect place to stop in for an afternoon with the locals.
Dinner:
Birmingham has a large Indian population, and as a result, some of the country’s finest Indian cuisine. Try B26 Food of India for incredible value and a great curry.
