Birmingham is well known for thriving during the Industrial Revolution and being home to the memorable Peaky Blinders. But today this city offers visitors a rich culture of modern attractions and first-rate shopping, whilst nodding its head to the heritage of the historic landmarks.
Check out Brimingham’s top sights for the ultimate trip to the city below.
1. Bullring and Grand Central
Birmingham Bullring and Grand Central is the perfect place to get your shopping fix and a delicious bite to eat. This modern shopping centre is the city’s largest, with more than 160 shops and over 40 places to eat across the three floors. Explore your favourite stores and sample some tasty treats before attending one of the regular events. You’ll also find Treetop Adventure Golf on the ground floor to add some adventure to your trip!
2. New Street Railway Station
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Whilst you’re visiting Bullring it would be rude not to check out the famous railway station next door. In 1838 the London and Birmingham Railway was the first intercity line to be built into London. Fans of the hit BBC series Peaky Blinders will be familiar. New Street may not be the original station from the 1800s, but the legacy of Birmingham Railway remains here after its redevelopment.
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3. Cadbury World
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Cadbury World has been a well know child (and adult) favourite since the 90s. The self-guided attraction has an abundance of sights to see and elements to explore. This is a great place to entertain the kids where they can have lots of fun whilst learning new things too. Ensure you don’t miss out on the 4D Chocolate Adventure or the chocolate wonderland ride – Cadabra. It’s also rumoured that you’re given free chocolate at the entrance to tickle your tastebuds as you take the tour!
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4. Library of Birmingham
Situated in Centenary Square, the Library of Birmingham is Europe’s largest library, featuring an incredible collection of rare books and photography. Spread across ten levels the library is a top attraction with two outdoor garden terraces and a panoramic viewing gallery providing incredible views across the city. Many visit to take a look at one of the largest Shakespeare collections in the world or attend a performance at the outdoor Amphitheatre. There is a dedicated children’s space on the lower ground floor and a library café to ensure you spend as much time exploring as you need.
5. Jewellery Quarter
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Described as ‘a place of unique character’ Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter has a one-of-a-kind combination of structures linked with jewellery and metalwork. This is the perfect location to shop for thoughtful gifts and presents, with over 800 businesses situated here in the UK’s centre for jewellery. Aside from the celebrated speciality in metal, this creative hub has cafés, pubs and eateries in addition to museums, art galleries and antique shops for you to roam.
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6. Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple of UK
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As one of Europe’s largest functioning Hindu temples, the Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) attracts thousands of visitors every year. Construction began in 1998 but the main temple wasn’t fully completed until 2006, with other elements including the Gandhi Peace Centre and ceremonial ponds continuing to be added over the years. This grand temple continues to expand with plans in place to add a dining hall and finish the extensive landscaping, before a much anticipated Maha Kumbabishekam of Lord Venkateswara takes place.
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7. St. Philip’s Cathedral
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The Cathedral Chruch of Saint Philip is the oldest building in Birmingham which is still used for its original purpose. Home to the largest green space in central Birmingham, this is the ideal location for a city walk and perhaps a picnic on a warmer day. You will be blown away by the grand architecture from afar and from within, as it’s free for anyone to enter the cathedral. Be sure to check out the weekly affairs taking place as there are many community events in addition to religious practises.
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8. National SEA LIFE Centre
Featuring the UK’s only 360° ocean tunnel, the National SEA LIFE Centre in Birmingham is one not to miss. The impressive tunnel allows you to observe the giant turtle, sharks, rays and hundreds of tropical fish from all angles as you walk through the tube. You can also meet the president Gentoo penguins and the UK’s first sea otters – Ola and Ozzy. This is a great day out for children and adults alike, with lots of opportunities to learn about marine life and the incredible conservation efforts of the SEA LIFE Trust.
9. Hall of Memory
The Hall of Memory was built as a tribute to the Birmingham residents who gave their lives during WWΙ, WWΙΙ and in active service since 1945. The memorial includes three Books of Remembrance detailing all the individual names of the fallen. Many describe this as a healing place to contemplate British history and commemorate those who were lost or affected. You can visit the Hall of Memory on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 10am-4pm, otherwise, you may simply admire the architecture and impressive bronze statues on the outside.
10. Brindleyplace
Brindleyplace was constructed on a historic district complied of wharves and warehouses of the canal network. This area is rooted in the Industrial Revolution and one of its most famous faces – James Brindley. Today, this section of Birmingham attracts a massive four million visitors each year to the thriving businesses, including an abundance of cafés, bars, restaurants and shops to explore.
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