The Best Things to do in Birmingham

Visit Birmingham:

Birmingham, West Midlands is the second biggest city in the UK. Birmingham is a vibrant and dynamic city steeped in history and culture with a rich heritage and offers many fun things for the whole family, from museums and art galleries to shopping centres and entertainment venues. This article will highlight the best things to do whilst Going Out in Birmingham.

Birmingham City Centre

Birmingham City Centre is a buzzing location that offers a wealth of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. The city is home to a range of iconic attractions and landmarks, including the Bullring Shopping Centre, one of the largest shopping centres in the UK and features a variety of high-street, designer & independent shops.

If you are looking for things to do in Birmingham as an art lover, the city centre is home to several museums and galleries, including the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which houses a collection of art and artefacts from around the world.

For those who enjoy live entertainment, the city centre offers a range of options, including theatres, concert halls, and cinemas. Visitors can catch a show at the historic Hippodrome Theatre or enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and nightclubs in the city.

Birmingham City Centre is a must-visit destination for foodies, with a wide range of dining options, from street food vendors to fine dining restaurants. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you're sure to find something to suit your taste in the city centre and all within a short distance from each other!

Cadbury World:

One of the must-visit attractions in Birmingham, West Midlands is Cadbury World. This chocolate-themed attraction is dedicated to the history of Cadbury and its production of chocolate. Visitors can learn about the history of the Cadbury World family, the production of chocolate, and the brand's impact on the city and its people. With interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities, Cadbury World is a fun day out and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery:

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is a fascinating cultural attraction that offers a wealth of information about the city's history and culture. The museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including artefacts from ancient Egypt, manuscripts, paintings, and sculptures. The art gallery features works by some of the world's most famous artists, including Turner, Pre-Raphaelites, as well as local artists. The museum is a must for anyone interested in the history and culture of Birmingham.

Birmingham Hippodrome

One of the top things to do in Birmingham is visit the Birmingham Hippodrome. The Birmingham Hippodrome is a historic theatre and is one of the largest in the UK with a capacity of over 2,000 people. The Hippodrome is a hub of performing arts, hosting a diverse range of productions, including the Birmingham Royal Ballet, musicals, operas, and concerts. The theatre has a rich history, having hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment since it opened in 1899.

In addition to its diverse performance schedule, the Birmingham Hippodrome also offers a range of amenities and services, including a bar, a restaurant, and a gift shop. The theater is easily accessible by public transportation and is located in the heart of Birmingham's cultural quarter.

Cannon Hill Park

Cannon Hill Park is a large public park located in Birmingham, UK. It offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including walking and cycling paths, tennis courts, a boating lake, and a play area for children. The park is also home to the Mac, a cultural centre offering theatre performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs. In addition, Cannon Hill Park is known for its beautiful gardens and open spaces, making it a popular destination for picnics, sunbathing, and relaxing. The park is easily accessible by public transportation and is a popular destination for locals and tourists.

The National Sea Life Centre

The National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham, West Midlands, UK, is a unique and exciting attraction that offers visitors the chance to explore the underwater world. Established in 1996, the centre is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including fish, turtles, seahorses, and rays, as well as the UK's only 360-degree ocean tunnel, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Visitors to the National Sea Life Centre can explore over 60 displays showcasing the diverse marine life found in the world's oceans. From tropical reef environments to the dark and mysterious depths of the sea, the centre offers a comprehensive and educational look at the underwater world.

One of the highlights of the centre is the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where visitors can walk through a huge aquarium filled with exotic species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. This unique experience provides a stunning, up-close look at the underwater world, and visitors can even watch as the sea creatures swim overhead.

In addition to the displays, the National Sea Life Centre also offers a range of interactive experiences, such as the opportunity to touch and feed some of the creatures, as well as educational programs, including talks and presentations.

The centre is also committed to promoting conservation and education about the marine environment, and visitors can learn about the various conservation programs supported by the centre and how they can help to protect the world's oceans and sea life.

The Bullring Shopping Centre:

For those who love shopping, the Bullring Shopping Centre is a must-visit. This popular shopping centre features a wide range of shops, from high-street brands to designer boutiques. In addition to shopping, visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including a cosy café, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. With its convenient location and range of shops and dining options, the Bullring Shopping Centre is a popular destination for both local residents and visitors.

Black Country Living Museum

The Black Country Living Museum is a unique and interactive museum located in Dudley, UK. It offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the Black Country region, showcasing the industrial heritage and traditional ways of life of the area. The museum covers 26 acres and features over 50 authentic, reconstructed buildings, including a pub, a school, and a canal-side community.

Visitors can explore the exhibits and interact with costumed staff who bring the past to life, showcasing the traditional trades and crafts of the area. The museum also offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.

In addition to its historical exhibits, the Black Country Living Museum is also home to a variety of modern amenities, including a restaurant, a gift shop, and a play area for children.

Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique and interesting day out, the Black Country Living Museum is a must-visit destination. With its rich cultural heritage and hands-on exhibits, it provides a fascinating and immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum:

The Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology. This museum features hands-on exhibitions and interactive displays that explore the latest scientific advancements in a fun and engaging way. Visitors can learn about everything from space travel to medicine and engineering, making the Thinktank a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Birmingham Symphony Hall

Birmingham Symphony Hall is a world-renowned concert hall located in the heart of Birmingham, UK. Opened in 1991, the hall has since become one of the premier concert venues in the country, renowned for its world class acoustics and stunning architecture.

With a seating capacity of over 2,000 people, the hall is a versatile space, suitable for a range of events, from classical music concerts to rock and pop performances. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of musical styles, from orchestras, choirs, and soloists to jazz, folk, and world music.

The hall's exceptional acoustics have been praised by musicians and audiences alike, making it a popular choice for recording live performances. The unique design of the hall, including its curved wooden walls and distinctive horseshoe-shaped seating arrangement, provides an intimate and immersive concert experience for visitors.

In addition to its musical offerings, the Birmingham Symphony Hall also offers a range of educational programs, including workshops, masterclasses, and interactive events. These programs are designed to engage and inspire young people and provide opportunities for them to learn more about music and the performing arts.

The hall is also dedicated to promoting community engagement and inclusivity and works closely with local schools, community groups, and charities to bring the joy of music to a wider audience.

The Mailbox:

The Mailbox is a popular shopping and dining complex located in the heart of Birmingham. This complex features a range of popular brands, including designer boutiques, high-street shops, and if you're after a delicious meal,an abundance of popular restaurants. The Mailbox is a popular destination for visitors and local residents who are looking for a convenient and stylish shopping and dining experience.

Jewellery Quarter

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, UK, is a historic and vibrant neighbourhood that is home to a rich history and culture of jewellery making. With a history dating back to the 18th century, the Jewellery Quarter is widely regarded as the birthplace of the British jewellery industry and is now a hub for contemporary jewellery design and production.

The Jewellery Quarter is home to a variety of independent boutiques, workshops, and showrooms showcasing the work of local jewellery makers and designers. Visitors can browse through a wide range of unique and handmade pieces, including contemporary and vintage jewellery, as well as one-of-a-kind items made by local artists.

In addition to shopping, the Jewellery Quarter is also a popular destination for jewellery-making workshops and classes. Visitors can learn the basics of jewellery making, or they can develop their skills and try their hand at advanced techniques.

The neighbourhood is also home to a number of historical landmarks and museums, including the Pen Museum, which showcases the history of the pen trade in Birmingham, and the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, which provides a fascinating insight into the history of jewellery making in the city.

The Jewellery Quarter is also a hub for local artists and creatives, and visitors can enjoy a range of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. From craft fairs and open studios to exhibitions and performances, there is always something happening in the Jewellery Quarter.

St. Philip's Cathedral:

St. Philip's Cathedral is a historic cathedral that is located in the heart of Birmingham. This beautiful building is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. The cathedral is known for its stunning interior and its beautiful stained glass windows, which are considered to be some of the finest in the country. Visitors can also climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Gas Street Basin:

The Gas Street Basin is located in the heart of Birmingham and is surrounded by a range of vibrant and lively attractions, including shops, cafes, and restaurants. This charming canal-side location is a hub of activity and is a popular destination for visitors and local residents alike.

The basin is home to a number of narrow boats and barges, which offer boat tours of the city and its waterways. These boat tours provide a unique and scenic perspective of the city and its landmarks, and visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city from the water.

Aside from the boat tours, the Gas Street Basin is also a popular destination for water activities, including kayaking and paddle-boarding. These activities offer a fun and exciting way to explore the city's waterways and are a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.

The basin is also a popular location for events and activities, including live music, street food festivals, and craft fairs. These events provide a fun and festive atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy a range of food and drink options, including local and international cuisine.

Winterbourne House and Garden:

Winterbourne House and Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in the heart of Birmingham. The garden features a collection of rare and exotic plants, as well as a beautiful historic house that is open to the public. Visitors can take a stroll through the garden, admire the beautiful flowers, and learn about the history of the house and its inhabitants.

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts:

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts is a world-renowned art institute that is located in Birmingham. This institute features a collection of European paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that span several centuries. Visitors can admire works by some of the world's most famous artists, including Botticelli, Rubens, and Degas. In addition to its art collection, the Barber Institute also features concerts, lectures, and other cultural events that are open to the public.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil place located in Birmingham, UK. It covers a sprawling 67.5 acres of land and is home to a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts. The gardens were established in 1963 and have since been a popular attraction in the city, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Visitors to the gardens can admire the beauty of the natural surroundings while walking along the many trails and paths that meander through the gardens. They can explore a range of different landscapes, from the formal beds of flowers and shrubs to the woodland area with its mature trees. There are also several notable features within the gardens, including the Japanese Garden, which features a traditional tea house, koi pond, and beautiful rock formations, and the Rose Garden, which is filled with hundreds of different varieties of roses.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens also offer several educational opportunities. There are several programs and classes available to visitors, ranging from guided tours and workshops to children's programs and school field trips. The gardens also have an on-site library, which houses a vast collection of books and resources on botany, horticulture, and gardening.

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park, also known as the Birmingham Nature Centre, is a unique wildlife conservation park located in Birmingham, UK. Established in the 1970s, the park is dedicated to preserving and promoting the welfare of a wide variety of endangered species from around the world. Visitors to the park can enjoy close-up encounters with these fascinating creatures, including exotic birds, primates, and reptiles, in a safe and controlled environment.

One of the main attractions of the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is the extensive bird collection, which includes species from across the globe, such as parrots, toucans, and flamingos. Visitors can watch the birds as they fly and feed in the large aviary and even have the opportunity to interact with some of the species during a bird encounter experience.

On top of the birds, the park is also home to several species of primates, including tamarins, capuchins, and marmosets, as well as reptiles such as snakes and lizards. Visitors can learn about the different habitats, diets, and behaviours of these animals through informative displays and educational talks.

Conservation

The park is also committed to supporting conservation efforts and promoting awareness of the plight of endangered species. Visitors can learn about the various conservation programs supported by the park and how they can help to make a difference.

The National Motorcycle Museum

The National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, West Midlands, UK, is a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of vintage and classic vehicles. Established in 1984, the museum has since become one of the largest collections of motorcycles in the world, housing over 1000 bikes from a range of different manufacturers and eras.

Visitors to the museum can admire an impressive array of bikes, including classic models from the early 1900s, iconic racing bikes from the 1950s and 60s, and modern-day sports bikes. The museum is also home to an extensive collection of vintage and classic motorcycles, showcasing the evolution of motorcycle design and technology over the past century.

In addition to its extensive collection, the Motorcycle Museum also offers a range of interactive exhibits, educational displays, and events. Visitors can learn about the history of motorcycles and the role they have played in society, as well as the people who have ridden and raced them. There are also opportunities to get up close and personal with some of the bikes, including the chance to sit on some classic models.

Preservation

The museum is also dedicated to preserving and restoring classic motorcycles. Visitors can see the results of their work in the museum's restoration centre, where they can learn about the process of bringing old bikes back to life.

Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham

Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham is a popular indoor theme park located in the city of Birmingham, UK. It is specifically designed for families with young children and is an ideal destination for kids aged 3-10 years old.

The theme park features a range of interactive and educational attractions, including rides, building zones, and play areas. Visitors can experience the thrill of the Kingdom Quest laser ride, where they can help defeat the dragon and save the princess, or they can build and play with Lego bricks in the Master Builder Academy.

In addition to the rides and attractions, Legoland offers a range of interactive experiences, including a 4D cinema, which provides a truly immersive experience with special effects like wind, water, and more. The Lego Factory Tour is another popular attraction, where visitors can learn about how Lego bricks are made and even get a chance to build their own.

Legoland also offers birthday party packages, school trips, and group packages, making it a great destination for families, school groups, and special events.

One of the unique features of Legoland is its Miniland, which showcases some of Birmingham's most famous landmarks and attractions, all built entirely out of Lego bricks. From the iconic Bullring shopping centre to the historic Selfridges building, visitors can admire these models' intricate details and creative design.

Things to do in Birmingham:

This is just but a few of the many things to do in Birmingham. Birmingham is a city that is rich in history, culture, and entertainment making most tourist that visit Birmingham, want to come back again and again.

Honourable mentioned which haven't been included in this list of things to do in Birmingham:

• For the Sports fan - Warwickshire County Cricket Club
• For walking tours - Lickey Hills Country Park
• For the Adventurer - The Bear Grylls Adventure
• For the Creative type - Birmingham Museum Art Gallery
• For the Thrill Seeker - Alton Towers Theme Park

Whether a resident or a visitor, this list of things to do in Birmingham will ensure you will have an unforgettable experience. We hope this article has inspired you to explore all that is available when you visit Birmingham.