A bustling British city of cultural highlights
Home to some of the UK’s finest examples of Victorian and Georgian architecture, Birmingham is an elegant city carefully mixing historical and contemporary spaces. Tour the city’s streets and enjoy the juxtaposition of ancient buildings with modern structures including the iconic and futuristic Selfridges store with the more traditional Newhall Street shops. Experience exhibitions in the Barber Institute of Fine Arts and Soho House or visit the planetarium at Birmingham’s science museum Thinktank. At night join the crowds heading to one of the many venues for concerts, theatre and dance. Broad Street is the centre for all things lively, so mix with the locals and try the bar and club scene. Depending on the time of year Birmingham celebrates a myriad of festivals and parades. For quieter pursuits spend an afternoon by the canals for a peaceful stroll and a picnic.
Why Go
The second most populated city in the UK after London, Birmingham is a thriving hub of culture, the arts and architecture. Tour one of several exhibitions, take in a show or get tickets for a gig in the city that produced acts such as Ozzy Osbourne and Ocean Colour Scene.
When To Go
Like most UK destinations Birmingham’s seasons play out traditionally with the coldest months found between November to February and the warmest between June and August. Rain is a frequent visitor so be sure to pack waterproof clothing. Travellers to Birmingham should enjoy the spring months of April and May with numerous events and festivals taking place. Flights to the city are also usually cheaper during this period.
How To Get There
Birmingham is well connected by reliable road links to many of the major cities in the United Kingdom. Cheap domestic flights with low cost carriers Flybe, Ryanair and bmibaby depart from destinations around the country. Birmingham International Airport provides a direct rail link into the city centre making it easy to get around. International flights to destinations in Europe and New York in the United States depart frequently. Domestic flights can take up to 1hour.
Must See
Birmingham’s impact on music and the arts in the UK is a celebrated fact. So be sure to immerse yourself in some of the cultural highlights of the season whether it is a performance from The Birmingham Royal Ballet, stand-up at The Rep or a concert at Symphony Hall. Take a tour of the city’s galleries and marvel over work by Ruben and Bellini at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. No trip would be complete without a visit to Cadbury World. Children and adults will delight over this museum showcasing the chocolate making process.