Brilliant Brum
Now the capital of the midlands, Birmingham started out as a small Saxon village and saw significant growth during the industrial revolution. Bringing us innovations such as the bicycle bell, whistle and postage stamp, Birmingham’s reputation for business and creativity saw immigrants from across the world settle here and make the relaxed, friendly Brummie lifestyle their own.
A lesser-known UK tourist destination, Birmingham has plenty to offer visitors on day trips, a last-minute weekend away or a family break away. From enjoying some retail therapy at the Bullring to seeing internationally-renowned shows at the Hippodrome and exploring the shops, bars and restaurants along the Grand Union Canal, there are plenty of tourist attractions to enjoy in Birmingham.
Best of Birmingham
Birmingham has lots for visitors to enjoy and explore. Right in the heart of the city is the Bullring shopping centre, a great starting point for any day out shopping or with the family. From here, culture lovers can head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, City Library or the ThinkTank Science Museum to enjoy a fun day out. Alternatively, booking a show at the Rep, Hippodrome or New Alexandra Theatre is a great way to spend an evening.
To get a sense of the city’s history, heading to the Black Country Living Museum or the Back to Backs is highly recommended. Or, to experience some of Birmingham’s innovation and industry, then Cadbury World is a delicious way to discover more about Bournville and its history. Plus, if you’re looking for fun family-friendly attractions, then the SEA LIFE Centre and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre aren’t far from the bustling city centre.
Even More To Do
There’s always something happening in buzzing Birmingham. With events running every day in the city, you’re likely to drop into a festival, gig or party without even realising it. Pride, the Caribbean Festival, Christmas Markets and the Magical Lantern Festival are just a few of the free street events that are favourites of both tourists and locals and can be experienced throughout the year.
Plus, Birmingham’s multicultural community makes it the best place to find out more about other people’s backgrounds, religions and history. From traditional Greek nights to Black Heritage walks and exhibitions from the city’s emerging artists, it’s a fantastic place to embrace all that’s great about the UK’s diversity.
Explore all of Birmingham and the West Midlands
Things to do in Birmingham
You won’t need to travel far to find exciting activities in Birmingham. Even if you’re only planning on staying in the city for a few hours, your day is sure to be jam-packed with things to do.
Shopaholics can simply step off the train at New Street Station and be in retail heaven at Grand Central, a state-of-the-art centre with more than 60 premium brands including The White Company and Jo Malone. Then, simply take a few minutes’ walk up Link Street into Birmingham’s iconic shopping centre The Bullring for a choice of more than 200 shops or head over to the upmarket retail destination The Mailbox for a relaxed and indulgent afternoon.
If you’re more of a foodie, then there’s no shortage of restaurants, cafes and fast-food destinations to try. Home to some of the most diverse cuisine in the UK, every type of dish from curries to jerk chicken and traditional pies is on offer here. Digbeth is a trendy and popular destination for both locals and tourists, with a Dining Club showcasing some of the best local food every weekend and the Custard Factory offering plenty of places to eat and drink.
There’s also a selection of cultural activities on offer too. If museums are your thing, head to the ThinkTank Science Museum at the Millennium Point building to enjoy everything from hands-on exhibitions to historical collections. To find out more about a niche part of history, head to the National Motorcycle Museum to take in the impressive collection. Alternatively, the iconic Victoria Square holds the city's major Art Galleries and Museums, so you can enjoy some sightseeing alongside cultural highlights.
Just a short stroll from here and you’ll also be able to see the iconic Library of Birmingham, the internationally-renowned Symphony Hall venue and the contemporary art space the Ikon Gallery. If you want to see more of the city’s sights, then head towards the Jewellery Quarter and take a look at some of local makers’ best work or try and find a speakeasy bar as you explore Brindleyplace and the Canal Quarter.
Travelling as a family? Then there are plenty of attractions to keep your little ones occupied. Enjoy a visit to SEA LIFE Centre and explore the magical aquatic displays of over 2000 species of fish or head to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre for a day of creativity and fun. Slightly further out of the city, you can learn all about one of Birmingham’s most famous brands, Cadbury, as well as enjoying some delicious treats.
FAQs
➤ Why choose a day out in Birmingham?
With a friendly local community, Birmingham’s rich history and culture makes it an ideal place for a fun day out. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, individual or family, there are plenty of attractions and sights to fill your time.
➤ What are the best day trips from Birmingham?
Explore the capital of the Midlands and the UK’s capital in a single day with Avanti. With direct trains running regularly from Birmingham to London, you can enjoy a morning of shopping at the Bullring and be exploring London’s attractions in just over two hours.
➤ What to do in Birmingham with children?
Are your little ones adventure lovers? Then be sure to book a day or experience at the Bear Grylls Adventure Centre at the NEC. Take a dive with sharks, try some archery or zip along on a high-wire on a day of thrills and fun. Alternatively, for a more relaxed day out, head to nearby Stratford-upon-Avon and explore Shakespeare’s birthplace on a hop-on, hop-off bus or be transported back in time with a day out at Warwick Castle.
