Things To Do In Birmingham 2024: A Guide to the Heart of England

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Birmingham Travel Information | Where to Stay | Things to Do in Birmingham | Things to Do with Kids in Birmingham | Birmingham Events | Birmingham Food and Drink

Get ready for a city break in the heart of England. Birmingham, one of the largest cities in Britain, is well known for its diversity and culture. The city famed for its innovation during the Industrial Revolution still stands proud of its history, but continues to transform into a modern-day hub for people around the world.

Birmingham travel information

Not only is it simple to navigate your way around Birmingham, but as the city sits in the West Midlands, getting to and from Birmingham is straightforward.

Getting to Birmingham

Driving: Birmingham is within a comfortable driving distance for most regions in the UK. If you’re driving into the city, here are some estimated drive times:

• London to Birmingham: 2 hours and 10 minutes (118 miles)
• Manchester to Birmingham: 1 hour and 30 minutes (86.3 miles)
• Nottingham to Birmingham: 1 hour (50.6 miles)
• Cardiff to Birmingham: 2 hours (116 miles)
• Edinburgh to Birmingham: 4 hours and 50 minutes (294 miles)
• Liverpool to Birmingham: 1 hour and 40 minutes (98.3 miles)
• Newcastle upon Tyne to Birmingham: 3 hours and 10 minutes (206 miles)
• Bath to Birmingham: 1 hour and 50 minutes (110 miles)
• York to Birmingham: 2 hours and 10 minutes (135 miles)
• Cornwall to Birmingham: 3 hours and 50 minutes (257 miles)

Train: There are plenty of direct trains going to and from Birmingham. Popular train stations in Birmingham include:

• Birmingham New Street
• Birmingham Moor Street
• Birmingham Snow Hill

Plan your journey using Trainline, where you can find affordable train tickets from around the UK. Below, you’ll find a rough estimation of how long it’ll take to get to Birmingham via train.

• London to Birmingham: 1 hour 44 minutes
• Manchester to Birmingham: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Nottingham to Birmingham: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cardiff to Birmingham: 2 hours
• Edinburgh to Birmingham: 4 hours and 14 minutes
• Liverpool to Birmingham: 1 hour and 40 minutes
• Newcastle upon Tyne to Birmingham: 2 hours and 53 minutes
• Bath to Birmingham: 1 hour and 48 minutes
• York to Birmingham: 1 hour and 52 minutes

Coach: The National Express runs services from many cities around the UK and stops at Birmingham Coach Station. On your journey, you’ll see scenic views of the UK's countryside as well as Birmingham's transformation from its industrial architecture to its modern appeal.

Travelling in and around Birmingham

Birmingham is a great place to get your steps in and tour the city on foot. If you enjoy cycling, it’s also bike-friendly, with plenty of bike lanes. You can rent bikes from bike points scattered around the city. Check out the West Midlands Cycle Hire for more information.

Public transport is also easily accessible throughout Birmingham. You can catch trains, buses or the metro to reach your destination.

If you’re driving in Birmingham, you must check if your vehicle is compatible with the clean air zone rules. If it’s not, you’ll have to check which areas come under the clean air zone and avoid them or pay a fee.

Click here for more information on Birmingham's clean air zone rules and regulations.

Where to stay in Birmingham

You’ll need to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city to get a good night's rest. Why not book a stay at one of our many campsites in Birmingham, where you can enjoy the quiet night in the beautiful outdoors?

• Kingsbury Water Park Club Site (24-minute drive from Birmingham City Centre)
• Clent Hills Club Site (30-minute drive from Birmingham City Centre)
• Conkers Club Site (35-minute drive from Birmingham City Centre)
• Wolverley Club Site (40-minute drive from Birmingham City Centre)
• Cannock Chase Club Site (40-minute drive from Birmingham City Centre)

Discover Birmingham on foot

Book a walking tour

Immerse yourself in the city’s culture and history by booking a walking tour through Birmingham. You can choose from a catalogue of different tours depending on your preferences. If you’re drawn to the haunted tales of the industrial land, check out the ghost tours available. Alternatively, if you’re yearning for a cultural experience, why not book a tour that tells the tale of how Birmingham grew into a diverse society stemming from immigration? There are also graffiti tours available that showcase Birmingham's creativity from multiple perspectives and walking tours through Birmingham’s canals or parks.

Click here for more information on walking tours in Birmingham.

Shop until you drop

You’ll find hundreds of large retailers and smaller independent stores in and around Birmingham. Some popular places to enjoy shopping in the city include:

Bullring and Grand Central

With over 150 shops and 50 restaurants in the Bullring and Grand Central, you’ll find something for everyone. Depending on when you’re visiting, you’ll also come across unique pop-up shops, free giveaways and live events happening in and around the shopping centre. If that’s not exciting enough, just outside the Bullring sits the world's largest Primark with four floors of products, cafes, salons and more.

Birmingham Jewellery Quarter

Not only is a quarter of the jewellery manufactured in the UK from the Jewellery Quarter, but the area is also popular for having over 200 listed buildings, with more than half of them being jewellers. Shop around the Jewellery Quarter and splurge on the UK’s finest jewellery.

The Mailbox

Within walking distance of Grand Central is The Mailbox. Here, you’ll find a variety of stores, including Harvey Nichols. If you’re feeling peckish or want to relax, wind down at one of the many restaurants, cafes and bars. You can also hit up some fab entertainment spots like Everyman Cinema.

Resorts World Birmingham

Another fun place to shop, eat and enjoy tonnes of activities is Resorts World Birmingham. Check out the many outlets and high street stores scattered around, or wine and dine in the Sky Bar and Restaurant – which has a 360-degree view of the Birmingham skyline.

Explore Chinatown

The Birmingham Chinese Quarter, better known as Chinatown, is adorned with rich colours, vibrant lanterns and twinkling lights. As you walk through the town, you’re greeted with enticing aromas emanating from authentic restaurants. You’ll also stumble upon oriental stores where you can purchase products commonly found in East Asia.

Wander through Digbeth

Digbeth has undergone a remarkable transformation throughout the years. Prior to 1967, the Custard Factory, where Bird's Custard was originally produced, employed up to 12,000 people. However, after it closed, the factory underwent a huge change. In its place popped up bars, restaurants, galleries, workspaces, shops, flea markets and more.

As you stroll through Digbeth, capture the colourful graffiti plastered over the walls by local and global artists. Treat yourself to a bottomless brunch or a juicy burger. Enjoy a game of mini golf or get baking at The Big Birmingham Bake. Once the sun sets, Digbeth comes to life. Dance the night away under the twinkling lights, sing your heart out at a karaoke bar or experience the future with VR gaming.

Library of Birmingham

Nestled in the city centre between Bullring and Broad Street is Birmingham Library. This is Europe's largest library, with world-class collections of rare books, archives and photographs. Dating all the way back to the Victorian Era, the library houses the most extensive Shakespeare collection in the world and the famous Shakespeare Memorial Room. Birmingham Library also has a secret garden and viewing point where you can see spectacular city views.

Events frequently occur in and around the library, so remember to check what’s on during your visit.

Hop on a boat ride through Birmingham’s canals

If you don't fancy walking around Birmingham, why not take a boat ride through the Birmingham canals?

These canals were once the lifeblood of the Industrial Revolution and played a crucial role in the development of Birmingham and the Black Country. They transported coal, iron, and other heavy materials around the country as it was impossible to move them via road.

On your journey through the canals, learn interesting facts about the waterway and see the city's transformation from its run-down warehouses with weathered bricks to its modern architecture and unique buildings.

Explore museums and art galleries in Birmingham

With a city so rich in culture and history, visiting a museum or art gallery is just the thing to do when the weather’s not looking so great. Popular museums in Birmingham include:

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Located in the city centre, just a few minutes away from Birmingham Library, is the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. This free museum welcomes everyone to explore four floors of magical moments through the ages. See artefacts from the Egyptian era to items of those who once lived in Birmingham decades ago.

Additionally, the museum showcases many ancient and modern paintings and hosts various events. On your trip to Birmingham, you can see what temporary exhibitions or events occur here.

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

If you’re looking for a fun and educational museum for kids, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum is the place to be. The award-winning museum creates a hands-on, interactive learning experience for children. Take part in creative and innovative activities, stroll through the incredible 'mini Brum,' marvel at the stars in the planetarium, and witness live experiments that make science come alive. After a fun day of learning and playing, reward yourself with something special from the cafe or take home a scientific gift from the gift shop.

Black Country Living Museum

Just 30 minutes away from Birmingham City Centre, the Black Country Living Museum brings your senses to life as you’re transported back in time.

You’ll get to see what life was like for miners, metalworkers, nurses, students, and others in the 1940s. Take part in the interactive experience and walk down into a real coal mine, test your times tables in a 1912 classroom, watch a vintage film from the 1920s, or see authentic British sweets crafted and sold in the sweet shop. There’s also a charming vintage funfair to enjoy, and if you’re feeling peckish, you can tuck into the tastiest fish and chips.

More museums and art galleries in Birmingham

• Aston Hall
• Ikon Gallery
• National Motorcycle Museum
• Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
• Lapworth Museum of Geology
• Pen Museum
• Selly Manor Museum
• The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
• Blakesley Hall Museum
• Middleton Hall & Gardens
• Soho House

Discover Birmingham’s gardens, parks and green spaces

As the summer months approach, a relaxing stroll in the outdoors, picnic on the grass or lying under the sun with a good book is much needed. Birmingham has many beautiful outdoor spaces where you can do just that.

Winterbourne House & Garden

Whether you’re exploring Birmingham alone, with your family or with your partner, Winterbourne House & Garden makes for a great day. Explore each room of the Edwardian house and find hidden gems within.

On a sunny day, take a stroll through the gardens and perhaps set up a picnic. The gardens are used for teaching and plant conservation, so you could explore what's on while visiting and participate in numerous workshops. There are beekeeping courses, stained-glass workshops and outdoor theatre performances to watch.

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are an integral part of the city. Intact since 1829, the gardens have been home to over 7,000 plants. On your visit, you can explore the four Victorian glasshouses, two Alpine gardens, a Japanese garden, a pinetum, the adventure playground, and much more.

As well as marvelling at the beautiful plants, the gardens are also a great place for birdwatching, walking, or enjoying a scenic picnic. Additionally, you’ll find that Birmingham Botanical Gardens hosts many events throughout the year, such as light shows and photography workshops. You could even watch a candlelight concert of your favourite band.

Click here to find out what events are taking place at the Botanical Gardens on your visit.

Lickey Hills

Situated on the outskirts of Birmingham, Lickey Hills Country Park is the perfect day out for those who want to get some fresh air and escape the bustling city. You’ll find plenty of scenic trails in the Green Flag Country Park, and walkers of all abilities can easily tackle each one. If you enjoy magnificent countryside views, climb to Beacon Hill, a famous viewpoint at the Lickey Hills, which rises to 297m.

When you want to rest up from all the walking, the 524-acre park has great picnic spots. Spread your picnic blanket and food and watch wildlife unfold around you.

Another way to explore the Lickey Hills is on a horse. Book yourself a horse riding lesson from the local stables and get the chance to walk through the country park with your majestic companion.

If you enjoy golf, there’s also an 18-hole golf course on the Lickey Hills with spectacular views of the countryside. Each hole is set on dramatic slopes where you’ll find towering pine trees and plenty of challenging obstacles that’ll test your skills.

Kingsbury Water Park

Just 5 minutes away from our Kingsbury Water Park Club Site, you’ll find a breathtaking park of the same name. The sprawling 600-acre country park boasts 15 magical lakes, all offering picturesque views and a home to local wildlife.

Kingsbury Water Park makes for a great family fun day out as you can play games on the grass, cycle or walk around the lake, visit the children’s petting zoo or say hi to the donkeys and horses at the stables.

If the sun's out, set up a picnic blanket and bring all your favourite picnic foods. Remember to pack your binoculars, as there’s plenty of birdwatching to do.

More parks and gardens to visit in Birmingham

• Cannon Hill Park
• Sutton Park
• Sheldon Country Park
• Kings Heath Park
• Woodgate Valley Country Park
• Aston Park
• Handsworth Park
• Shirley Park

Things to do with kids in Birmingham

Birmingham is a wonderful city for a family break. There’s plenty to do for people of all ages; the below are just a few of our favourites.

Cadbury World

Calling all chocolate lovers, Birmingham is home to the one and only Cadbury World! On your visit, learn all about the history of Cadbury and how it came to be a worldwide phenomenon, get stuck in and create your own chocolate, let the kids run wild in the adventure playground, enjoy tonnes of free chocolaty goodies, and once you’re all tired out and ready to leave, purchase a souvenir or more chocolate treats from the gift shop.

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park

Home to majestic animals from across the world, the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park prides itself on safely breeding animals that are at risk of extinction in the wild. Book your visit and say hi to the red pandas, lemurs, reptiles, meerkats, otters, birds, wallabies, monkeys and more.

Bear Grylls Adventure

For adrenaline seekers, Bear Grylls Adventure tests your limits and fears by hosting a variety of thrill-seeking activities. Swim with sharks, plunge off a zipline, let the wind carry you in indoor skydiving or climb to new heights on the rock climbing walls.

There are also activities available for those who want to test their skills. Try archery, shooting, an assault course or axe throwing.

Psst, members of the Camping and Caravanning Club can save money on their visit to Bear Grylls Adventure. Become a member today to start saving with our brilliant offers and discounts.

National SEA LIFE Centre

Dive into the beautiful world of marine life and see some of the most majestic underwater sea creatures. The National Sea Life Centre is the only aquarium in the world with a 360-degree ocean tunnel. Here, you can marvel at sharks, sea turtles, rays and thousands of tropical fish. At the National Sea Life Centre, you can also pay a visit to the UK's First Sea Otters, Ozzy and Ola.

If you’re after more things to do at the aquarium, check out what’s on when you’re visiting and book yourself a slot.

Psst, members of the Camping and Caravanning Club can save money on their visit to the National Sea Life Centre. Become a member today to start saving with our brilliant offers and discounts.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Great for all ages, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre has so much to do. Explore MINILAND and marvel at the miniature buildings based on the real life ones. You’ll find the world's smallest Primark, the BT tower, Big Ben and more.

You can also sit back and relax at the LEGO 4D cinema or enter a virtual reality with LEGOLANDs Great LEGO Race VR Experience. There’s a Kingdom Quest, a soft play area for little ones and a LEGO blocks play area.

Psst, members of the Camping and Caravanning Club can save money on their visit to LEGOLAND Discovery Centres. Become a member today to start saving with our brilliant offers and discounts.

West Midlands Safari Park

A short drive from Birmingham city centre is the West Midlands Safari Park. Visit over 600 animals from the comfort of your car. When purchasing your ticket, pick up a bag of animal feed and feed the animals on your drive around. Giraffes, zebras, deer and antelope all come to say hi as they nibble away at the food. You can also see Lions, Rhinos, monkeys and more.

If you don't have your own vehicle, you can book a ride on the guided minibus and get close to many animals.

Drayton Manor Theme Park

This is a great day out for families as there's something to do for everyone. Thrilling rides are perfect for adrenaline seekers, Thomas Land is a great spot for kids, and if you’re not a fan of rides at all, enjoy the many fun fair games around the park as well as Drayton Manor Zoo.

Birmingham live events, sports, exhibitions and shows

Although Birmingham might be the second-largest city in the UK, it definitely knows how to put on a show. Proud hosts of the Birmingham 2022 games, home to two of the oldest football clubs and a hot spot for a variety of live events and shows, Birmingham is one of the most diverse cities when it comes to entertainment.

The Birmingham Hippodrome, REP Centre, Symphony Hall, O2 Institute and the NEC are just some of the top venues to search and see what’s taking place during your visit. You can find interactive exhibitions, live plays, dance competitions, fashion shows, comedy nights, live music or perhaps book tickets to the Caravan and Motorhome Show.

Birmingham also prides itself on its sporting history. Two of the oldest professional football clubs, Aston Villa (1874) and Birmingham City (1875), were founded in Birmingham. Pay a visit to Villa Park and see the Premier League team dominate their opponents, or visit St Andrews, home to Birmingham City Football Club and take a tour around the stadium.

Football isn't the only pride and joy of Birmingham. Edgbaston Cricket Ground has hosted world-famous matches, including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, which England proudly won, the Ashes and IT20 matches.

Places to eat and drink in Birmingham

You won’t find a more diverse palate than the food served at Birmingham's magnificent restaurants. Birmingham is home to some of the best East Asian food, many of which can be found in Chinatown.

If you head a little out of the city centre, you’ll quickly smell the spices wafting through the air as you stumble across the Balti triangle – a cluster of Balti houses around Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane and Stratford Road. Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti and home to over 100 Balti houses. If you’re in the mood for South Asian cuisine, you’re likely to find a restaurant that hits the spot.

It doesn't stop there. Whether you’re craving Caribbean food, a taste of the Middle East, dishes from Africa, flavours from around Europe or cuisine from North and South America, you’re likely to find an authentic restaurant in Birmingham.