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Things to Do in Birmingham

Things to Do in Birmingham

The Midlands England, UK Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Birmingham and the areas around it offer various opportunities for fresh air and outdoor pursuits.

Hiking & Cycling Routes

Canal Towpaths

Offer easy, flat walking routes extending for miles throughout the city. Suitable for all fitness levels, they supply an unique perspective on Birmingham's waterways.

Sutton Park

Offers moderate walking with varied terrain, including woodlands, wetlands, and open heathlands. Longer or shorter routes are choices within its extensive boundaries. Provides off-road cycling trails for mountain biking.

Lickey Hills Country Park

Located south of Birmingham, this park offers moderate hiking trails through woodlands and open spaces, with rewarding views from higher points.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Canal Boat Hire: Hire narrowboats for day trips or longer cruises along Birmingham's canal network. A relaxing way to explore waterways.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding/Kayaking: On certain canal sections, often as part of guided sessions or organized clubs.
  • Bear Grylls Adventure (NEC): An indoor adventure center near the NEC, offering high ropes, climbing, iFLY wind tunnel, and dive tank.
  • West Midlands Cycle Hire: Convenient bicycle rentals across the city for casual city cycling.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park: Within Cannon Hill Park.
  • Houses various species from around the world.
  • Opportunity to observe wildlife in a metropolitan setting.
  • Not a safari in the traditional sense.

Outdoor Recreation Spots

  • Cannon Hill Park: Features a boating lake and mini-golf.
  • Birmingham Botanical Gardens: Historic parks and a playground.
  • Sutton Park: Europe's largest urban park, designated National Nature Reserve.
  • Lickey Hills Country Park: Offers woodlands and open spaces.

Adventure Sports

  • Bear Grylls Adventure (NEC): High ropes courses and climbing walls.
  • IFLY Wind Tunnel: Indoor skydiving experience.
  • Dive Tank: Provides an underwater adventure.
  • A range of adrenaline-pumping activities.

Safety Information

Always check local regulations and safety guidelines before engaging in outdoor activities. Particular activities might require pre-booking and specific equipment.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Birmingham's rich its culture through a range of immersive experiences.

Workshops & Language Opportunities

  • Jewellery Quarter: Workshops to pick up basic jewellery-making techniques and craft your own piece.
  • MAC (Midlands Arts Centre): Wide range of arts and crafts workshops, including pottery, drawing, painting, and dance classes.
  • Cooking Classes: Various culinary schools and chefs offer classes focused on Indian or British dishes.
  • Language Learning: Formal language schools exist. Informal practice possible in pubs and local happenings; the "Brummie" accent offers a pleasant challenge.

Cultural Performances & Festivals

World-Class Venues

Symphony Hall and Birmingham Hippodrome regularly stage high-quality cultural performances, including classical music, jazz, ballet, opera, and touring The Western part of the town/city theatre.

Arts Centre Programming

The MAC hosts diverse performances, from contemporary dance to spoken word and traditional music, acting as a platform for local and international artists.

Annual Festivals

Birmingham hosts the International Dance Festival (biennial, June), Literature Festival (Oct), Pride (May), and the Germanic Christmas Market (Nov-Dec).

Theatre & Stage

Birmingham Hippodrome and The REP (Birmingham Repertory Theatre) showcase major productions and new works.

Live Music Events

Symphony Hall is a premier venue for classical and jazz. O2 Academy Birmingham hosts major touring bands.

Festival Highlights

Digbeth Dining Club offers regular street food events with live music and community vibe.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation during your Birmingham visit.

Spa & Wellness Options

  • Many luxury hotels, like the Hyatt Regency, feature on-site spas offering a variety of therapies.
  • Independent spas across the city also provide various wellness services.
  • Various yoga studios offer drop-in classes for visitors.
  • Some hotels have indoor swimming pools for guest relaxation.

Considerations for Natural & Traditional Therapies

Natural Springs/Therapies

No natural hot springs or prominent natural therapy options exist directly within Birmingham. For these experiences, travel to other UK regions.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

No major yoga or meditation retreat centers are within the city on its own, however some are found in the wider countryside.

Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering. General healthcare is accessed through the NHS or private clinics.

Wellness Planning Notes

Advance Booking

For spa treatments or specific yoga classes, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak times.

Check Hotel Amenities

If a pool is important, confirm its availability and access rules with your chosen hotel.

Local Resources

Search online or ask the hotel's concierge desk for local independent wellness centers.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Birmingham offers a lively and varied entertainment and nightlife scene.

Live Music & Theatre

  • Symphony Hall: Premier venue for classical music, jazz, and folk.
  • O2 Academy Birmingham: Hosts major touring bands and popular music acts across multiple stages.
  • Hare & Hounds (Kings Heath): Historic pub known for emerging talent and diverse live music genres.
  • Birmingham Hippodrome: Main theatre for large-scale productions, including touring West End shows, ballet, and opera.

Nightclubs & Bar Districts

Nightclubs & Dancing

Broad Street serves as the main hub for nightclubs and large bars, with a high concentration of venues for dancing and late-night entertainment.

Alternative Nightlife

Digbeth has a growing scene of independent clubs and warehouse parties, usually including electronic music and a more alternative vibe.

Bar Districts

Jewellery Quarter: Offers a refined experience with individual pubs, craft beer bars, and cocktail lounges. Colmore Row: Has upscale bars and stylish cocktail lounges.

Broad Street Hub

The main concentration of large, commercial bars and clubs. A lively area, especially on weekends.

Jewellery Quarter & Colmore Row

  • Jewellery Quarter: Independent pubs and craft beer.
  • Colmore Row: Upscale bars for after-work drinks.
  • Offer a more refined evening.

Canal-side Pubs

  • Enjoy drinks in scenic settings.
  • The Distillery and The Canal House are favorite options.
  • Relaxed atmosphere.

Late-Night Entertainment & Dining

Late-Night Food
  • Many restaurants in the city center remain open late, especially on weekends.
  • Numerous takeaways also provide food options after other venues close.
  • Look for varied cuisines for a post-club meal.
Cultural Offerings
  • The REP and Alexandra Theatre host touring productions, including musicals and dramas.
  • Check venue schedules for evening shows or special events during your stay.
  • Some venues offer after-hours events or DJ sets after live performances.

Planning Your Night Out

Book tickets for theatre or major concerts in advance, especially on weekends. Consider public transport or ride-sharing services for late-night returns.

Shopping & Markets

Birmingham is a shopping destination. It offers everything from traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Bullring Market: Indoor and outdoor sections, selling fresh produce, meat, fish, and general goods.
  • Rag Market: Diverse indoor market for fabrics, clothing, accessories, and household items. Great for bargain hunters.
  • St Martin's Market: Adjacent to the Bullring, with general goods and specialty items.
  • Jewellery Quarter: Numerous independent jewellers and workshops. Purchase bespoke pieces or handcrafted items.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping Hubs

Mailbox

An upscale shopping destination by the canal, featuring designer brands like Harvey Nichols, plus high-end bars and restaurants.

Grand Central

A mix of designer brands and popular high street stores within the impressive train station complex.

Bullring & Selfridges

The main shopping destination, with a wide array of high street and designer brands, including the iconic Selfridges department store.

Great Western Arcade

  • A beautiful Victorian arcade.
  • Filled with independent boutiques.
  • Specialty shops.
  • Unique gift ideas.

Custard Factory

  • Hosts independent boutiques.
  • Craft shops.
  • Vintage clothing.
  • Handmade gifts and art.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support stores promoting fair trade.
  • Look for local artisans.
  • Consider sustainable production.
  • Inquire about ethically sourced materials in the Jewellery Quarter.

Souvenir & Shipping Information

Recommended Souvenirs
  • Cadbury Chocolate: A must-buy, available at Cadbury World and supermarkets.
  • Jewellery: A special and lasting item from the historic Jewellery Quarter.
  • Peaky Blinders Merchandise: Various themed items due to the show's Birmingham roots.
Shipping & Customs
  • Consider shipping large items or many souvenirs home via Royal Mail or international couriers.
  • Check your home country's customs regulations for duty-free limits.
  • Many larger stores offer international shipping services directly.

Shopping Experience Summary

Birmingham's shopping scene caters to diverse tastes, from market bargains to luxury brands.

Activity Planning Summary

Considerations for Activities

  • Book popular activities, shows, or tours in advance, especially during peak season or events.
  • A lot of attractions are walkable in the city center; comfortable shoes are advisable.
  • For attractions outside the city center, consider public transport or car rental for ease of access.
  • Explore local listings for temporary exhibitions, festivals, or unique pop-up events.

Enhancing Your Experience

  • Engage with locals in pubs or markets for authentic insights and suggestions.
  • Look for unique photo opportunities in diverse settings, from canals to street art.
  • Factor in a budget for local workshops or classes for a hands-on cultural experience.
  • Utilize parks and waterways for relaxation and a break from urban exploration.